Richmond Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

Richmond
Virginia State Capitol which includes a skyscraper, city views and a city
Science Museum of Virginia showing interior views
Richmond showing central business district and a city
Richmond

Discover the rich and colourful past of this key American city, and see how historical events have shaped its vibrant culture and identity.

The city of Richmond is steeped in history. As one of the oldest cities in the United States, it has witnessed countless events that have shaped the political and cultural landscape. Notable former residents include Thomas Jefferson and the author Edgar Allen Poe. Richmond also looks to the future: it is a vibrant, modern destination with many fascinating attractions, perfect for the whole family.

Past and present come together at the Virginia State Capitol building. Conceived and designed in the late 18th century by Thomas Jefferson, this impressive building is home to the longest-serving legislature in the western hemisphere. For a more personal view on history, spend a few hours wandering though the serene grounds of the Hollywood Cemetery. Amongst the elaborate mausoleums and ornate stones, you’ll find the graves of famous artists and writers, as well as Presidents and Generals.

If you have children in tow, don’t miss the Science Center of Virginia, packed full of engaging hands-on exhibits and activities. Visitors of all ages will love the fascinating live demonstrations covering everything from planets to DNA. Take a seat in the state-of-art IMAX cinema for awe-inspiring documentary films that really bring science to life.

Maymont Park is another family-friendly attraction. This 19th-century former estate covers 40 hectares, and is home to a huge variety of native wildlife. Feed sheep, pigs, horses and donkeys at the Children’s Farm, or admire the large black bears and bison in their specially designed habitats. You can also tour the mansion house itself, a lovingly preserved example of Gilded-Age design.

Art enthusiasts will love the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. The extensive collection includes Old Master paintings, ancient Chinese ceramics, 20th-century Pop Art and a variety of artefacts from Africa. Spanning 5,000 years of history and almost every culture on the globe, you will be spoilt for choice.

As Richmond is set on hilly ground and the attractions are spread throughout the city, the easiest way to travel is by hire car. You’ll find plenty of free parking available. Alternatively, there is a public bus service. You will need to purchase a Go Card and top it up to travel.

Where to stay in Richmond

Virginia showing a sunset

Downtown Richmond

4/5(1 area review)

Downtown Richmond is popular for its abundant dining options, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to Shockoe Slip or Virginia Governor's Mansion.

Downtown Richmond
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Short Pump

Short Pump is popular for its ample dining options, and you might make a stop by Short Pump Town Center, a top place to visit in the area.

Short Pump
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Fan District

You'll enjoy the live music and monuments in Fan District. You might want to make time for a stop at Monument Avenue or Jefferson Davis Monument.

Fan District
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North Chesterfield

While North Chesterfield isn't home to many top sights, Chesterfield Towne Center and River City Sportsplex are some notable places to visit nearby.

North Chesterfield
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Tuckahoe

You'll enjoy the coffee shops and gardens in Tuckahoe. You might want to make time for a stop at James River or Regency Square Mall.

Tuckahoe
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Midlothian

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Midlothian and surrounding area, you can visit University of Richmond Stadium and James River.

Midlothian
Regency Inn Richmond
Regency Inn Richmond
2 out of 5
1500 Eastridge Road, Richmond, VA
The price is NZ$133 per night from 1 Jun to 2 Jun
NZ$133
1 June - 2 June
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Richmond. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and room service. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
6.6/10 (1,010 reviews)
"Owners, Management and the Hotel Hospitality staff all go passed excellent the re-invention of this property in/ all improvement needed areas are a breath of fresh air to watch the property s lobby come alive with Dana's greenery and to revamping one room at a time.Im a forever repeat loyal very ..."

Reviewed on 16 May 2025

Regency Inn Richmond
The Commonwealth
The Commonwealth
4 out of 5
901 Bank St, Richmond, VA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is NZ$336 per night from 28 May to 29 May
NZ$336
28 May - 29 May
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Richmond. Enjoy free WiFi, a 24-hour fitness center, and valet parking (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,244 reviews)
"Very nice suite!"

Reviewed on 16 May 2025

The Commonwealth
Omni Richmond Hotel
Omni Richmond Hotel
4 out of 5
100 S 12th St, Richmond, VA
The price is NZ$315 per night from 8 Jun to 9 Jun
NZ$315
8 June - 9 June
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star business-friendly hotel in Richmond. Enjoy breakfast (surcharge), room service, and a 24-hour fitness center. Our guests praise the helpful ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,133 reviews)
"Clean and convenient hotel with easy walk to historic downtown landmarks"

Reviewed on 9 May 2025

Omni Richmond Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Tourist Homes of Richmond Church Hill North
Tourist Homes of Richmond Church Hill North
4 out of 5
1619 N 28th St, Richmond, VA
Stay at this 4-star apartment in Richmond. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and in-room washers/dryers. Popular attractions Broad Street and Richmond Raceway are ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (13 reviews)
"Amazing property! Will stay again!"

Reviewed on 10 May 2025

Tourist Homes of Richmond Church Hill North
Lovely 2 Bedroom in the Heart of The Fan
Lovely 2 Bedroom in the Heart of The Fan
Richmond
Stay at this apartment in Richmond. Enjoy balconies, cable/satellite TV service, and an in-room coffeemaker. Popular attractions Broad Street and Richmond Raceway ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (56 reviews)
Great Location--Would Return
"We visited Richmond to attend a wedding on Monument Ave, and this place was perfectly located in the Fan, well priced, and had bright, attractive common areas (living room, kitchen). It worked well for my wife and me and our teenage child who was traveling with us. The bathroom could use updating ..."

Reviewed on 15 Apr. 2025

Lovely 2 Bedroom in the Heart of The Fan
Barsala At Sphere Apartments
Barsala At Sphere Apartments
3.5 out of 5
2005 Brook Road, Richmond, VA
Stay at this 3.5-star aparthotel in Richmond. Enjoy free WiFi, in-room washers/dryers, and an in-room coffeemaker. Popular attractions Broad Street and Richmond ...
9/10 Wonderful! (11 reviews)
"This was a clean, well-equipped and comfortable apartment. The location is good but does require a car to explore the city and pick up groceries. Parking was easy and free. The balcony was a nice place to sit as the temperature got warmer. Air conditioning was very effective. Would stay again."

Reviewed on 24 Apr. 2025

Barsala At Sphere Apartments
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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