Where are the Quaint Towns? (Richmond, Charlottesville: renting, houses, neighborhoods)

[KCotter11]

Hello,
My husband and I are moving to the Richmond area. We’re leaving the hustle and bustle of the Silicon Valley and want a simpler pace of life
We are seeking a quaint and simpler way of life and hope we can find it in Richmond.

We are taking a scouting trip next week and want to know were we should start looking for a home. We havn’t decided if were buying or renting, we just want the location to be right.

Were looking for a location that is:

Within 30 minutes of downtown Richmond
A town that has a “main street” area with little shops, and cafes.
We need a Safe/family friendly town.
Were looking for an area that more populated than a real rural area, but less than dense suburbia. I mean, we like people, but also open space.
Dog friendly
Houses with character we don’t like cookie cutter modern developments.

Is there such a place?
We have heard Mechanicsville, Chesterfield, and near Short Pump are good.
Please any suggestions will be greatly appreciated!

Thank you!

[richmondpics]

Ashland perhaps?

[Archguy]

Yes indeed, you have described Ashland. Check out the SW quadrant, the parts around the college, and most especially the parts along the railroad tracks (which run right down the middle of town). It's quite nice.

[dizliz0925]

Maybe even Farmville. A little futher out than 30 min, but very quaint.

[hgnmx]

Originally Posted by KCotter11

Hello,
My husband and I are moving to the Richmond area. We’re leaving the hustle and bustle of the Silicon Valley and want a simpler pace of life
We are seeking a quaint and simpler way of life and hope we can find it in Richmond.

We are taking a scouting trip next week and want to know were we should start looking for a home. We havn’t decided if were buying or renting, we just want the location to be right.

Were looking for a location that is:

Within 30 minutes of downtown Richmond
A town that has a “main street” area with little shops, and cafes.
We need a Safe/family friendly town.
Were looking for an area that more populated than a real rural area, but less than dense suburbia. I mean, we like people, but also open space.
Dog friendly
Houses with character we don’t like cookie cutter modern developments.

Is there such a place?
We have heard Mechanicsville, Chesterfield, and near Short Pump are good.
Please any suggestions will be greatly appreciated!

Thank you!

Aside from wanting a commute you basically described many of downtown Richmond's neighborhoods. If you haven't visited already I recommend spending some time in the area before making assumptions. There are many neighborhoods in the city that fit your criteria perfectly (other than the commute). To name a few: The Fan, Museum District, Malvern, Church Hill, Forest Hill, Westover Blvd, Carver, Jackson Ward etc. Downtown is both car and pedestrian friendly. You will probably consider it slower paced than Silicon Valley, and even some of Richmond's Suburbs like Short Pump which is faster paced, with a highly suburban car/corporation culture.

Some posters above suggested Ashland but I don't think there is a "main st with cute bistros etc" that you seem to desire. You also won't find houses with character outside of the city proper. Richmond is an old city and within the city it is against the law to tear down houses that are considered historic. You will find much character here.
Again I recommend visiting for a couple days before buying. Enjoy!

[dodinafg]

Ashland, Hanover courthouse,Bowling Green, Montpelier,Midlothian

[Hammerhead Fred]

Ashland, and as others stated downtown" Richmond has many urban communities that meet your description - Richmond is not that big, you can drive from one side to the other in less than 15 min (city limits).

[cbl1]

Most of your little downtowns are in the City like Carytown. Everywhere else your not going to have the walking downtown but will have to do a little driving etc. Midlothian Village does have a cute area with shops and restaurants ... the grocery store (Martin's) is soon to relocate out of the village and across the street for a much larger/new store. And there are houses behind the village you can walk from.

I would checkout the city districts (even Westover Hills), Midlothian (VILLAGE), Ashland, Mechanicsville. A little more suburbia but area at corner of Robious and Huguenot (Bellwood) has a lot of essentials in that area and one of the best areas in my opinion.

I think you will find Richmond in general a good suite for what you are looking for.

[mwr]

Can you elaborate on Mechanicsville? I'm curious about that area of town. Thanks!

[Charlesaf3]

Agree with above, in the city, Ashland, or out to Charlottesville and surrounds