The 9 Best Things To Do In Downtown Richmond, VA

The 9 Best Things To Do In Downtown Richmond, VA

From it’s beautifully-crafted buildings to the towers lining the canals, Downtown Richmond is a wonderful place to explore any time of the day and any time of the year. If you’re planning a trip, or just want some fresh ideas, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve listed some of the must-see sights and must-do activities of Virginia’s capitol city, just for you!

See The View From Above At City Hall

Located on the 19^th floor of the City Hall building, an enclosed glass section overlooks the entire city, offering breath-taking views of Richmond. Visitors can pack a lunch, head up the elevator to the top and enjoy a seemingly never-ending view of the Governor’s mansion, Richmond’s capitol grounds, the James River, and more. Once in the elevator, just press the ‘OD’ button to be on your way to one of Richmond’s highest points.

Learn About The Economy With The Fed Experience

Want to learn and have some fun at the same time? The Fed Experience is a great way to do both – explore a free, interactive, and educational exhibit in the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond. The Fed Experience takes you on a journey that allows you to see how powerful your decisions could be in affecting our economy and quality of life. Intended for anyone from middle schoolers to adults, the Fed experience will test your knowledge, while also teaching you valuable lessons you wont regret walking away with.

Discover Downtown On A Scavenger Hunt

Did you know the Capitol Building, designed by Thomas Jefferson, has stood as the centerpiece of Richmond for more than 200 years? Our favorite way to explore Downtown and Capitol Square is on an interactive, self-guided tour and scavenger hunt! Spend a couple of hours discovering Richmond’s economic and government hub around Downtown, Capitol Square, and Shockoe Slip. Movie buffs, take note: Director Steven Spielberg and his crew filmed award-winning Lincoln within the Capitol Grounds.

Visit The American Civil War Museum At Historic Tredegar

Virginia was the location of countless Civil War battles, so it makes sense that Richmond has one of the best museums dedicated to the war between North and South. Located inside a 150-year-old gun foundry, the American Civil War Museum takes you on a journey through one of the darkest times in US history, from three unique perspectives. Experience the war from the Confederate, Union, and African-American point of view, and find yourself immersed within the manuscripts, artifacts, and photographs of the people and events of the 1860’s.

Dine At A World-Class Restaurant

Richmond has been named to countless lists of best foodie towns, so you can’t pass up an opportunity to dine in one of the tastiest cities in America. Check out an amazing soul food dining experience at Mama J’s, beef bulgogi kimchi tacos at Wong Gonzalez, or short rib egg rolls at Lillie Pearl. Richmond’s restaurant scene is as diverse as it is acclaimed, and downtown Richmond reflects that fact well!

Grab A Drink

Whether seeking respite from the summer heat or unwinding after a day at work, downtown Richmond is a great place to find your new favorite watering hole. Check out Penny’s Wine Shop with a natural wine list that’ll blow your socks off, award-winning Belle’s elegantly designed 32-foot-bar, Quirk Hotel’s Q Rooftop Bar for sensational views of the city, or Bar Solita’s vacation-style ambiance and RVA-inspired cocktails. If beer is more your speed, Triple Crossing Downtown has some of RVA’s most famous brews (Falcon Smash, anyone?!)

Take A Guided Hike Around The James River

If sightseeing in Richmond is on your bucket list, then hiking the James River is a must. Book a guided hike with Discover Richmond Tours and explore the James River Park System as we visit old train bridge ruins, Class IV rapids, Civil-War era infrastructure, and unique features found only in Richmond, all while feeling lost in nature right in the heart of downtown! 

Get Artsy During First Fridays

No matter what time of year it is, enjoy an art walk through the heart of downtown Richmond. On the first Friday of every month, the galleries, shops, and restaurants lining Broad, Marshall, and Grace Streets stay open late, allowing the neighborhood to come alive. You’ll find interesting and mind-bending exhibits, jovial crowds, and a lively atmosphere transform downtown into one big block party.

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