Living in central Virginia has its perks, and one of those perks is being so close to the city of Charlottesville. There are many attractions like the Downtown mall with shops and the Pavilion with concerts over the summer held on Friday nights, or the XI Art Park where you can write on the " I Dream" wall. There is also our state's capital, Richmond, where there are so many activities that people of all ages can enjoy. These activities can range from leisure, to adventure, to history, and can appeal to those of all interests as they walk the city that was once our nation's capital. If you are ever in the area, here are a couple places worth checking out:

Belle Isle: Probably one of the most popular attractions to students of VCU or anyone who enjoys the outdoors. It has three entrances, and the main one has a connecting bridge over the James River, where it brings you to about a little over a mile loop that will have you on a nature walk filled with adventure. And depending on which way you turn after the bridge, you can witness the bike park before your walk or right as you finish. Also, if it's a hot day and the current is not strong or the tide is too high, take a stop at the rocks located near the 22nd St. entrance and relax.

Maymont: This Victorian estate with gardens and wildlife is a real catch. For an entire day, you can explore the various gardens, such as the Japanese gardens, while also checking out the animals they have at the park. If you get tired, you can take a seat anywhere and enjoy the view. And the best part: the park is free. Well, they do have a suggested donation of $5 from guest, but it's pretty cheap for all the exciting activities that can happen there.

University of Richmond: I fell in love with this campus when I went to yearbook camp right before my senior year in high school. This mostly brick campus is gorgeous with the lake that is overlooked by one of its main buildings. Don't go to school here? No biggie, just stroll around the campus, and people watch if you really want to. There are camps held here, like my yearbook camp, as well as other camps so it is not always busy with college students.

Agecroft Hall: Located in the Windsor Farms neighborhood overlooking the James River, Agecroft Halls is a museum to attract not only locals, but any history buff that might want to come and take a look inside. With this English style manner, guests will want to stop and at least sneak a peak as they drive by the beautiful home.

Monument Avenue: If you are a real history buff, especially about the Civil War, then this is the spot for you. Located on Monument Avenue, statues of Robert E. Lee, Jefferson Davis, Stonewall Jackson, and a couple more stand tall on this street as people drive and walk by. If you are not so into the Civil War, you can check out the types of houses and apartments on the street. These historical houses have significant architecture that is definitely worth checking out.