Top Things to Do in Richmond, Virginia

Whether you’re in the mood for outdoor adventures, eclectic art, or creative cuisine, Richmond, Virginia, offers something for every style of explorer. This historic town possesses thoroughly modern sensibilities that first-time visitors are sure to appreciate.

If you’re just visiting for the day or planning a longer stay, here are some of the best things to do in Richmond, Virginia.

Libby Hill Park

To get a comprehensive view of the city, including its history, head to Libby Hill Park in Richmond’s historic Church Hill neighborhood. Legend has it that William Byrd II stood on this hill in 1737 and was so reminded of his home in Richmond-upon-Thames in England that the name stuck. Now Libby Hill Park is a popular destination for sunset yoga, picnics, and the occasional pop-up wedding. Grab a coffee and pastry from nearby critics’ darling Sub Rosa Bakery to savor while soaking in the views of the river and downtown Richmond.

Maymont Estate

It’s hard to believe that the pastoral 100-acre Maymont Estate is right in the heart of Richmond. Built by a wealthy railroad tycoon at the turn of the century, the estate is now a free public park and museum. With its sprawling grounds, manicured gardens, historical manor house, nature center, and children’s farm, Maymont is widely considered one of the best places for families to visit in Richmond any time of the year.

Hollywood Cemetery

Known as one of America’s premier garden cemeteries, Hollywood Cemetery offers some of the most dramatic scenic overlooks in the city. Perched on a hill above the James River rapids with views of the city skyline, this expansive cemetery has served as the final resting place for Richmond notables since the late 1800s, including presidents James Monroe and John Tyler. It’s especially popular in the fall, when visitors marvel at the intense foliage and whisper about the legend of the Richmond Vampire who’s been rumored to haunt the grounds since the 1920s.

Fan District

Delve beyond Richmond’s most obvious attractions by taking a walk through the charming historical Fan District. Named for the fan shape created by its streets, this residential neighborhood is populated by stately mansions and rowhouses built at the turn of the century. Stroll the tree-lined streets, marvel at the perfectly maintained gardens, and pop into one of the corner cafes, coffee shops, or fine-dining restaurants that seem to be strategically placed every few blocks.

Belle Isle

There’s a good reason Richmond’s nickname is the River City: the James River snakes right through the center of town, offering an easily accessible retreat for nature lovers. Locals boast about having access to the only Class IV white water rapids in an urban setting in the country. The James River Park System covers a wide swath of the city with multiple parks and trails, and one of the most popular is Belle Isle. This remote island in the middle of the river is accessible via a pedestrian bridge. Used as a Union prisoner-of-war camp during the Civil War, Belle Isle is now a popular spot for hiking, biking, sunbathing on the rocks, and cautiously swimming in the river.

Shopping in Carytown

To get a taste of the city’s distinctively quirky side, make a beeline for Carytown, Richmond’s top neighborhood for shopping. This nine-block-long dining, retail, and entertainment district is made up almost entirely of locally owned businesses, from bookshops and vintage boutiques to sushi restaurants, ice cream shops, and a stellar cocktail bar. The historic Byrd Theatre anchors the district, offering $4 showings in a palatial setting.

Virginia Museum of Fine Arts

Open 365 days a year with free admission for all, the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts boasts a world-class collection containing nearly 50,000 works of art. The permanent collection includes everything from ancient and pre-Columbian art to Faberge, photography, and modern art. There is an entrance fee for special exhibits, which have drawn national acclaim.

Drinking in Richmond’s Breweries

Richmond is a haven for beer lovers, with more than 30 craft breweries in the city. For the highest density of spots, head to the Scott’s Addition neighborhood, home to local favorites. Prefer to sip cider? Places like Buskey Cider and Blue Bee Cider have you covered. Scott’s Addition is pretty walkable, providing an inviting environment for exploration.

Agecroft Hall

This majestic Tudor mansion is impressive in its own right, but even more so when you consider that it was completely dismantled and shipped across the Atlantic from England to Virginia in the 1920s. Today, visitors can tour Agecroft Hall and its gardens to experience life in 16th-century England. Every summer, the annual Richmond Shakespeare Festival brings the Bard to the estate’s grounds.

Science Museum of Virginia

Curious minds will find plenty to explore at the family-friendly Science Museum of Virginia, housed in a grand former train station. The museum features permanent and rotating interactive exhibits designed to engage visitors of all ages. From hurricane-force winds to hands-on activities, the Science Museum provides an educational adventure.

Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden

Just a couple of miles from the center of Richmond, Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden encompasses more than 50 acres of spectacular gardens. This includes more than a dozen themed gardens and a cafe, tea house, and shop on site. Seasonal events like Gardenfest of Lights are beloved local traditions, enriching the experience for visitors year-round.