Things to do in Richmond
Spring brings dogwoods, azaleas, and mild river days, while fall delivers crisp weather and color along the James. Summers are hot and humid but ideal for tubing and riverfront patios.
Best months: April, May, September, October
What is worth your time in Richmond
Belle IsleDo not miss
A car-free river island reached by footbridge, ringed by trails, granite flat rocks, and rapids perfect for summer wading.
Nature · 2.3 hr4.8
James River Park SystemDo not miss
Miles of riverside trails, rock outcrops, and the only Class IV urban whitewater in the country threading through downtown.
Nature · 3 hr4.8
MaymontDo not miss
A 100-acre Gilded Age estate with Italian and Japanese gardens, a mansion, and a wildlife exhibit overlooking the James.
Park · 2.8 hr4.8
Virginia Museum of Fine ArtsDo not miss
One of the top art museums in the country with a world-class collection spanning Faberge eggs to contemporary art, and admission is free.
Museum · 2.8 hr4.8
Hollywood CemeteryDo not miss
A hauntingly beautiful hillside cemetery overlooking the James, resting place of two US presidents and Confederate leaders.
Historic Site · 1.5 hr4.7
Lewis Ginter Botanical GardenDo not miss
A nationally ranked garden of themed landscapes, a domed conservatory, and a spectacular holiday light display.
Park · 2.5 hr4.7
Virginia State CapitolDo not miss
Thomas Jefferson designed this neoclassical capitol, the oldest continuously used legislative building in the New World.
Landmark · 1.5 hr4.6
American Civil War MuseumDo not miss
Built on the ruins of the Tredegar Iron Works, it tells the war from Union, Confederate, and African American perspectives.
Museum · 2 hr4.5
CarytownDo not miss
Nine eclectic blocks of independent boutiques, vintage shops, restaurants, and the historic Byrd Theatre.
Neighborhood · 2.3 hr
The Fan DistrictDo not miss
One of the largest intact Victorian neighborhoods in the nation, with tree-lined streets, cafes, and Monument Avenue running through it.
Neighborhood · 1.8 hr
St. John's Episcopal Church
Where Patrick Henry delivered his Give Me Liberty or Give Me Death speech in 1775, reenacted live in summer.
Historic Site · 1.1 hr4.8
Sub Rosa Bakery
A nationally acclaimed Church Hill bakery milling its own grain and baking everything in a wood-fired oven.
Food District · 45 min4.8
VMFA E. Claiborne and Lora Robins Sculpture Garden
A free outdoor garden of monumental sculpture and reflecting pools beside the art museum, ideal for a relaxed break.
Park · 45 min4.8
Agecroft Hall and Gardens
A 15th-century Tudor manor shipped from England and rebuilt above the James, ringed by formal English gardens.
Historic Site · 1.5 hr4.7
And 31 more, which the planner picks between based on your dates, pace and what you are into.
Worth knowing
- Richmond is compact and neighborhood-driven: base yourself near the Fan, Carytown, or downtown and explore one district at a time.
- The James River runs right through the city, so pack water shoes and a swimsuit in summer for Belle Isle and the river park system.
- The food and craft beer scene is a genuine highlight; reservations help at top restaurants and Scott's Addition breweries fill up on weekends.
- Civil War and slavery history is woven through the city; allow time for the museums and Shockoe Bottom sites to do them justice.
- Parking is easiest off-peak; many museums like the VMFA are free, so build a flexible budget around paid tours and dining.