The 15 Best Things to Do in Richmond, VA

The festivities continue throughout downtown making Richmond one of the best Christmas towns in Virginia to celebrate the holidays. The holidays are a special time to visit The Jefferson when a huge Christmas tree and elaborate decorations fill the public areas. In downtown Richmond — Triple Crossing Beer on Foushee Street has a small deck that’s a nice spot on a warm evening.

**Savor authentic Southern cuisine at iconic eateries such as Comfort and Mama J’s Kitchen. **

• The Slip is alive with eclectic restaurants from Victorian elegance, to legendary brewpubs, fresh seafood and hand made pasta.
• Support local artists by either attending an event or visiting an exhibition.
• The center features a rotating exhibit gallery, which showcases various architectural styles and periods from around the world.

Make sure to include the Capitol grounds in your next visit, as there is much to explore in this historic city. Stroll through the Capitol grounds (visit the Bell Tower), capture photos with monuments, and discover more about the history of Richmond. If you’re seeking a cost-free method to engage with Richmond’s history and architecture, the Virginia State Capitol stands out as an excellent choice. Many restaurants — cafes, and shops located within a short walking distance from the Capitol also populate the surrounding area. At the park’s center, the renowned Washington bronze equestrian statue can be found. Open to the public, the Capitol’s grounds provide an ideal setting for a leisurely and relaxed walk.

Explore concerts (sports), theatre, museums, parks, attractions, festivals, neighborhoods, family activities, nightlife, and seasonal events. The Triple Crossing is near the Canal Walk and several great Richmond restaurants (including Casa Del Barco), Siné Irish Pub, Bottoms Up Pizza, and the Hard Shell. Richmond is the site of one of the only two spots in the US where three railroad tracks cross at different levels in the same spot.

Watch a sunset at Libby Hill Park

In the summer, the museum also features free live music on the lawn, creating an ideal environment for relaxation — with joyful children dancing, delightful music playing, and a perfect opportunity for us to relax and enjoy the moment. While not exploring the grounds, consider checking out an exhibit, taking the family to Storytime at the Garden, or participating in a class. This design and the subsequent maintenance of the grounds have contributed to the cemetery’s reputation as a landscape-style garden cemetery renowned for its natural and architectural beauty across 135 acres. Downtown Richmond serves as a vibrant hub for history (featuring the landmark state house and the Capital District), along with upscale hotels, indie boutiques, art galleries, and Southern-style dining options. Live music and small festivals are frequently held on weekends.

A particular favorite among both locals and travelers, ZZQ Texas Craft Barbecue brings authentic Central Texas-style beef traditions to Virginia. Richmond — Virginia boasts numerous restaurants that serve international cuisine, offering a rich blend of flavors and cultures within the city. Discover the diverse offerings of Richmond through its variety of restaurants, breweries, bars, and other eateries — your taste buds will surely appreciate it! The museum showcases over 120,000 artifacts — revealing various perspectives on how conflicts influence entire societies.

Seasonally inspired — chef-driven spots include the Roosevelt, Alewife, L’Opossum, Lehja, and Rappahannock. This perfectly spherical model of the Earth (dubbed the “Earth Kugel” by the museum), holds the Guinness World Record for the world’s largest floating ball sculpture. A must-see for those interested in exploring the past is St. John’s Church in Church Hill — where Patrick Henry gave his memorable “Give me liberty or give me death” speech. There’s something for every style of brunch fan, from a drag brunch at Godfrey’s to a champagne brunch at the Jefferson Hotel. Richmond certainly isn’t the only American town with a flourishing craft beer scene, but start to poke around the city’s 40-plus breweries and you’ll quickly understand what sets it apart. For even more natural beauty (consider cycling on the 52-mile Capital Trail), which stretches from Richmond to Williamsburg, or check out Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden.

Built by a wealthy railroad tycoon at the turn of the century, the estate is now a free chicken road app public park and museum. This historic town has thoroughly modern sensibilities that first-time visitors are sure to appreciate. Virginia’s capital city of Richmond offers something for every style of explorer © Getty Images / Tetra Images RF The Riverfront Canal Walk is wheelchair accessible (has several points of entry), and is always open to the public, 365 days of the year. Here (visitors can discover art murals), monuments, and rich history while exploring the 400 year old site.

• Whether walking (biking), or taking a drip down the canal, Richmond’s Canal Walk is a stunning attraction that deserves to be experienced.
• Displays include the largest collection of Poe manuscripts — personal belongings, artifacts, and memorabilia in the world.
• “At over 600 acres, it’s the largest urban wilderness in North America.
• More than 120,000 artifacts are exhibited throughout the museum to demonstrate different perspectives on how conflicts shape societies.

Click here to download the map for the Richmond Beer Trail so you can experience the breweries on your own and support these fantastic local businesses! Veil Brewing Co. – this brewery is one of Richmond’s most famous and they have even recently opened up a place in Norfolk! The Valentine Sculpture Studio is a 19th-century American sculpture studio that features models, casts, tools, and sketches that belonged to Edward Valentine. The on-site Amuse Restaurant also has delicious food and is often featured near the top of Richmond’s best restaurants.

Catch some live music year-round

Downtown Richmond is full of museums (culture), and award-winning restaurants. Carytown is a unique experience for those that enjoy shopping (bar hopping and nightlife), or trying unique eateries. Most neighborhoods have their own farmers market, giving you an opportunity to meet and connect with the locals while supporting the city’s economy. Get your fill of fresh produce, unique crafts, and live music and events. When Brown’s Island isn’t serving as a hub for multiple festivals or outdoor events, it’s a great starting point to access a variety of nearby attractions like Belle Isle, the T. Learn the history of the estate by visiting the Dooley Mansion, once owned by Richmond natives James and Sarah Dooley during the 18th-century’s Gilded Era.

Virginia Museum of Fine Arts

Here is a selection of casual and fine dining Richmond restaurants that we have tried and enjoyed. Agecroft Hall is a 15th-century manor house that was moved to Richmond from Lancashire, England, by businessman T.C. From the huge to the hidden, in every mood and style, murals seem to pop up on every block. The site also preserves the Tredegar Iron Works, one of the largest and best-equipped foundries in the nation. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, re-enactors bring the famous speech to life every Sunday afternoon.

Although it hums with life and energy, the Fan is primarily residential with most of its fine old buildings dating to around the turn of the twentieth century. The real showstopper though is exploring Maymont Mansion which is adorned with antiques and lavish furnishings. At the elaborate Gilded Age estate, guests can tour its huge historic house museum and immaculately groomed grounds. Now displaying roughly 22,000 paintings, photos and ceramics, the magnificent museum occupies a distinctive modern building while a superb sculpture garden lies outside. Located in the Museum District, it boasts an extraordinary collection of art pieces and artifacts that cover more than 5,000 years of art history.

Look closely (and you’ll also find the gravesites of famous politicians), authors, soldiers, and more. Explore the area (and you can check out the grandiose tomb of President James Monroe), President John Tyler’s Monument, and the massive 1869 Monument of Confederate War Dead. After you check out the church — make your way to Chimborazo Park for some Civil War history or Libby Hill for epic sunset views of the Richmond skyline and the rushing James River. This part of town is famous for being the first neighborhood in Richmond. From Indian at Lehja to Mexican at Casa del Barco, there’s something for everyone. This massive open-air shopping mall is the largest in Richmond and is brimming with all sorts of stores.

So if you’re looking for a free and easy way to experience the beauty of Richmond — head to Libby Hill Park and watch the sunset. Whether you’re a nature lover or simply looking for a peaceful place to relax and unwind, the gardens at the Virginia Governors Mansion are a must-visit attraction for anyone exploring the city of Richmond. This stunning historic building is a magnificent example of Federal-style architecture and has served as the home of Virginia Governors for over two hundred years. If you’re looking for a specific trail to explore, consider checking out the Buttermilk Trail. Best of all — exploring Scotts Addition’s street art is completely free, making it an accessible and enjoyable activity for all.

During these months — you can enjoy pleasant weather, stunning gardens, and numerous festivals and outdoor events. Take the time to walk along the Downtown Mall — enjoy live music, and sample local ice cream.