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What Are the Best Places to Visit in Richmond Virginia?
Richmond, Virginia has a great many places to visit, and any traveler to the area should not miss out on the exciting attractions offered. From its beautiful architecture and natural wonders to its rich history, this city has lots to offer. When planning a trip to Richmond, here are the best places to visit in Richmond Virginia.
1. Maymont Park
Maymont Park is a magnificent estate located in Richmond with its own version of paradise. The park includes rolling hills and lush forested areas, fountains, formal gardens, a historic mansion, nature center, aviary, interpretive exhibits and animal habitats. In the summer months, visitors can enjoy a Japanese garden ideal for relaxing. Maymont also has special events throughout the year including children’s classes, tours of the mansion, carriage rides, concerts and festivals.
2. Hollywood Cemetery
Hollywood Cemetery gives visitors a glimpse into history with its mix of Civil War and public figures buried there. Stunning views, fascinating sculptures, and memorials all draw visitors to this cemetery. Those looking to pay their respects or have an appreciation for history, will find it in Hollywood Cemetery.
3. Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
An exquisite art museum with more than 35,000 works of art from all around the world can be found at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. They have both permanent and rotating exhibitions that cater to different interests. Not only are there paintings and sculpture, but the museum also boasts a wide variety of applied modern art forms including jewelry and fashion.
4. The James River
The James River is a great place to visit in Richmond – full of outdoor activities and beauty! People can rent canoes and kayaks from multiple outposts to explore the river’s gentle waters. There is also a bike trail that follows the river, allowing a wonderful opportunity to take in the stunning views. And don’t forget fishing! The James River has plenty of fish so don’t forget your rod and bait.
5. Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden
Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden is both a spectacular natural sanctuary and cultural attraction located just minutes from downtown Richmond. The Garden combines beautiful horticulture with outdoor recreation, history, education and more. It features multiple themed-gardens, a year-round Children’s Garden, indoor conservatories, butterfly house and much more.
6. Belle Isle
Belle Isle is an island in the James River that offers more than 50 acres of trails, breathtaking views and plenty of refreshing places for locals and visitors alike to explore. Take the pedestrian bridge from the south side of Richmond to get there and enjoy the beautiful views and wonderful amenities such as a basketball court, canoe rental, skate park and several calm areas for picnics or bird-watching.
7. Virginia Capital Trail
Virginia Capital Trail is an 845-mile route that winds through Fredericksburg to Jamestown via Richmond. It is open to bikers year-round and offers plenty of cool attractions on the way including historical markers, a visitors center at Great Shiplock Park in Richmond and archaeological features like Fort Pocahontas. The full-length journey will take up to six days but cyclists can also just explore a part of it as well.
Conclusion
Richmond, Virginia is an exciting destination with plenty of attractions to explore. From magnificent parks and gardens to awe-inspiring historical sites like Hollywood Cemetery and lots of outdoor activities there’s something for everyone in Richmond. Visitors to Richmond should must check out the top places we’ve outlined such as Maymont Park, the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, the James River, Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, Belle Isle and the Virginia Capital Trail for a truly unforgettable experience. For more information about places to visit in Richmond Virginia you can consult VisitRichmondVA.
An Insider’s Guide to Exploring Richmond, Virginia
Richmond, the capital of Virginia, is a city steeped in history and culture. It boasts a unique mix of original historical sites, art galleries, vibrant restaurant scenes, and natural landscapes. If you’re planning a visit, why not take the opportunity to experience some hidden gems that you won’t find in guidebooks? Here’s our insider’s guide to exploring Richmond, Virginia.
Local Attractions: Discovering Hidden Gems
Richmond is home to plenty of well-known attractions like the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts and the Virginia State Capitol. However, there are several hidden gems that only the locals know about and are worth discovering.
One of our favorites is the Hollywood Cemetery. This cemetery is home to over 80,000 graves, including many notable Virginians like Confederate President Jefferson Davis and several U.S Presidents. Another hidden gem is the James River Park System, where you can hike, bike, or paddle through 600 acres of lush greenery and white-water rapids.
Lastly, venture down to the Museum of the Confederacy where you can learn about Richmond’s critical role in the Civil War.
Dining Spots: Getting to Know Local Cuisine
Richmond’s food scene is as diverse as its communities. The cuisine is heavily influenced by Southern-style cooking, making comfort food a top priority. For starters, head over to Mama J’s Kitchen, where you can taste some of the best soul food around Richmond. Make sure to try their famous fried chicken and their mac and cheese.
And if you are looking for something exotic, Saison is the spot to go. This restaurant is motivated by seasonal and locally-sourced ingredients that produce a menu that is unpredictable and ever-changing.
Lastly, try some craft beer, which Richmond fosters a true love for. Veil Brewing Company is the leader in terms of innovative and experimental flavors.
Cultural Experiences: Festivals & Museums
Richmond’s culture is rich in traditions and history, and there is no shortage of events, museums, or cultural experiences. One famous annual event is the Richmond Folk Festival that features artists and performers from a wide range of folk traditions. Families can also enjoy the many civil war-inspired exhibits at.The American Civil War Museum.
Another must-see is the Edgar Allan Poe Museum which presents a unique tribute to one of America’s most famous authors. Here you can see Poe’s personal belongings and read some of his captivating writings.
Local History: Hearing Captivating Stories
Richmond is a city with a long and tumultuous history, much of which is still visible today. When visiting, be sure to learn about the city’s past through some captivating stories. The once-Republican-turned-Confederate-spy, Elizabeth Van Lew, is one of Richmond’s most intriguing historical figures whose story can be heard, walking through the Tredegar Iron Works as the Confederate’s own civil war machines are displayed.
Lastly, if you are interested in hearing Richmond’s past music scene, consider visiting the National Recording Preservation Foundation, located at the University of Richmond.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Alternative Tips
If you’re looking for something truly remarkable, here are a few alternative suggestions worth visiting:
The Graffiato: A secret bar that is situated on the second floor of an Italian restaurant in Richmond’s downtown center. To enter, you’ll need to enter a secret code by pretending to purchase an item from the restaurant.
The Crying Angel: A seemingly normal call box in Chimborazo Park, which locals say symbolizes the ghost of a woman who died during the war between the U.S. and the Confederacy.
For a unique shopping experience, check out the thriving arts scene down in Carytown. Here the art scene extends outside allowing the streets to unravel into a lovely street festival.
Conclusion
Richmond, Virginia, is undeniably a fascinating place to visit. It is brimming with hidden gems, rich history, and unique experiences that can be uncovered with some inside knowledge. We hope this guide helps you to discover the best that Richmond has to offer, and we look forward to hearing about your adventures in this beautiful city.
