If you thought that Richmond, Virginia was just an old city filled with civil war relics and battlefields, think again! While there is a lot of rich history to be found and enjoyed in Richmond, from the towering statues of famous leaders down Monument Avenue to the famous Americans buried in Hollywood Cemetery, there is so much more.
Richmond is a haven for art lovers. There is the incredibly beautiful Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, which is not just filled with unique paintings and sculptures but the building itself is a work of art as well. Or if you want to get in on the artistic fun, there is the Visual Arts Center of Richmond, which holds art classes for people of all ages.
Richmond is home to other forms of art as well. There are multiple theatres that anyone who enjoys compelling live performances can appreciate, such as The Carpenter Centre, The Richmond Ballet, Mystery Dinner Playhouse, and so much more.
For those who want to experience the music scene, there is the Richmond Symphony and the National, which is Richmond’s newest musical venue. There is also Innsbrook After Hours during the summer time, which is where one can experience famous musical acts, such as B.B. King or Smash Mouth, for very low prices.
Richmond is the home of the Flying Squirrels, a minor league baseball team with a colorful, spunky squirrel mascot. Flying Squirrels games are a must see for sports fans alike. The high energy games are often ended with fireworks that are a spectacle for all ages.
Other sports attractions include the Richmond International Raceway and the Sports Center of Richmond, for those who want to join in on the fun. And in 2013 the Washington Redskin’s training camp is being held in Richmond, and on fan appreciation day the camp is open to the public for any Redskins or football fans to come and watch them practice.
For all those who love fresh food like me, there is the GrowRVA Farmer’s Market, which is held on Tuesdays near Polegreen Church. Visitors can shop or tour this historic site making this attraction fun for everyone.
Richmond is absolutely filled with beautiful gardens and parks that anyone can enjoy. From the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden to Ashland Berry Farm, there is not a shortage of beauty to be found here. Another park, and my favorite attraction in Richmond, is Maymont Park. Visitors of Maymont Park can stroll through the Japanese garden, pet a goat in the petting zoo, see a live bear or bobcat, and learn about Virginia’s marine wildlife in the nature center. The best part is the admission is absolutely free for almost the whole park! The nature center, home to three adorable river otters, has a small visiting fee, but at the cost of only a few dollars, it is worth every cent.
It doesn’t matter what you’re interested in; there is always something fun to do in Richmond. From the many festivals held on a regular basis to the unique shopping scene in Carytown or the history rich Edgar Allen Poe Museum, Richmond is the place to be.
Dear Reader: This page may contain affiliate links which may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. Our independent journalism is not influenced by any advertiser or commercial initiative unless it is clearly marked as sponsored content. As travel products change, please be sure to reconfirm all details and stay up to date with current events to ensure a safe and successful trip.