If shopping is something you're targeting (what most people go to Short Pump for), check out Cary Street. Full of local, beloved shops and restaurants. The Poe Museum is over there, it's maybe 10 minutes from Riverside Drive, some of the best recreation on the James. Go walk the bridge to Belle Isle and stand in the middle of the River. The museum district has fabulous outdoor space and many of the museums are free. Maymont is the local wildlife refuge, there are bison, bears, foxes, and eagles. See a show at the national, or some stand up at the Sandman. Visit one of the many breweries in Scott's Addition.

If you grew up here, you probably remember and long for a time before Short Pump. Richmond has the culture, Short pump has the money. It's very.... Cheesecake Factory. Not sure how else to describe it.