Three Days Exploring the Richmond Region  

Come for the history, experience the culture!

The Richmond region is a hotspot for culture, food and craft beverages, history and exciting outdoor recreation. Made up of seven localities, there are plenty of ways to explore the region. Here is how to get the most out of your trip!

Day 1: Richmond and New Kent 

Roam the James River

At Richmond’s heart, the scenic James River sets the stage for hiking and biking on trails on the James River Park System, or watersports like whitewater rafting, kayaking, swimming and tubing. After your morning adventures, uncork an afternoon of wine tasting at New Kent’s Jolene Winery or Saude Creek Winery.  

Why go?

Known as ‘America’s Founding River’, the James River is home to the nation’s only urban class IV rapids. Picturesque, family and dog-friendly wineries within a short drive of the city are perfect for a toast to the day’s adventures.

Browse the street art

Prefer exploring on dry land? You can just as easily grab a guided tour through more than 100 murals peppered throughout downtown Richmond and city neighborhoods.   

Why go?

Arts and culture are integral to Richmond’s DNA. More than 70 galleries await, as does a range of huge (and free) museums, like the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts.   

Savour the local delights

Bring night one to a close with a meal at one of Virginia’s most iconic locations: The Jefferson Hotel’s Lemaire restaurant. Fresh and modern, it is perfect for experiencing some of the region’s finest cuisine.   

Why go?

According to Forbes, Richmond is ”elevating the local dining scene to buzzy new heights”. The region is packed with more than 900 restaurants, many of which are locally-owned and world-renowned, so you will be able to savor something special.  

Day 2: Henrico and Chesterfield   

Take some time in nature

Henrico curves around Richmond, echoing the area’s natural beauty. The Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden is a top place to see this beauty in action.   

Why go?

Lewis Ginter offers year-round beauty with more than 70 acres of spectacular gardens, dining and shopping. A classical domed Conservatory is the only one of its kind in the mid-Atlantic. Explore secret spaces, learn about their plant collections, and enjoy their world-class botanical displays. The Garden has many seasonal events, including art exhibits, outdoor concerts, a popular holiday light show, plant sales and more.  

Get up close to wildlife

If you’ve got little adventurers aching for something different, take them to Chesterfield’s Metro Richmond Zoo is accredited by the Zoological Association of America (ZAA), and has one of the largest primate collections in the United States.

Why go?

Feeding animals out of your hand? Soaring above the treetops on a zip line? Trust us, your inner child will thank you. Metro Richmond Zoo encompasses about 70 acres (28 ha) and houses around 2,000 animals representing over 190 species, including reticulated giraffe, white rhinoceros, snow leopard, cheetah and Grant's zebra. This all-ages adventure features shops, cafes and picnic areas, too.  

Indulge in the food scene

From the landmark Half Way House built in 1760 to locally-owned restaurants and cafes, Chesterfield County has a wonderful sampling of dining with a special flair for service. Watch the setting sun over Creek Reservoir at the Boathouse At Sunday Park or enjoy lunch and wine tasting at Ashton Creek Vineyard to enjoy Virginia wine and cider. Those into the craft beer scene will want to visit Extra Billy's Smokehouse and Brewery and Triple Crossing Brewery. 

Why go?

It’s been a packed day – you’ve earned yourself some delicious dining. Find BBQ, seafood, hand-cut steaks and hand-rolled sushi enjoyed al fresco or indoors in Chesterfield and Henrico.

Day 3: Hanover County

Adventure with the family

Experience an exhilarating ride at Kings Dominion. Work your way through more than 60 shows and attractions designed for unforgettable family fun.  

Why go?

With more than 60 rides, shows, attractions, a kid’s area, and a waterpark, Kings Dominion has AMAZING fun for everyone. King’s Dominion offers affordable tickets and group rates and seasonal events, throughout the year.  

Explore timeless culture

No trip to Hanover is complete without a stop at ultimate cultural touchstone, Hanover Tavern.   

Why go?  

Restored in 1996, the Tavern is a unique moment in time, blending historical architecture with modern craft, food and theatre. Each year, the Tavern puts on more than 40 events including concerts, themed dinners and antique shows. 

Discover antique creations

In Colonial Heights, 35 minutes from Hanover, the Keystone Truck and Tractor Museum houses over a century of American automotive heritage in the world’s largest museum of its kind. Here you can see fully restored antique farm tractors, trucks and classic cars.  

Why go?

Whether travelling with little ones or you’re a big kid at heart, this destination is designed for all ages. And the gift shop is perfect for those all-American souvenirs.   

 Plan your trip to Richmond today.