Richmond offers a mix of gardens, museums, river views, historic neighborhoods, and landmark architecture that makes it easy to build a memorable visit.
1 – Maymont – A 100-acre historic estate with a Gilded Age mansion, formal Italian and Japanese gardens, walking paths, and family-friendly animal exhibits. Website: maymont.org
2 -Carytown – Richmond’s most walkable shopping and dining district, known for local boutiques, cafés, and the historic Byrd Theatre, with easy access to the Fan and Museum District. Website: carytownrva.com
3- Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA) – One of Richmond’s signature cultural institutions, offering broad art collections and free general admission year-round. Website: vmfa.museum
4 – Virginia Museum of History & Culture (VMHC) – A leading history museum that explores more than 16,000 years of Virginia history through exhibitions, programs, and a major research collection. Website: virginiahistory.org
5 – Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden – A major botanical garden destination with themed landscapes, a conservatory, and seasonal events throughout the year. Website: lewisginter.org
6 – James River Park System, Belle Isle, and Brown’s Island – Richmond’s riverfront centerpiece, with pedestrian bridges, trails, rapids, and some of the city’s best outdoor views. Website: rva.gov/parks-recreation/james-river-park-system
7 – Virginia State Capitol – A landmark designed by Thomas Jefferson that remains one of Richmond’s most important civic and architectural sites. Website: vga.virginia.gov/visit
8 – The Valentine – A Richmond history museum dedicated to the stories, people, and places that shaped the city and region. Website: thevalentine.org
9 – Edgar Allan Poe Museum – A compact but distinctive museum focused on Poe’s life and legacy in Richmond. Website: visitrichmondva.com/things-to-do/attractions-and-museums/edgar-allan-poe-museum
10 – Hollywood Cemetery – A historic garden cemetery overlooking the James River, known for major monuments, notable gravesites, and memorable skyline views. A strong visitor reference is available through The Valentine’s Richmond tour resources. Website: thevalentine.org