Things To Do
in Richmond
Richmond, Virginia sits along the James River with a rich Civil War and industrial heritage. Its streets blend grand 18th- and 19th-century architecture with a modern, creative food and arts scene. Neighborhoods like the Fan, Carytown, and Shockoe Slip offer distinct vibes—historic charm, quirky shops, and riverfront views.
Expect a city that pairs southern hospitality with contemporary culture and outdoor accessibility at every turn.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through the historic streets of Richmond, where you can admire the stunning architecture of the Virginia State Capitol. Afterward, visit the nearby Museum of Virginia History to learn about the state's rich past. Don’t forget to grab a coffee at a local café before heading to your next destination.
In the afternoon, explore the vibrant arts scene at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, home to an impressive collection of both American and international art. After your visit, take a leisurely walk through the adjacent gardens, enjoying the tranquility and beauty of the landscape. For lunch, indulge in some southern cuisine at a nearby restaurant, sampling local flavors.
As the sun sets, head to the historic Shockoe Bottom district, where you can explore the lively nightlife. Enjoy dinner at one of the many acclaimed restaurants, offering everything from barbecue to fine dining. Cap off your evening with live music at a local venue, immersing yourself in Richmond’s vibrant culture.
Begin your day with a refreshing bike ride along the Capital Trail, which runs parallel to the beautiful James River. Stop at one of the scenic overlooks to take in the stunning views and snap a few photos. After your ride, enjoy a hearty breakfast at a riverside café to fuel up for the day.
In the afternoon, rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the James River from the water, experiencing the city from a unique perspective. Glide past the historic sites and lush landscapes, taking breaks on the riverbanks to relax and enjoy nature. For lunch, pack a picnic to enjoy by the water or visit a nearby food truck for a quick bite.
As evening approaches, return to the river for a sunset cruise, soaking in the breathtaking views as the sky transforms. After your cruise, head to a riverside restaurant for dinner, where you can savor fresh seafood while listening to the gentle sounds of the river. End your day with a leisurely walk along the riverfront, taking in the city lights reflecting on the water.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🥗Lunch in mid-range restaurant | $12-20 |
| 🍷Dinner in mid-range restaurant | $18-40 |
| 🏨1-night in mid-range hotel | $120-200 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and architecture
- Vibrant food and craft beer scene
- Walkable downtown in many districts
- Seasonal river activities
- Hot summers with humidity
- Some areas have limited public transit late at night
- Parking can be challenging in downtown
- Tourist crowds in Carytown around weekends
Places to Visit in Richmond
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic gold dome and stately neoclassical architecture provide strong lines and historic context for photography.
Waterfront views, bridges, and moored boats along a scenic urban canal—great for daytime and sunset shots.
Industrial-era bridge and river scenery within an urban park setting.
Tree-lined streets with well-preserved early 20th-century homes offering colorful, architectural photography opportunities.
Food in Richmond
Richmond Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A salty-sweet regional favorite featuring sliced Virginia ham on a soft biscuit, commonly found in diners and local brunch spots.
Must-Try!
Creamy grits topped with seasoned shrimp—courtesy of coastal-influenced restaurants across downtown and riverfront districts.
Smoky, slow-cooked pork or beef with regional sauces; available in smokehouses and barbecue joints around the city.
A Southern staple often served on crusty biscuits or as a dip, widely available in cafes and casual eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal produce, prepared foods, and local crafts from surrounding farms and vendors.
A mix of street-food stalls and small eateries offering diverse snacks and quick bites.
Casual waterfront options featuring local seafood and quick bites during warmer months.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Warm welcomes and polite conversation are common; small talk is typical in shops and restaurants.
Acknowledge Civil War-era sites and local stories with curiosity and sensitivity; avoid loud disruption near museums and memorials.
Safety
Tipping in Richmond
Ensure a smooth experience
Common practice in the U.S. is to tip 15-20% at restaurants; leave a few dollars for bellhops or housekeeping if applicable.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is useful for markets or small vendors; mobile wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are increasingly common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon thunderstorms; visit riverfront areas early or later in the day and stay hydrated.
Comfortable temperatures and vibrant foliage in parks and along river trails; ideal for outdoor photography and strolling neighborhoods.
Cool to cold with occasional snow; city lights and historic architecture create a moody atmosphere, but expect shorter daylight hours.
Milder temps and blooming gardens; great for botanical spots like Lewis Ginter and Maymont, plus outdoor markets reopen.
Richmond at Night
Hiking in Richmond
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Urban island trails with river views, nearby bridges, and easy to moderate hikes.
Extensive forested trails suitable for a variety of hiking levels.
Scenic trails along the James River with overlooks and rapids.
Airports
How to reach Richmond by plane.
Primary airport serving the city with short drives to downtown.
Big regional airport about 2-3 hours southeast, useful for connections.
Major hub, about 2-3 hours south by car or train.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Young professionals, students from VCU and other schools, and a growing creative scene.
Multigenerational families in neighborhoods like The Fan and the Near West End.
A significant and historic presence shaping culture, food, and arts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Richmond Raceway hosts major stock car racing events nearby.
Local colleges and high schools field teams; weekend leagues and pro-am events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Richmond.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian-friendly menus. Look for plant-based bowls, seasonal vegetables, and cheese-forward dishes; ask for meat-free prep or sauces to avoid animal products.