Richmond, Virginia, has found a new gem in the heart of its entertainment scene with the introduction of Parlay at Graybo’s. This groundbreaking destination marries the best of both worlds, combining the lively ambiance of a sports bar with the interactive allure of a sports card shop. Nestled in the vibrant Scott’s Addition neighborhood, this establishment promises a one-of-a-kind experience for sports enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Conceived by visionaries Duke Dodson, Ryan Fitz, and Gray “Graybo” Burnette, Parlay at Graybo’s seeks to create a communal hub where guests can revel in the excitement of cracking open fresh card packs, engaging in live card breaks, catching sporting events on large screens, all while indulging in delicious meals and drinks. The venue made its grand debut on May 18 with a spectacular event featuring the Preakness Stakes viewing, alongside live music and special activities to set the tone for what’s to come.
Taking over the space formerly occupied by the Circuit Arcade Bar at 3117 W. Leigh Street, Parlay at Graybo’s seamlessly connects its sports bar and card shop through a breezeway accented with a charming putting green. This clever layout enhances the interactive and inviting nature of the establishment, inviting guests to explore and engage at every turn.
The minds behind Parlay at Graybo’s bring a wealth of experience and a fervent love for the sports card industry. Duke Dodson, a seasoned figure in Richmond’s real estate scene, reignited his passion for card collecting in 2021, drawing from a childhood hobby. Gray Burnette, a history buff and former educator, transitioned into this venture post-pandemic, seeking new horizons. Ryan Fitz, with a background in property management and tech, infuses a modern touch, ensuring seamless customer integration and operations.
United by nostalgia and a shared vision, the trio set out to not only cater to a younger demographic but also to create a sophisticated space where adults could relish in their love for sports and collectibles. This ambition led to the transformation of a modest sports card shop into a sprawling venue that caters to diverse interests and age groups.
The expanded location spans an impressive total of 5,500 square feet, with the sports bar covering 3,300 square feet and the card shop branching out to 2,200 square feet. This growth forecasts a significant spike in foot traffic, capitalizing on its prime location in the heart of an entertainment hub like Scott’s Addition.
Parlay at Graybo’s introduces a novel concept by offering patrons the chance to partake in or witness live card breaks directly from the bar, infusing an element of thrill akin to game days. The founders also nurture a tight-knit community of collectors through various channels like their eBay store, a weekly podcast, and online live breaks, fostering engagement on both local and digital platforms.
Ryan Fitz underscores the vibrant and expanding collective of collectors in the Richmond region, ranging from novices to seasoned veterans and investors, making Parlay at Graybo’s a welcoming haven for all. The transition from the former Circuit venue presented a strategic opening for this innovative venture, which Dodson seized by acquiring the property just before its closure.
With its pioneering hybrid model of a sports bar intertwined with a card shop, Parlay at Graybo’s promises a thrilling atmosphere that is bound to captivate sports aficionados and card enthusiasts alike. Offering a distinctive and immersive experience, this unique establishment is set to make waves in Richmond’s vibrant social and entertainment scene.