Parlay at Graybo’s: Sports Bar meets Card Shop Haven

Richmond, Virginia, has just welcomed a groundbreaking concept that is sure to pique the interest of sports enthusiasts and collectors alike. Parlay at Graybo’s, nestled in the vibrant Scott’s Addition neighborhood, is not your average sports bar. It merges the high-energy ambiance of a sports bar with the interactive allure of a sports card shop, creating a haven for those seeking a unique and engaging experience.

Conceived by the visionary trio of Duke Dodson, Ryan Fitz, and Gray “Graybo” Burnette, Parlay at Graybo’s is designed to be more than just a place to grab a drink and catch a game. It serves as a communal space where guests can relish the excitement of opening new card packs, engage in live card breaks, and catch their favorite sporting events on massive screens, all while savoring delicious food and drinks. The official launch of this one-of-a-kind venue took place on May 18, marked by a grand opening celebration that included watching the Preakness Stakes, live music, and a range of special activities.

Taking over the space formerly occupied by the Circuit Arcade Bar at 3117 W. Leigh Street, Parlay at Graybo’s seamlessly integrates a sports bar and card shop through a breezeway adorned with a miniature putting green. This design feature adds to the interactive and immersive nature of the establishment, inviting visitors to step into a world where sports and collectibles coexist harmoniously.

The minds behind Parlay at Graybo’s bring a blend of experience and passion to the table. Duke Dodson, a seasoned card collector who reignited his passion for the hobby in 2021, brings a wealth of knowledge in business and finance, particularly in the real estate sector of Richmond. Gray Burnette, a history aficionado with a background in education, transitioned into this venture following challenges faced during the pandemic. Ryan Fitz, hailing from property management and technology spheres, injects a modern flair into the operational aspects of the business, enhancing the overall customer experience.

Fuelled by nostalgia for their own card collecting experiences from childhood and a shared vision of creating a space that caters to enthusiasts of all ages, the founders expanded the initial concept of a modest sports card shop into a dynamic, multifaceted venue. The new location not only features a spacious sports bar spanning over 3,300 square feet but also houses an expanded card shop covering 2,200 square feet, poised to draw a larger crowd due to its prime location in a bustling entertainment hub.

One standout feature of Parlay at Graybo’s is the opportunity for patrons to partake in or witness live card breaks from the bar, infusing an element of thrill akin to game days. In addition, the founders have cultivated a sense of community among collectors through various initiatives such as an eBay store, a weekly podcast, and online live breaks. These efforts have helped foster engagement within the collector community, both locally and across digital platforms.

Ryan Fitz emphasizes that the Richmond area boasts a vibrant and growing base of collectors, ranging from novices to seasoned veterans and investors, making Parlay at Graybo’s a welcoming and inclusive space for all. The fortuitous acquisition of the property following the closure of the previous venue, Circuit, presented Dodson with the perfect opportunity to bring his vision to life and fill a niche in the market.

The fusion of a sports bar with a card shop at Parlay at Graybo’s represents a pioneering concept in the region, offering a dynamic and electrifying atmosphere that is set to attract sports fans and card collectors alike. With its promise of a unique and immersive experience, this innovative blend of entertainment is poised to carve its own niche in Richmond’s vibrant social scene.

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