In a city full of history, fabulous food scenes, and outdoor activities, Richmond is one of the best central areas to vacation in and around in Virginia. Whether you’re a diehard foodie or outdoorsy guru, there is literally something for everyone in the River City. There are great restaurants, a ton of breweries, an art scene, outdoor activities, and of course all of the history.
History:
Head up to Church hill and visit St. John’s Church where Patrick Henry delivered his famous “Give Me Liberty or Give me Death” speech. While you are up there stop in to Proper Pie, grab a few pies, and enjoy a sunset picnic at Libby Hill Park.
Take a walking tour of Hollywood Cemetery. The history, the famous residents, and the views are well worth it.
The Poe Museum is a quick stop on your way around town. The house and gardens are quaint, but if you have time it’s definitely a place to stop in.
Rent some bikes and ride down the canal to Belle Isle, Tredegar, the T-Pot (T. Tyler Potterfield Memorial Bridge) bridge and the Capitol Building.
Entertainment and The Arts:
Richmond has an active art community. There are galleries, museums, and art walks. Be sure to check out the local galleries and The VMFA while you are in town.
If music or theatre is more your style you could catch a show at The National, or a movie at the historic Byrd Theatre.
Shopping:
Carytown is full of cute boutiques, gift shops, and cafes.
There are cute shops in the Libbie Grove area, and Stony Point and Short Pump mall isn’t too far away.
Food and Drink:
This is one of the most popular reasons people come to Richmond. The food scene is definitely something to check out.
Some restaurants to work into your stay are:
• The Fancy Biscuit, Southern staples and specialties
• Foo Dog, Asian street food experience [GF available]
• Wong Gonzalez, a Mexican meets Asian mashup [GF available]
• Comfort, country-inspired comfort food
• Mama J’s, homecooked soul food made fresh
• Graffiato, inventive and modern Italian cuisine
• Millie’s Diner, seasonal eclectic fare served up diner style [GF available]
• L’Opposum, playful French menu with craft cocktails
• Stella’s, rustic and modern Greek delights [GF available]
• Dutch and Company, Virginia-inspired seasonal dishes
• Perly’s, creative Jewish deli on traditional favorites
• Lunch or Supper, innovative American eats
• Tarrant’s Cafe, upscale all-day American fare [GF available]
• Proper Pie, New Zealand-style savory pie with some sweet stuff, to
There are several breweries around Richmond. You can go on your own, or take a historic trolly brewery tour.
• The Veil Brewing, modern brews
• Ardent Craft Ales, a brewery, taproom, and beer garden
• Legend Brewing Company, full service restaurant and brewery
• Hardywood, eco-minded brewery and taproom
• Triple Crossing Brewing, tasting room with light menu
• Strangeways Brewing, quirky brews
The fan is full of local bars, each with their own personality.
If you are looking for a cocktail and a see and be seen location, definitely head up to The Quirk rooftop bar or over to Kabanas.
Outdoor Activities:
The fan is a great place to walk around and see some cute houses and secret pocket parks. Grab some coffee and a snack at any of the local cafes.
The James river is a great source for activities. You can rent tubes and float down the river, go white water rafting and kayaking, do paddle board yoga, or sun bathe on the rocks.
Richmond is the countries only class IV urban rapids so it will definitely be an adventure.
If you have a mountain bike you can go through the James River Park System and Pocahontas State park trails.
As always, I would love to chat.
