Highland Springs is one of the most diverse suburbs in Virginia, USA. It is just 15-20 mins from Richmond, the capital of Virginia. As a major Eastern part of Henrico County, it has a more comfortable environment than the west.
Before 1890, Highland Springs was considered a rural area. Later on, it was developed by Edmund Read, who was into real estate.
If you wish for a tranquil, fulfilling vacation, this suburb provides you with such an experience because it’s amazingly in tune with nature. A place like this has a beauty that could make you feel at home.
Since planning well and knowing important details is crucial, a travel guide is filled with all the information you need before you hit the country roads.
Sound good? Let’s start from the beginning.
1. History and Origin of Highland Springs
As a streetcar suburb of Richmond, Edmund Sewell Read established Highland Springs in the 1890s along the electric street railway line that the Seven Pines Railway Company built between the city and the Seven Pines National Cemetery.
Numerous Union soldiers were buried there, mostly due to surrounding engagements during the American Civil War (1861–1865), particularly the Peninsula Campaign of 1862. A driving force for the creation of the new street railway was the projected influx of out-of-town families traveling to the Richmond area and needing transportation to and from the cemetery.
Read traveled from Boston to the area in search of a comfortable atmosphere for his unwell wife. The natural springs in the region made it a good choice for the Read family and, reportedly, the source of the new name’s inspiration.
Read purchased a 1,000-acre (400 ha) parcel of land and divided it into lots about halfway along the new streetcar route from Richmond through eastern Henrico County
2. All You Need to Know about Highland Springs
2.1. How to Reach Highland Springs
For non-residents of America, you can always book a flight to any of the airports in Virginia, preferably the Richmond Airport Drive Highland Springs. If you already live in the US, this could mean a fun road trip, solo or with your loved ones! You can take a bus or a cab to reach your destination. The distance is approximately 9-10 km if you travel via Triangle Rd, S Laburnum Avenue.
The services in this district are not as expensive as those in the western areas. Today, you can experience dining, leisure activities, and hotels at more affordable rates than in the city.
2.2. Environment of Highland Springs
The summer season isn’t ideal because the heat gets unbearable as the temperature rises. It attracts a higher number of travelers during the winter and spring seasons.
With the onset of spring, from early April to early June, the temperature is normal in the daytime, although it may get cold or frosty at night. The same happens in autumn, although it gives a beautiful sight as the colors change the entire vibe of the area.
The weather conditions are usually a little unpredictable as the seasons blend. It would be best if you were prepared with various clothing to suit the day and nighttime. Not to forget, the localities are clean and highly maintained, with wide roads that give off an old-school, ghetto vibe. The houses are built close to one another, and the locales are pretty friendly.
It has a safe, jolly environment. The most pleasant months in Highland Springs are September, May, and October, while January and February are the least agreeable.
2.3. Hotels in Highland Springs
You can find a wide range of inns providing several facilities, only within a distance of a few miles. They offer twenty-four-hour services. Need to gather more information on these community lodges? Which hotel is the best? To find the answers to your questions, take note and keep reading further.
2.3.1. DoubleTree by Hilton, Richmond Airport
Address: 445 International Center Dr, Sandston, VA 23150, United States
DoubleTree is a well-maintained 3-star hotel just 7-10 minutes from the main region. You can get free parking (onsite parking), enjoy free WiFi, and indoor and outdoor pool facilities.
2.3.2. Homewood Suites by Hilton
Homewood Suites is a high-class hotel that is comparatively a little far from the suburb- approximately 7 miles- but offers better amenities. It’s a great option for families and a marvelous luxurious suite.
You must enjoy the free breakfast, which has a high rating, along with the bar/lounge on request: air-conditioned nice, clean rooms and comfortable and great bed. The view from this business-friendly hotel is pleasing to the eyes.
Other hotels are far away from the central area in Highland Springs- Hampton by Hilton Inn and Hilton Garden Inn, to name a few. Several small guesthouses are available near the airport as well.
2.4. Highland Springs’s Top Restaurant
Tops China Restaurant, Subway, Heavenly Burgers, Annas Pizza Pasta and Subs, Creative Cakes by Gloria, Burger King, Williams Bakery, etc.
2.4.1. 9 Mile Grill
Address: 309 W Nine Mile Rd, Highland Springs, VA 23075, United States
Serves all kinds of high-quality food. A clean place with helping staff.
2.4.2. Yummy Chinese Restaurant
Offers a wide range of Chinese meals. Well-maintained and a great place to spend quality times with your loved ones.
2.4.3. Anna’s Pizza Pasta and Subs
Address: 601 N Airport Dr, Highland Springs, VA 23075, United States
Famous for Italian and fast food. Open all day till 10 p.m., it has a pleasant environment.
Although most hotels provide food services, it’s still a great idea to explore the nearby restaurants and cuisine area. Since food interests vary for each person, here are a few dining options.
2.5. Which Places to Visit and Their Timings for Community
2.5.1. Chickahominy River
When exploring the suburbs, don’t forget to include the Chickahominy River in your list. The river is 87 miles in length. Fun endeavors include fishing, camping, kayaking, and canoeing- or you could relax by the water body.
Another place you can go for fishing and several water activities is Tuckers Branch. Its distance from Highland Springs is only 2 miles. You must request to go fishing and follow the rules and regulations.
Many people go there to learn fishing if they are not experts. You can also participate in fishing competitions. You’ll see some fishermen daily since they’re committed to their work. The best time to hit this place is between four p.m. and six p.m.
2.5.2. Robinson Park
Address: 214 Westover Ave, Richmond.
You can go to Robinson Park for fun and games. The park welcomes all people to enjoy the beauty of nature. It is well acquainted with several playgrounds. You can play on the tennis court. Great for mental health. There is an open basketball court, the only court in the area. Some other popular attractions are St. John’s Episcopal Church and the Virginia Museum of Fine Art.
You can play tennis and have a fun picnic with children under the shade of large trees. It also offers access to nicely managed restrooms.
2.5.3. Highland Springs Golf Course and the Exciting Springs Recreation Center
Address: located at 302 Lee Avenue.
This center range is situated near a branch of the Chickahominy River. The center was initially named Confederate Hills Recreation Center; then, the government switched it to Springs Recreation Center.
The whole region of Highland Springs has a chic aesthetic, and the recreation center remains open on weekdays. You can explore the riverside on one side, play golf, and enjoy the green pastures on the other.
Book your tickets soon, and you’re in for a delightful time in your life!
3. Closing Thoughts
Highland Springs may not be as well-known as other American cities. But this smaller, upcoming tourist spot that is gorgeous and worth seeing is Highland Springs.
You might be shocked by some of the unusual activities and locations you can discover in this undiscovered location. Go there one day to take a break and unwind at Highland Springs. Today.
