10 Fun Things To Do In And Around Richmond, Virginia
Looking for a mix of history, food, outdoor adventures, and cool neighborhoods?
Richmond, Virginia has all of that and more. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or just passing through on a road trip along I-95, this city in
Richmond City is worth a stop.
Below are
10 fun things to do near Richmond, VA that give you a real feel for the city and the surrounding area.
1. Stroll (or Bike) Along the James River & Belle Isle
If you only have time for one thing in Richmond, make it the
James River.
Belle Isle is a small island right in the middle of the river, connected by a pedestrian suspension bridge that hangs under the highway. It sounds odd, but the views are great.
- Walk the easy loop trail around the island.
- Relax on the flat rocks by the river.
- Watch kayakers tackle the rapids.
On a warm day, you’ll see locals spread out on the rocks like it’s their own little beach. If you enjoy
urban nature, you’ll love this mix of skyline views, old industrial ruins, and rushing water.
2. Dive Into American History at the American Civil War Museum
Richmond played a major role in the Civil War, and the
American Civil War Museum helps you understand that history without feeling like you’re reading a dry textbook.
The exhibits share stories from:
- Union and Confederate soldiers
- Enslaved people and freed African Americans
- Civilians caught in the middle of the war
The museum is located by the James River on the site of the old Tredegar Iron Works, which made much of the Confederate artillery. The setting alone is powerful.
If you’re interested in
U.S. history, this is a must-do when visiting Richmond.
3. Explore the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA) – For Free
Love art, or at least like wandering through cool spaces? The
Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA) is one of the best things to do in Richmond, and the general admission galleries are
totally free.
You’ll find:
- American and European paintings
- An incredible Fabergé egg collection
- A beautiful sculpture garden outside
There’s a café and a nice outdoor patio where you can sit with a coffee and people-watch. It’s the kind of place where you can spend a full afternoon, or just pop in for an hour between other activities.
If you’re traveling with a group, this is a budget-friendly way to keep everyone happy.
4. Walk (and Taste) Your Way Through Carytown
If you’re wondering where the locals go for fun, shopping, and food, the answer is often
Carytown.
This colorful stretch along Cary Street is packed with:
- Independent boutiques and vintage shops
- Record stores and bookshops
- Ice cream stands, bakeries, and cafés
- Restaurants ranging from tacos to Thai food
One of the highlights is the historic
Byrd Theatre, a classic movie palace where you can catch a film for just a few dollars. The seats are old-school, the lobby is grand, and it feels like stepping back in time.
If you like to explore walkable neighborhoods with character, Carytown should be at the top of your
things to do in Richmond list.
5. Tour the State Capitol and Capitol Square
Richmond is the capital of Virginia, and the
Virginia State Capitol is more than just a government building — it’s a piece of architectural history designed by
Thomas Jefferson.
You can:
- Take a guided tour (check hours in advance).
- Walk around Capitol Square, a green park-like space downtown.
- See monuments and statues that tell the story of Virginia’s past.
Even if you’re not a huge “politics person,” it’s interesting to walk the same halls where so many big decisions have been made.
Pro tip: Pair this with a stroll through nearby downtown streets or along the Canal Walk for an easy half-day in the city center.
6. Wander Through Historic Church Hill & Libby Hill Park
If you enjoy old houses, cobblestone streets, and big views, head to
Church Hill, Richmond’s oldest neighborhood.
Here you’ll find:
- St. John’s Episcopal Church, where Patrick Henry gave his “Give me liberty or give me death!” speech.
- Blocks of beautiful row houses and colorful porches.
- Libby Hill Park, with one of the best views of the Richmond skyline and the James River.
On a clear evening, bring a blanket, grab takeout from a nearby restaurant, and enjoy the sunset from Libby Hill. It’s a simple moment, but it really captures the feel of Richmond.
7. Get a Taste of Richmond’s Craft Beer Scene
Richmond has become one of the top
craft beer cities on the East Coast. If you like trying local brews, you’ll have plenty of choices.
Some popular spots include:
- Breweries in the Scott’s Addition neighborhood
- Beer gardens with outdoor seating and food trucks
- Taprooms offering flights so you can sample different styles
Even if beer isn’t your thing, many of these spots serve cider, seltzer, or non-alcoholic options, and they often have games, live music, and a relaxed, social vibe.
If you’re planning a weekend in Richmond, setting aside one evening for a self-guided brewery crawl is a fun way to experience the city like a local.
8. Visit Maymont: Mansion, Gardens, and Animals
Looking for something that works for both adults and kids?
Maymont is a great choice.
This historic 100-acre estate includes:
- A beautifully restored Gilded Age mansion
- Formal Italian and Japanese gardens
- A nature center and small animal habitats
You can tour the home, wander through the gardens, and visit goats, cows, and other farm animals. It’s the kind of place where you can slow down, take photos, and enjoy some green space right in the city.
If you’re planning family-friendly things to do in Richmond, Maymont is hard to beat.
9. Learn and Reflect at the Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia
Richmond’s story is deeply tied to African American history, and the
Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia in Jackson Ward shines a light on that.
Inside, you’ll see exhibits about:
- The history of slavery and emancipation
- The rise of Black entrepreneurship in Richmond
- Art, culture, and everyday life through the years
It’s not a huge museum, but it’s powerful and thoughtfully done. Visiting here adds important context to everything else you see in the city, from monuments to neighborhood names.
10. Take a Day Trip to Pocahontas State Park
If you want to get out of the city for a bit, head about 20–30 minutes south of Richmond to
Pocahontas State Park in Chesterfield County.
Here you can:
- Hike or bike miles of wooded trails.
- Rent a canoe or paddleboat on the lake.
- Swim at the park’s seasonal pool and splash area.
- Enjoy a picnic under the trees.
It’s an easy, low-stress day trip that lets you see a different side of central Virginia. Pack snacks, bring water, and wear comfortable shoes — you might end up walking more than you planned.
Planning Your Visit to Richmond, VA
To make the most of your trip, here are a few quick tips:
- Best time to visit: Spring and fall, when the weather is mild and the trees are either blooming or changing color.
- Getting around: A car is handy, but many main attractions are within a short drive of each other. Rideshare and bikes can also work for closer neighborhoods.
- Where to base yourself: Downtown, Scott’s Addition, Carytown, or Shockoe Slip make it easy to explore.
You can easily fill a weekend with these
Richmond attractions, or mix and match them into a bigger Virginia road trip that includes places like Williamsburg, Charlottesville, or the Blue Ridge Mountains.
What Would You Add to This List?
Have you visited Richmond, Virginia?
Did you fall in love with a certain neighborhood, restaurant, or park?
I’d love to hear your ideas.
Share your favorite
things to do in Richmond in the comments so other travelers can discover them too.
And if you found this guide helpful, please:
- Share it with a friend planning a trip to Virginia.
- Save it for your next weekend getaway.
Richmond is one of those cities that surprises people — in the best way. With history, food, music, and the James River all woven together, it’s a place that invites you to slow down, explore, and stay a little longer than you planned.
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