Author: ipdesign

  • Check Out Some of The Best Hikes Near Richmond, Virginia

    Check Out Some of The Best Hikes Near Richmond, Virginia

    Chesterfield County has miles of trails that twist and turn through breathtaking natural backdrops. Here are some of the best hikes to take near Richmond, Virginia—and our upcoming active adult community—perfect for taking a brisk hike this fall and winter!

    Autumn at Buttermilk Trail
    Autumn at Buttermilk Trail

    Buttermilk Trail

    Buttermilk Trail is one of the many trails within the James River Park. This 2.5-mile trail was named for the milkmen who used to store buttermilk in a cool well that is still located on the side of the trail. You’ll find this trail parallel to the south side of the James River. The trail features several creek crossings, bridges and rock gardens. In fact, it’s one of the most beloved trail systems to hike on in the Richmond area!

    Man with his dog walking on sidewalk in fog

    Virginia Capital Trail

    Residents of our Richmond-area active adult community are sure to spend time on the Virginia Capital Trail. This is a 51.7 multi-use, fully-paved trail that runs through 4 jurisdictions (the City of Richmond, Henrico County, Charles City County, and James City County). In addition, it provides dozens of fun attractions along the way! Whether you’re hiking, biking, running, or walking, you can follow this trail for miles and miles.

    Marsh area with trees with fall leaves

    Pocahontas State Park Trails

    Pocahontas State Park is just 20 miles from Richmond and offers 90+ miles of trail systems. You’ll love hiking through acres of preserved natural beauty and pristine forest. Three sparkling lakes make hiking through Pocahontas State Park even more enjoyable at any time of year!

    Four active adults walking through the woods

    Live Near the Best Hikes in Richmond, Virginia

    When you live in our newest Richmond-area active adult community, you’ll have incomparable access to these beloved hiking areas around Richmond, VA and more. Plus, you’ll enjoy the acclaimed Live Better lifestyle that each Traditions of America active adult community is known for, making every day the best. Contact us today to learn more!

  • See what our homeowners have to say about our 55+ communities!

    See what our homeowners have to say about our 55+ communities!

    With over 5,000 homes sold, it’s safe to say we’re experts in active-adult homebuilding—but don’t take our word for it! See what our valued home buyers have to say about our homes and 55+ active-adult communities.

     

    “We Live Better Here”

    We pride ourselves on creating an active-adult lifestyle unlike any other. For example, our communities feature 5-star clubhouses, walking paths, sports courts, resort-style pools—even Lifestyle Directors! We call it the Live Better lifestyle, and you’re sure to love it.

     

    “Community Life”

    Here, there are endless activities to enjoy and neighbors to meet. In fact, our community Clubhouses serve as the perfect gathering place for book clubs, happy hours, card games, and events of all kinds. You never know who you’ll run into and what new friends you’ll make!

     

    “Lock & Leave Living”

    One of the best parts about living in our 55+ active-adult communities is the low-maintenance lifestyle. Here, you can leave the raking, mowing, exterior maintenance, and shoveling to us! Plus, when you add in the convenience of automating your home, you can do things like close your garage door, lock and unlock the front door, see who is ringing your doorbell, and more from anywhere.

     

    “Our Customers Say It Best”

    We’re thrilled when our homeowners are happy with their new home and lifestyle. After all, buying a new home is one of the biggest purchases you can make! We invite you to hear more about the lasting connections and new memories our residents have made. After all, they say it best!

     

    55+ communities

    Discover Traditions of America 55+ Communities

    We build active-adult communities and homes that you can be proud of, each featuring our acclaimed Live Better lifestyle—including our newest community near Richmond, Virginia. Contact us today to learn more about our current communities across Pennsylvania and beyond.

  • Consider adding a loft to your new active adult home!

    Consider adding a loft to your new active adult home!

    If you’ve never considered adding a second-story loft to your new active adult home, you should! There are many reasons why it will absolutely enhance your Traditions of America active adult lifestyle.

     

    Two people holding video game controllers

    A Great Space for the Grandkids

    It’s wonderful to spend time with your grandkids when they come to visit, but they might also appreciate a space to call their own! By adding a second-floor loft to your new active adult home, they can have a place to watch movies, play video games, relax—or even build a pillow fort.

     

    Two active adult women talking on the couch

    Additional Room for Guests

    It’s always a good idea to have extra space for when guests come to visit – especially if you live somewhere like Chesterfield County that’s so close to shopping, dining, and events that visitors love to experience. A second-floor loft makes it easy to invite more guests to stay!

     

    Person doing crafts at the table

    Perfect for Hobbies and Crafts

    Whether you like sewing, quilting, reading, yoga, or board games, it’s nice to have a space to call your own when focusing on your interests. A second-story loft works wonderfully for these hobbies and more.

     

    Active adults playing board games with each other

    A Place for Entertaining

    A second-story loft is ideal for when you invite friends and neighbors over. For example, book club, poker night, movie night, or just a casual catch-up are perfect for hosting in an intimate, dedicated space like this.

     

    Living room with large sectional couch in a traditions of America home

    Add a Second-Story Loft to your New Active Adult Home

    Many of our homes have the option to add a second-story loft. In fact, The Betsy Ross, The Grant, The Hancock, The Washington, and The Franklin each have a second-story loft available. Please contact us to learn more!

  • 4 Fall Events in Richmond, Virginia You’ll Love

    4 Fall Events in Richmond, Virginia You’ll Love

    Leaves are changing, the days are getting cooler, and it’s the perfect time to discover Richmond, Virginia fall events for 2022 you won’t want to miss! Here are four of our favorites:

    Autumn Colors at Three Lakes Park & Nature Center
    Autumn Colors at Three Lakes Park & Nature Center

    1. Leaf-peeping

    For kids, the active-adult community, and everyone in between, fall foliage in Virginia is quite the sight to behold! October 15th through 25th is the perfect time to see the ever-changing brilliant colors. Three Lakes Park & Nature Center and Forest Hill Park are wonderful options for leaf-peeping close to Richmond. In addition, Maymont—a 100-acre historic estate and park—offers an autumn Garden Glow event that is truly a one-of-a-kind experience. Each Wednesday through Sunday night at sunset, the Carriage House Lawn transforms into the Glow Village with food trucks, Glow Shop, fire pits, and an expanded Glow Bar. Plus, you can hike down the historic Woodland Trail to explore the changing colors and wander dramatically illuminated paths. Space fills up quickly so don’t forget to buy tickets in advance!

    Woman dresses as little red riding hood at GrimmWoods at Kings Dominion
    GrimmWoods at Kings Dominion

    2. Halloween Haunt at Kings Dominion

    Kings Dominion is celebrating twenty-one years of its popular Halloween Haunt event. For select nights now through October 31st, you can experience their scariest Halloween Haunt yet! For example, new attractions like thrill shows, an outdoor maze, and a scare zone will accompany old favorites. Get ready for thrills and chills on Fridays and Saturdays from 7 p.m. to 12 a.m. and Sundays from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. NOTE: This Halloween event is too intense for young children. Parental discretion is advised.

    Haunted Capitol Hill Ghost Tour by Haunts of Richmond
    Haunted Capitol Hill Ghost Tour by Haunts of Richmond

    3. Haunted Capitol Hill Tour

    Let Haunts of Richmond take you on a spooky tour of Capitol Hill! Packed with haunted history, this 90-minute outdoor walking tour includes several of Richmond’s best-known ghost stories, including Our Haunted Executive Mansion, the Great Theatre Fire, spirits in Capitol Square, and more. Reserve your tickets now! NOTE: This tour is not intended for children under the age of 5 years old.

    James River Cellars Winery
    James River Cellars Winery

    4. James River Cellars

    The last of our featured fall events in Richmond is are the many fall events at James River Cellars. Events include Halloween Candy and Wine Flights from Oct 24th – Oct 31st, a Harvest Part on Saturday Oct 15th and a charcuterie how to class on Sunday Oct 19th.

    People spending time by the firepit drinking wine

    Fall events in Richmond are just the beginning!

    When you live in Chesterfield County—like at our latest active-adult community—there are endless year-round events to enjoy. Contact us today to learn more about the Live Better lifestyle at this or any of our acclaimed communities.

  • The Live Better Lifestyle: coming to our active adult community in Richmond

    The Live Better Lifestyle: coming to our active adult community in Richmond

    Get ready for the Live Better lifestyle at our newest active adult community in Richmond! Here’s what you can expect from the day you move into this spectacular community:

     

    People fist bumping over a pickle ball net

    Form Lasting Friendships

    When you move into our new active adult community in Richmond, the first thing you’ll notice is that your neighbors aren’t just neighbors. In fact, they’re your new best friends. Our homeowners enjoy forming new friendships and creating memories for decades to come.

     

    Clubhouse and pool

    5-Star Clubhouse

    The luxurious Clubhouse serves as the heart of this community. Here, homeowners flock to this social hub because of all the opportunities for fun it affords. For example, you’ll find a Fitness Center, Yoga Studio, Sports Bar, Club Room & more. Something for everyone!

    People playing shuffleboard in the Traditions of America clubhouse

    Lifestyle Director

    With a full-time Lifestyle Director, your new Chesterfield County Clubhouse comes with a built-in social calendar. There’s always a variety of events and programs for homeowners to enjoy, including happy hours, fitness classes, trips and more.

    People playing bocci ball from traditions of America

    Outdoor Amenities

    When you live at this Chesterfield County community your new backyard is a veritable playground! Discover a Heated Outdoor Pool, Tennis/Pickleball Court, Bocce, Putting Green, walking trails, and much more to explore.

     

    Two woman sitting by the community clubhouse pool from Traditions of America

    Low-Maintenance Living

    New opportunities for adventure abound when you say goodbye to shoveling, mowing and raking to embrace our high-fun, low-maintenance lifestyle. Let us do the yard work!

     

    Kitchen and dining room from traditions of america

    DreamHome

    If you can dream it, we can build it! We encourage you to customize your home to fit your lifestyle. Our professional Design Consultants will work side-by-side with you to design a home that is a reflection of you in every way.

     

    Two people standing outside smiling at each other

    Tax Benefits

    When you call this Traditions of America community home, you are able to take advantage of the many tax benefits available within Virginia — a tax-friendly state for retirees.

     

    Front elevation of a white home from Traditions of America

    Come Home to this Active Adult Community in Richmond

    We’re known for the Live Better lifestyle we bring to each of our communities. And, our Chesterfield County community is no exception. Please contact us today to learn more about this exciting opportunity!

  • Calling all grandkids! Here are 4 kids’ activities in Richmond, VA they’ll love

    Calling all grandkids! Here are 4 kids’ activities in Richmond, VA they’ll love

    Living the 55 plus lifestyle means every day is an adventure, but you also can’t wait for your grandkids to visit. And with these exciting kids’ activities in Richmond, Virginia, they won’t be able to wait either!

    Richmond children's museum
    Children’s Museum of Richmond

    1. Children’s Museum of Richmond

    The Children’s Museum of Richmond is celebrating 40 years of play! The Children’s Museum has locations in Chesterfield and Downtown Richmond. This means you and your grandkids can spend hours exploring, playing, learning, and more. For example, indoor “apple picking,” a living treehouse, and a kid-run TV studio make discovery fun.

     

    Kid feeding giraffe at the Metro Richmond Zoo
    Metro Richmond Zoo

    2. Metro Richmond Zoo

    The Metro Richmond Zoo is home to over 2,000 animals—and a number of rides and attractions! Your younger grandkids will love feeding the giraffes, while the older ones will enjoy taking an exciting ride on the Penguin Falls Drop Tower. No matter what you decide to do here, you’re sure to have a memorable time!

     

    Kid sliding out of a water slide at the Water Park at Kings Dominion
    Water Park at Kings Dominion

    3. Kings Dominion

    Kings Dominion offers more thrilling fun for everyone! Twelve rollercoasters, a 20-acre water park, low-thrill PEANUTS-themed rides, and the upcoming Jungle X-pedition make Kings Dominion a favorite summer tradition.

     

    kids' activities in richmond
    The Dome planetarium

    4. Science Museum of Virginia

    If you’re looking for the best kids’ activities in Richmond, Virginia, you’ll want to put the Science Museum of Virginia on your list! With a range of rotating exhibits that appeal to kids—and 55 plus adults or adults of all ages—you’ll always find something new to learn and explore. For example, don’t miss The Dome planetarium. At 76 feet, The Dome is the largest screen in Virginia.

     

    grandma and granddaughter cooking together

    Show your grandkids these kids’ activities in Richmond and more

    Contact us today to learn more about the 55 plus homes and communities we offer. You’ll find many of the floorplans in our new Chesterfield County community feature plenty of space for grandkids, family, and friends to visit! There’s never been a better time to see what Traditions of America has to offer.

  • Soak up the last of summer with these 4 outdoor activities in Richmond, Virginia

    Soak up the last of summer with these 4 outdoor activities in Richmond, Virginia

    Summer is winding down but you can still enjoy many outdoor activities in Richmond, Virginia! Whether you’re looking for something relaxing or a little more fast-paced to match your new active-adult lifestyle, here there’s always something to do outside. Keep reading for some of our favorite outdoor activities!

     

    Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden
    Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden

    1. Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden

    First, the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden is a true Richmond-area gem. In fact, it was voted America’s #4 public garden by USA Today and was recognized by the Travel Channel as a best botanical garden! Here, you can enjoy the season’s last warmer days surrounded by lush gardens and stunning exhibits.

     

    The James River
    The James River

    2. The James River

    Next on our list is The James River, an incredible natural resource that runs right next to downtown. Here, you can enjoy swimming, picnicking, kayaking, and more. In fact, this is one of the only places in the country you can kayak and raft class III and IV rapids in an urban setting! It’s a wonderful addition to the active-adult lifestyle you’re looking for.

     

    Virginia Capital Trail
    Virginia Capital Trail

    3. VA Capital Trail

    Bikers of all abilities won’t want to miss the Virginia Capital Trail! This 52-mile paved pedestrian and bicycle trail connects Jamestown and Richmond along the Route 5 corridor. It winds through acres of natural beauty and has many historic sites and restaurants to stop at along the way.

     

    Manchester Climbing Wall
    Manchester Climbing Wall

    4. Hiking and Climbing

    For an easy hike steeped in history, consider visiting Henricus Historical Park. This site highlights the major benchmarks that took place in the area over 400 years ago! Today, you can walk the grounds, attend a special event, or enjoy living history re-enactments and demonstrations. And for an outdoor climbing experience unlike any other, check out Manchester Climbing Wall. Built from a series of abandoned train trestles, this unique climbing wall is great for honing your skills.

     

    Person kayaking on a river

    Enjoy Outdoor Activities in Richmond, Virginia, Year-round!

    Our newest community is opening soon in the Richmond, Virginia area. Here, active-adult residents will enjoy the best that Richmond has to offer—indoors and out. Contact us today or visit the community’s website to learn more about this wonderful opportunity!

  • 5 reasons why you’ll love a 55+ active-adult community

    5 reasons why you’ll love a 55+ active-adult community

    Thinking about making a change? Here are 5 reasons why you’ll love living in a Traditions of America 55+ active-adult community.

    Pool outside of the clubhouse from Traditions of America

    1. Resort-style Amenities

    First, you’ll have a range of resort-style amenities to enjoy. For example, a 5-star clubhouse is the perfect place to break a sweat, take a class, or unwind with neighbors. In addition, heated pools, sports courts, manicured parks, and walking trails help fill every day with something new to do!

     

    People fist-bumping over a pickle ball net in a Traditions of America community court

    2. Full Calendar of Events

    There is never a shortage of enjoyable activities at Traditions of America. For example, the Lifestyle Director assists the homeowners in planning the activities they care about most. Join friends–and make new ones–at our happy hours, seasonal parties, fitness classes, wine tastings, excursions and more!

     

    Lincoln Exterior Lititz #2

    3. Low-maintenance Living

    With so many things to do while living in a 55+ active-adult community, the last thing you’ll want to spend time on is chores! Our communities offer low-maintenance living so you won’t have to shovel, rake leaves, or mow the lawn. Spend your time doing what you enjoy when you live in a low-maintenance home.

     

    People toasting over an outdoor lunch

    4. Neighbors Become Friends

    Resort-style communities like ours make it easy to make friends! Whether you’re joining a monthly book club, trying your hand at pickleball, or waving to passersby from your front porch, you’re sure to make new friends fast. In fact, you’ll probably have new best friends on every block!

     

    Front elevation of a white home from Traditions of America

    5. Single-level Living

    Our award-winning floorplans offer easier ways to live. For example, these 2- to 3-bedroom homes feature single-level living, so you can eat, sleep, entertain, and relax without ever climbing a flight of stairs. Plus, our homes are very customizable so you can make them your own. Optional second floors are perfect for grandkids and guests.

     

    55 and older communities

    Tour a Traditions of America 55+ active-adult community

    No one builds active-adult communities like Traditions of America! We’re known for building quality homes and neighborhoods throughout Pennsylvania and beyond. Contact us today to learn more about our acclaimed communities in Pittsburgh, Lancaster, the Lehigh Valley, Philadelphia suburbs, and Richmond—coming soon!

     

  • Live like a local! Here are some of the best restaurants in Richmond, Virginia

    Live like a local! Here are some of the best restaurants in Richmond, Virginia

    From date night to brunch with friends, we’ve rounded up some of the best restaurants near downtown Richmond, Virginia! Read on to see the kinds of acclaimed dining experiences residents of our 55+ Chesterfield County community may look forward to visiting:

    Sandwich on a black plate at the bar at Saison Market in Richmond, Virginia
    Saison Market in Richmond, Virginia

    1. Best Brunch: Saison Market

    Saison Market is a favorite spot for a casual brunch in downtown Richmond, Virginia. From 11 am to 3 pm guests here can enjoy a thoughtful, homestyle menu. For example, locals love their prized fried chicken biscuit as well as the ultimate breakfast burrito. In addition, Saison Market is a boutique wine & craft beer bottle shop, cocktail and wine bar, and full espresso bar!

     

    Fish dish with head attached at Stella's in Richmond, Virginia
    Stella’s in Richmond, Virginia

    2. Best Date Night Restaurant: Stella’s

    After sixty years, Stella’s is still a perfect choice for date night in Richmond! This charming restaurant honors rustic and modern Greek cuisine. Guests at Stella’s will be treated to the freshest ingredients and a wide array of Greek specialties including moussaka, kotopoulo, dolmades, and more.

     

    Lamplighter Roasting Company in Richmond, Virginia
    Lamplighter Roasting Company in Richmond, Virginia

    3. Best Coffee Shop: Lamplighter Roasting Company

    The next of our best restaurants in Richmond, Virginia, is actually a coffee shop! Lamplighter Roasting Company is a great place to meet friends or grab a cup of joe to go. They serve carefully crafted cups of coffee in an eclectic—yet welcoming—setting. Plus, they have a menu loaded with sandwiches, soups, and salads, perfect for the 55+ crowd or coffee connoisseurs of all ages.

     

    Perly's Restaurant and Delicatessen in Richmond, Virginia
    Perly’s Restaurant and Delicatessen in Richmond, Virginia

    4. Best Lunch Spot: Perly’s Delicatessen

    We mentioned Perly’s in our recent blog post about living in Chesterfield County, but it’s so loved among locals we wanted to highlight it again! Perly’s is a modern Jewish restaurant and delicatessen serving a wide range of Jewish specialties and delicacies. For example, they have a full smoked fish selection, soups and salads, breakfast, eastern European-inspired dinners, and more. This entry on our best restaurants in Richmond, Virginia also boasts a crafted cocktail selection and wine on tap!

     

    Living room with stone fireplace and hardwood floors in a Traditions of America home

    Become a Local to Explore All of the Best Restaurants in Richmond, Virginia!

    There are hundreds of fantastic restaurants to discover in Richmond, Virginia and neighboring Chesterfield County. Our newest 55+ community located right outside of Richmond is now open! Contact us to learn more!

  • Low-maintenance homes in Richmond, Virginia—customized by YOU!

    Low-maintenance homes in Richmond, Virginia—customized by YOU!

    When you live in a Traditions of America community—like these low-maintenance homes in Richmond, Virginia—you can lead the active-adult lifestyle you deserve. Continue reading this article to see how Traditions of America helps make your home, and your time, your own!

    People looking at floor plans

    Create your DreamHome

    Traditions of America is dedicated to building your new home the way you have dreamed it would. In fact, every home within our active-adult lifestyle communities reflects our homeowners’ individual styles, desires, and needs.

    Create a luxurious master bath or plan a chef’s kitchen, perfect for entertaining. Unlike many builders, we encourage you to move walls and customize your selections. In other words, we work with you to design a home that is yours in every way. As part of our DreamHome Program, our design consultants spend time with you selecting from the Design Studio’s abundant choices.

    Say “so-long” to cookie cutter and “hello” to the home of your dreams. Watch this video to learn more about creating your DreamHome.

    Active adults in the pool at a traditions of America clubhouse

    Live your Way

    Not only can you customize your Traditions of America home to your liking—you’ll have more time to spend each day exactly as you wish and not have to worry about any maintenance on your home!

    At Traditions of America, your home’s maintenance schedule no longer fills up your weekend, ties you to the house, or puts a wrench in your plans. We’ve got you covered in all seasons, whether it’s snow removal, leaf pickup, grass cutting or exterior maintenance.

    Snow Removal

    We want you to enjoy Richmond’s year-round calendar of events each winter. In addition, we want to save you from sore muscles and aching backs! We take care of all street and sidewalk snow removal so you don’t have to worry about it.

    Lawn Care

    When you live in one of our low-maintenance homes in Richmond, Virginia you won’t be spending hours on lawn care. For example, we handle all community mowing, weeding, fertilizing and more so you have free time to focus on hobbies or traveling.

    Leaf Removal

    Once the leaves have fallen from your community’s beautiful trees, you can leave the raking to us!

    Exterior Maintenance

    As a low-maintenance homeowner, you won’t have to clean gutters, touch-up exterior paint or perform any other exterior maintenance tasks.

    Front elevation of a white home from Traditions of America

    One-of-a-Kind Low-Maintenance Homes in Richmond, Virginia

    Each of our active-adult communities is low-maintenance so you’ll have time to enjoy the best in active-adult living in the home of your dreams. Contact us today to learn more about our acclaimed communities—including our new community near Richmond, Virginia.