Richmond is the capital of the Commonwealth of Virginia in the United States. It has a rich history, being one of the oldest cities in America, and was a key player in both the American Revolution and the Civil War. Today, Richmond is a vibrant city with a thriving arts and culture scene, delicious food, and beautiful parks. It is also home to many universities and businesses. When planning a trip to beautiful and historic Richmond, Virginia, be sure to include some of these fabulous stops on your trip. You’ll be sure to have a great time with a little something for everyone.
Things To Do In Richmond
Richmond is the capital city of the Commonwealth of Virginia in the United States. Incorporated in 1742, Richmond has been an independent city since 1871. The city’s population in the 2020 census was 226,610, up from 204,214 in 2010, making it Virginia’s fourth-most populous city. The Richmond metropolitan area, with 1,260,029 people, is the Commonwealth’s third-most populous.
Agecroft Hall
Visit the beautiful and unique Agecroft Hall. Agecroft Hall was originally built in the 15th century in England and was owned by the Langley and Dauntesey families. When it was put up for auction in 1925 a Richmond citizen had it crated up and shipped to Richmond where it was tirelessly reassembled. Check with Agecroft Hall for a complete list of events and tour times. This beautiful English home seems right at home in Richmond. You won’t believe your eyes!
James River and Kanawha Canal
Stroll the banks of the James River and Kanawha Canal on Richmond’s Canal Walk. It’s 1.25 miles through downtown Richmond and winds through the banks of Haxall Canal, the James River and Kanawha Canal. The canal walk is open twenty-four hours a day, three hundred sixty-five days a year.
Civil War Visitor Center
While enjoying the Canal Walk, take in the Civil War Visitor Center. Open 9-5 all year long, you can find a bookstore, park maps and picnic areas. There are artefacts on display, and a film is shown every half hour. Also for your convenience, Tredegar Cafe is a 110 seat dining facility that offers light nourishment for the hungry tourist.
Richmond Canal Cruises
Open from April 1 through June 12 is Richmond Canal Cruises. You can take a 35-minute narrated tour of the James River and Kanawha Canal. Cruises depart on the hour from the Turning Basin, located between 14th and Virginia Streets.
Paramount’s King’s Dominion
Located 20 miles north of Richmond is Paramount’s King’s Dominion theme park. There is literally something for everyone at King’s Dominion. From rides for the little ones to screaming thrill rides, live shows and even a water park, you can entertain your entire family here.
Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden
For the flower lover, visit the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden. The Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden boasts 30 acres of gorgeous gardens and facilities conveniently located off Interstate 95. Open 9-5 daily. Check their calendar online for a list of upcoming events and classes. Set in this lush and spectacular setting are two restaurants, the Garden Cafe and Robin’s Tea House. Truly a beautiful and relaxing way to spend an afternoon.
Richmond’s Landmark Theater
If opera is your passion then take in an opera at Richmond’s Landmark Theater. The Virginia Opera performs in this renovated spectacular theatre. Originally built in 1926 by Shriners, it has been restored to its original elegance in 1994-95 by the city of Richmond.
Richmond Raceway Complex
The Richmond Raceway Complex has 800 acres of space containing the Richmond International Raceway. There are six buildings and 300000 square feet of exhibition space. Check with the Richmond Raceway Complex for an updated schedule of shows and events.
Museum of the Confederacy
The Museum of the Confederacy is located at 12th and Clay Streets, about two blocks from the historic state Capitol. The modern museum building has the largest collection of confederate materials and offers research materials for those studying the era. The White House of the Confederacy is part of this historic complex and offers tours through the home of the President of the Confederacy, Jefferson Davis. Definitely, a must-see for history buffs.
James River Plantations
And finally, take a tour of some historic and spectacular landmark plantations with the James River Plantations tour.
Final thoughts
Richmond, Virginia is an elegant and historically significant city to visit. There are numerous walking tours and beauty everywhere the eye can see. Enjoy your visit to Virginia!
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