Richmond is located in Madison County and has an estimated population of about 32,000 people. It is the seventh largest city in the state. The city was founded in 1798 by Colonel John Miller. The climate features hot and humid summers with moderately cool winters. It is home to Eastern Kentucky University and The National College of Business & Technology. The city is small consisting of about 19.2 square miles. The city has historical charm which is evident by the look and feel of the downtown area as well as the homes in the area. It's an appealing quality that makes this town inviting.
When to Search
Since Richmond is a fairly small area finding an apartment can often be a challenge. Stay up to date by getting on realtor listings or staying connected with the student life or housing department at the college. Both are important connections to finding an apartment in the area. You don't want to miss a unit when it comes open because it could be a while before another comes open.
Life in Richmond
Transportation
With Richmond being as small as it is you can realistically walk to most things in the city or even get by with a bicycle. Naturally, if you have your own transportation, then that's even better. There is public transportation though if you need it. Learn more by visiting their website at http://www.foothillscap.org/Services/RTS.html.
Where to play
There is so much to see and do in Richmond. Take a self-guided tour of the Battle of Richmond or if you like the outdoors then visit the Central Kentucky Wildlife Management Area. If you love horseback riding you can check out the Deer Run Stables. There are plenty of scenic trails where you can be one with nature as well as get some great exercise. Check out the downtown area for some shopping and fabulous places to eat as well.
Attractions
Richmond is an extremely historic city, and many of the local landmarks and attractions are deeply tied to that history. The Battle of Richmond Visitors Center offers a rich education in the local history from the Civil War period. The White Hall State Historic Site is another beautiful historical relic. The mansion is more than 200 years old, and provides a glimpse into the life of the rich and powerful from centuries past in the southern United States. If you're just looking to quickly see a wonderful local attraction for free, be sure to visit the Daniel Boone Monument on the EKU campus.
Dining
Richmond has a rich culinary landscape that offers international flavours as well as local ones. Masala Fine Indian Cuisine is an excellent Indian restaurant that has an afternoon all-you-can-eat buffet. Khin’s Sushi is a popular lunch spot with traditional Japanese sushi offerings. On the other hand, if you're just looking for perfect, down-home Kentucky cooking, then you should visit Jackson’s. If you want food that tastes like it came out of a family kitchen, then this is your kind of place. Casa Fiesta Mexican Grill is a well reviewed local Mexican establishment with some very authentic Mexican options that aren't usually found outside of Mexico.
Bars
Madison Garden is a great spot on weekends, as they regularly feature live music. They have a large beer list and a tasty menu featuring some Italian food to go with the music. If you like your bars in the traditional Irish style, with wood from floor to ceiling and Guinness on tap, then the Paddy Wagon Irish Pub is likely your style. Country music fans often attend Riptides during live music nights. If you want to get away from some of the college-aged crowd, you could head to Saratoga. It can be a lot of fun, especially on the nights where they feature karaoke.
Culture
The local museum is known as the Irvinton House Museum. While small, it provides an interesting look back at the community, which can be a wonderful introduction for those who are new to town. Without a doubt though, the most important cultural force in Richmond is the Eastern Kentucky University Center for the Arts. This performing arts complex is affiliated with the various arts programs at the University, and is home to a yearlong calendar of events that include concerts, plays, and more. In addition, the venue is often used by touring and rental groups, providing even more cultural opportunities for the community.
Events
Vineyard Summerfest is an event that brings together everything people love. A fun-run starts off the day, followed by a classic car show and event grounds filled with great food and craft vendors. The Blacksmith’s Weekend is another homage to history. The weekend festival in October celebrates the ancient craft by brining world-class blacksmiths to town to make demonstrations and projects. A great place for those who appreciate history, or the fine art of metalsmithing. As Christmas nears, people get a chance to celebrate the holidays through the lenses of history as well. 18th Century Christmas at the Fort shows guests how Christmas was celebrated with the pioneers first started settling this part of the world. Performances, food, and music make for a festive atmosphere.
Shopping
The large shopping center in Richmond is known as the Richmond Centre. Anchor stores include a JC Penney, and here you'll find most of the great stores that you expect to find in a high quality American Mall. There are also some great restaurants to be found here including a Blazin Buffalo Wild Wings and an Olive Garden. The Richmond Mall is a slightly smaller center anchored by a Sears. If you prefer to browse small gift shops and antique stores, head to the downtown district where you can find many local retailers within a small walking radius of each other.
Sports
Eastern Kentucky University is one of the remaining schools that still has different names for it's men’s and women’s athletics programs. However, whether the Eastern Kentucky Colonels or Lady Colonels are playing on a given night in Richmond, you can be sure the town will be out in force to support them. The school is an Ohio Valley Conference Member in NCAA Division I athletics. The local football stadium is known as the Roy Kidd Stadium, and it was named after the legendary coach who guided the Colonels for nearly forty years. Perhaps the most famous athletic alumnus of the program is NFL head coach Rex Ryan.
Outdoors
The Central Kentucky Wildlife Management area is certainly the best local spot to enjoy the great outdoors. There is regulated hunting available within the area, and there are several spots where fishermen can get a line in the water. The park features more than 1800 acres of wild land, giving you plenty of the great outdoors to explore. Another great way to see the local Kentucky scenery is by horseback. Deer Run Stable offers trail rides and camping. This offers maybe the most authentic way to experience the outdoors in Kentucky, without the intrusions of modern life and technology.