Richmond, Virginia, has just welcomed a groundbreaking establishment that seamlessly blends the energetic vibe of a sports bar with the captivating allure of a sports card shop. Known as Parlay at Graybo’s, this fresh concept is situated in the lively Scott’s Addition neighborhood, famous for its array of entertainment options.
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 unveiling new card packs, engage in live card breaks, catch sporting events on oversized screens, all while relishing delectable food and drinks. The venue made its grand debut on May 18 with a spectacular event featuring live music, special activities, and the viewing of the Preakness Stakes.
Occupying the former premises of the Circuit Arcade Bar at 3117 W. Leigh Street, Parlay at Graybo’s sports bar and card shop are ingeniously linked by a breezeway featuring a miniature putting green, adding a fun and interactive element to the overall experience.
The individuals behind Parlay at Graybo’s boast a wealth of experience and a strong passion for the sports card industry. Duke Dodson reignited his card collecting hobby in 2021 after a lengthy hiatus, leveraging his extensive background in business and finance and his prominent role in Richmond’s real estate scene. Gray Burnette, a history buff and former educator, transitioned into this venture following challenges in the education sector during the pandemic. Ryan Fitz, with a background in property management and technology, brings a modern approach to customer integration within the business.
Inspired by their childhood memories of collecting cards and a vision to cater to both youngsters and adults seeking a sophisticated sports and collectibles haven, the trio transformed the original modest card shop into a larger, more versatile destination.
The new location features substantial expansions, with the sports bar spanning 3,300 square feet and the card shop growing to 2,200 square feet, anticipating a significant increase in foot traffic due to its strategic positioning in a vibrant entertainment district.
Parlay at Graybo’s offers a novel feature allowing guests to partake in or observe live card breaks from the bar, infusing an element of thrill akin to game days. The founders nurture a collector community through their eBay store, a weekly podcast, and online live breaks, ensuring continuous engagement with collectors both locally and online.
Ryan Fitz highlighted the thriving and expanding collector base in the Richmond area, comprising individuals from varying levels of expertise – from beginners to seasoned enthusiasts and investors – making Parlay at Graybo’s a welcoming space for all. Dodson’s timely acquisition of the property following the closure of the previous venue, Circuit, presented the perfect opportunity for this exciting new venture.
The amalgamation of a sports bar with a card shop at Parlay at Graybo’s is trailblazing in the region, offering a distinctive and exhilarating ambiance that is sure to captivate sports fans and card collectors alike, providing them with an unparalleled and immersive experience.
