- With museums, hiking trails, historic sites, and more, there's much to do in Richmond, Virginia.
- Read Insider's list of must-do activities when visiting Richmond to help map out your itinerary.
- Visit Insider's hub for travel guides, tips, and recommendations.
Richmond is a city with a rich history that has led to the creation of several remarkable museums and historical landmarks. Whether you're looking for a culturally enriching trip, a shopping getaway, or an outdoorsy excursion, Richmond has a little bit of it all. Here are some of the must-do activities and sights for your Richmond trip.
Carytown
Historic buildings and colorful murals make this avant-garde district so charming. There are oodles of spots to explore by roaming the streets of Carytown including vintage shops, record stores, local clothing boutiques, and more.
Carpenter Theatre
Carpenter Theatre is a fully renovated historic theater originally built in 1928, and watching a performance here is a real treat with its Old World ambiance. Visitors can watch orchestras, plays, concerts, and comedy shows in an auditorium set under decorative stars and clouds.
Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
Visitors can easily spend a day perusing all that the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts has to offer, including artifacts that are over 3,000 years old as well as African American, South Asian, and Russian art. The museum's most prized possession is its collection of Fabergé jeweled eggs, enameled boxes, trinkets, and precious stones by talented Russian artists. Check the calendar and events section of the museum's website, as they offer unique exhibitions and activities that bring the community together.
Riverfront Canal Walk
The 1.25-mile Riverfront Canal Walk along the James River and two canals takes visitors through Richmond history. Bronze medallions planted along the path mark historic sites while the banks of the waterway showcase statues, sculptures, and art that tell the history of the city and the US Civil War. Bonus tip: Take the secret path, accessible by a short ladder, to the Pipeline Trail, a walkway that sits a few feet above the James River.
Richmond Beer Trail
The Richmond area hosts over 40 craft breweries, distilleries, and cideries, so it's no surprise that the city has its own beer trail. Download and follow the beer-trail map to receive a stamp at the different craft breweries. If you get five stamps, you'll receive free Richmond beer gear.
View Insider's comprehensive guide to visiting Richmond, Virginia.