The Byrd Theater is a real, old fashioned movie palace in Carytown. Although they play current, new release movies, the Byrd is a fashionable old-style theater, which means that instead of previews, you'll be treated to live music or some other classy entertainment. Their box office and concession stand are very reasonably priced, so you'll get a better movie experience for less cash. Since there's only one big screen, the Byrd generally shows only two or three movies each night, but what they lack in selection they more than make up for in charm and character.
Parking and Public Transportation at the Byrd Theater
Carytown is a small section of Richmond city located on Cary St., which is a busy one-way street. On street parking is available for free, but it can be difficult to find a spot on the street during the most popular times, which is generally when movies are showing at the Byrd. There is a 3 hour parking limit for parking on Cary St. during weekdays before 6 PM, but for most showings at the Byrd, this isn't a problem. Ample parking is available on side streets, in free city parking garages, and in private lots. The parking garages are marked and are easy to find. Just make sure that you're not parking in a reserved space or blocking a driveway and you should be able to find free parking within a few blocks of the Byrd, even during rush hour.
Best and Worst Times to Go to the Byrd Theater
Since the Byrd only offers two or three showings a night on most days, it's smart to check their website and plan your trip accordingly. They're open every day of the year, but their hours vary. Generally, weekdays are much less crowded, but it's well worth staying out late on a weekend when there is a midnight showing. Showings rarely sell out, even on busy weekends, but you'll get in and get seated faster on a weekday.
Admission to The Byrd Theater
Regular features at the Byrd are only $1.99 per person, and the concessions are just as reasonable. The usual movie theater snacks like popcorn and candy are available, and also serves alcohol for some showings and events.
Must See/Do at the Byrd Theater
Dinner and a movie is on a whole new level when dining in Carytown and seeing a movie at the Byrd. Definitely check out one of their special events or midnight showings.
Other Places to Visit near the Byrd Theater
Carytown is full of great spots with a lot of Richmond character. For food, Can Can Brasserie is a beautiful upscale dining experience that serves everything from brunch and coffee through cocktails and desserts, while Galaxy Diner is a quirky spot for great comfort food in an eccentric setting. Also worth a visit is Bygones, a vintage clothing store directly next to the Byrd Theater, and the book store for rockers, Chop Suey Books.
Insider Tip
Most people walk through the entrance door and just keep walking straight ahead, so the seats on the right hand side of the theater fill up first. If you arrive a little bit late, you're more likely to find an open seat on the left hand side of the theater. Don't worry if you're near the back, either. The sound is great throughout and the seats are on enough of an angle that there's really no bad seats.
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.
With its charming combination of Virginia history and modern science, the Science Museum of Virginia is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Richmond. The sprawling campus is popular as an elegant event space in addition to the obvious draw of the family friendly, illuminating museum exhibits. Larger than life displays, demonstrations, and interactive activities engage visitors in the sciences including natural history, physics, space exploration, neurology, and much more.
Best and Worst Times to Visit the Science Museum of Virginia
Special exhibits change seasonally, so if there is a particular interest that you'd like to explore, check ahead and make sure your trip is scheduled appropriately. Since the Science Museum of Virginia is located on Broad Street, the main road through Richmond, try to avoid coming or going during rush hour, as the traffic will be heavier and accidents more likely. Early afternoon during the week or lunchtime on Sundays are good times to see everything without fighting traffic and crowds.
Must See and Do at the Science Museum of Virginia
Don't miss out on seeing a movie on their giant screen in the Dome. It's a memory that will stick with you for life, and the humongous domed screen gives a distinct impression of movement as the film plays all around. Visitors with children shouldn't miss the Idea Factory section of the museum, where science intersects with play in artistic, imaginative, and challenging fun activities.
Admission to the Science Museum of Virginia
Members enjoy free general admission and special passes to the Dome. For non members, expect to be able to access the exhibits and dome both for under $20 per person, with discounts for children, seniors, and groups.
Parking and Transportation at the Science Museum of Virginia
Richmond is not a compact city, so having a car is generally the best way to see it. GRTC buses are available and there are stops near the Science Museum of Virginia. Check the GRTC website for schedules and to determine if bus transportation is a viable option for your visit. On site parking is available for Science Museum visitors, as well as abundant street parking in the immediate area.
Food at the Science Museum of Virginia
The Periodic Table is the museum's on site coffee bar and sandwich shop. They offer kid friendly choices, salads, sandwiches, and barbecue at prices typical of event vending and entertainment venues. For dining nearby, the boutique neighborhood Carytown offers a stunning variety of options from comfort food to fine cuisine, and the popular Buz and Ned's Real Barbeque is only minutes away by car.
Insider Tip for the Science Museum of Virginia
Make sure that you and your children are wearing clothing that you can move around in without trouble. Even if you don't plan on participating in the interactive exhibits, they're a lot of fun and you might find yourself wishing you had planned for crawling around or riding a bike. Flip flops are a bad idea all around, so wear comfortable walking shoes with closed toes.
Author's bio: Kitty Lusby is an author and self proclaimed adventurer originally from the Richmond, Virginia area. She believes that travel is a necessity and does it as often as possible.
University Mall Theatres shows first-run movies for no more than $4 a ticket. It offers group deals; accepts the local university's "Mason Money"; and all tickets are just $2 on Tuesdays. It is currently forming a film club, which will have Friday midnight showings followed by a discussion.
