Shockoe Bottom/Canal Walk Mural Walk

A block-plus walk from Main Street Station, we'll see our first mural: the largest still life of fruit you'll ever behold. Then it's on through Shockoe Bottom to a thought-provoking Mending Walls mural, a woman-to-butterfly metamorphosis (or is it butterfly to woman?), and animals as interlocking patterns. Along the Canal Walk, we'll encounter a trolly from yesteryear, an alighting vulture, gesturing hands, a forest fire lament, a witch who's a painter, and a possum in drippy paint. It's a 2-ish mile walk that takes 1-1/2 hours or less.

Restored in 1999, Richmond's 1-1/4 mile Canal Walk offers concert venues, boat rides, restaurants, shops, offices and apartments and condominiums. Just east of downtown, Shockoe Slip and adjacent Shockoe Bottom boast some of Richmond's most lively and appealing nightlife, dining, and entertainment options. The Bottom's Tobacco Row of warehouses has been repurposed into residences with industrial chic. Amidst the modernity, history abounds, from the site of the Civil War's infamous Libby Prison to the city's oldest house, now The Poe Museum.

The Shockoe Bottom/Canal Walk Mural Walk starts on the sidewalk at the foot of the steps to the main entrance of Main Street Station. Your host will be wearing a white hat (even though he lies on occasion). The station's parking page shows a number of nearby public parking options. The best bet is 1543 E Main St Parking, directly across E Main St from Main Street Station. Other good options are the 15th and Cary Lot at 1422 E Cary St, and the Parkway 1504 E Cary St Lot. There's also the 14th and Cary Parking Garage at 1410 E Cary St.