50+ Things to Do in Richmond

Photo by shoelessRVA_photography

In addition to the list below, visit our Orchards and Berry Farms page for in-season fun, Events & Festivals page, Parks & Fun Places, Museums, and Farmer’s Markets page.

Visit websites below to confirm hours, fees if applicable, and other information.

Agecroft Hall. Experience Agecroft Hall, a majestic Tudor mansion brought to Virginia piece by piece from Manchester, England.

Altria Theater. “This Theater, ranking high among the ten greatest in the United States, has been built and will be operated as ‘Richmond’s Own Theater.’” (Source: Opening Night Program, October 28, 1927.( Richmond’s Altria Theater is located to the west of downtown Richmond, across from historic Monroe Park. The City of Richmond owned theater is nestled in the middle of the campus of Virginia Commonwealth University and it now plays host to a variety of events including Broadway productions, The Richmond Forum, concerts, comedians, children’s theater, lectures, school commencements and fashion shows.

Arena Racing. ArenaRacingUSA® is exciting, family-oriented entertainment which features ARENACARS®, real half-scale stock cars racing around a half-million dollar, high-banked race track inside the Richmond Coliseum. What’s not to love?

Belle Isle. Getting there is by foot bridge and that’s where the adventure begins. Alternate access is by wooden bridge near 22nd St. or by rock-hopping from the south shore. Parking tends to be crowded at Tredegar St. on weekends — only about 50 spaces. Large flat rocks surrounding the island make for good sunbathing, but the water is rough around the rapids and not suitable for swimming. Additional features include wooded trails, mountain biking trails, interpreted historical sites, wheelchair-accessible fishing at the quarry pond, and a granite wall for rock climbing.

Byrd Theatre. The Byrd Theatre is open 365 days a year – regardless of weather, however our schedule is not necessarily the same each day. Byrd Theatre Regular Features – $4.00/person ($3 admission + $1 facility fee). Byrd Theatre, which was built in 1928 in Richmond, Virginia as one of the Nation’s Grand Movie Palaces and today is both a State and National Historic landmark. The 1300-seat Byrd Theatre, named after William Byrd, one of the founders of Richmond, is one of the nation’s finest cinema treasures. The Byrd Theatre is an architectural treasure chest adorned with paintings, marbled walls, gold leaf arches, a richly appointed mezzanine, and some of the original patterned mohair-covered seats. An 18-foot, two-and-a-half ton Czechoslovakian crystal chandelier suspended over the auditorium contains over 5,000 crystals illuminated by 500 red, blue, green and amber lights.

Canal Walk. The bike-friendly Canal Walk connects the Virginia Capital Trail and Low Line gardens on the east to Brown’s Island and Belle Isle on the west. Take a 40 minute narrated historic tour on the Riverfront Canal Cruises from the first weekend in April to the 2nd weekend in November. Explore the area and discover the April 1865 exhibit, located on Brown’s Island, hanging over the James River and connecting to the Potterfield bridge, a popular biking and walking bridge.

Capital Trail. Now this is a real trail! Rentals, Tours, Shuttles. With 52 miles of trail, there is something for everyone! The trail traverses approximately 51.7 miles and four jurisdictions (City of Richmond, Henrico County, Charles City County, James City County). The western terminus trailhead is located at Great Shiplock Park in Richmond, Virginia, and the eastern terminus trailhead is located at the Jamestown Settlement in Williamsburg, Virginia.

Carytown RVA. Carytown is a unique shopping neighborhood in the heart of downtown RVA – Eat. Shop. Play. Church Hill District. Spend a day exploring, dining, wining, and more.

Dairy Bottle. Not necesarrily your typical milk bottles – these are huge bottles! You have to see them. The mega-milk bottles are located at Adams and Marshall in Downtown Richmond. The old Richmond Dairy building was abandoned years ago and was used in the mid-80s as artist studios. The building is now an awesome apartment building with the bottles intact. So if you’re looking for a place to live, why not The Dairy apartments?

Dover Hall. Unless you’re lucky enough to attend a private event, get married here, or have a special invite, this one might be hard to see. There are several special events open to the public for a fee throughout the year so watch for those – like Pilates & Prosecco, Christmas celebrations, wine tastings, or other events. But it’s worth a drive-by to see the majestic house and surrounding grounds. The estate’s 33,000 square feet command a majestic view of 55 acres of rolling hills and woodlands. Inside, over 30 rooms—including a two-story ballroom, solarium, library, and bridal wing—invite guests to live luxuriously and leave the details to the attentive staff. A treasure trove of classical art and elegant antiques, Dover Hall is a perfect setting for events of all kinds.

Field Day of the Past. This takes place in September each year – just 10 minutes from Short Pump. The show takes place the third full weekend in September and draws approximately 40,000 people annually. Historic displays, tractor and truck pulls, small engine displays, living history exhibits including sawmill, arts and crafts, antique and modern construction, sorghum molasses making, carnival rides, animal exhibits, equestrian events, and much more.

Henricus Historical Park. Today, Henricus Historical Park is re-creating the second successful English settlement in the New World. Henricus is where the American dream of success and self-reliance began. The development of the first hospital, the chartering of the first college in the New World and other important events that occurred at Henricus contributed to the significant roles this settlement played in the creation of a way of life and a nation. Henricus also was the English home of Pocahontas.Visit Henricus Historical Park and relive America’s beginnings. Historical interpretation and re-enactments pay tribute to Virginia Indians and the English settlers who carved a nation out of what was then Virginia’s western frontier.

Hollywood Cemetery. Free entry to the property and sites. Hollywood depends on the generous support of donors in order to ensure the long-term care of the cemetery.President James Monroe’s Tomb, President John Tyler’s monument, Davis Circle, Monument of the Confederate War Dead, stunning view of the James River, and the Iron Dog are just a few of the sites. Open daily 8am-5pm.

James River Park System. You can access the James River all around RVA. Find a complete list of access points here.

Kings Dominion. It’s technically not RVA, but it’s close enough! Just a short drive for incredible fun and entertainment – fun for all ages. Or, you can come face-to-face with dinosaurs at Dinosaurs Alive! featuring 43 life-sized animatronic dinosaurs. Families will delight in the zany rides at Planet Snoopy, featuring Snoopy and the entire PEANUTS™ gang. Or soak up the sun in the newly expanded Soak City, an all-inclusive 20-acre water park. Filled with exciting water slides, interactive splash pads, two wave pools, cabanas and more. Start making memories today!

Lewis Ginter. A botannical garden like you’ve never seen. And during the winter holidays, the Gardenfest of Lights is a ‘must see’ for a magical experience. “Thank you for voting us one of the top botanical gardens in the U.S.”

Library of Virginia. Not just any library. The Library is one of the oldest agencies of Virginia government, founded in 1823 to preserve and provide access to the state’s incomparable printed and manuscript holdings. Our collection, which has grown steadily through the years, is the most comprehensive resource in the world for the study of Virginia history, culture, and government.

Lurking Indian. Really. It’s a lurking Indian. The 25-year-old, 2,400 pound statue was relocated to the Lucky Strike building on Tobacco Row in Shockoe Bottom after being removed from the Diamond when the Braves left town. Artist Paul DiPasquale created it in 1983. Click here to take a peek. Directions can be found here.

Maggie Walker Historical Site. Maggie Lena Walker achieved national prominence as a businesswoman and community leader. Her business acumen, personality, and lifelong commitment to a beneficial burial society fueled her climb to success. She was the first African American woman in the United States to found a bank. As a leader her successes and vision offered tangible improvements in the way of life for African Americans and women. The residence at 110 1/2 East Leigh Street was built in 1883. The Walkers purchased the house in 1904 and soon began making changes. Central heating and electricity were added, and with the addition of several bedrooms and enclosed porches, the home increased from 9 to 28 rooms. In 1928 an elevator was added in the rear of the house to provide Mrs. Walker access to the second floor. The Walker family owned the home until 1979, when it and all the contents were purchased by the National Park Service.

Maymont Park and Mansion. This is an adventure of a lifetime. The mansion, beautifu grounds, live animals and petting zoo, picnic areas, and so much more. Maymont Mansion is a well-preserved document of Gilded Age design and the taste of well-educated, cosmopolitan millionaires. The house also illustrates the dynamic interplay between server and served, working class and upper class and black and white through a compelling exhibition in its restored below-stairs rooms – the culmination of a decade-long research project that was completed in 2005.

Metro Richmond Zoo. A fantastic surprise just outside Richmond. The zoo is home to more than 2,000 animals (and counting!). And if you’re around during Christmas, don’t miss the Miracle of Christmas event – it’s FREE!

Midlothian Mines & Rail Road Park. One of the first major industrial sites in the United States became a 44-acre preserve when Mid-Lothian Mines Park opened in 2004. Now dedicated to the citizens of Chesterfield County, past and present, the cut stone ruins of the mines surrounded by the beautiful woodland testifies to the courage, innovation and sacrifice of those who started the U.S. industrial revolution. Tours are programs are available. For information call 751-4946. The park is located at 13301 N. Woolridge Road, Midlothian, VA 23112. The annual Midlothian Mines Day event is held the third Saturday in October.

Monticello. Not technically RVA, but close enough. For almost 90 years, Monticello has been maintained and kept open to the public by the Thomas Jefferson Foundation, Inc., which owns over 2,500 acres of Jefferson’s 5,000-acre plantation. As a private, nonprofit 501(c)3 corporation, the Foundation receives no ongoing federal, state, or local funding in support of its dual mission of preservation and education.

Monument Avenue. A tree-lined oasis in RVA. Magnificent homes, several annual events, historical statues, and picturesque settings await. The Monument Avenue Historic District extends to West Franklin Street at Stuart Circle extending westeard for 14 blocks. It is listed in the National Register of Historic Places as a National Historic Landmark District. In 2007, the American Planning Association named Monument Avenue one of the 10 Great Streets in the country.

Pony Pasture Park. This is a popular swimming and sunbathing area. It also provides access for Class II whitewater boating and good fishing for smallmouth bass. River features include multiple small rapids and lots of big rocks. There is parking for 150 cars but crowded conditions make summer parking extremely difficult. For less hassle, visit Pony Pasture from late May to early September before 11 a.m.

Quirk Hotel. Richmonders are a little quirky, so this hotel fits the city well. Stop by for a visit and be amazed with the brightly decorated lobby and rooms. Enjoy a cocktail on the rooftop bar, and explore this fun little piece of entertainment right in the middle of the old city. Pet friendly and close to lots of local attractions, theater, restaurants, and museums.

Richmond International Speedway. Rev up your engines! It doesn’t get any better than RIR – the ultimate short-track racing venue.

Richmond Mural Project. Murals? Check! We have that. Take the tour in all neighborhoods and districts and be amazed.

Richmond National Battlefield Project. Richmond’s story is not just the tale of one large Civil War battle, nor even one important campaign. Instead, the park’s resources include a naval battle, a key industrial complex, the Confederacy’s largest hospital, dozens of miles of elaborate original fortifications, and the evocative spots where determined soldiers stood paces apart and fought with rifles, reaping a staggering human cost.

River City Food Tours. Okay. So we love our food. There! We said it! Seriously, RVA is home to incredibly delicious and inspiring food tours. Just choose 1, or 8, or 15 – and enjoy!

Riverfront Canal Walk. Sites, attraction, monuments, exhibitd, trails and parks. Plenty of outdoor adventures for all ages.

Rockwood Nature Center. A nature center, walking trails, tennis courts, baseball, and more.

Science Museum of Virginia. The Museum features permanent exhibitions about space, health, electricity and Earth—to name a few—and hosts visiting exhibitions from around the world. The Dome theater, at 76 feet, is the largest screen in Virginia and provides guests with the ultimate immersive experience.

Scott’s Addition. Scott’s Addition is the City of Richmond’s fastest growing neighborhood, home of an eclectic mix of apartments, homes, restaurants, breweries, shops and more tucked away in the northwest corner of West Broad Street and North Boulevard. With over 1,000 new residential units and a growing number of amenities, the neighborhood is quickly becoming one of the most sought over areas in the region.

Shockoe Slip. Award-winning restaurants and nationally known chefs, Shockoe Slip is becoming as famous for food as it is for its history. The Slip is alive with eclectic restaurants from Victorian elegance, to legendary brewpubs, fresh seafood and hand made pasta. So prepare your taste buds for indulgent dishes that range from Southern Crab cakes to Spanish Tapas small plates. The nightlife in Shockoe Slip bustles with activity, trendy lounges and clubs offer every kind of evening entertainment from jazz to blues and rock to dance music. There are places to rack up the billiards or savor your favorite cigar.

Short Pump. The original village of Short Pump is located at the intersection of Three Chopt Road (formerly known as Three Notched Trail), Richmond Turnpike and Pouncey Tract Road. It was named for the short handled pump that was located beneath the porch of a tavern located there. The tavern was built by Robert Hyde Saunders, a Revolutionary War veteran in 1815. Short Pump now has many shopping centers and upscale restaurants and is a bustling hub of activity. There is also a skating rink, bowling alley and many neighborhoods under development. The area is an affluent ‘edge city’ of RVA.

St. John’s Church. A year prior to drafting the Declaration of Independence in 1776, Thomas Jefferson attended the Second Virginia Convention held inside St. John’s Church. Alongside George Washington, Richard Henry Lee and other important figures in the American Revolution, Jefferson listened as Patrick Henry gave his now-famous “Give me liberty or give me death” speech. Since 1938, St. John’s Church Foundation has been charged with the preservation of St. John’s Church, now a National Historic Landmark.

Tacky Lights Tour (seasonal). Every year during the winter, the tour lights up! In 2018, the house Wendhurst lit up with 170,541 lights (but who’s counting?!?). Don’t miss this tour!

The Jefferson Hotel. Gone with the Wind? You decide if it’s true. “Authentically opulent. Eternally relevant. 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. The Jefferson’s first guests in 1895 found contemporary conveniences like electric lights and elevators and hot and cold running water in each guest room. Over the ensuing decades, The Jefferson has become synonymous with extraordinary dining, breathtaking architecture, flawless service and Richmond.”

Three Lakes Nature Center. Three Lakes Park and Nature Center bring together the three worlds of air, water, and land for visitors to explore. The Nature Center is a 6,500 square foot facility featuring a variety of exhibits designed to provide hands-on experiences. The 50,000 gallon aquarium also gives visitors a “fish-eye” view of the underwater world.

The Rink at West Broad Village. If you live nearby or happen to be visiting in winter, you’ll enjoy The Rink. They offer skate rentals, skating lessons, birthday parties, and other special events. They also host special college nights and special pricing nights. The ice rink is located in Short Pump at West Broad Village.

Tredegar. The American Civil War Museum.

Trolley Rides. Stroll around the city in a trolley. Enjoy the Tacky Lights Tour. Sit back and relax on a private tour. Beer tours, wine tours, history tours. Even weddings. It’s a great way to explore the city.

Tuckahoe Plantation. Tuckahoe Plantation, boyhood home of Thomas Jefferson, is a National Historic Landmark and is protected in perpetuity by a preservation easement donated by the owners. Tuckahoe is truly a horticultural treasure with gardens from the 1700’s blooming year-round. Self or guided tours available.

Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. So hard to believe it’s free (some events do require a fee). Open 365 days a year with collections curated from around the world. General admission is always free and it’s located near lots of other local attractions, restaurants, and historical sites.

Virginia Historical Society. Another great FREEBIE! (The cost varies for special exhibitions, free for members.) Discover Virginia’s rich and unique history by visiting the research library, attending an event, or exploring one of their exhibition galleries. Free parking onsite and shops onsite.

Virginia Holocaust Museum. Always free and open to the public and free parking. Even our saddest memories must be preserved. Mission: The Virginia Holocaust Museum preserves and documents the Holocaust in exhibits and its archival collections. Through the permanent exhibit, educational programming, and outreach, the museum employs the history of the Holocaust and other genocides to educate and inspire future generations of Virginians to fight prejudice and indifference.

Virginia State Capitol. Free. The Capitol, a National Historic Landmark, is located downtown on Capitol Square bounded by 9th, Capitol, Governor, and Bank Sts. Click here for the National Historic Landmark registration file. The building is open free to all visitors Monday-Saturday 8:30am to 5:00pm, Sunday 1:00pm to 4:00pm. The Capitol Square Grounds are open daily from 7:00am to 11:00pm.

Virginia War Memorial. The Virginia War Memorial is the Commonwealth of Virginia’s monument to honor the memory of Virginia’s men and women who demonstrated a willingness to serve and fight to defend our way of life from World War II to the present; and through its Education Center, serves as the Center of Excellence for the Commonwealth in education of Virginian’s experience of war from the birth of our nation to the present.

Be sure to subscribe to email updates, follow @rvacheap on Twitter or like RVA (Richmond) on the Cheap on Facebook to stay in the know about the latest freebies & deals.

More things to do in and around Richmond: