A charming addition to the James River Park System, Brown's Island is located in the middle of the James River in Downtown Richmond. Many of Richmond's popular annual events are held here, including the New Year's Eve celebration, and from its vantage point amidst the James, Brown's Island is an ideal place to enjoy the city's finer points.
Parking and Public Transportation to Brown's Island
There is a parking deck on 10th Street, and access points are available via the Canal Walk and at the corner of 7th Street at Tredegar Street. There is a separate access point for bands and vendors during events. While GRTC buses are available in Richmond, most visitors prefer to drive independently.
Best and Worst Times to Visit Brown's Island
As a popular music venue, there are frequently concerts and events at Brown's Island. If you prefer to visit without the crowds, mid morning to late afternoon on mild spring and fall days are the best. The area closes to the public after dusk, and it is inadvisable to remain on Brown's Island after dark.
Admission to Brown's Island
Admission to Brown's Island is free, but parking may require an increased fee during events. For event information, contact the event organizer ahead of time to plan accordingly. Most concerts and attractions on Brown's Island do not require admission fees, but special packages may be available for purchase.
Must See and Do at Brown's Island
The Fourth of July Fireworks on the James is a popular free attraction for city locals. For New Year's Eve, the biggest celebration in Richmond occurs on Brown's Island, and for all events, beverages are available for purchase. Railroad buffs will love the old train bridges and trestles, which are part of the unique character of Richmond City.
Other Places to Visit Near Brown's Island
Belle Isle is visible from Brown's Island and is another popular section of the James River Park System. Bring a swimsuit and enjoy a splash in the James River at Belle Isle, but be careful when the river is high, as the water can be choppy and unsafe for anything other than sunbathing. For an outstanding dining experience, stop by La Parissienne Bistro and Cafe and enjoy a charming French meal in a gorgeous setting.
Insider Tip for Visitors to Brown's Island
If you're planning on attending an event at Brown's Island, arrive early to ensure you'll find parking easily. As a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, the city lots fill quickly and it can be a challenge to find available parking places in the Downtown Richmond area during concerts and festivals. Arriving early is the best way to remedy this and make sure you don't miss out on everything Brown's Island has to offer.
Author's bio: Kitty Lusby is an author and self proclaimed adventurer from the Richmond, Virginia area. She believes that travel is a necessity and does it as often as possible.