Taking a Maymester class? Doing summer research? Take a study break from this intense schoolwork and visit the places in Richmond that are ideal for those sweet summer days that go by so fast.

1. Maymont Park

Grab a couple of your friends and take an afternoon trip to one of the most beloved parks in Richmond, my hometown. Maymont Park is perfect for relaxing afternoon picnics and enjoying the beautiful southern scenery. Before you go, grab some sandwiches, chips, and signature Ukrops sweets from Martin’s in the Village. Oh, and don’t forget to bring a blanket! You might even want to bask in the sun and perhaps take an outside siesta.

2. Short Pump Town Center

Having the urge to do some shopping while sitting in your seemingly endless class during the day? Satisfy that shopaholic craving by paying a trip to my home away from home, Short Pump Town Center. With over 100 stores including everything from Kate Spade and Lilly Pulitzer to Dicks Sporting Goods and Macy’s, it’s impossible to not enjoy your shopping experience here. With all that shopping you’re sure to work up an appetite, which can easily be cured by visiting one of the several restaurants at Short Pump including Firebirds and California Pizza Kitchen.

3. Carytown

Although the average Richmond student is aware of this gem, most students aren’t in town during festival season in Carytown and other parts of Richmond. Imagine a festival completely dedicated to everyone’s favorite summer fruit: the watermelon. Well, it exists here in Richmond! Don’t miss out on a day full of great food and fun times in arguably my favorite area in Richmond. Also, if you’re in dire need of something cold and sweet, check out Bev’s Homemade Ice Cream -- it’s the best of the best.

4. Greek Food Festival

Speaking of festivals, let’s talk about my favorite four days of the year here in Richmond: The Greek Food Festival hosted by the Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Cathedral, which this year will be June 2 through June 5. At the Richmond Greek Festival, you’re in for amazing food and live entertainment. Bring your friends, get a gyro, and take a moment to enjoy the Greek music and dancing, and maybe for just a minute, imagine you’re on a relaxing vacation in the Mediterranean...

5. The James River

Whether you’re a professional fisherman or a professional sunbather, the James River is a perfect afternoon getaway for students. Make a point to visit this amazing natural resource here in Richmond. The weather is almost always nice and warm here during the summer, so you have no excuse to not be outside soaking up some rays and enjoying the river. If you’re adventurous enough, white water rafting is always an option (maybe I’ll even work up my nerve one day to try it).

6. Flying Squirrels Game

For all the sports fans out there, there’s something for you, too! The Richmond Flying Squirrels are always fun to go watch in Downtown Richmond. Although the Squirrels may not be in the MLB, this doesn’t mean that the games aren’t equally as fun. Tickets are affordable and worth the great time you’ll have while cheering on this unique mascot. Richmond appears to be famous for one-of-a-kind mascots, like our beloved Spiders.