Henrico County is one of Virginia's eight original shires. Founded in 1611, it's also the country's oldest county. With more than 400 years of history, this county is full of sites honoring that heritage.

Curving around Richmond, these communities have deep roots and plenty to do. Step back in time and find out what it took to work a 19th-century farm at the Meadow Farm Museum in Glen Allen. Tour the restored farmhouse, tobacco barn, and fields with costumed interpreters. The Virginia E. Randolph Museum is a Landmark on the National Register. It's dedicated to Miss Randolph, a groundbreaking African-American educator. She was instrumental in upgrading vocational training in the South. You can also visit important Civil War battle sites at Fort Harrison and Malvern Hill Park.

Explore the Virginia Capital Trail. Covering 52 miles, this paved bike and pedestrian walkway winds through four centuries of history. Hadad's Lake offers paddleboats, miniature golf, rope swings, volleyball, and a floating trampoline. With over 50 acres of stunning gardens, the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden is fun for all ages.

Want to get out on the water? Head over to Osborne Park & Boat Landing to access the James River. They've got playgrounds, picnic areas, and a handicapped-accessible fishing pier. Other fun places to take the family include Boomerang Air Sports, Challenge Discovery, and Jumpology.

Sports fans will always find something to do. Henrico County has more than 60 youth sports associations. Have the kids take part in baseball, basketball, football, lacrosse, rugby, soccer, softball, volleyball, wrestling, and track and field. Adult sports groups offer opportunities to play softball, cricket, football, soccer, baseball, rugby, volleyball, Ultimate Frisbee, and kickball. There are also Special Olympic groups for kids and adults. Motorsports lovers can try their luck at the Richmond Dragway or check out a NASCAR race at Richmond Raceway.

For Art's Sake is there when you're in a lower-octane mood. Wander through 800 square feet of local artist exhibits that rotate regularly. The Richmond Philharmonic puts on incredible performances year-round, and the Chamberlayne Actors Theatre offers engaging shows for the whole family. You'll get hours of entertainment at the Children's Museum of Richmond, located at Short Pump Town Center. See if you've got what it takes to crack the codes and get out of Escape Room RVA.

If you're looking for something to take your mind off weighty issues, make a night of it at the Funny Bone Comedy Club and Restaurant. You can also enjoy live music at The Tin Pan.

Henrico County has some great food when you've worked up an appetite. Start the day off right with to-die-for cinnamon rolls from SB's Love Shack. Grab some pizza at Billy Pie or Belmont Pizzeria, or take a moment to savor Bojangles' Cajun fried chicken and signature sides. Balkan Restaurant serves up incredible dishes influenced by Turkish, Greek, and Mediterranean cuisine. Arvenezuela specializes in Brazillian food, and Anokha brings modern dishes from Northern India to your table. There are lots of cafes, Italian restaurants, and fast food options, making it easy to please everyone.

When you make your home in such a historic place, it's only natural you'd want your home landscaping to live up to the community's standard. Exceptional yards take a lot of work. LawnStarter helps you take back your weekends. It's easy to get started. Go online or fire up the app. Enter your ZIP code, and you'll have access to a vetted list of landscaping professionals in your area. They handle everything from ongoing maintenance and small projects to complete renovations. Choose your favorite company and schedule a service. Manage everything through the app and relax. You're in good hands. This Saturday, take the kids and splash around in Short Pump Park's water zone.