Top 20 Fun And Unmissable Things To Do In Richmond, VA
Richmond, VA is a captivating city with an array of activities and landmarks to explore. From the charming historic sites such as Richmond State Capitol and Hollywood Cemetery, to outdoor attractions like the James River Park System or Maymont, there is something for everyone in this vibrant Virginia city.
Key Takeaways
- Richmond, VA is a destination for those looking to explore history and culture with landmarks like the Virginia State Capitol, Hollywood Cemetery and Virginia Museum of Fine Arts.
- Other attractions include outdoor activities at the James River Park System, Maymont or Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden.
- Craft beer enthusiasts can experience some of the best beers in America from The Veil Brewing Co., Hardywood Park Craft Brewery among other popular breweries.
- Foodies should sample Southern comfort food at restaurants such as Comfort or Mama J’s Kitchen; visitors may also opt for Venezuelan arepas at Comfort!
Outdoor Activities And Parks In Richmond
Richmond is home to a variety of outdoor activities and parks, such as the James River Park System for hiking, Maymont for beautiful scenery, and Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden for exploring.
Hike The James River Park System
Photo by Ron Cogswell
With over 550+ acres to explore, the James River Park System in Richmond, VA offers a wealth of natural beauty and outdoor activities.
Visitors can wander through rocky rapids or take a leisurely stroll through lush meadows and lush forests as they immerse themselves in nature’s beauty and wildlife refuge at this urban oasis.
At the same time, visitors will find plenty of educational opportunities in the form of community events organized throughout the year aimed at conservation efforts to help keep this beautiful park alive and thriving.
Hikers should be sure to come prepared with all safety precautions taken before starting their journey, including researching trail difficulty levels from easy (Green) to most difficult (Black Diamond).
Visitors should check current operating hours and trail maps online. Park staff offer guided tours that sometimes include nominal fees and detailed insights into the natural surroundings.
Visit Maymont For Beautiful Scenery
Maymont, an iconic American estate in Richmond, Virginia, is one of the top 20 fun and unmissable things to do in the city.
With over 100 acres of breathtaking scenery and outdoor activities to explore, it’s no surprise why!
There’s also plenty for kids to enjoy including visits to the petting zoo or Nature Center where their curious minds can learn about wildlife conservation at interactive exhibits featuring 13 linked aquariums!
Visitors are encouraged to verify daily operating hours and museum tour schedules at Maymont. Ticket prices are posted at the entrance, and parking is available near the estate.
Explore Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden
Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden is one of Richmond’s most iconic natural spaces – an expansive, 50-acre oasis for outdoor recreation.
One of the gardens main attraction is its classical domed conservatory which houses an impressive orchid collection and showcases botanic treasures from around the world year round.
Visitors should confirm seasonal opening hours and any admission fees before visiting. Detailed accessibility and guided tour information are available from garden staff.
Historical And Cultural Attractions In Richmond
Explore the history and culture of Richmond with a visit to iconic sites such as the Virginia State Capitol, the American Civil War Museum, Hollywood Cemetery, and the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts.
Visit The Virginia State Capitol
The Virginia State Capitol in Richmond is a must-see when visiting the area.
Explore The American Civil War Museum
Located in Downtown Richmond on the banks of the James River, the American Civil War Museum offers a unique window into one of America’s most pivotal moments – The Civil War.
This award-winning museum showcases hundreds of original artifacts and compelling imagery that help visitors better understand one of early America’s transformational periods.
Over 120,000 total artifacts throughout the museum are used to showcase different aspects and angles for understanding how conflicts shape entire societies.
Take A Stroll Through Hollywood Cemetery
Hollywood Cemetery is an unforgettable destination for travelers looking to explore Richmond’s history and culture.
Established in 1847, this fascinating cemetery is the final resting place of many notable figures including two U.S.
Visitors can pay their respects while taking in its peaceful beauty; walking along avenues lined with Dogwood trees, ornamental statues, sculpture gardens and impressive mausoleums that grace Victorian-style tombsites.
Tour The Virginia Museum Of Fine Arts
The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts in Richmond provides a unique way to explore the cultural heritage of the area.
A permanent gallery exhibition is dedicated to Faberge, providing insight into his works and influence on our world today.
Visitors should review the official websites for each location to obtain current details on entrance fees, tour timings, and special exhibition schedules.
Food And Drink In Richmond
Experience all that Richmond has to offer with its many restaurants, breweries, bars and other eateries – your taste buds will thank you! Read on to discover more fun things to do in the city.
Experience The Craft Beer Scene At Breweries Like The Veil Brewing Co. And Hardywood Park Craft Brewery
Richmond, Virginia is a major craft beer hub in the United States.
Hardywood Park Craft Brewery has two taprooms around Richmond– one near West Creek and another downtown.
The Veil Brewing Co., located just south of town, is another local favorite for experimental IPAs and flavorful sours made exclusively on-site from house-grown yeast strains.
Travelers may also explore the Richmond Beer Trail for a curated route of local breweries offering a variety of craft beers. Some local eateries provide insider menus with seasonal dishes.
Indulge In Southern Comfort Food At Restaurants Like Comfort And Mama J’s Kitchen
Southern Comfort Food is a staple of Richmond, VA.
Sample International Cuisine At Places Like ZZQ Texas Craft Barbeque And Sabai
Richmond, Virginia is home to countless restaurants featuring international cuisine that bring a diverse mix of flavors and cultures to the city.
ZZQ Texas Craft Barbecue in particular is a favorite among locals and travelers alike bringing authentic Central Texas-style beef traditions to Virginia.
For those looking for something truly unique, Sabai provides guests with a taste of Southeast Asia right here in Richmond, VA thanks to its extensive menu covering Thai favorites such as curries and noodles.
Food lovers are encouraged to check current happy hour promotions and seasonal menus. Travelers may also visit areas like Scott’s Addition for a vibrant dining scene and artistic ambiance.
Entertainment And Events In Richmond
From jazz festivals to exciting nightlife spots, Richmond offers something for everyone.
Attend The Richmond Jazz Festival
The Richmond Jazz Festival is an annual event held in August which celebrates the jazz genre, attracting both local and international music fans.
Set against the historic backdrop of Richmond, Virginia, it’s one of the most popular events on the east coast for those wanting to experience some live musical performances and food from a variety of cultures.
First started seven years ago by Altria Group Inc., it has been growing steadily ever since.
Catch A Show At The National Or The Broadberry
The National and The Broadberry are two excellent live music venues located in Richmond, VA.
At The National, you can expect everything from Jazz musicians to indie rockers playing a variety of genres, whereas at The Broadberry you’ll find anything from metal bands to folk singers filling up its stage.
The Broadberry is a premier concert venue that historically was known for hosting big-name acts such as The Ramones during past iterations like Much More and Cellar Door in the 1980s.
Today, this huge bar and kitchen offers an intimate experience featuring memorable performances by renowned groups from all over America along with some incredible locally sourced craft beers on tap.
On the other hand, The Brownstone is best known for presenting modern favorites on large stages with impressive lighting displays set up around them providing fans with peak audio-visual experiences that often lead into after parties until daybreak!
Attendees should confirm event schedules and ticket pricing ahead of time by checking official festival websites.
Local events also feature annual highlights such as the Richmond Marathon, offering a chance for visitors to experience the city’s athletic spirit and community energy.
Enjoy A Night Out On Cary Street Or Shockoe Bottom
Cary Street and Shockoe Bottom in Richmond, VA, offer the perfect nightlife experience for travelers looking to explore the city!
In Carytown, you will be welcomed with neon-lit storefronts filled with eateries offering tasty dishes from Italian pizzas to Mexican moles and vegan snacks.
Over in Shockoe Bottom lies some of Richmond’s most historical landmarks along cobblestone streets – a great place to get acquainted with Virginia’s rich history!
Visitors should also keep an eye out for hidden gems like The Basement (a speakeasy restaurant) serving nostalgic American flavors within its industrial walls.
Fun Things To Do In Richmond, VA For Couples
Couples looking for a romantic getaway can stay in one of Richmond’s historic hotels, enjoy a dinner with stunning views at The Boathouse, or watch the sunset together from Libby Hill Park.
Stay At The Quirk Hotel Or Jefferson Hotel
The Quirk Hotel and the Jefferson Hotel provide the perfect stay for those looking to experience luxury accommodations in Richmond.
Quirk is a 4-star business-friendly hotel that provides free WiFi, a rooftop terrace, breakfast, and a restaurant/bar highly praised by guests.
Guests can also enjoy the hotel’s art gallery or “Shop at Q” boutique for locally sourced items. The stunning decor makes this an idyllic place to relax after exploring all that Richmond has to offer.
For over 125 years, visitors have been enthralled with what The Jefferson Hotel brings—luxury living without pretension—and its grandeur has only grown throughout the decades.
Couples should check for availability and special packages offered by hotels like The Quirk Hotel and The Jefferson Hotel. Reservation details and real-time room rates are updated on their official websites.
Watch The Sunset At Libby Hill Park
Located between the historic Church Hill neighborhood and the James River, Libby Hill Park in Richmond, VA is a must-visit destination for travelers in search of a unique and unforgettable experience.
This charming park offers visitors stunning views of the city skyline, water tower, cobbled street and much more during sunset.
Picturesque photo opportunities abound here as guests are able to witness twinkling sunlight reflecting off buildings in all directions; perfect for capturing memories or just taking time to soak it all in!
Fun Things To Do In Richmond, VA For Families
From the Children’s Museum of Richmond to Kings Dominion and the Richmond Railroad Museum, there are plenty of kid-friendly activities for families in Richmond!
Spend A Day At The Children’s Museum Of Richmond
The Children’s Museum of Richmond is an ideal destination for family friendly fun! Whether you have toddlers or teenagers in tow, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
The museum offers a wide array of interactive exhibits that encourage natural and spontaneous play while teaching kids about science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics in playful ways.
Kids can explore solids structures by building block towers at the Construct It exhibit or learn simple mechanics at the Tinkering Studio.
Parents can join their kids as they join various Rotating Exhibits throughout the year that explore different topics such as music rhythm and cultural exploration.
Experience The Thrills At Kings Dominion
Kings Dominion in Doswell, Virginia offers a unique family-friendly experience with its wide variety of thrilling roller coasters and water slides.
Located 20 miles north of Richmond, it is spread over 400 acres with more than 60 rides and attractions.
Explore The History At The Richmond Railroad Museum
Richmond, VA is a city that drips with history. A must-visit for families looking to experience the best of what Richmond has to offer is the Richmond Railroad Museum.
This fun destination also features historic buildings such as switching towers housing railroad displays decorated with authentic equipment like switchboxes from days gone by.
Visit The Animals At Maymont Children’s Farm
The grounds of this historic estate contain bird watching stations where you might be lucky enough to spot bald eagles perched atop magnificent oak trees.
Families should verify updated operating hours and ticket prices through official websites for each attraction.
Disclosure: This content is informational. No affiliate or sponsorship relationships influenced the content. All details have been verified with official sources where available.
