Richmond, Virginia is where the old and new Souths meet. Once the Confederate capital, these days it’s known more for craft breweries and trendy restaurants than Civil War generals. It has boutique hotels and nearby adventures for outdoor lovers.
And because of its central location, it’s the perfect base for further adventures to the coast and to the mountains. Come see what makes the neighborhoods of the riverside city worth a visit.
What to Do in Richmond
Edgar Allan Poe Museum– While he lived in a number of locations, Edgar Allan Poe spent much of his life in the Richmond area. The museum is set inside the city’s oldest homes and covers his early life, time at the University of Virginia, and career success. 1914 East Main Street
Maymont– This 1893 mansion offers tours of its interior as well as access to the surrounding grounds and gardens, nature center, and carriage collection. The sprawling property is home to a farm and offers carriage rides. 1700 Hampton Street
The Valentine– This historic home tells of the city’s 400 years of history. Their collection includes costumes and textiles, fine arts, and industrial items. They also offer rotating collections and historic tours of the city. 1015 East Clay Street
Virginia Museum of Fine Arts– Located in the Museum District, it’s easy to spend a few hours admiring the grounds and galleries of the VMFA. Home to 35,000 works, the collection features African, American, Asian, and ancient art as well as one of the largest collections of Faberge eggs in the world. 200 North Boulevard
American Civil War Museum– A part of a complex encompassing multiple institutions around the state, the Richmond outpost tells the many perspectives of the Civil War. Housed in a former gun foundry, learn why the Confederates fought. 500 Tredegar Street
Virginia Holocaust Museum– Learn the stories of those affected by the Holocaust at this downtown museum. Start on the street level where there are train tracks from one of the concentration camps. Free to the public, the collection includes items from local Holocaust survivors. 2000 East Cary Street
Virginia State Capitol–Far more than just legislative offices, this building was designed in part by Thomas Jefferson. Enter the visitor’s center for guided or self-guided tours of the public spaces and grounds. 1000 Bank Street
River City Food Tours– Taste the city’s best dishes through tours of Carytown and the Arts District as well as a desserts tour.
Breweries– Richmond also has a number of craft breweries to visit including Cannon & Draw, The Veil, and Ardent, which you can see on the Richmond Craft Brewery and Distillery Tour.
Where to Eat in Richmond
The Daily Kitchen & Bar– For a healthy meal, visit this Carytown eatery for locally sourced and environmentally responsible dishes. Open for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and brunch, the menus include vegan and gluten-free items. 2934 West Cary Street, (804) 342-8990
L’opossum– A neighborhood gem, the cozy James Beard-nominated restaurant is filled with colorful lanterns and has a cheeky menu of items like escargot on a ham biscuit and Beef “Swellington.” Save room for dessert! 626 China Street, (804) 918-6028
Perly’s– Richmond’s version of an old-school Jewish deli, you’ll find both classic items like bagels and lox along with “Jewish egg rolls” and the “Jewbano” sandwich. Pair with local coffee or, later in the day, cocktails. 111 East Grace Street, (804) 912-1560
The Roosevelt– Located in a turn of the century building in the scenic Church Hill neighborhood, The Roosevelt has won awards for its cocktail menu. It’s also been named the best restaurant in the city. Try the comforting dishes like beef cheeks and roasted chicken with collard greens. 623 North 25th Street, (804) 658-1935
The Fancy Biscuit– Breakfast is served all day at this restaurant that is, of course, known for its biscuits that you can build or pick from their selections. In addition, they also have sandwiches and shrimp and grits. 1831 West Cary Street, (804) 938 3449
Maple and Pine Restaurant– Located inside the Quirk, this restaurant has seasonal new American dishes like house-made pasta, local oysters, and seared duck. 201 West Broad Street, (804) 340-6050
Nate’s Bagels– College students love this casual bagel shop that has the usual varieties as well as breakfast sandwiches, vegan cream cheese, and housemade challah bread. 21 South Allen Avenue, (804) 939-5311
Saison Market– Saison’s casual bottle shop and deli has a small amount of seating if you’d like to stay and enjoy their fried chicken sandwiches, artisan coffee, and breakfast burritos. 323 North Adams Street, (804) 269-3982
Where to Stay in Richmond
Graduate Richmond 
HI Richmond
The Commonwealth– The stylish hotel is inside a building that dates back over 100 years, covered in artwork and chic furnishings. It’s located near the capitol and has a bar and restaurant. 901 Bank Street
Graduate Richmond– This property brings the brand’s signature style to the area around the campus of Virginia Commonwealth University, including a rooftop bar and lobby restaurant. Read our review here. 301 West Franklin Street
Hilton Richmond Hotel & Spa/Short Pump Town Center– Set to the west of downtown Richmond, this resort has over 200 rooms and is surrounded by shops and restaurants. It has a fitness center, pool, and restaurant. 12042 West Broad Street
HI Richmond Hostel– Budget travelers can stay at the historic building turned hostel that offers free daily breakfast. There are a large kitchen and both dorm rooms and private rooms. 7 North 2nd Street
Quirk Hotel– The millennial pink property is a media darling with its impeccably designed spaces, chic rooms, and rooftop bar. Read our review here. 201 West Broad Street
The Jefferson Hotel– The hotel is the most luxurious option in town, first opened in 1895. Today, amenities include a large fitness center and an in-house restaurant. 101 West Franklin Street
Virginia Crossings Hotel– Located just outside of Richmond, this resort in Hilton’s Tapestry Collection has an outdoor pool, golf course, fitness center, onsite restaurants, and rooms that are ideal for meetings and groups. 1000 Virginia Center Parkway, Glen Allen
Rentals- Airbnb and VRBO have a number of properties in the area to choose from. Check out this downtown carriage house and the artsy Jackson Ward apartment.
Camping- Enjoy the great outdoors at Pocahontas State Park, which has both traditional campsites and yurts, located 20 miles from the city.
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Booking.comThe Virginia Tourism Corporation assisted with the research of this guide.
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