Best Day Trips from Richmond, Virginia
Richmond is officially on the radar for travelers seeking great food and beer, cultural attractions, and outdoor adventures – all without the crowds and price tag of more established tourist towns. Moreover, once you’ve enjoyed Virginia’s capital city, you’re ideally situated to explore the rest of the Commonwealth. With its central location, Richmond serves as an easy starting point for exciting day trips to the coast, mountains, and countryside. Here are the seven best day trips from Richmond, Virginia.
1. The Historic Triangle
Why go? This trip allows you to take a step back in time to the earliest days of the American colonies.
Virginia’s Historic Triangle – Jamestown, Yorktown, and Williamsburg – is located less than an hour away from Richmond, making it an ideal day trip. Follow the scenic Colonial Parkway to explore historic sites including the first English settlement at Jamestown and the Yorktown battlefield where the Revolutionary War ended. Wrap up at the world’s largest living history museum in Colonial Williamsburg, where you can see what life was like in colonial times before grabbing a bite to eat in the nearby Merchant’s Square.
How to get to Virginia’s Historic Triangle: Follow Interstate 64 east for about 50 miles (under an hour) to reach Williamsburg. Yorktown and Jamestown are about 10 minutes farther on. Public transportation is limited, so a car is recommended to navigate this area.
2. Virginia’s Northern Neck
Why go? To avoid the bustle of Virginia Beach while enjoying sandy shores and briny oysters.
Virginia’s Northern Neck region follows the western shores of Chesapeake Bay, featuring tiny fishing villages and historical sites. Start in charming Irvington for a cup of coffee at The Local, and then head to the Tides Inn for lunch with views over the water at Fish Hawk Oyster Bar. Choose from state parks like Westmoreland and Belle Isle for walking and biking trails through the scenic wetlands. On your way back to Richmond, swing by Merroir Tasting Room to sample oysters from the celebrated farms of Rappahannock Oyster Company.
How to get to Virginia’s Northern Neck: Head east of the city on Interstate 64, then hop on Route 33 to reach these beautiful wetlands. You’ll reach Irvington in about an hour, but you could spend an entire day getting lost on these picturesque country roads if you wanted.
3. Fredericksburg
Why go? To stroll across Civil War battlefields and sip award-winning bourbon.
Fredericksburg is a quaint college town located about an hour north of Richmond. The 40-block historic district is brimming with charming shops and restaurants. Try to snag a spot at the seasonally inspired Foode, located in a restored bank building. Just outside of town, you can tour numerous Civil War battlefields; visit George Washington’s boyhood home at Ferry Farm; and enjoy a taste of another sort of history at A. Smith Bowman Distillery, the oldest bourbon in Virginia.
How to get to Fredericksburg: Fredericksburg is a straightforward drive up Interstate 95, taking about an hour from Richmond. Alternatively, you can reach the city via Amtrak train, with a direct route from Richmond’s Main Street Station to downtown Fredericksburg.
4. Virginia Wine Country
Why go? To sample wine from one of the East Coast’s most promising growing regions.
Virginia is home to more than 300 wineries situated in 10 distinct growing regions. Those in the central part of the Commonwealth are known as the Monticello AVA (American Viticultural Area). This pastoral region, located on the eastern slopes of the Blue Ridge Mountains, is recognized for its fertile clay soil and long growing season. Dating back to Thomas Jefferson’s early experiments with European grape varieties, wines from this area often possess a complex old-world flavor with a modern twist. From Barboursville Vineyards to Pippin Hill, there’s a winery to suit every palate.
How to get to Virginia Wine Country: Drive west from Richmond to discover some of Virginia’s top wineries, many of which are located around an hour away. Renting a car is advisable, and numerous wine tours are available, providing a safer option than driving yourself.
5. Appalachian Mountains
Why go? To witness the stunning vistas of the Blue Ridge Mountain range.
If you crave more dramatic landscapes than Richmond’s gentle hills, head west toward the Appalachian Mountains. Enjoy miles of hiking trails, picturesque parkways, and breathtaking views. Use Rockfish Gap as your marker – from here, you can drive north into Shenandoah National Park or south onto the Blue Ridge Parkway. Along these scenic drives, you’ll find numerous hiking trails and overlooks to enjoy the spectacular scenery. If visiting in winter, you might want to explore Wintergreen Resort for a day of skiing.
How to get to the Appalachian Mountains: Drive west from Richmond, and before long, you’ll see the mountains rising on the horizon. A car is required to navigate this beautiful rural region.
6. Washington, DC
Why go? To experience the highlights of the nation’s capital in just one day.
While the nation’s capital deserves a visit of its own, it’s only about two hours from Richmond, making it a very manageable day trip. Although you may encounter traffic if driving, taking the train can be a convenient alternative. Depart from Richmond early in the morning, and you’ll have ample time to visit your favorite Smithsonian museum and stroll or bike around the monuments. Depending on the season, consider a sports event; DC is home to numerous professional teams like D.C. United, the Washington Nationals, and the Washington Capitals. Enjoy a meal at a food hall like Union Market or The Roost before returning to Richmond.
How to get to Washington, DC: If driving via Interstate 95, timing is essential to avoid heavy traffic in northern Virginia. To simplify your trip, opt for an Amtrak train from one of Richmond’s two train stations. Two hours later, you’ll arrive at Washington, DC’s Union Station.
7. Charlottesville
Why go? To experience a charming Southern city that balances modern innovation with rich history.
Home to the University of Virginia, Charlottesville is a historic town with a vibrant atmosphere. Visit the pedestrian-friendly Downtown Mall to explore local shops and restaurants, many offering outdoor seating. Nearby Monticello provides a fascinating glimpse into the life of Thomas Jefferson, while Carter Mountain Orchard is a favorite destination for apple-picking and cider-sipping in the fall.
How to get to Charlottesville: The city is approximately an hour’s drive west of Richmond on Interstate 64. A car is necessary for this trip.
