Visitors and residents in Henrico County (split from neighboring Chesterfield County in 1749) have the beauty of nature, almost 400 years of local history and proximity to the state capital of Richmond all at their fingertips. The area is perhaps best known as the home of Pocahontas, daughter of the powerful Algonquin Chief Powhatan. She married Englishman John Rolfe in 1614. According to local tradition, the couple made their home in modern-day Henrico’s Varina District. The marriage brought peace between England and the tribes ruled by Powhatan, which affected the rest of American history.
Today, the area offers much more than its rich history. Nature lovers can bask in the trees and waterfrontage in nearby Deep Run Park & Recreation Center, Three Lakes Park & Nature Center and the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden in Richmond. History buffs can tour the Meadow Farm Museum (placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1974).
Hungry? Stop in for traditional American food at Buz and Ned’s Real Barbecue, the HogsHead Café or Around the Corner. The Grapevine and Stella’s both offer an authentic Greek dining experience, while highly-rated Peter Chang’s China Cafe features Sichuan Chinese food in an understated atmosphere. For shopping, visit The Shops at White Oak Village, which offers more than three dozen retailers and restaurants in more than 900,000 square feet of retail space.