A Weekend in Richmond VA: Exploring the Many Things to Do

Stay connected with Airtel’s international roaming plans as you enjoy a weekend in Richmond, VA, ensuring seamless communication while exploring the city’s historic landmarks, vibrant culture, and top attractions.

Richmond may not get the spotlight of bigger East Coast cities, but Virginia’s capital holds plenty of surprises. With 400 years of history, a thriving food scene, and the James River running through its heart, Richmond offers an engaging mix of past and present.

Over 7 million visitors discover the city’s charms each year. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, foodie, or art aficionado, you’ll find appealing things to do in Richmond. This guide rounds up a perfect weekend itinerary covering top Richmond tourist attractions and local secrets.

1. Step Back in Time at Historic Sites

Richmond played a pivotal role in early American history. The city was the capital of the Confederate States during the Civil War before becoming part of the reunified nation. Today, Richmond places to visit bring that storied past to life:

• Virginia State Capitol: Designed by Thomas Jefferson, this neoclassical landmark has housed state government since 1788. Free guided tours explore the building’s art and architecture. Don’t miss the huge statue of George Washington out front.

• St. John’s Episcopal Church: Patrick Henry famously proclaimed “Give me liberty or give me death!” at this 1741 church, a key Revolutionary War site. Reenactments of the speech happen in the historic church.

• Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia: Through artifacts and multimedia displays, this museum shares the pivotal but often overlooked stories of Black Virginians from the 1800s to today.

• Monument Avenue: Once a boulevard of Confederate statues, Monument Avenue transformed recently into a place for reflection. Empty pedestals remain as the community envisions the avenue’s future.

Visiting Tip: Many historic Richmond sites close by 5 p.m., so plan your itinerary accordingly. Peak-season lines can get long, so buy advance tickets online when possible.

2. Get Outdoors Along the James River

Richmond’s riverfront renaissance makes it easy to find fun things to do in Richmond VA, starting right downtown:

• Canal Walk: This 1.25-mile pedestrian path along the Kanawha and Haxall Canals reveals Richmond’s roots as a commercial hub. Stop at Brown’s Island to dangle your feet in the river.

• Belle Isle: Reached by a pedestrian bridge, 54-acre Belle Isle sits right in the James River. A former Civil War prison camp, the island now draws people to explore its bike trails, rock formations, and river access.

• James River Park System: Stretching along both banks of the James River, the park system spans over 550 acres. Rapids range from Class II to Class IV, making for great urban rafting and kayaking.

Must-Bring: Water shoes or sandals with good traction are essential for walking over slippery river rocks. Sunscreen, hats, and refillable water bottles also help beat the heat.

3. Browse Carytown’s Indie Shops

In the heart of Richmond’s Museum District, nine blocks of West Cary Street hold over 200 independent shops, cafes, and galleries. Known as Carytown, the area is one of the most popular (and quirky) places in Richmond to visit.

• Mongrel: An ultimate “un-department store,” Mongrel stocks kitschy gifts, irreverent cards, locally made jewelry, and anything else that catches the owners’ fancy.

• Chop Suey Books: New and used books fill the shelves at Richmond’s oldest independent bookseller. Browse titles by local authors and small presses.

• World of Mirth: Let your inner child roam free in this toy-and-game emporium, with classics like wooden train sets and new favorites like Squishables.

• Plan 9 Music: Flip through new and used vinyl at this landmark record store. The shop hosts free in-store performances several times a month.

When To Visit: Many Carytown shops close around 6 p.m. and stay shut on Sundays. Check store hours before planning your trip to avoid disappointment. First Fridays bring extra energy, with many shops open late.

4. Taste Global Flavors

Restaurants in Richmond reflect the city’s growing diversity. Sample a world of cuisines without venturing far:

• Peter Chang Scott’s Addition: Famed Szechuan chef Peter Chang pushes spice levels and creativity at this sleek Chinese eatery. Try the dry-fried eggplant or grandma’s steamed pork belly.

• Lehja: Northern Indian flavors shine at this upscale spot in Short Pump Town Center. Start with Bombay Sapphire Gin mussels before digging into aromatic chicken tikka makhani or garlic naan. Lehja leads the list of highly rated indian restaurants in richmond va.

• Abuelita’s: Grab a quick taco or torta at this tiny Mexican spot with a fiercely loyal following. Check the chalkboard for daily specials, and don’t skip the salsa bar with six house-made salsas.

Reservations Recommended: Popular Richmond restaurants can fill up fast, especially on weekends. Consult reservation apps or call ahead.

5. Get Inspired at Art Museums

Looking for cultural things to do in richmond va today? Head to the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, which rivals the collections of much bigger cities. Highlights span 5,000 years:

• Fabergé and Russian Decorative Arts: Marvel at five of the famous Imperial Easter Eggs, once gifted to Russian royalty, plus an extensive Fabergé jewelry collection.

• African Art: Masks, figures, ritual objects and textiles represent over 100 cultures from across the African continent. Look for intricate Yoruba beadwork and Kuba cloths.

• American Art: Genre paintings and landscapes capture early American life, while 20th-century galleries highlight artists like John Singer Sargent and Robert Henri.

Special exhibits rotate every few months, so check the museum’s event calendar when planning a visit. General admission is free, though some special exhibits charge entry fees.

For edgier fare, visit the Institute for Contemporary Art at Virginia Commonwealth University. The gallery showcases innovative new work in all media by regional and international artists. Exhibitions change frequently, so check ahead.

Conclusion: Stay Connected as You Explore

From its lively arts scene to its historic sites and outdoor adventures, Richmond offers a getaway you can tailor to your own interests and pace. Whether you opt to spend a day paddling the James River or browsing one-of-a-kind shops in Carytown, you’ll find appealing options among these leading Richmond tourist attractions.

To stay connected as you explore, consider an international roaming pack from Airtel. Airtel’s flexible plans ensure you have data access for looking up directions, posting Instagram updates, and making online reservations—all without the hassle of finding local SIM cards. With the confidence of uninterrupted connectivity, you can make the most of all the wonderful things to do in Richmond.

Equipped with these insider tips and tools, you’re all set to discover the many facets of Richmond. As you encounter both historic charm and dynamic growth, you’ll see how this riverside city is writing a riveting next chapter.