Richmond: Virginia’s Capital of Fun
Virginia’s capital has blossomed into a diverse city of eclectic delights. You won’t be searching for things to do here! Near downtown, the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts is one of the city’s top-rated attractions – it’s a modern museum with a varied and sizable collection of modern art, with a special focus on antiques, Asian art, and Fabergé eggs.
Squarely downtown, the American Civil War Museum is a multi-site facility dedicated to the history of the American Civil War – its collection includes Confederate documents and battle flags. Just south of downtown, the Edgar Allen Poe Museum is dedicated to the life of the great American writer – Poe lived just down the street from this stone house which now displays memorabilia, document, and photos.
Kids are the focus of the Science Museum of Virginia. Located on Broad Street, this kid-centric learning center has hands-on exhibits explaining animals, the cosmos, the environment, and the human body. Literally next door, the Children’s Museum of Richmond has more interactive exhibits allowing kids to learn about their world by moving, climbing, farming, drawing, and playing.
Ready to run wild? Richmond has a great collection of city parks. Head to William Byrd Park, which has jogging trails and the Virginia War Memorial Carillon, while Maymont Nature Centre nearby has a lake, the Maymont Mansion, and a Japanese garden. Gambles Hill Park has large grassy areas and the Tredegar Green Amphitheatre, where concerts, including folk festivals, are held in the spring and summer.
Richmond is quickly emerging as an adventure sports destination. The James River snakes right through town, and you can launch a kayak or raft to play on the waves or find a quiet spot to jump in and cool off on a hot summer day. The city is a big draw for mountain bikers, and you can find great trails along the James River or in Pocahontas State Park. Anglers have plenty of sublime spots to cast a line – try Pony Pasture Rapids, Pumphouse Park, and Echo Lake Park.
Did all this fun work up an appetite? The city has a burgeoning culinary scene to check out. Nosh on farm-to-table New American at Lemaire, or creative takes on French classics at L’opossum. The city has more than 20 craft breweries – how to choose? Follow your taste buds to Hardywood Park Craft Brewery or Ardent Craft Ales.
No matter your passion, fun awaits in Richmond!