Riverside Drive // City of Richmond
Riverside Drive, as the name would suggest, runs along the James River's southern banks from the Manchester Bridge to its end several miles to the West near the Powhite Parkway. There is a stretch west of Powhite/Willow Oaks County Club that is not as picturesque as the eastern section. Unlike its cousin, River Road in Henrico County, Riverside runs adjacent to the river at almost all points making the views along its winding path some of the best in Richmond.
Much of Richmond's riverfront property is challenged by a railway system on both banks making true riverfront living rare within the city limits. The rail system on the south bank (where Riverside is located) is less of detractor as Riverside Drive's path navigates steep bluffs well above the tracks in most places. Likewise, the James River Park System, such an integral part of Southside's relation to the River, offers more options to engage the waterway giving many homesites along Riverside both beautiful views and easy access to Richmond's most spectacular natural resource.
Most of the homes along its banks were built in the same era as the two neighborhoods it connects, Woodland Heights and Westover Hills. Both neighborhoods roots run back into the 1920's and 30's and the dominant architecture along Riverside reflects the conservative architecture of the period. However, there are several modern additions to existing homes or "tear-downs" that have sprung up with walls of glass to better enhance the breathtaking views at several points along the drive.
