Things to do in Chesterfield, Virginia

Cross the James River from Henrico County or the City of Richmond into Chesterfield, VA, and you’ll quickly discover friendly folks, welcoming communities, and Grade-A schools. You’ll also discover plenty of Chesterfield things to do — indoors and outdoors, for families, kids, and adults.

How do we know Chesterfield County so well? Because we build here and live here. And we might just even be your neighbors. Whether Chesterfield is already your home, or you’re considering make it home, this list of the top destinations in “South Side” will help your downtime Live Up.

Here are the top Chesterfield things to do…

Chesterfield County, VA boasts more than 420 square miles of neighborhoods, parks, shopping malls, business parks, schools, and more. And with nearly 350,000 residents according to the U.S. Census Bureau, it’s a bustling, growing, and welcoming community. There are plenty of things to do in Midlothian, VA — as well as Woodlake, Mosely, and all around Chesterfield. Here are just a few of the towns, areas, and communities to know…

• Bon Air: A former resort area that hugs the James River, bordering Henrico County and the City of Richmond. Bon Air is home to Huguenot High School, Pony Pasture, and the highly-rated Southbound restaurant.
• Chester: Three Chesterfield, VA high schools call Chester home: Thomas Dale, Matoaca, and L.C. Bird. Henricus Historical Park, complete with historical re-enactors, gives visitors an opportunity to see Virginia circa 1611.
• Unincorporated Areas: These include Midlothian, Winterpock, Hampton Park, Mosely, Salisbury, Skinquarter and many others.

Step outside and soak in the sun! With copious parks, the James River, and meandering trails, there are more Chesterfield things to do outside than inside. Here are a few destinations to check off:

• Pocahontas State Park: Whether you’re seeking some solitude or looking for a sweet spot for the kids to burn off some energy, Pocahontas State Park is great for the afternoon or the weekend. Pitch a tent at one of the top 10 campsites in the country, blaze a trail, take a dip, and then find some shade for a picnic. Be sure to check the schedule for concerts and family-friendly entertainment.
• Swift Creek Reservoir: Who knew Chesterfield County, VA’s manmade watering hole could be such a picturesque spot to take the kayak, drop a fishing line, or simply enjoy a meal with a view? The 1,700-acre Swift Creek Reservoir, also called Swift Creek Lake, is accessible for watersports via Pocahontas State Park’s boat launch.
• Rockwood Nature Center: Want to see native reptiles, amphibians, and honeybees without worrying if you’ll get stung or bitten? Rockwood Nature Center offers habitats built for worry-free viewing, as well as 5-plus miles of hiking and biking trails, gardens galore, and a national award-winning archery program. Sounds like a Saturday afternoon that could hit the bullseye of fun.

Make no mistake about it: the main attraction of calling Chesterfield, VA home is affordable family living. And the county has grown its communities and neighborhoods without crowding out the peace and quiet. Of course, with all these families comes a need to get out and play. Here are a few family-friendly ideas…

• Metro Richmond Zoo: Richmond has a zoo? Yes, Richmond has a zoo! More specifically — Chesterfield, Virginia has a zoo. And with more than 2,000 animals, including giraffes, tigers, and penguins, it can fill an afternoon! Be sure to make time for feeding the animals, riding high in the Safari Sky Lift, or even taking the zipline for a bird’s eye view of the zoo.
• Children’s Museum of Richmond:(Chesterfield, Virginia Location) Museums don’t sound like the most kid-friendly activity on the surface. But trust us, this is a hands-on experience! Watch the kiddos grow, learn, and maybe even make some new friends at the Children’s Garden, Book Nook, Art Studio, Water Play, and more.

Wegmans. Kroger. Walmart. Food Lion. Fresh Market. Lidl. Aldi. Costco. Fresh to Frozen. If there’s a grocery store out there, then Chesterfield County probably has it. But sometimes, you want to give the kitchen a rest and step out for a good meal. Make no doubt about it, Chesterfield has a table for you…

• Boathouse at Sunday Park: It’s easy to imagine you’re dining at your favorite OBX seafood spot when you see boats right beside you and bite into fresh crab cakes or the catch of the day. Boasting waterfront views and an impressive menu, the original boathouse is Chesterfield VA’s go-to spot for a memorable meal. You may want to make a reservation; tables fill up fast.
• Flyin’ Pig: Ribs, burgers, tacos, wings, and more. They’ve got all the favorites down to a science at the Flyin’ Pig. Be sure to ask for extra napkins — and quite possibly a doggy bag.
• Island Shrimp Company: A new spot smack dab in the middle of Chesterfield Town Center, this Midlothian eatery serves fresh shrimp, brunch, and other tasty dishes from an eclectic, island-flavored menu. Be sure to check out the cocktail menu (especially the mojitos) — and the open-air upstairs section that just feels like a beach party.