Richmond, Virginia, has recently welcomed a groundbreaking establishment that caters to sports enthusiasts and collectors – Parlay at Graybo’s. This innovative venue marries the convivial ambiance of a sports bar with the interactive allure of a sports card shop, creating a haven for fans of both worlds. Nestled in the vibrant Scott’s Addition neighborhood, known for its lively entertainment scene, Parlay at Graybo’s is spearheading a new era of fan experiences in the city.
The brainchild of Duke Dodson, Ryan Fitz, and Gray “Graybo” Burnette, Parlay at Graybo’s was conceived to offer a communal space where guests can relish the excitement of unboxing new card packs, engage in live card breaks, catch sporting events on large screens, all while indulging in delectable meals and drinks. The venue made its grand debut with a spectacular event on May 18, coinciding with the Preakness Stakes viewing, accompanied by live music and special festivities.
Occupying the former premises of 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 miniature putting green, elevating the interactive and immersive nature of the establishment.
The founders of Parlay at Graybo’s bring a wealth of experience and a deep love for the sports card industry to the table. Duke Dodson, a card collector since the late 1980s, reignited his passion for collecting in 2021, leveraging his business and finance background to establish a significant presence in Richmond’s real estate scene. Gray Burnette, a history buff and former educator, transitioned into this venture following his departure from the education sector due to pandemic challenges. Ryan Fitz, with a background in property management and technology, focuses on customer integration, infusing a modern edge into the business operations.
Driven by their nostalgic memories of collecting cards in their youth and a vision to create a space that caters to both children and adults seeking a sophisticated environment to enjoy sports and collectibles, the trio expanded their initial idea of a modest sports card shop into a larger, more dynamic space. The newly renovated location spans 3,300 square feet for the sports bar and 2,200 square feet for the card shop, promising increased foot traffic due to its prime positioning in an entertainment-rich district.
Parlay at Graybo’s introduces a groundbreaking feature that allows patrons to partake in or witness live card breaks from the bar, infusing an element of thrill reminiscent of game days. The founders also cultivate a community of collectors through their eBay store, a weekly podcast, and online live breaks, fostering engagement with the collector community both locally and on digital platforms.
Ryan Fitz emphasized the thriving and expanding collector base in the Richmond area, ranging from amateurs to seasoned enthusiasts and investors, positioning Parlay at Graybo’s as a welcoming hub for all. The fortuitous closure of the previous venue, Circuit, presented an opportunity for this innovative venture, which Duke Dodson seized by acquiring the property shortly before its closure.
This amalgam of a sports bar and a card shop is a pioneering concept in the region, offering a distinctive, electrifying ambiance that is bound to attract sports aficionados and card collectors alike, providing them with a truly unique and immersive experience.
