Richmond, Virginia, features plenty of activities to undertake and countless attractions to explore. The region is a great outdoor playground known for its art scenes, beautiful galleries, and historical museums. Many of Virginia’s capital attractions tell the story of a unique way of life that the south struggled to protect. They speak about the Civil War and the rich history and past of this fantastic city.
However, people don’t visit only for the history. They also come to fancy the lively neighborhoods, explore the cultural life, and enjoy the various activities suitable for all ages. Richmond lies on the James River in the heart of Virginia and welcomes more than 7.7 million visitors every year who flock to this iconic city and partake in the unique activities that it has to offer. Here’s a weekend guide to the historic town of Richmond, Virginia.
How To Have The Most Of The First Day During A Weekend Getaway To Richmond
The first place to visit in Richmond is the iconic Science Museum of Virginia. People can see more than 100 interactive exhibits while learning about the Amazon, Earth, space, animals, and health. The museum is perfect for kids who can partake in various challenges, such as memory games and tightrope walking.
Moreover, they can learn how to cook food at the Museum’s Kitchen Stadium. The museum also features a Dome Theater with 76 feet, making it the largest film screen in Virginia. Additionally, a 29-ton granite ball can be found outside the museum. It is known as the Grand Kugel, and it moves and spins on water if slightly touched.
- Recommended: The Science Museum of Virginia needs a couple of hours to explore. This is why it is best to head for lunch after exiting the museum. Students and locals in Richmond love enjoying a delicious bite of American food at The Village Café.
Also, during the first day of a getaway in Richmond, people can explore the monuments and statues that tell the city's history by driving down Monument Avenue. Another place worth visiting is the Hollywood Cemetery, where the founder of the Monroe Doctrine, President James Monroe, rests. Moreover, the Hollywood Cemetery is the resting place of President John Tyler.
People should also head to the American Civil War Museum to learn more about Richmond’s history. Next, visitors can explore the outdoors a Brown’s Island.
- Recommended: It is worth attending the weekly Fridays Cheers Concert series by the river on Brown’s Island. It costs between $5 and $10 to attend per person. The concerts take place during the spring and summer seasons.
People can later lounge, sunbathe, practice kayaking, and do a handful of other activities at the Belle Isle.
During the evening, visitors to Richmond can watch a performing arts show, such as the Nutcracker and Cinderella at the Carpenter Theatre, performed by the Richmond Ballet Group. People can also watch opera and theatre shows.
Those Are The Best Things To Do During The Second Day Of A Weekend Spent In Richmond
Richmond is home to Virginia’s Capitol, the place where laws are made. The building has a colonial style, and visitors can take a free guided tour any day of the week at Virginia’s Capitol. Even on Saturdays, people can walk around the Capitol grounds and see the monuments of Thomas Jefferson and Patrick Henry. Another place to visit during a Richmond weekend getaway is the Virginia Holocaust Museum, founded by Jay Ipson, a Holocaust Survivor. Another option for lovers of literary history is the nearby Edgar Allen Poe Museum.
Saturdays are perfect for attending outdoor sporting activities in Richmond. For example, hitting the Richmond Raceway to watch professional races and NASCAR series would be a great idea. The Diamond Baseball Field is where the Richmond Flying Squirrels baseball team plays against other minor league teams.
This Is How To Rock The Night In Richmond
Saturday nights are perfect for a party in Virginia’s Richmond. People must head to the Shockoe Bottom & Shockoe Slip area to enjoy the night out at the various restaurants, clubs, and bars.
- Recommended: To enjoy a great night out in Richmond, people can party at The Tobacco Company, Sine Irish Pub, and Cha Cha’s Cantina.
For those who want to spend a calm night in Richmond instead of partying hard, they can still find several things to do during their evening. For instance, they can visit the city's local breweries, including Strangeways Brewing, Blue Bee Cider, and Hardywood Park Craft Brewery. They can also take a guided tour with Richmond’s Brewery Tour Company.
Those who prefer to indulge in tasty savors can take the River City Walking Food Tour, where they can explore the foodie scene in Richmond divided into three areas: the Church Hill area, Carytown area, and Arts District area.
People should visit other places when going to Richmond during the weekend including the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Maymont Park, and Carytown.