South of the river, but still city limits, Forest Hill is goals for outdoor enthusiasts. It borders the James River, with direct access to Riverside Drive, the Buttermilk Trail and Reedy Creek. Two sought-after neighborhoods make up this area—Westover Hills to the west and Woodland Heights to the east. Both have huge trees, eclectic house styles and spacious yards just waiting for your inflatable pool. On Forest Hill and Semmes Avenues you’ll find bike shops, breweries and restaurants. Stroll over to Little Nickel for an over-the-top tiki drink, or hit up the excellent Laura Lee’s for their famous double cheeseburger with kimchi.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Four-season fun at Forest Hill Park. It used to be a quarry, and then an amusement park, but these days it’s a little bit of everything. Swing by for outdoor concerts, tennis courts, playgrounds and warp-speed sledding when it snows. And, with miles of wooded trails along the river, you can run, hike, bike, climb and ’yak to your heart’s content.

WHAT’S UNEXPECTED

False advertising by way of the Nickel Bridge, which actually costs 35 cents. It’s worth the extra money—for the beautiful views, the pedestrian walkway and the quick access to the wildlife sanctuary of Maymont Park, where you’ll find friendly sheep, adorable foxes and bored owls who are just not having it.

CHECK IT OUT

See Forest Hill through the eyes of different Richmonders as they show off their favorite spots.