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 Canal Walk.

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 James River and Carytown.

Midlothian
The Jefferson Hotel

The Jefferson Hotel

5 out of 5
101 West Franklin Street, Richmond, VA
The price is NZ$561 per night from 11 Aug to 12 Aug
NZ$561
11 Aug - 12 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 5-star luxury hotel in Richmond. Enjoy free WiFi, 2 restaurants, and 2 bars/lounges. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the comfy rooms in ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (1,009 reviews)
"I really enjoyed my stay at The Jefferson. The staff were super friendly and accommodating to me and my family. I will certainly be back the next time I am in Richmond."

Reviewed on 5 Aug. 2025

The Jefferson Hotel
Omni Richmond Hotel

Omni Richmond Hotel

4 out of 5
100 S 12th St, Richmond, VA
The price is NZ$298 per night from 17 Aug to 18 Aug
NZ$298
17 Aug - 18 Aug
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! (1,150 reviews)
"The staff was efficient and kind. I do a l"

Reviewed on 4 Aug. 2025

Omni Richmond Hotel
Studio 6 Richmond, VA - Airport

Studio 6 Richmond, VA - Airport

2 out of 5
580 Trampton Road, Sandston, VA
The price is NZ$150 per night from 1 Sept to 2 Sept
NZ$150
1 Sept - 2 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this motel in Sandston. Enjoy free WiFi, a fitness center, and a 24-hour front desk. Popular attractions Broad Street and White Oak Village are located ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (196 reviews)
"We had a great stay. Convenient to route 64, not far from 95. The room was clean. The staff friendly. The bed was comfortable. You cannot go wrong for their rates. Would stay here again."

Reviewed on 3 Aug. 2025

Studio 6 Richmond, VA - Airport
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.
Landing Apartments near Virginia Union University

Landing Apartments near Virginia Union University

3.5 out of 5
2005 Brook Road, Richmond, VA
Stay at this 3.5-star aparthotel in Richmond. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and in-room washers/dryers. Popular attractions Broad Street and Richmond Raceway ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (16 reviews)
"Overall this property was a good place to stay so we could spread out and have extra room for our trip. Communication was fine and checkin instructions were very detailed. I cannot give it 5 stars however. The shower curtain and shower were dirty. There were stains on the bed linens and the comforter ..."

Reviewed on 29 Jun. 2025

Landing Apartments near Virginia Union University
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! (18 reviews)
She need better communication.
"The trip was good after we were settled in. But getting settled in, the property manager neglected to tell us there was an extra $350 charge that needed to be on a credit card for incidentals. And we couldn’t get the codes until we paid the money. Without the knowledge of needing the money I didn’t ..."

Reviewed on 13 Jul. 2025

Tourist Homes of Richmond Church Hill North
Historic Haven in Church Hill

Historic Haven in Church Hill

Richmond
Stay at this apartment in Richmond. Enjoy free WiFi, laundry facilities, and cable/satellite TV service. Popular attractions Broad Street and Richmond Raceway ...
10/10 Exceptional! (21 reviews)
Quaint, Quiet, and Quintessence Apartment
"The location of this apartment was perfect for our scheduled events in Richmond. We recommend this place to anyone looking for a convenient and enjoyable stay."

Reviewed on 4 Aug. 2025

Historic Haven in Church Hill
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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