New in 2022

3, 2, 1…. Happy New Year! Richmond and Wayne County are keeping things fresh in 2022 with a whole new batch of activities, exhibits and eateries to explore. Here are a few suggestions to add to your new year itinerary:
All that jazz
And blues, and gospel…The brand-new Midwest Music and Heritage Trail will be installed throughout the year and pays tribute to Louis Armstrong, Charley Patton, Hoagy Carmichael and other prominent artists who recorded at Richmond’s hometown Gennett Records studio back in the first few decades of the 1900s with a series of commemorative sculptures and plaques.

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In addition, the Wayne County Historical Museum plans to unveil a new Gennett Records exhibit in June 2022, relocating pieces that are currently on display at the Indiana Historical Society’s “You Are There 1927: Gennett Studio” display in Indianapolis.
Natural attractions
Managed by the Richmond Parks Department, scenic Middlefork Reservoir plans to bring back the kayak, canoe and paddle boat rentals it introduced last summer again in 2022. Here, visitors can enjoy peaceful water adventures, and make sure to keep your eyes peeled for glimpses of the bald eagles, turtles, deer and other wildlife that call this picturesque area home.

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For those who prefer their outdoor adventures on dry land, the new one-mile paved Riverside Heritage Trail runs alongside the east fork of Whitewater River from a trailhead at North 17th and North J streets in Richmond. For longer jaunts, visit the recently completed Connector Trail with swings and seating at the Veteran’s Park overlook.
History comes alive
A Black Baseball Historical Marker has been placed at Glen Miller Park across from the former Exhibition Park site where the Richmond Giants, independent members of Negro League, once played. Oscar Charleston, Bill Holland, Connie Day and Will McMurray were just a few of the well-known athletes who took the field for more than 125 games played here between 1907 and 1960.

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Drinking and dining
In Cambridge City, the landmark Lakeview Restaurant reopened in 2021, boasting waterfront dining on an outdoor patio. Another Wayne County favorite, Roscoe’s Coffee Bar in Richmond has opened a new location in The Loft Highway with more space, cozy atmosphere, a new tap room and video gaming area.

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Offering authentic Mexican cuisine washed down with cold beer and wine, Lulu’s Tacos is now open for business on Richmond’s east side.
Cap off your visit with something sweet – a new batch of bake shops is popping up including Sweet Blessings, LisaCakes, and La Petite Pastry Shop proposes plenty of delicious choices to consider.