Richmond, Virginia, has become the talk of the town with the introduction of Parlay at Graybo’s, an innovative venue that seamlessly merges the vibrant energy of a sports bar with the allure of a sports card shop. Nestled in the lively Scott’s Addition neighborhood, renowned for its entertainment spots, this unique concept sets the stage for an unparalleled fan experience.
The brainchild of Duke Dodson, Ryan Fitz, and Gray “Graybo” Burnette, Parlay at Graybo’s represents a haven where sports enthusiasts and collectors converge. Embodying a communal space where guests can relish the excitement of uncovering new card packs, engaging in live card breaks, and catching live sporting events on oversized screens, all while indulging in delectable food and drinks, this venue marks a new era in fan engagement. The grand opening extravaganza on May 18th featured the viewing of the Preakness Stakes alongside live music and tailored activities, setting the tone for the exciting journey ahead.
Occupying the erstwhile location of Circuit Arcade Bar on 3117 W. Leigh Street, Parlay at Graybo’s ingeniously links the sports bar and card shop through a charming breezeway adorned with a miniature putting green, heightening the interactive ambiance of the venue. The founders bring a wealth of experience and ardor for the sports card industry, with Duke Dodson’s resurgence in card collecting, Gray Burnette’s shift from education to entrepreneurship, and Ryan Fitz’s infusion of modernity into operations through his tech proclivity, culminating in a spirited collaboration.
Driven by nostalgia for childhood card collecting and a vision to foster a sophisticated yet welcoming space for all ages, the trio transformed a modest card shop into a sprawling establishment. The expanded location sprawls over 3,300 square feet for the sports bar and 2,200 square feet for the card shop, poised to draw a substantial footfall owing to its strategic positioning in an entertainment-rich locale. Parlay at Graybo’s unveils an exciting feature allowing patrons to partake in or witness live card breaks from the bar, instilling an electrifying game-day vibe into the venue.
Moreover, the founders nurture a thriving collector community through their eBay store, a weekly podcast, and virtual live breaks, ensuring sustained engagement with enthusiasts both local and virtual. As Ryan Fitz attests, Richmond’s flourishing collector base spans from newcomers to seasoned hobbyists and investors, fostering a diverse and inclusive atmosphere at Parlay at Graybo’s. The strategic acquisition of the property following the closure of Circuit presented Duke Dodson with a timely opportunity to bring his visionary concept to life, setting the stage for a novel fan experience.
This groundbreaking fusion of a sports bar and card shop accentuates the vibrancy of the Richmond scene, offering a distinctive and immersive ambiance that is set to captivate sports fans and card collectors alike, promising an unparalleled blend of excitement and camaraderie. By catering to a diverse demographic of fans and collectors, Parlay at Graybo’s is poised to become a sought-after destination for those seeking a truly exceptional and engaging experience.