Affiliate Ad Disclosure: We’re reader-supported. When you buy via our links, we earn commissions. Learn more.
31 Best Things to Do in Richmond (By a Local)
👉 Jump to: Best Things to Do in Richmond | Outdoors | Neighborhoods & Districts | Museums & Landmarks | Music & Arts | Unique | Free Things to Do
The city of Richmond has an endless list of things to do. I know because I came here for college years ago and keep discovering more every time I return.
In Richmond, history is abundant, and live music and unique museums are ever-present. The James River Park System and the many trails that run along it are just begging to be explored. Don’t let its size fool you. RVA is chock-full of personality, diversity, and culture.
Bookmark my guide to where to stay in Richmond before you dive into this list because you’ll need a few days in the city to see everything. Now, let’s explore the absolute best things to do in Richmond during your next visit, starting with my top five picks!
31 Best Things to Do in Richmond
Belle Isle
Take in the views from the Belle Isle Pedestrian Bridge before getting some sun on the dry rocks jutting out from the James River.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (804) 646-6443 | Website | Hours: Sunrise to sunset daily | Entrance: Free
Belle Isle was a prison site during the Civil War and a former quarry, but is now an island frequented by locals and tourists alike. People come here to walk its trails and watch the rushing rapids of the James River from the dry rocks alongside the water.
It’s located south of Downtown Richmond, and you can access Belle Isle by foot or bike along the suspended Belle Isle Pedestrian Bridge hanging from the Lee Bridge.
Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA)
Discover America’s largest public collection of fabergé eggs and seasonal exhibitions at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (804) 646-6443 | Website | Hours: 10 am–5 pm Mon-Tues & Sat-Sun; 10 am-9 pm Wed-Fri | Entrance: Free
The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts is located in the Museum District on the west side of Richmond City along North Arthur Ashe Boulevard. It’s a short walk away from the shopping hub, Carytown.
Art lovers can explore over 50,000 pieces of art from a plethora of world cultures. Grab tickets to see the latest exhibit, then head over to the Amuse Restaurant on the 3rd floor overlooking the museum grounds. Or go to the Best Cafe on the first floor, which has access to an outdoor patio.
Hollywood Cemetery
Walk or drive through this 135-acre active cemetery with stunning views of the James River.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (804) 648-8501 | Website | Hours: 8 am – 5 pm daily (until 6 pm during Daylight Saving Time) | Entrance: Free | 👉 Book a Hollywood Cemetery Segway Tour on Viator
Located in Oregon Hill, Hollywood Cemetery is home to 135 acres of rich history and native trees. It’s the final resting place for Presidents John Tyler and James Monroe, and a registered arboretum with some amazing views overlooking the James River.
If you don’t feel up to getting lost in this maze of a cemetery, hop in your car and cruise around for a self guided tour. Or, if you’re looking for an adventurous and educational excursion, try out this guided cemetery segway tour.
Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens
Smell the roses and soak up the sun at these gorgeous botanical gardens.
📍Google Maps | Phone: (804) 262-9887 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 5 pm daily | Entrance: $20, Adults, $15, Seniors (age 65+) or Military/First Responders $10, Youth (age 4-12), Free, Children (age 3 and under) & Garden Members
Located just outside of Richmond City in Henrico is the Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens. This natural attraction is a perfect place for families and plant lovers alike. Enjoy the newly-expanded Conservatory (re-opening in May 2026), or stroll through over 50 acres of meticulously manicured gardens.
When you’re not exploring the grounds, check out an exhibit, bring the family to Storytime at the Garden, or take a class. Grab some lunch afterwards at the Garden Cafe, or pick up a trinket from the Garden Shop.
Maymont Estates
Get your fill of nature on this beautiful 100-acre estate.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (804) 525-9000 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 5 pm daily | Main Entrance: Free
Maymont Estates contains over 100 acres of natural beauty, exemplified in the Italian and Japanese Gardens. Maymont is conveniently located in the heart of Richmond, right next to Byrd Park.
Take the family to explore the Robin Nature Center and the Maymont Zoo, where kids can feed and pet friendly barn animals like sheep, roosters, and goats. Or enjoy a picnic in one of Maymont’s vast fields.
Learn the history of the estate by visiting the Dooley Mansion, once owned by Richmond natives James and Sarah Dooley during the 18th-century’s Gilded Era.
Outdoor Attractions in Richmond
North Bank Trail
Bike, walk or run along this popular trail.
📍 Google Maps | Website
The popular North Bank Trail runs along the James River. Walk your dog, ride your mountain bike, or jog along this roughly 2.5-mile trail. The trail leads to secluded beaches with opportunities to sunbathe on rocks along the water. This is a unique place to get some fresh air.
Multiple entrances can be found throughout the trail. Enter at Texas Beach or Tredegar, or from a variety of on-street parking sites.
T. Tyler Potterfield Memorial Bridge
Get up close and personal with the James River while enjoying awesome views of the Richmond skyline.
📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: 24/7
The accessible “T. Pott Bridge” (short for the T. Tyler Potterfield Memorial Bridge) opened in 2016 to connect pedestrians and cyclists to Floodwall Park and Richmond’s Southside.
You can watch the river rush over the old dam while getting some exercise in. There are several benches along the bridge to take breaks and enjoy the scenery.
Floodwall Park
Explore Southside by way of the Floodwall Park.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (804) 783-7450 | Website
Watch climbers scale mountains, cyclists zoom by, or take in the Downtown Richmond skyline at the Floodwall Park. Its trail connects with the Belle Isle Pedestrian Bridge, along with the Robert E. Lee Bridge, Richmond Slave Trail, and the Canal Walk.
Access the park by walking or cycling across the T. Tyler Potterfield Memorial Bridge, or find parking at the south end of the 14th Street Bridge (Mayo Bridge).
Brown’s Island
Visit this six-acre park south of Downtown RVA.
📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: Open dawn to dusk daily | Entrance: Free
When Brown’s Island isn’t serving as a hub for multiple festivals or outdoor events, it’s a great starting point to access a variety of nearby attractions like Belle Isle, the T. Tyler Potterfield Memorial Bridge, and the Canal Walk.
Tour the area by renting an e-bike or e-scooter. Visit the Civil War Museum, or learn about Brown Island’s history by viewing public sculptures like The Headman Statue, The Mill Sculpture, and Emancipation and Freedom Monument.
Byrd Park
This is the perfect park for family fun.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (804) 646-5733 | Website | Hours: Open dawn to dusk daily | Entrance: Free
Richmond has a plethora of free outdoor spaces to visit, and Byrd Park is no exception. Located near Maymont Estates, Byrd Park is one of Richmond’s most popular public parks spanning over 287 acres. You can find tennis courts, three man-made lakes, and the Carillon Bell Tower.
During the summer, the park is full of activity. Bring the family to enjoy a free concert at the Dogwood Dell outdoor amphitheater, have lunch along the fields while feeding the birds, or rent a paddle boat at Fountain Lake.
Try your luck at fishing in any of the lakes for your next big catch. Get active by throwing frisbees or getting your steps in for your daily dose of exercise.
Pump House
Take a tour or explore the perimeter of this historic landmark near the James River.
📍 Google Maps | Website
The Pumphouse is located near the North Bank Trail and the George Washington Arch along the James River. Built in the 1800s, the Pumphouse held a pumping station on the bottom floor, and an open-air pavilion that was used for events and dances until the mid-1920s.
While it’s not open to the public, tours are offered occasionally. Visitors are required to wear hard hats during the tour’s duration due to the Pumphouse’s current state. The local organization, Friends of the Pumphouse, continues to maintain and preserve this historic landmark with the hopes of restoration in the future.
Farmers Markets
Support Richmond’s small businesses and farmers by attending a farmers market.
📍Google Maps (various locations) | Website
RVA locals love farmers markets. During the warmer months, you can find nearly a dozen farmers markets held weekly throughout the city. Get your fill of fresh produce, unique crafts, and live music and events. Vendors offer unique goods like fresh meats, gourmet mushrooms, and delicious ice cream with unique and award-winning flavors.
Most neighborhoods have their own farmers market, giving you an opportunity to meet and connect with the locals while supporting the city’s economy.
Richmond Neighborhoods & Districts
Carytown
Dine, shop, and stroll through this little district along East Cary Street.
📍 Google Maps | Website
Carytown is a unique experience for those that enjoy shopping, bar hopping and nightlife, or trying unique eateries.
This walkable mile-long strip is adjacent to the Museum District and the VMFA, and situated in the heart of the city. Grab a cup of coffee at Sugar and Twine, get a slice of pizza at Zorch, or appease your sweet tooth at the For the Love of Chocolate candy shop.
Personally, I frequent Carytown to window shop at some of the many clothing boutiques and consignment shops like Ashby’s and Roan.
Oregon Hill Neighborhood
Explore the unique architecture and history of Oregon Hill.
📍 Google Maps | Website
Oregon Hill is steeped in rich history and unique architecture, and this charming neighborhood has tons of character and things to do close by.
Experience award-winning dining at L’opossum, read a book at Pleasant’s Park, or browse the oddities of the taxidermy shop, Rest in Pieces. Drive through the Hollywood Cemetery, or visit the Virginia War Memorial nearby. Oregon Hill is also conveniently located near the James River Park System’s Brown’s Island and Belle Isle.
Get spooky every October during the Oregon Hill Halloween Parade, and watch homemade floats and giant puppets make their way down Laurel Street from Monroe Park.
Explore Downtown
Tour the Capitol, beer-hop, and visit RVA’s most popular districts.
📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Book an Arts District Food Tour on Viator
Downtown Richmond is full of museums, culture, and award-winning restaurants. Walk, drive, or access the GRTC public transit to experience everything this major hub has to offer.
When you’re not exploring the city, the James River and tons of other outdoor activities are right down the road, making Downtown an ideal place to stay if you’re trying to have the ultimate Richmond experience.
Downtown is surrounded by several districts and neighborhoods with plenty of gems. Visit the Arts District to browse galleries showcasing local artists or enjoy a local-led food tour.
Walk through the Financial District where you can find Fortune 500 companies. Explore Monroe Ward for historic row houses and architecture. Jackson Ward houses African American history and popular businesses.
Shockoe Bottom
Get your fill of museums, music, and food in this historic district.
📍 Google Maps | Website
Shockoe Bottom is a unique neighborhood that is full of charm, history, bars, and entertainment, just east of Downtown Richmond.
There’s no shortage of delicious dining options and well-stocked bars. Enjoy a cigar and salsa dancing class after dinner at Havana 59, or post up at the bar at the Tobacco Company.
Shockoe Bottom is also a prime jumping off point for outdoor activities. Find the entrance to the famous Capital Trail, explore murals at the Canal Walk, or take a Riverfront Canal Cruise tour along the James River.
There’s tons of history and unique architecture in Shockoe Bottom. Visit the welcome center at Main Street Station, browse a handful of unique museums, and learn about the preservation of the Shockoe Hill African Burial Ground.
Explore VCU
Visit Virginia Commonwealth University’s Monroe Campus, and the Medical College of Virginia in Downtown Richmond.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (804) 828-0100 | Website
Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) is Richmond’s pride and joy when it comes to education, diversity, and flair. VCU offers public access to spaces like The Institute for Contemporary Art and the James Branch Cabell Library found on the Monroe Park Campus.
Downtown Richmond houses VCU’s health and sciences campus, the Medical College of Virginia (MCV), as well as VCU Health near the Capitol grounds.
Museums & Historic Landmarks in Richmond
Science Museum
Get your fill of hands-on learning at the Science Museum of Virginia.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (804) 864-1400 | Website | Hours: 9:30 am – 5 pm daily | Entrance: $18.50, Adults (13-59) $15.50, Seniors (60+) & Youth: (6-12), $11.00, Preschool (3-5), Free, Children 2 and younger
The Science Museum of Virginia is an awesome place to visit for curious-minded adults and kids alike! Located on Broad Street in the heart of the city, The Science Museum of Virginia offers tons to do.
Explore The Dome to learn about the mysteries of the universe. Get the family involved at The Forge for fun, hands-on activities, or partake in labs like the Animal Lab or the Art Lab.
Several exhibitions are on display, such as the Speed Exhibition covering some of the fastest and slowest things in the universe. There are lots of ongoing events to check out. Visit the website to find out the latest experiences and seminars.
The Virginia War Memorial
Remember the Virginians who served to defend the United States throughout the decades.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (804) 786-2060 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 4pm Monday – Saturday, 12 pm – 4 pm Sunday | Entrance: Free
The Virginia War Memorial is dedicated to the remembrance of Virginians who served to defend the United States beginning with World War II to the modern day. This space offers lectures, hands-on programs for kids, and events and exhibits for adults. Researchers can browse their archives and collections.
The memorial also houses a large outdoor amphitheater overlooking the James River where visitors can contemplate the history and the consequences resulting from war.
Main Street Station
Learn about the rich history of this beautiful train station.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: 804-646-3800 | Website | Hours: 6 am – 8 pm Monday – Friday, 8 am – 8:30 pm Saturday & Sunday
The Main Street Station is one of my most frequented places in Richmond, as I am usually visiting the River City via Amtrak. However, you don’t have to catch a train to appreciate this stunning and historic landmark.
Stop by the Virginia Welcome Center and The Gallery at Main Street Station on the first floor. Or access the second floor via elevator or stairs to sit on the balcony, marvel at the exposed railroad showcased in glass, or study intriguing photographs of the station throughout the years.
Virginia State Capitol
Explore the Capitol of Virginia and its well-manicured grounds.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (804) 698-1788 | Website | Hours: See website | Entrance: Free | 👉 Book a Capitol Grounds Walking Tour on Viator
The Virginia State Capitol, nearly 240 years old, is located in the heart of Downtown Richmond. Here you can take a walking tour to see the unique architecture and learn about the capitol’s role in the government and, of course, its vast history spanning several centuries.
Visitors can also peruse the Capitol Square, where you can find an array of memorials and monuments, beautiful gardens, and public buildings like the Executive Mansion and the Capitol Bell Tower.
Music & Arts in Richmond
Byrd Theater
Watch a film in the heart of Carytown in this nearly century-old movie theater.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (804) 358-3056 | Website | Hours: Dependant on showtimes | Entrance: $9.00/person (regular feature shows), $5.00/person (family classics), $5.00/person (sensory-friendly shows)
The Byrd Theater in the heart of Carytown is a unique movie theater with stunning architecture and over 100 years of rich history. It’s both a state and national landmark.
Visit the concession stand to purchase candy, popcorn, and even alcoholic beverages before choosing one of 1,200 seats. The Byrd Theater offers second repertory films, along with film festivals and storytime events for children throughout the year.
Before the start of most films, watchers will be serenaded by organist Bob Gulledge. Find showtimes and tickets online or at the concession stand.
Live Music
Support local and internationally recognized artists at a music venue.
📍 Google Maps | Website
Richmond loves music, and there’s no lack of music venues to satiate even the most hardcore fans. The National is a popular venue for a variety of shows. You can find any genre your heart desires, from jazz at Reveler, to heavy metal at The Camel.
Live music is easy to find in breweries as well, like Main Line Brewery and Hardywood Park Craft Brewery, offering craft brews and tasty bites to eat during live shows.
Outdoor events like The Jazz Festival and the Folk Festival offer unique opportunities to discover international artists and unique sounds.
Altria Theater
Grab tickets to see live performances in this historic theater.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (804) 592-3368 | Website
Across the street from Monroe Park and multiple VCU dorms is the Altria Theater. Popular Broadway shows have graced the stage over the years, like Wicked, Book of Mormon, The Lion King, and many more.
If musicals aren’t your thing, catch a seminar, comedy tour, or a variety of concerts offered throughout the year. I had an awesome experience seeing an Andre 3000 show a few years ago!
Local events are also hosted here, exemplifying Richmond’s unique taste in arts and culture. Tickets and showtimes are listed online, or you can stop by the box office for more information.
Festivals
Celebrate culture, food, music and art by attending an RVA exclusive festival.
📍 Google Maps | Website
When I think of Richmond, I think of festivals. Some of RVA’s most popular festivals to experience include the Dominion Riverrock outdoors festival in the spring, or the Folk Festival in the fall, both held on Brown’s Island.
Every summer, you can join thousands of people for Friday Night Cheers, showcasing local and nationally acclaimed musicians and singers while enjoying beer and delicious bites at a multitude of vendors.
Countless people fill the street (singular) of Carytown to partake in the Carytown Watermelon festival every August, where you can show off your melon-themed outfit and peruse hundreds of vendors catering the delicious fruit loved by many.
Unique Experiences in Richmond
VCU Basketball Games
Catch a home game and rally for the VCU Rams at the Siegel Center.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (804) 827-1000 | Website
Sports lovers can join VCU students and fans to attend a college basketball game in the Stuart C. Siegel Center.
Make sure you wear your Black and Gold attire to represent The Rams for extra team spirit! The Peppas Pep Band provides an entertaining, explosive, and engaging performance during halftime, along with the cheerleaders and Rodney the Ram. You can grab your tickets online or at the box office outside the stadium.
The Center is complete with multiple concession stands, thousands of seats, and a parking garage for convenience upon arrival. And don’t worry, traffic police are on standby, helping fans safely cross the busy intersections and help guide traffic before and after each game.
Riverfront Canal Cruise
Gain a unique perspective from the comfort of a tour boat.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (804)-649-2800 | Website | Hours: Open seven days a week from May-October; varying hours April & November | Entrance: $15, Adults, $8, Seniors (65 years and up) & Children (5 – 12 years old), Free, Children 4 and under
Learn about RVA’s rich history by way of a canal boat tour! Float in style on a 32-foot boat topped with a canopy for weather protection.
This unique experience will take you along the James River and Kanawha Canal. You’ll get the chance to see tons of 19th century architecture, the Triple Crossing Railroads, James River wildlife, and so much more during this 40-minute tour.
Riverfront Canal Cruises also offers the option for private charter tours for large groups or private events for 1 or 2 hour increments for a personalized experience that you’ll never forget!
Take the Train
Hop on an Amtrak train from the historic Main Street Station.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: 804-646-3800 | Website
Richmond has two Amtrak Stations: Main Street Station (RVM) in Shockoe Bottom near Downtown Richmond, and Staples Mill Road Station (RVR) located on the perimeter of the city.
I’ve personally departed from both stations to travel to Tidewater, Virginia, down south to visit family, as well as up north for fun weekend getaways to DC. You can even take the train to New York City and various parts of New England if you have the time!
You can purchase tickets online via the Amtrak website, or visit either station to buy tickets at the guest services desk or a self-serve kiosk.
VisArts Class
Hone your skills or pick up a new hobby at the Visual Arts Center.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: 804) 353-0094 | Website | Hours: Open 9 am – 9 pm daily
Since 1963, the Visual Arts Center (VisArts for short) has been a premier gathering place in the heart of the Fan District where people can go to tap into their creativity.
Drop into a class in person or online. Or take a month-long intensive course hosted by well-established teachers and artists to get your hands dirty with clay, dye, paint and other mediums. Try your hand at textile crafts like looming or knitting. Attend an event or check out an exhibition to support local artists.
Free Things to Do in Richmond
Picnic at Brown’s Island
Whether you’re on a budget, or just want to enjoy nature, a picnic is always a good choice.
Having a picnic is a fun (and free!) way to enjoy all the green spaces that Richmond has to offer. Gather the family, pack a lunch and your favorite outdoor blanket, and make your way to one of countless fields and parks to sprawl out and enjoy some fresh air.
I recommend Brown’s Island, the Dry Rocks at Belle Isle, or Byrd Park for some scenic views. You’ll find plenty of space to spread out for a large group, or to run around and play your favorite outdoor games like frisbee.
Discover Street Art & Murals
Spend the day finding as many murals as you can.
📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Book a Mural Walk Tour on Viator
Richmond has over 100 murals dispersed throughout the city. Take a Mural Walk Tour or go your own way to find amazing street art created by talented Richmond locals.
Several local projects hire diverse artists to create street art that sparks conversations about race, equality, and diversity, like Mending Walls RVA and The Richmond Mural Project.
The Canal Walk also has plenty of murals for those searching for creative inspiration or a fun photo op.
Riverfront Canal Walk
Walk along Richmond’s canals for a unique perspective of the River City.
📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: 24/7 | Entrance: Free
The Riverfront Canal walk is a popular attraction for families, art lovers, and explorers. The walk runs along the Kanawha and Haxall canals and the James River. Here, visitors can discover art murals, monuments, and rich history while exploring the 400 year old site.
The Riverfront Canal Walk is wheelchair accessible, has several points of entry, and is always open to the public, 365 days of the year.
***
There are so many things to do in Richmond that it’s impossible to fit them all in one article! But I hope I’ve given you some great ideas to add to your itinerary the next time you’re in Richmond. You’ll just have to visit and see for yourself why so many people love the River City!