A (Nearly) Comprehensive List Of Things To Do In Richmond, VA

Things To Do In Richmond, VA

The word is out: there’s a lot of excitement in Virginia’s capital. When you come to Richmond, you’ll  experience a city that has been named by Hotwire as one of the best cities for a short trip, by Trip Savvy and The Points Guy as one of the best road trip destinations, by Forbes as the underground music city everyone needs to visit, by Travel Pulse as a must visit for history buffs … well, you get the idea.

With so many things to do in Richmond, the list is rather long. So rather than haphazardly throw it together, we’ve divided this list into indoor and outdoor activities. Come see what the excitement in RVA is all about!

Outdoor Things To Do In Richmond, VA

Getting outside is what RVA is known for! Festivals, the James River, our neighborhoods, the parks – it’s all out there waiting for you.

Explore The Gardens At Maymont

Maymont is an any-time-of-year activity, but every season brings a different feel to the park, so it’s probably best to play it safe and check it out at least four times per year. The pond adjacent to the Japanese Gardens is probably the best spot for the changing leaves of autumn or after a snowfall, and the animal exhibits are a great summer activity for children.

Watch The James Pass By From Belle Isle

Just a short walk from downtown, Belle Isle should be on your must-do list. A pedestrian suspension bridge connects the island in the river to the city, providing a dramatic welcome to the area. You can spend hours hiking, sitting on the rocks, reading, and getting lost on Belle Isle. The rock quarry might just be the charming jewel, though you won’t be able to swim in the pond. But there’s bound to be fewer people running around there!

Discover Richmond’s Neighborhoods On A Scavenger Hunt

Interested in a fun, interactive game in some of Richmond’s coolest neighborhoods? Check out Discover Richmond Tours’ Scavenger Hunts in Downtown/Capitol Square, Church Hill, and the Museum District. We’ll lead you right to Richmond’s most interesting sights and stories, and at each one you’ll be prompted with a trivia question (on a mobile app) you’ll answer by looking around you!

Walk The Cobblestone Streets Of Shockoe Slip

Off of the Canal Walk sits Shockoe Slip, a small, yet beautiful neighborhood covered in cobblestones and great food, bathed in a European style. Walk into Urban Farmhouse and grab a cup of coffee while you peer out of the shop’s beautiful windows onto the streets. If you’re headed there at night, Tobacco Company is perfect for a meal in an historic building. In this part of town, you’ll feel like you’ve landed in Europe, right in downtown Richmond!

Visit The Famous Graves Of Hollywood Cemetery 

Home to the final resting spot of two presidents and important American figures, Hollywood Cemetery is full of history. Walk through and be immersed in the beauty and age of the area, generating an odd sense of peace. As you meander through the cemetery, you’ll discover an incredible view of the James River. And for a stunning stained glass display, find the chapel a little further down the road.

Shop At Two Major Farmers Markets

The RVA Big Market (Saturdays at Bryan Park) and South of the James Farmers Market (Sundays at Forest Hill Park) are a special treat every weekend! From handmade crafts and clothing to fresh fruit and vegetables, the market has everything you’ve been wanting, and even better, it’s all locally sourced! 

Catch Fireworks At A Squirrels’ Game

There’s something about a baseball game that gets us all feeling nostalgic. Whether it’s the pace of the game, the hotdogs, the beer, or the cheesy entertainment, seeing a Flying Squirrels game will bring you right back to the good ol’ days. Throughout the summer, Squirrels’ home games will often feature some of Richmond’s best fireworks displays, so be sure to check the calendar of events at The Diamond!

Stroll Through Richmond’s Fan District

So named because of its distinct shape, the Fan District has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1985. Stretching from Boulevard to VCU, this neighborhood of row houses begs to be explored on foot. Cross through narrow alleys, gawk at beautiful homes and statues on wide avenues, and even discover a hidden park or two. You’ll also find some of Richmond’s favorite eateries on various street corners.

Attend One Of Richmond’s Many Festivals

Bring the childhood memories of summer carnivals back to life with all of the summer festivals that Richmond has to offer. From festivals for watermelon, to Greek food, to a summer-long concert series, these events ensure you’ll have something exciting to do on those hot summer days. Not summertime? Check out Richmond’s other festivals – Fall, Winter, and Spring!

Find Thrills At Kings Dominion

Kings Dominion is tucked out of sight a few miles north of Richmond, but it’s worth the short trip. There’s just something about heading to a theme park and spending the time riding thrilling rides and eating carnival food with your friends and family. Kings Dominion is open every day during the summer!

Watch The Sunset At One Of Richmond’s Overlooks

Richmond’s hilly terrain and wide river mean several spots exist with great views of the city. These hidden gems of Richmond just may be the city’s best kept secrets. Grab your camera (or use your phone like the rest of us), and head out to one of our parks, hills, or designated walks for a nice end to your day.

Catch A Movie At The Drive-In

Imagine sitting on the hood of your car while watching a movie on the huge screen in front of you, and the nighttime sky above you. There aren’t many drive-ins left, but the Goochland Drive-In Theater remains a great place for a now-unique experience.

Explore Three Lakes Nature Center

Explore an extensive set of nature trails and then visit the nature center to understand what’s happening beyond what the eye can see. With an aquarium and free admission, the Three Lakes Nature Center and Reserve is an inexpensive and educational way to entertain the kids or spend an afternoon alone. And for just being a short distance outside the city, it sure is quiet and tranquil.

Explore Downtown Richmond & Main St. Station

Main Street Station is a beautiful, historic building that’s worth your attention. It recently underwent a major revitalization, along with the 17th Street Farmer’s Market right next door. And just across the road, there’s always a new art installation hanging from the giant bridges above. There are several fascinating murals in the area (thanks to the Richmond Mural Project) and you’re bound to pass a few no matter which way you walk.

Enjoy Drinks On A Patio

Nice outdoor weather means many Richmond’s restaurants and cafes double in size with al fresco dining! Why eat and drink inside when you work on your tan at the same time? Check out our list of the best outdoor dining spots in the city.

Picnic On The Capitol Lawn

Often overlooked as a place to hang out and relax, the capitol truly is a beautiful spot to enjoy a picnic on the grass. You’ll be able to stroll the grounds, taking in the foliage and sculptures, or head inside for a tour of the Capitol Building. If making your own lunch to bring isn’t your thing, stop by Meriwether’s at the Capitol for food instead.

Visit A Lavender Farm

The Lavender Fields Farm is Central Virginia’s largest organic herb and vegetable farm, featuring small fields and greenhouses are covered in purple lavender and other vegetation. Purchase everything you need to start your own garden, and learn all about herb and vegetable gardening, container gardening, and more in one of the many classes offered. Also (and this is important), they sell lavender ice cream!

Hike The James River

For a city, Richmond sure has a lot of places to escape into the woods or find some alone time with the James River. Book a guided hike with Discover Richmond Tours (where we’ll explore Belle Isle, Pedestrian Bridges, and one of Richmond’s most unique features, the Pipeline Walk)! 

Marvel At Graffiti Along The Canal

Follow the James River from Brown’s Island and you’ll find yourself along the Canal Walk. The skinny walkways and small waterways will make you wonder how you’ve never seen this part of Richmond before! If you love history, graffiti, or transformative spaces, give the canal a few hours of your day and it will give you back so much more!

Take A Rafting Tour

Did you know Richmond is the only place in America that has Class IV rapids running straight through the city? Take advantage of these backyard rapids and sign up for a guided rafting trip from RVA Paddlesports or Riverside Outfitters! Not into the thrills that rafting brings? Sit by the rocks at Pony Pasture Park for a more relaxing day.

Attend Friday Cheers

If you’ve ever wondered what the best concert venue is, here’s your answer: Brown’s Island. It sits on the edge of the James River, lined with train-track bridges on one side and the downtown skyline on the other. The summer concert acts at Friday Cheers are hand-picked for their talent and ability to bring excitement downtown (Alabama Shakes was one of the headliners before they became famous). Dance and chat the night away as you feel like a true part of the Richmond community and listen to the summertime tunes.

Lewis Ginter GardenFest of Lights

Running from the end of November until about mid-January, the GardenFest of Lights features over half a million lights, decorations, model trains, and more! Walk the enchanted grounds of the Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens by the light of thousands of twinkling holiday bulbs. The theme changes each year, so take a look at the schedule and buy tickets on Lewis Ginter’s website.

Lace Up Your Skates

Get into the spirit of the winter holidays with outdoor ice skating! On the 60’x150′ rink underneath the Richmond skyline, you’ve got plenty of room to show off your speed on skates, or grab your date by the hand and slow things down. Don’t own a pair of skates? Rentals are available for just five bucks!

Take A Day Trip

Did you know that Richmond is within one day’s drive of half the U.S. population? It’s true. Though frankly, you don’t even need to leave the state for tons of awesome day trips. Love food? Check out Petersburg Food Tours just 25 minutes south of Richmond! Wine? Charlottesville has tons of gorgeous vineyards. Virginia is home to country roads passing vast fields and grazing animals. It’s also home to Shenandoah National Park, with its endless hiking trails; check out Hiking Upwards to find the perfect one for you.

Indoor Things To Do In Richmond, VA

If the weather won’t allow you to be outside, discover all that Richmond has to offer indoors!

See A Movie At The Byrd Theatre

Check out The Byrd, a beautiful, historic movie palace showing movies you didn’t get a chance to see while they were in theaters. At just $4 per ticket, The Byrd Theatre is an inexpensive and aesthetically-pleasing option for a night out and a good way to escape the heat of summer (or the cold winter or the rain of anytime). Grab lunch or dinner at any one of the great options nearby in Carytown before heading in for the movie.

“Hike” The Richmond Beer Trail

With nearly two dozen breweries in town (plus a handful of cideries, distillers, and other beverage makers), there’s plenty to drink. We suggest heading over to Scott’s Addition, where you’ll find The Veil Brewing, Ardent Craft Ales, Isley Brewing Company, Väsen Brewing Company, Three Notch’d RVA Collab House, Bingo Beer Co., Strangeways Brewing, Buskey Cider, Blue Bee Cider, and Courthouse Creek Cider, all within walking distance of each other. There are so many great beverage makers throughout the city, you could spend an entire visit to Richmond trying them all – check out the Richmond Beer Trail!

Or Book A Brewery Tour Instead

If you don’t feel up to walking from place to place, book a brewery tour with Discover Richmond Tours! We’ll kick things off with Beer 101 at a local beer pub, and then hop on our bus to visit three unique Richmond breweries for tastings! Brewery tours are offered every Sunday.

Sip One Of Richmond’s Favorite Cocktails

Richmond has a booming craft cocktail scene that you just have to experience for yourself! Check out Richmond’s own Belle Isle Craft Spirits, Black Heath Meadery, Cirrus Vodka, James River Distillery, Reservoir Distillery, Trial and Error, and Virago Spirits. Or if you fancy dinner and a cocktail, head over to Heritage or to The Roosevelt. 

Or Go For Coffee Instead

If beer’s not your thing (or, you know, it’s 9 a.m., although no judgment!), enjoy a locally-roasted coffee. Whether iced or hot, Richmond’s coffee scene is bursting with greatness. We highly recommend grabbing a cup of Blanchard’s Coffee Roasting Company, or visiting Roastology, Sugar & Twine, Black Hand Coffee Co., Lamplighter Coffee Roasters, Rostov’s Coffee and Tea, or Ironclad Coffee Roasters. 

Visit A World-Class Art Museum

To spend a full day inside, check out Richmond’s most popular museum. The VMFA, which was expanded in 2010, will blow you away with world-class exhibits; you’ll find over 33,000 works from just about every major world culture in the permanent collection, along with a handful of rotating collections (in the past, these included Rodin’s The Thinker and the Fabergé Eggs). And when you’re exhausted from viewing all the art, grab a bite at Amuse Cafe, the VMFA’s upscale restaurant. Entrance into the museum is free, though some exhibits have an admission fee. 

Go Thrifting

Richmond has quite the thrifting culture. Reusing and recycling old clothes is affordable and eco-friendly, and let’s you refresh your wardrobe for each new season. Notable stores include Ashby and Clementine in Carytown, Diversity Thrift and Fan Thrift, as well as the Goodwill Outlet, where you pay for clothes by the pound. But there are so many thrift stores in the city, you surely won’t have to go far to find one. So jump all over this Richmond experience – who knows what you’ll find!

Visit The Valentine

Home to the Wickham house, a beautifully preserved nineteenth century home, and ever-changing exhibits featuring the historical beauty of Richmond, The Valentine Museum is a fascinating place in which to place to get lost. And if exploring the museum makes you hungry, stop by the food trucks on 11th Street after your visit.

Feel Chic At The Quirk

Walk into Quirk and you’ll feel like you’ve slipped into Wes Anderson’s The Grand Budapest Hotel. Have a coffee (or a cocktail) and enjoy the brightly-lit and -colored lobby. Don’t forget to check out Quirk Gallery before you leave!

Play With Butterflies

Have you ever heard that a butterfly landing on you meant good luck? Well increase your odds of getting lucky by stepping into the magical world of Butterflies LIVE! You’ll find yourself in the presence of thousands of fluttering butterflies, without a barrier between you. Unlike a zoo exhibit, the glass wall has been brought down and you truly get to spend time among these gorgeous creatures.

Discover The Virginia House

Take a tour of this grand, historic mansion, and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. The Virginia House, relocated to Richmond from England in the 1920’s, sits on a hill overlooking the James today. After your visit, drive around the surrounding Windsor Farms neighborhood and see many other beautiful and elaborate homes.

Visit The Poe Museum (For An UnHappy Hour)

Just blocks from Poe’s first home in Richmond, The Poe Museum is dedicated to the writer’s life and work. Inside the Old Stone House, you’ll find a vast collection of Poe’s manuscripts, letters, possessions, and so much more, keeping Poe’s spirit alive in his hometown, today and forevermore (couldn’t resist). Or, join friends for the monthly UnHappy Hour (check the schedule for details!)

Jump Around At Sky Zone Richmond

Need to expend some energy, but the weather is keeping you inside? Shake things up by heading to what is essentially a warehouse full of trampolines. Sky Zone brings out your inner child – you’ll have a blast literally jumping off the walls. Have actual kids to entertain? Bring ’em along – they’ll think they’re the ones having the most fun, but you’ll know the truth.

Get Creative

Feelin’ artsy? Harness your creativity at Crossroads Arts Center or the Visual Arts Center. They offer classes and open studios, so whether you’re looking to work with others or just hoping to learn or hone a new skill, there’s something for everyone.

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