The Complete Guide to Visiting Richmond, Virginia

As the capital of Virginia, Richmond is a hub of culture, music, food, and the arts, drawing visitors to discover the charm of the “River City.” A thriving and internationally recognized craft beer scene has put Richmond on the map for brew lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts flock to the region to conquer mountain biking trails, kayak the rapids of the James River, and cycle the Capital Trail all the way to Williamsburg. 

Many prospective college students can be found exploring the city, especially during the spring months, as the grounds of Virginia Commonwealth University, University of Richmond, and Virginia Union University are all within the area (and with Randolph-Macon College in the neighboring town of Ashland).

Spend a few days, a weekend, or a full week vacationing in Richmond, Virginia and you’ll see why the city is the heart of the Commonwealth. 

THE BEST TIMES TO VISIT RICHMOND

You’ll never find Richmond dull, no matter when you visit. In the winter months, there are lots of indoor attractions to explore, such as the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, and the Science Museum of Virginia.

In the summer, Richmond hosts festivals, outdoor concerts, and special events practically every weekend. Plus, lounging on the shores of the river at locations such as Pony Pasture and Belle Isle makes for a scenic way to cool down during the dog days of summer. 

Come to Richmond in February for a romantic Valentine’s Day getaway, complete with a stay at a luxurious upscale hotel, dining at critically-acclaimed restaurants, and couple’s activities to make for a memorable getaway with your significant other.

WHERE TO STAY

Quirk Hotel Richmond: Modern & Eclectic $$

Richmond’s Quirk Hotel is a modern boutique hotel that celebrates art and creativity, offering a vibrant atmosphere with locally inspired designs and artwork throughout. Enjoy unique dining experiences, including the rooftop bar and cocktails in the ultra chic lobby, and immerse yourself in the hotel's on-site art gallery before exploring the surrounding dynamic neighborhood.

The Graduate Richmond: The College Vibe $

Part of Hilton’s Graduate collection, Graduate Richmond is a charming boutique hotel located in the heart of the city, offering stylish accommodations with a playful nod to Richmond’s history and culture (the lobby is decorated in tennis-themed decor to pay tribute to local legend Arthur Ashe). Modern amenities, family- and pet-friendly accommodations, a trendy rooftop restaurant and bar, and a prime location make the Graduate perfect for both relaxation and exploration.

The Berkeley Hotel: A Cobblestoned Street Stay $

Located in the Shockoe Slip neighborhood along storied cobblestone streets, The Berkeley Hotel offers an elegant, boutique experience with historic charm. Don’t miss grabbing dinner at Chef’s Kitchen, the hotel’s on-site restaurant. 

The Jefferson Hotel: Elegant Luxury $$$

For history and luxury combined, a stay at The Jefferson Hotel fits the bill. This iconic lodging landmark has been offering exceptional service and elegance since 1895. Known for its stunning architecture, refined accommodations, and renowned dining experiences, the Jefferson is the city’s oldest and most opulent hotel. 

WHERE TO EAT

Richmond’s restaurant scene has become nationally ranked in the past few decades, with local chefs and restaurants recognized by the esteemed James Beard Foundation. These are just a few of the excellent dining destinations to check out while in town.

Lehja

Located in Metro Richmond’s Short Pump Town Center, Lehja is a modern Indian restaurant celebrated for its innovative approach to traditional Indian cuisine. Executive Chef Sandeep "Sunny" Baweja crafts a diverse menu that reflects India's rich culinary heritage.

L’Opossum

L'Opossum is an eclectic restaurant in Richmond’s Oregon Hill neighborhood known for indulgent dishes that blend Southern flavors with French-inspired techniques. The colorful and quirky décor complements the innovative menu, which features seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.

Perly’s

Perly's offers a modern twist on classic Jewish comfort food, with signature dishes like pastrami sandwiches, latkes, and matzo ball soup.

Croaker’s Spot

Croaker's Spot is renowned for serving up authentic Soul food and Southern seafood fare, with flavorful dishes like fried seafood platters and traditional sides such as candied yams and cornbread.

Millie’s Diner

Since 1989, Millie’s Diner has been beloved for its bold flavors and exceptional brunch offerings. The welcoming atmosphere and menu balances comfort and creativity, keeping the local institution consistently bustling, especially on weekends. 

Garnett’s

Nestled in Richmond’s iconic Fan District, Garnett's Cafe is a charming sandwich shop with a cozy atmosphere and a menu featuring tempting desserts. This is a perfect spot for a casual dinner date or a leisurely cup of coffee. 

The Fancy Biscuit

If you’re looking for a spot to grab a quick yet filling breakfast, The Fancy Biscuit is a must. They specialize in oversized, made-from-scratch biscuits topped with fresh ingredients like fried chicken and goat cheese. With a cozy, welcoming vibe, it's a beloved spot for brunch and a go-to for locals craving delicious, hearty dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.

Conejo

Enjoy a vibrant dining experience at Conejo, a traditional upscale Mexican restaurant in Richmond’s West End. The fish tacos are some of the best in town, and you can’t go wrong pairing them with an order of guacamole and a margarita or two. 

Proper Pie Co.

Sample both savory and sweet pies at Proper Pie Co. in Richmond’s Church Hill neighborhood. The hand-crafted pies are inspired by classic New Zealand flavors, such as lamb, mincemeat, and banoffee. 

The Roosevelt

Another Church Hill gem, The Roosevelt is known for cultivating a refined-yet-approachable dining experience. The menu emphasizes Southern cuisine, using locally sourced ingredients and creative modern twists. If you’re a cocktail lover, be sure to take a look at the drink menu when visiting The Roosevelt! 

Brenner Pass

Helmed by two-time James Beard award semi-finalist Chef Brittanny Anderson, Brenner Pass serves alpine-inspired cuisine, showcasing rustic-yet-elevated dishes utilizing local ingredients. 

TOP ATTRACTIONS & LANDMARKS

Virginia Museum of History & Culture

Get a deep dive into the rich history of Virginia at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture. The museum also hosts a variety of exhibitions that cover key moments in American history, from the colonial period to modern-day events, preserving and sharing artifacts that help tell the stories of the people, places, and events that shaped Virginia and the nation.

Science Museum of Virginia

Head to the Science Museum of Virginia — housed in the historic Broad Street Station — for hands-on science education, interactive exhibits, live demonstrations, and a 76-foot Dome Theater where you can catch shows on topics like space, geography, and wildlife. 

Black History Museum

The Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia celebrates and preserves the rich history and culture of Black Americans, particularly those in Richmond and other parts of Virginia. 

Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site

Honor the life and legacy of a civil rights activist and entrepreneurial Black Virginian at the Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site in Jackson Ward. The site highlights Walker’s achievements in battling racism and sexism, including founding a bank, newspaper, and store, and showcases her contributions to Black economic empowerment and social activism.

Maymont

Experience the Gilded Age at Maymont, a 100-acre estate that combines nature, history, and wildlife experiences. Admission is free with a suggested donation of $5, and you can easily spend hours exploring the stunning gardens, wildlife habitats, nature center, hands-on animal farm, and Gilded Age mansion (currently closed for renovations).

The American Civil War Museum at Historic Tredegar

Located at the site of the Tredegar Iron Works, which played a key role in the war, the American Civil War Museum at Historic Tredegar offers an in-depth exploration of the Civil War era, with exhibits focusing on its causes, key battles, and aftermath. 

Virginia State Capitol

Take a free guided tour of the Virginia State Capitol, which highlights the building’s historical significance, neoclassical architecture, and the legislative process of the state. Check the official website for the most current information on visiting hours and tour availability.

Virginia Museum of Fine Arts

Called the VMFA for short, this museum houses an extensive collection of nearly 50,000 works of art that span 6,000 years of world history. Admission is free, and additional educational programs offer enriching experiences for art lovers of all ages. 

Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden

No matter when you plan your visit, Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden is a captivating local attraction. Daffodils, tulips, and Virginia bluebells blanket the 50-acre property in the spring, lush roses, irises, and hydrangeas bloom in the summer, camellias, aster, and autumn crocus come alive in the fall, and the Dominion Energy GardenFest of Lights draws visitors during the holidays, featuring millions of holiday lights spread throughout the garden.  

Virginia Capital Trail

​This 51.7-mile paved multi-use trail connects the current capital of Richmond and the Colonial capital of Williamsburg. Conquer the entire trail or pick a smaller section to cycle, walk, or run through the heart of Virginia's history.

The James River

There are many access points to the James River in Richmond. From the downtown area, one of the most pedestrian-friendly points is Belle Isle, which is reached via a pedestrian bridge near the intersection of Tredegar Street and Brown’s Island Way. Once on the island, you can lounge on the rocks, soaking up sun and breathtaking views of the city skyline, bike or hike the wooded trails encircling the island, or put your kayak into the rushing rapids for a challenging aquatic adventure.

Buttermilk Trail

The Buttermilk Trail parallels the south side of the James River, connecting on the opposite side of the river with the North Bank Trail to create a big loop. The scenic waterfront trail is popular with bikers, hikers, responsible dog walkers, and birders, and is open from sunrise to sunset daily. 

Pony Pasture

Hiking, biking, fishing, swimming, and kayaking are some of the activities available at Pony Pasture, located in the James River Park. With Class II Rapids accessible from the park, this is a popular spot for thrill seekers looking to take on the challenging waters of the James River. 

SHOPPING & SOUVENIRS

Short Pump Town Center

Richmond’s premier open-air shopping destination, Short Pump Town Center has a wide range of luxury and popular fashion, beauty, and home decor shops, as well as an array of on-site dining options (including Lehja, the critically-acclaimed Indian restaurant mentioned in our dining guide). Kids and parents can take a scenic ride on the Short Pump Express, a small train that winds through the landscaped mall. 

South of the James Farmers Market

The South of the James Market is a year-round open-air farmer's market held (as the name implies) south of the James River in Forest Hill Park. This weekly Sunday market features a variety of locally grown produce and handmade goods from regional farmers and artisans.

Stony Point Fashion Park

If luxury shopping is on your itinerary, head to Stony Point Fashion Park, an upscale outdoor shopping center with a mix of high-end retailers (including Sak’s Fifth Avenue), dining, and entertainment. 

Carytown

Discover shopping, dining, and entertainment — including a historic movie theater — within the “Mile of Style” neighborhood known as Carytown. The majority of the businesses along Cary Street are locally owned, from consignment boutiques to beloved restaurants, and you’ll find plenty of unique gifts and souvenirs to take home while shopping the district. 

Second-Hand Shops

Richmond has dozens of antique, vintage, and consignment shops worth checking out, including the West End Antiques Mall, Blue Bones Vintage, and Sheppard Street Antiques. 

Looking for more cool places to shop? (and more fun things to do?) Check out our trendy neighborhood guide!

NIGHTLIFE & ENTERTAINMENT

Whether you’re looking for live music and entertainment, delicious craft beer, or the most popular neighborhoods for a good old-fashioned bar crawl, Richmond is packed with a variety of options for your night out. 

Scott’s Addition

Scott’s Addition is the equivalent of an adult playground, with craft breweries, cideries, distilleries, bars, and game halls on practically every corner. The area is perfect for a walkable brewery crawl, drawing craft beer enthusiasts to discover why Richmond is one of the top cities for brews on the East Coast. 

The Fan District

The Fan District is a unique blend of historic residential homes, diverse restaurants, and popular bars and music venues, creating a cultural hub that spotlights Richmond’s distinctive atmosphere. 

Shockoe Bottom

A mix of historic warehouses transformed into trendy bars, pubs, and live music venues like Poe’s Pub and the Canal Club can be found within Shockoe Bottom. 

The National

This music venue is known for its intimate yet expansive atmosphere, hosting a wide range of live performances from renowned artists across genres. Its rich history and state-of-the-art acoustics make it a must-visit spot for music lovers.

The Broadberry

The Broadberry is a lively music venue known for hosting an eclectic mix of live performances, ranging from indie and rock to electronic and hip-hop. Its intimate setting and excellent acoustics make it a favorite spot for both emerging and established artists.

The Diamond

“Go Nuts” at a Richmond Flying Squirrels game at The Diamond. The Double-A affiliate of the San Francisco Giants will have a new stadium soon — the team will start the 2026 season at the brand-new CarMax Park, located right beside the existing stadium. 

Richmond Kickers

The longest continuously-running professional soccer club in the country, the Richmond Kickers have a passionate fanbase that make the events feel more like parties than matches, complete with red smoke, chanting crowds, and electrifying energy. 

Richmond Breweries

While the Scott’s Addition neighborhood has multiple craft breweries within walking distance, there are breweries spread throughout the rest of the city that have drawn national attention, such as Hardywood Park Craft Brewery and Triple Crossing Beer (to feel like a true Richmonder, make sure to try the Falcon Smash, served at the brewery and at many restaurants around town). If craft beer is a passion and you’re visiting with a group, consider booking a tour with a local company like RVA Brew Crew. 

The Park RVA

The Park RVA is a massive dining hall, gaming and entertainment venue, and music space, all in one building. Play a round at the challenging, Insta-worthy miniature golf course, channel your inner “Dude” with a round of duckpin bowling, show off your singing skills in the Karaoke room, and grab a bite to eat at one of the many eateries, from a street taco joint to a fresh sushi restaurant. 

ANNUAL FESTIVALS

Iron Blossom Festival

When: September 20-21, 2025

Where: Midtown Green

The Iron Blossom Music Festival features a diverse range of musical genres with world-class performances, local food and drinks, and a focus on sustainability and community.

Richmond Folk Festival

When: October 10-12, 2025

Where: On and around Brown’s Island

The Richmond Folk Festival, held annually in downtown Richmond, is one of the largest and most celebrated cultural events in Virginia. This free, three-day festival showcases diverse musical and folklife traditions from around the world and features entertainment from international musicians, dancers, and other performers on six stages. You’ll also find a variety of food and beverage vendors as well as family-friendly activities at the Folk Fest. 

Ukrop’s Monument Avenue 10K

When: April 12, 2025

Where: On Monument Avenue; starts near intersection of Broad and Harrison Streets, ends near Monroe Park

One of Richmond's most beloved spring events, the Ukrop's Monument Avenue 10K brings together thousands of participants each year for a fun, community-centered race. With a lively atmosphere, costumes, and a post-race festival, it’s a day to celebrate fitness and local traditions on one of Richmond’s most iconic streets.

Dominion Energy Riverrock

When: May 16-18, 2025

Where: On and around Brown’s Island

Dominion Energy Riverrock is Richmond's premier outdoor sports and music festival held along the scenic James River. With a mix of adventure races, live music, and outdoor activities like trail running, mountain biking, and paddling, this event celebrates the city's outdoor lifestyle and picturesque riverfront.

Friday Cheers 

When: Occurs Weekly, Fridays from May 2-June 27, 2025

Where: Brown’s Island

Each Friday in May and June, head to Brown’s Island for Friday Cheers, a family-friendly summer concert series which features a mix of up-and-coming artists and regional favorites. With general admission tickets offered at just $10 each, the event is an affordable and fun way to enjoy Richmond’s incredible music scene along the scenic James River.

Richmond Jazz Festival

When: Summer 2025

Where: Maymont

Set in beautiful Maymont Park, the Richmond Jazz and Music Festival is an annual celebration of jazz, attracting world-class artists to Richmond for a weekend of unforgettable performances.

RVA First Fridays

When: First Friday of every month

Where: Richmond Arts District

RVA First Fridays is a monthly art walk that takes place on the first Friday of each month in downtown Richmond's Arts District. Explore galleries, shops, and restaurants and celebrate local art, culture, and community through exhibitions and performances.

Virginia Wine Expo

When: February 27-March 8, 2026

Where: Main Street Station

Sample the best of Virginia wines, spirits, and culinary offerings at the Virginia Wine Expo, an event that highlights both local and international wines through tastings, masterclasses, and exclusive wine experiences.

JUST DOWN THE ROAD…

…Towns to Explore

Williamsburg | Roughly an hour east of Richmond, Williamsburg has a rich blend of history and modern adventure, featuring immersive experiences at iconic historic sites like Colonial Williamsburg, as well as thrilling theme parks, eclectic shopping, and outdoor activities.

Petersburg | About 30 minutes south of Richmond, Petersburg is filled with historic, culture, outdoor activities, and charming architecture. The city’s Old Towne district is filled with preserved 18th- and 19th-century buildings, boutique shopping, and locally owned eateries.

Charlottesville | Drive an hour west of Richmond along I-64 to visit Charlottesville, a charming city known for presidential history, a thriving arts scene, and endless scenic beauty. Don’t miss seeing historic landmarks like Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello or sampling critically-acclaimed wines found along the Monticello Wine Trail. 

Fredericksburg | Fredericksburg is approximately an hour north of Richmond and offers a mix of Civil War history, boutique shopping, and outdoor activities along the Rappahannock River.

Ashland | Only about 15 minutes north of Richmond, Ashland is a charming small town filled with locally-owned shops and farm-to-table restaurants.

Farmville | Home to both Hampden-Sydney College and Longwood University, Farmville is known as a college town, but there is something for all ages in this eclectic community. Rent bikes and explore the High Bridge Trail, visit the R.R. Moton Museum to learn about the community’s Civil Rights history, or shop the roughly one million square feet of high-quality furniture and home goods at Green Front Furniture. 

…More Outdoor Fun

High Bridge Trail  | Running through Farmville, High Bridge Trail is a 32.2-mile rail-to-trail route that offers scenic views of Virginia's countryside, including the epic views from the 2,400-foot-long bridge which soars 125 above the Appomattox River. The trail is open from sunrise to sunset for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. 

Upper Shirley Vineyards  | Upper Shirley Vineyards is located about 20 minutes east of downtown Richmond and has an expansive open lawn bordering the James River. On a warm day, grab a few glasses of wine and some light fare from the winery kitchen, then set up a picnic blanket on the lawn to enjoy the unencumbered waterfront views. 

Pocahontas State Park  | Roughly 20 miles from Richmond, Pocahontas State Park spans 7,919 acres, making it the state's largest park. There are a diverse range of recreational activities within Pocahontas State Park, including boating, fishing, picnicking, camping, and over 90 miles of hiking and biking trails.

…Noteworthy Attractions

Monticello | Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello is about an hour from Richmond in Charlottesville and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a tour of the house and grounds to learn about the life and legacy of America’s third president, from Jefferson’s scientific pursuits to the history of slavery of Monticello.

James Monroe’s Highland | A friend of Jefferson’s and the fifth U.S. President, James Monroe lived right down the road from Monticello and his estate, Highland, provides an engaging opportunity to explore Monroe's personal history, political career, and the lives of those who lived and worked on the property, including enslaved individuals. 

University of Virginia | Designed by Thomas Jefferson, the University of Virginia is an architectural icon for the Commonwealth. The campus features lush green spaces like The Lawn and historic buildings, all set against the backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Monticello Wine Trail | Recognized as the 2023 Wine Region of the Year by Wine Enthusiast, the Monticello Wine Trail offers incredible wines and even more incredible views of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains. The trail features more than 40 wineries nestled around Charlottesville and offers a diverse range of wine-tasting experiences, including vineyard tours, live music performances at the wineries, and even horseback rides through the vines. 

The Fermentation Farm Trail | Running between Richmond and Charlottesville, the Fermentation Farm Trail winds through pastoral Louisa County, connecting three wineries, two breweries, and a cidery in a farm-to-glass route. 

Kings Dominion | Kings Dominion is only about 30 minutes north of Richmond and is an exciting theme park filled with thrilling roller coasters, family-friendly rides, and live entertainment. The park features adrenaline-packed attractions like Pantherian, a coaster that hits speeds of 94MPH, and Soak City, a fun-for-all-ages water park that is perfect for cooling off on hot summer days. 

Williamsburg Outlets | About an hour east of Richmond, Williamsburg Premium Outlets have a wide variety of top-brand retailers offering discounts of up to 65% off. Browse a mix of luxury, sportswear, and casual brands, such as Coach, Nike, and Vera Bradley. 

Busch Gardens Williamsburg  | Voted as “The World’s Most Beautiful Theme Park,” Busch Gardens Williamsburg is a European-themed adventure park that is home to world-class roller coasters, award-winning entertainment, and more than 50 rides and attractions.

Colonial Williamsburg | Step back in time and experience life in the 18th century at Colonial Williamsburg, the world’s largest living history museum. With its carefully restored buildings, costumed interpreters, and interactive exhibits, it brings American history to life, particularly the stories of the Revolution.

Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or with your family, a Virginia vacation’s got all that you love, all in one place. Use this guide to Richmond to help you start planning your VA vacation today!