Richmond, Virginia, welcomes an inventive and thrilling destination for sports aficionados and collectors in the form of Parlay at Graybo’s. This groundbreaking establishment blends the convivial ambiance of a sports bar with the interactive allure of a sports card shop, offering a one-of-a-kind experience for visitors. Situated in the vibrant Scott’s Addition neighborhood, renowned for its diverse entertainment offerings, Parlay at Graybo’s has quickly become a hotspot for those seeking a unique blend of sports and collectibles.
The brainchild of Duke Dodson, Ryan Fitz, and Gray “Graybo” Burnette, Parlay at Graybo’s aims to create a communal space where patrons can revel in the excitement of opening new card packs, take part in live card breaks, catch live sports events on large screens, all while indulging in delicious meals and drinks. The venue celebrated its grand opening on May 18 with a spectacular event that included watching the Preakness Stakes, live music performances, and engaging activities.
Occupying the space formerly held by the Circuit Arcade Bar at 3117 W. Leigh Street, Parlay at Graybo’s seamlessly connects the sports bar and card shop through a breezeway featuring a small putting green, enhancing the interactive nature of the establishment for guests. The fusion of entertainment and engagement sets the venue apart in the local scene, providing a fresh and dynamic space for social gatherings.
The founders of Parlay at Graybo’s bring a wealth of experience and a shared passion for the sports card industry to this innovative venture. Duke Dodson, with a history of card collecting dating back to the late 1980s, rekindled his interest recently, leveraging his background in business and finance to contribute to the real estate landscape in Richmond. Gray Burnette, a former educator with a penchant for history, transitioned into this venture after leaving the educational field in the wake of pandemic challenges. Ryan Fitz, hailing from property management and tech sectors, focuses on customer integration to infuse a modern sensibility into the business operations.
Motivated by nostalgia for their childhood collecting days and a vision to create a space that caters to both young and adult enthusiasts, the trio evolved the original card shop concept into a versatile and inclusive environment. The venue’s recent expansion sees the sports bar covering 3,300 square feet and the card shop growing to 2,200 square feet, providing ample space for increased foot traffic and a variety of activities.
A unique feature of Parlay at Graybo’s is the opportunity for patrons to participate in or spectate live card breaks from the bar, adding an element of thrill reminiscent of game days. The founders nurture a vibrant collector community through various initiatives such as an eBay store, a weekly podcast, and online live breaks, fostering engagement among local and online collectors alike.
Ryan Fitz highlighted the burgeoning collector base in the Richmond area, diverse in expertise and interests, making Parlay at Graybo’s a welcoming and inclusive space for all. The closure of the former venue, Circuit, presented an opportune moment for this new venture, which Dodson seized by acquiring the property just before its shutdown.
The novel fusion of a sports bar with a card shop sets Parlay at Graybo’s apart as a trailblazer in the entertainment landscape, promising visitors a dynamic and immersive experience that caters to both sports fans and card collectors alike. Prepare to be captivated by the electric atmosphere and unique offerings at this innovative establishment in Richmond.
