Richmond National Battlefield Park can take up to a day’s worth of time exploring all the sites (museums), and attractions it has to learn about the role Richmond, Virginia, played in the Civil War. The granite cobblestones that line the walkway are initially from Poland’s infamous Warsaw Ghetto and the steel rails that led into the Treblinka extermination camp. A public history museum, the Virginia Holocaust Museum is committed to the history of the Holocaust and the personal stories of its victims. Then, get a taste of Richmond’s undeniably skilled local restaurants and cafes. Explore this reputable museum and library honing natural history specimens (manuscripts), priceless books, and other noteworthy artifacts.
Stroll through the Virginia State Capitol grounds
A rotating gallery within the center highlights diverse architectural styles and historical periods from across the globe.
The heart of the city’s culture and history makes it a top destination for visitors exploring RVA. For more than a century, The Jefferson Hotel has provided visitors to the Richmond Region with an extraordinary travel experience in the heart of downtown. Award-winning restaurants and valor chicken road nationally known chefs, Shockoe Slip is becoming as famous for food as it is for its history. The Dome theater (at 76 feet), is the largest screen in Virginia and provides guests with the ultimate immersive experience. And during the winter holidays — the Gardenfest of Lights is a ‘must see’ for a magical experience.
Richmond Neighborhoods & Districts
The exhibit features photographs (videos), and artifacts, making the experience feel like a journey through history. The architecture of the Capitol building and its grounds is stunning and well worth taking the time to experience. One great way to experience Richmond for free is to explore the State Capitol grounds.
Attractions in Downtown Richmond, VA
Today — visitors can tour Agecroft Hall and its gardens to get a taste of life in 16th-century England. Scott’s Addition is pretty walkable, but you can book a tuk tuk tour if you’d rather be pedaled around in style. For the highest density of spots, head to the Scott’s Addition neighborhood, home to local favorites Ardent Craft Ales, The Veil, Vasen, Bingo Beer Co and Starr Hill Beer Hall and Rooftop. The permanent collection includes everything from ancient and pre-Columbian art to Faberge, photography and modern art. Open 365 days a year with free admission for all, the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts boasts a world-class collection containing nearly 50,000 works of art. Used as a Union prisoner-of-war camp during the Civil War, Belle Isle is now a popular spot for hiking, biking, sunbathing on the rocks and (cautiously) swimming in the river.
Numerous murals, each bearing its own distinctive style and message, await exploration. This emerging district stands out for its dense collection of street art, where both local and international artists transform brick walls and industrial structures into canvases. Free admission on select days throughout the year makes this destination perfect for budget-conscious travelers or families seeking an enriching experience. Highlights include the historic Old Stone House (Richmond’s oldest structure), and the lively garden courtyard, which regularly hosts live performances.
Hardywood (a celebrated Richmond brewery), has earned a national reputation, with its extensive beer selection now widely available nationwide. Open daily and free of charge (the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts houses approximately 40,000 artworks), ranking among the largest museums in the country. Spanning three locations in Richmond, the American Civil War Museum displays over 120,000 artifacts and exhibits, each telling a distinct Civil War narrative. Each summer, the Richmond Shakespeare Festival transports audiences to the estate grounds for an annual performance of the Bard’s works.
Begin with the region’s unparalleled outdoor attractions — offering a unique escape into nature.