Browns Island was named for Elijah Brown who acquired the land from Rhode Island in 1811. This piece of land is strategically located near downtown and is now part of the James River Park. Live concerts are held there on Fridays during the summer, and the land features footpaths and hiking trails that prove to be popular with nature and outdoors enthusiasts from all over the area. Added attractions include the fast water with large and small rapids and a path that leads down to the river behind a pier that all make for a great opportunity to commune with nature.
It's difficult to accurately encapsulate the depth and breadth of Richmond's historical richness. The Valentine Richmond Historical Center rises to the challenge by doing an impressive job of presenting several of the city's historical moments and notable accomplishments through its exhibits. Richmond's social, artistic and architectural history are all represented in this fine museum.
Richmond's Altria Theater has the distinction of being one of the city's most well-known and unusual buildings. Built in 1926 by the Shriners as their Acca Temple Shrine, the theater has since become a showplace that has welcomed several of the world's most famous entertainers to its stage. The theater prides itself in presenting some of the best productions in the country, and the Altria Theater consistently attracts enthusiasts both young and old who enjoy a great evening of fine entertainment.