Richmond VirginiaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Richmond, Virginia.
1. Maymont
HISTORIC ESTATE & GARDENS
Maymont is a 100-acre Victorian estate featuring beautifully landscaped gardens, a historic mansion, and a nature center. Visitors enjoy strolling through Japanese and Italian gardens, observing native wildlife, and exploring the preserved interiors of the Gilded Age home. The estate is a favorite spot for picnics and family outings in Richmond.
2. Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
WORLD-CLASS ART MUSEUM
The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts houses an impressive collection of over 35,000 works of art ranging from ancient artifacts to contemporary pieces. Notable collections include Fabergé eggs, Art Nouveau jewelry, and African, Asian, and American art. Its sleek architecture and rotating exhibitions make it a cultural hub in the city.
3. Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden
EXPANSIVE URBAN GARDEN
Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden offers over 50 acres of themed gardens, a domed conservatory, and a popular children's garden with a treehouse. Visitors can enjoy year-round plant displays, tranquil water features, and seasonal events such as the Dominion Energy GardenFest of Lights. The garden provides a peaceful escape in the heart of Richmond.
4. Hollywood Cemetery
HISTORIC RESTING PLACE
Hollywood Cemetery is renowned for its beautiful grounds and as the final resting place of two U.S. Presidents, James Monroe and John Tyler, as well as Confederate President Jefferson Davis. The cemetery's hilly terrain and river views make it a picturesque site for walking and reflection. Its historic monuments and elaborate tombstones draw history enthusiasts and tourists alike.
5. White House of the Confederacy
CIVIL WAR LANDMARK
The White House of the Confederacy served as the executive mansion of Confederate President Jefferson Davis during the Civil War. It now operates as a museum with guided tours showcasing period furnishings and artifacts. The attraction provides a balanced look at Civil War history and the lives of those who lived there.
6. Virginia State Capitol
ARCHITECTURAL & POLITICAL ICON
The Virginia State Capitol, designed by Thomas Jefferson, is an architectural masterpiece modeled after a Roman temple. It houses the oldest elected legislative body in the Western Hemisphere and boasts the only statue of George Washington produced in his lifetime. Guided tours share its rich political history and stunning interiors.
7. Edgar Allan Poe Museum
LITERARY HISTORY MUSEUM
The Edgar Allan Poe Museum is dedicated to the famed author's life and legacy, featuring a collection of personal letters, first editions, and memorabilia. It is housed in the oldest building in Richmond, complemented by enchanting gardens and a themed gift shop. The museum offers self-guided tours and immersive exhibits celebrating Poe's gothic works.
8. Virginia Museum of History & Culture
COMPREHENSIVE STATE HISTORY
The Virginia Museum of History & Culture showcases over 16,000 years of Virginia's past through interactive exhibits and a vast archive. Special displays include rare documents, artifacts, and rotating exhibitions on pivotal moments in the state's history. It serves as both a museum and research library for those interested in Virginia's cultural heritage.
9. James River
URBAN OUTDOOR PLAYGROUND
The James River cuts through downtown Richmond, offering opportunities for kayaking, rafting, fishing, and riverside hiking. Visitors can take sightseeing cruises on antique paddlewheel steamers or enjoy the scenic beauty along parks and trails. Its natural landscapes are a draw for outdoor enthusiasts and families.
10. Science Museum of Virginia
INTERACTIVE SCIENCE EXPERIENCE
The Science Museum of Virginia features hands-on exhibits, an immersive planetarium, and rotating interactive displays focused on science and technology. Its historic building, once a railway station, adds architectural charm. The museum is popular with families and curious minds seeking discovery and learning.
11. Short Pump Town Center
UPSCALE SHOPPING DESTINATION
Short Pump Town Center in nearby Henrico is an open-air shopping mall offering a wide range of retailers, restaurants, and entertainment options. Anchored by high-end department stores and featuring local boutiques, it's a leading destination for shoppers in the Richmond area. The center also hosts seasonal events and family-friendly activities.
12. Carytown
TRENDY SHOPPING & DINING
Carytown is a vibrant neighborhood known for its eclectic mix of locally owned boutiques, unique eateries, and vintage shops. The area is popular for its walkable streets, colorful murals, and lively atmosphere. Foodies and shoppers alike flock here for the best of Richmond's independent retail and culinary scenes.
13. The Valentine
CITY HISTORY MUSEUM
The Valentine is Richmond's first museum, dedicated to interpreting the city's history and culture through exhibitions, archives, and guided walking tours. Housed in a historic mansion, the museum also features the Wickham House, a National Historic Landmark. Its engaging programs delve into Richmond's evolving identity across centuries.
14. Riverfront Canal Walk
WATERFRONT PATH & TOURS
Riverfront Canal Walk is a scenic pedestrian pathway tracing the James River and Kanawha Canal through downtown Richmond. Visitors can admire public art, historic medallions, and take guided canal boat cruises from April to November. The walk connects significant landmarks and offers a tranquil setting for exploring the city's waterfront history.
15. The Jefferson Hotel
HISTORIC LUXURY LANDMARK
The Jefferson Hotel is an opulent five-star property renowned for its grand architecture, sweeping marble staircase, and celebrated Southern hospitality. Opened in 1895, the hotel has hosted celebrities and dignitaries for over a century. Even non-guests visit for its stunning interiors, afternoon tea, and renowned restaurants like Lemaire.