Richmond in Virginia is now home to an innovative establishment that intertwines the vibrant ambiance of a sports bar with the allure of a sports card shop. Parlay at Graybo’s, situated in the lively Scott’s Addition neighborhood, caters to both sports enthusiasts and collectors seeking a unique and interactive experience.

The brainchild of Duke Dodson, Ryan Fitz, and Gray “Graybo” Burnette, Parlay at Graybo’s is a haven where visitors can relish the excitement of opening card packs, engage in live card breaks, catch live sporting events on large screens, all while enjoying delectable meals and beverages. The grand opening on May 18 was a spectacular affair, marked by the Preakness Stakes viewing, live music performances, and special activities that set the tone for the exhilarating experiences to come.

Taking residence in the former location of the Circuit Arcade Bar at 3117 W. Leigh Street, Parlay at Graybo’s seamlessly merges a sports bar and a card shop through an interconnected breezeway accentuated by a mini putting green. This clever design fosters an interactive and immersive environment for guests to explore and enjoy.

The founders of Parlay at Graybo’s bring a wealth of experience and passion to the venture:

– Duke Dodson, a long-time card collector who reignited his passion in 2021, leveraging his extensive background in business and finance to shape real estate in Richmond.

– Gray Burnette, a history aficionado and former educator, transitioned into this venture post his teaching career, seeking new avenues in the wake of pandemic challenges.

– Ryan Fitz, with a background in property management and technology, infuses modern operational strategies into the business to enhance customer engagement.

United by their nostalgia for collecting cards in childhood and a shared vision of creating a space that caters to enthusiasts of all ages, the trio transformed a modest card shop into a dynamic venue that blends sports and collectibles.

The revamped location boasts a 3,300-square-foot sports bar and a 2,200-square-foot card shop, anticipating a surge in foot traffic owing to its strategic positioning in an entertainment hub. Parlay at Graybo’s introduces a unique element where patrons can partake in or witness live card breaks from the bar, injecting a dose of thrill akin to game day excitement. The founders also nurture a collector community through an eBay store, a weekly podcast, and online live breaks, fostering connections with collectors locally and beyond.

Ryan Fitz highlights Richmond’s vibrant community of collectors, ranging from novices to seasoned veterans and investors, making Parlay at Graybo’s a welcoming space for all. The closure of the previous venue, Circuit, paved the way for Dodson to acquire the property, seizing the opportunity to realize this innovative concept.

With its groundbreaking fusion of a sports bar and a card shop, Parlay at Graybo’s delivers a distinctive and electrifying atmosphere sure to captivate sports fans and card collectors alike, promising an immersive and unforgettable experience.

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