30 Unique Things To Do In Richmond VA

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Richmond, the good ole capital of the Old Dominion, is a city bustling with activities and entertainment. And with so many options to choose from, it can be hard to figure out what exactly to do while you’re there.

But, it also means that there’s something to do for everyone–whether you’re travelling solo, adults only, family in tow, and so forth.

Now, what is there to do in Richmond VA? Amusement parks, water parks, adventure parks, canal cruises, breweries and wineries, museums, escape rooms, theater, ghost tours, hiking, bowling… the list goes on.

We’re going to sift through the many options in the RVA area and hone in on the best attractions, unique eats and dines to add to your Virginia bucket list–as recommended by a Virginia native.

So, tuck in and enjoy this exploration of Richmond, VA!

(Attractions are listed in no particular order.)

Related Reading: Top 5 Hotels Near Kings Dominion

Background On Visiting Richmond VA

Here are some quick preliminary tips for planning your trip to Richmond!

Is Richmond worth visiting?

Richmond is definitely worth visiting! Between the amusement park, entertainment centers, museums, tours, and dining experiences, Richmond has a variety of unique offerings that everyone can enjoy. There’s something special for every person and every occasion.

Things to do at night? Take a RVA Ghost Tour.
Things to do for free? Visit the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts.
Things to do for adults? Head to Moondrop Winery.

You get the idea.

How many days do you need to visit Richmond?

Generally, you need 2-4 days to see Richmond if you’re looking to have the quintessential, best Williamsburg experience possible. Of course, it depends on what you’re interested in, but that’s the minimum I would recommend for your visit.

2 days: Tour the Richmond landmarks on a segue and explore the Arts District food scene, try out the Red Vein Escape Room, and take a Riverfront Canal Cruise.

4 days: Everything above for the first two days, and then take one day for Kings Dominion and the other day for Soak City. If it’s wintertime, substitute Soak City for Surge Adventure Park.

If you want to maximize your time in Richmond and get the comprehensive experience, check out the Guided Walking Tour Of Richmond. It includes the extensive history of Richmond, a visit to the scenic overlook, and a trip to several iconic Richmond landmarks.

What is the best time of year to go to Richmond?

Spring or fall is the best time of year to go to Richmond. Each season in Richmond presents great attractions, shopping, and dining to enjoy. But, spring and fall offer better temperatures, beautiful scenery, more attractions, and lower crowds.

Spring in Richmond: This time of year is always abloom with gorgeous florals and landscapes. The James River, Agecroft Estate, and Riverfront Canal Cruise will be stunning during these months. And, you’ll get warmer temperatures without overwhelming heat and crowds.

Summer in Richmond: The summer season will provide the most options for things to do and longer business hours to enjoy the attractions. Chesterfield County Fair, Soak City, and Treetop Zoofari will be in their prime. Just be forewarned that there will be busy crowds and hot temperatures.

Fall in Richmond: Autumn is probably my favorite time of year to visit Richmond. The orange leaves and fall air makes the whole experience picturesque. Crowds and temps are dwindling down while the spooky season amps up. Kings Dominion’s Halloween Haunt and the RVA Ghosts Tour are great around this time.

Winter in Richmond: The frostier months yield some lovely, quaint holiday décor throughout Richmond. Crowds are at their lowest this time of year, as are the temperatures, but business hours and attraction offerings will be a little more limited. Kings Dominion’s Winter Fest, River City Roll, and the museums are perfect for winter.

Overview Of Things To Do In Richmond VA

For a general overview of things to do in Richmond VA by categories and commonly asked questions, scroll through the Richmond activities in this section.

For a quick list of what to do in Richmond, jump to the next section below.

What is there to do in Richmond?

In Richmond, there are many interesting attractions and activities!

Check out the city’s rich history by exploring historical landmarks and museums, such as the Virginia Museum of History & Culture or the Science Museum of Virginia. Get a taste of the city’s vibrant arts scene with an Arts District Food Tour or delve into the paranormal with the RVA Ghosts Tour. You can even enjoy unique attractions like Mission Laser or Surge Adventure Park.

What is Richmond, Virginia most known for?

Richmond is most renowned for being the capital of Virginia. Its significance is evident through the numerous historical landmarks and monuments scattered throughout the city.

It has evolved into a vibrant and modern city that combines its rich past with a thriving arts and cultural scene, a dynamic food and craft beverage scene, and an array of entertainments and outdoor activities.

Unique Things To Do In Richmond VA

For those seeking unique experiences, Richmond has you covered.

Embark on a Richmond Landmark Segue Tour to discover the city’s iconic sights and hidden corners with a touch of adventure. Explore the world of Edgar Allan Poe at the Poe Museum. Or test your wits and teamwork skills by attempting to escape from the immersive puzzles of the Escape Room RVA.

For gaming enthusiasts, Richmond offers a variety of options to enjoy both virtual reality and classic games. Challenge your friends to a fast-paced go-kart race at K1 Speed Richmond or enjoy a retro arcade experience at DraftCade. If you have a penchant for video games, head over to DawnStar Video Games you can browse through an extensive collection of both classic and modern game titles.

Family Things To Do In Richmond VA

Traveling with the family? Richmond offers numerous attractions that cater to all age groups.

Thrill-seekers will love the rides and water slides at Kings Dominion and Soak City, while animal lovers can get up close and personal with wildlife at the Metro Richmond Zoo. Enjoy a game night at the retro arcade DraftCade or a classic day of fried foods and carnival rides at the Chesterfield County Fair.

Enjoy a show at the Virginia Repertory Theatre, which showcases outstanding performances and productions throughout the year. And, a visit to the Virginia Museum of the Fine Arts takes you through one of the largest and most comprehensive art museums in the country.

Free Things To Do In Richmond VA

Exploring Richmond doesn’t have to break the bank.

Discover the beauty of the James River with a hike through its scenic trails or a take leisurely stroll along the Riverfront Canal. History buffs can visit the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, offering free admission on certain days, and immerse themselves in the past of Virginia.

Things To Do In Richmond VA At Night

As the sun sets, a new side of Richmond comes alive. Embark on a Richmond Craft Brewery Crawl or indulge in a Carytown Food Tour to savor the city’s adult beverage scene.

For a unique evening of dining and entertainment, visit the lively River City Roll where you can enjoy bowling, delicious food, and live music.

Outdoor Things To Do In Richmond VA

For nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers, Richmond offers a plethora of captivating outdoor experiences.

Lace up your hiking boots and explore the picturesque trails along the James River, where you can soak in breathtaking views and discover hidden gems along the way. If you’re up for a thrilling adrenaline rush, consider the Treetop Zoofari Zip Line & Adventure Park, where you can swing through the treetops and tackle exciting rope challenges.

Things To Do In Richmond VA For Adults

Richmond’s culinary scene is vibrant and diverse, offering delectable delights and unique dining experiences. As you explore the city, be sure to stop by some of its famed craft breweries and cideries.

Enjoy a Blue Bee Cider Tasting, where you can sample a wide range of artisanal and innovative ciders. Alternatively, visit the Moondrop Winery, where you can savor the flavors of handcrafted wines while enjoying the serene surroundings.

List Of 30 Things To Do In Richmond VA

Without further ado, here are the best things to do in Richmond VA!

1. Kings Dominion

Experience thrills and excitement at this renowned amusement park, featuring thrilling roller coasters, family-friendly rides, and live entertainment. With 13 roller coasters, 48 total rides, a myriad of entertainment, and new dining offerings, you’ll be in for a great time!

Through this exclusive link (to Undercover Tourist), you can get $20 off of any day general admission tickets. This includes tax with no extra fees and comes with a best price guarantee.

Related Reading: How To Visit Kings Dominion On A Budget

2. Soak City

Beat the heat and cool off at the Kings Dominion water park, offering an array of water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers.

Its 20 acre span is home to massive wave pools, winding lazy rivers, exhilarating water slides, and more. Admission to Soak City is included in the cost of your Kings Dominion ticket.

3. Arts District Food Tour

Embark on a culinary tour through Richmond’s vibrant Arts District that explores the history and culture of the Arts District while filling you up on Southern soul food, Korean street eats, coal fired pizza, and more!

This super popular tour is 3 hours long and includes food tasting at 6 different eateries, alcoholic beverages, restaurant gratuities, and a professional local guide.

You can book the Arts District Food Tour here now and pay later (up to 2 days in advance) for a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

4. Richmond Landmark Segue Tour

Explore the city effortlessly on a guided Segway tour, cruising past iconic landmarks and learning about Richmond’s history. The tour runs 2 hours long and includes highlights like the Old City Hall, St Paul’s Church, and Monument Avenue.

If you’re interested in the Richmond Landmark Segue Tour, you’ll want to book now (and pay later) because this tour sells out frequently. It also includes a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation.

5. RVA Ghosts Tour

Join a spooky ghost tour through Richmond’s haunted streets and alleys, listening to intriguing ghost stories and eerie tales from the city’s past. It’s an hour-long exploration of haunted hotspots like the Edgar Allen Poe Museum, Libby Prison, and Church Hill Tunnel.

Book your tour with RVA Ghosts here for the lowest prices available (lowest price guarantee), free cancellation for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance, and the option to reserve your tour now and pay for it anytime until 48 hours before your tour.

6. Hiking The James River

Immerse yourself in nature with a hike along the scenic trails beside the James River, offering stunning views and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Discover Richmond Tours leads a 2.5-hour tour of the James River on a 4.5-mile hike that explores Belle Isle, Civil War and industrial ruins, the Manchester Climbing Wall, and more scenic highlights. Guides are First Aid certified.

Like the Segue Tour, the James River Hike is a popular offering typically likely to sell out, so make sure you plan in advance! You can reserve your hike now and pay later with a free cancellation offer and lowest price guarantee.

7. Richmond Craft Brewery Crawl

Discover the city’s booming craft beer scene, hopping from brewery to brewery, sampling unique brews, and meeting local brewers. The Richmond Craft Brewery Crawl encompasses four of the best breweries in Richmond.

Booking the Brewery Crawl here also comes with a lowest price guarantee, free cancellation for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance, and the option to reserve your spot now and pay for it later up to 48 hours ahead of time.

8. Blue Bee Cider Tasting

Experience the flavors of artisanal cider at Blue Bee Cider, the city’s first urban cidery known for its delicious and innovative ciders. The Cider Tasting offers you the opportunity to try five ciders on tap and tour the cidery.

The Blue Bee Cider Tasting can run as low as less than $17 per person, which is a pretty nice deal since you get five nicely sized samples of various ciders. But make sure you reserve your Cider Tasting sooner than later, as it frequently sells out. You can book now and pay later with a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation.

9. Carytown Food Tour

Venture through Carytown Richmond, stopping at local cafes and restaurants to savor enticing bites. This popular three-hour foodie tour is a highly rated tasting of local seafood, renowned tacos, and gourmet cupcakes (just to name a few). It also visits several iconic Richmond locations between the five to six eateries.

If you’re looking for a blend between a historical tour of RVA and a tasty one, book the Carytown Food Tour and pay later with a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation.

10. Riverfront Canal Cruise

Embark on a scenic boat tour along the historic Kanawha Canal, offering picturesque views of Richmond’s riverfront and landmarks. The cruise runs 40 minutes and has a historical narration.

The quaint Riverfront Canal Cruise is a relatively cheap thing to do in Richmond and can be booked here.

11. K1 Speed Richmond

Get your adrenaline pumping at this indoor go-kart racing venue, competing against friends and family for the fastest lap time in European-style all-electric karts.

You can take a look at their track and pricing on their site.

12. Virginia Museum of History & Culture

Immerse yourself in Virginia’s rich history and culture through engaging exhibits and collections that showcase the state’s past.

Depending on the day you go, the History & Culture Museum is one of several free things to do in Richmond VA. You can plan your visit to the museum here.

13. Rollerdome

Lace up your roller skates and enjoy a fun-filled day at Rollerdome, Richmond’s premier roller skating rink with a lively atmosphere and music.

The Rollerdome is another cheap thing to do in Richmond, coming in at under $10. You can check out the roller skating rink online in advance.

14. Chesterfield County Fair

Experience classic fair fun with rides, games, live entertainment, and delicious carnival foods (read: deep fried everything) at the annual Chesterfield County Fair. The Fair is celebrating over 100 seasons this year.

Ride tickets can be purchased in advance to avoid ticket booth lines.

15. DawnStar Video Games

Let your inner gamer loose at this arcade featuring a vast collection of classic and modern video games, consoles, and accessories.

Scout out their collection of games in the Starcade here.

16. Defy Trampoline Arena

Jump, flip, and defy gravity at this indoor trampoline park, offering a range of activities like trampoline dodgeball and basketball. Parkour, trapeze, zip lines, and ninja courses are just a few other activities of many at Defy.

You can check out all of their offerings at their Richmond location online.

17. DraftCade

Step back in time at this retro arcade, filled with 75+ vintage arcade games, pinball machines, and nostalgic vibes that will delight gamers of all ages. DraftCade also serves an excellent bar menu ranging from buffalo chicken dip to specialty burgers. This is complemented by a selection of 60 beers and cocktails.

DraftCade has a list of games, their food & drink menu, and booking information on their website.

18. Escape Room RVA

Test your problem-solving skills by taking on the challenge of an escape room, where you must unravel clues and solve puzzles to escape within a time limit.

Check out their various themed rooms before you go.

19. Ironbridge Sports Park

Have a blast with various recreational activities like go-karting, mini-golf, batting cages, and laser tag–perfect for a fun day out with friends and family.

You can plan your visit to Ironbridge online.

20. Agecroft Hall & Gardens

Enjoy a trip back in time at this 15th century English estate through a tour of the Tudor mansion and manicured gardens. Because why not visit a charming manor several centuries older than our country?

Touring the Agecroft is also a cheap thing to do in Richmond VA, and you can find more visitor information here.

21. Treetop Zoofari Zip Line & Adventure Park

Soar through the treetops and conquer thrilling ziplines, rope courses, and obstacles in this exhilarating adventure park.

You can explore the varying zipline courses on their site.

22. Metro Richmond Zoo

Experience an up-close encounter with a wide range of animal species, including tigers, giraffes, kangaroos, and more at this family-friendly zoo. You’ll find 2,000+ animals across 190 species call this zoo home.

A list of animal exhibits and ways to support the zoo and its conservation efforts can be found online.

23. Mission Laser

Engage in a thrilling laser tag mission at this laser tag arena, where you can strategize and compete in high-tech laser combat.

Plan your laser tag adventure here.

24. Moondrop Winery

Indulge in a wine tasting adventure at this local winery, sampling a selection of handcrafted wines and enjoying the serene countryside setting.

You can find more information about Moondrop Winery through Visit RVA.

25. Poe Museum

Immerse yourself in the world of Edgar Allan Poe at this unique museum dedicated to the famous writer, showcasing exhibits and artifacts related to his life and works. The Poe Museum recently celebrated its 100th anniversary.

Learn more about the museum on their website.

26. Red Vein Escape Room

Put your teamwork and problem-solving skills to the test in this immersive escape room experience, where you must solve puzzles to escape various themed rooms.

You can check out Red Vein Escape Room’s current games here.

27. River City Roll

Enjoy a fun night of bowling, food, and live music at this trendy bowling alley that combines a retro vibe with modern amenities. River City is one of only eight bowling alleys to have HyperBowling.

Plan your visit to River City Roll online.

28. Science Museum of Virginia

Discover the wonders of science through interactive exhibits, educational programs, and a state-of-the-art planetarium at this engaging museum.

You can see their current exhibit lineup and purchase your tickets ahead of time on their site.

29. Surge Adventure Park

Bounce, flip, and climb at this indoor trampoline park featuring a wide range of trampoline activities and obstacle courses. High dives, ziplines, trapeze, dodgeball, and more can also be enjoyed at Surge Adventure Park.

Book your adventure to Surge here.

30. Virginia Repertory Theatre

Immerse yourself in captivating performances and theatrical productions at this renowned theatre company that offers a diverse range of plays and musicals.

You can check out their current and upcoming productions online.

Richmond FAQs

Lastly (but not least), here are some quick answers for the most frequently asked questions regarding visiting Richmond VA:

What is the best time to visit Richmond, VA?

The best time to visit Richmond, VA is during the spring (April to May) and fall (September to November) seasons when the weather is pleasant, and the city is abuzz with events and festivals. These seasons offer comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities and showcase the city’s natural beauty with vibrant foliage in the fall and blooming flowers in the spring.

How can I navigate around Richmond?

Richmond offers various transportation options for getting around the city. The GRTC (Greater Richmond Transit Company) provides bus service throughout the city, offering an affordable and convenient way to travel.

Additionally, ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are available. You can also explore the compact downtown area by foot or rent a bicycle from the RVA Bike Share program to explore the city’s bike-friendly trails and neighborhoods.

Are there any free attractions in Richmond?

Yes, Richmond offers several free attractions for budget-conscious travelers. You can visit the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, which offers free admission on certain days.

Explore the rich history of Richmond by taking a leisurely stroll along the Canal Walk or wandering through the city’s many beautiful parks, such as Maymont Park and Belle Isle. The city’s vibrant arts scene also offers numerous free art galleries and exhibitions to enjoy.

What are some family-friendly attractions in Richmond?

Richmond has plenty of family-friendly attractions. Kings Dominion and Soak City provide an array of thrilling rides and water slides for all ages. The Metro Richmond Zoo offers the opportunity to encounter various animals up close.

You can also check out the Science Museum of Virginia, where kids can engage in interactive exhibits and learn about science in a fun way. Rollerdome and Ironbridge Sports Park are additional options with activities like roller skating, go-karting, and mini-golf that the whole family can enjoy.

Is Richmond safe for tourists?

Richmond is generally a safe city for tourists. Like with any travel destination, it’s always important to take common-sense precautions. Stick to well-populated and well-lit areas, secure your belongings, and be aware of your surroundings.

If you have any concerns or questions, reach out to the local tourism board or your accommodations for specific safety advice and recommendations.

Summary

Richmond, Virginia is a truly captivating city with its diverse range of attractions and activities. From the thrills of Kings Dominion and Soak City to the culinary delights of the Arts District, there’s a broad spectrum of fun to be had.

Richmond’s unique blend of history, arts, and outdoor adventures provides a rich collection of experiences–exploring the James River, discovering the city’s haunted past on the RVA Ghosts Tour, or immersing yourself in the cultural offerings at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, and much more.

The RVA’s medley of attractions ensures that there’s something for everyone, regardless of your interests or time of year.

So, pack your bags and prepare for a grand time in the dazzling city of Richmond, Virginia.

Happy travels!

What’s one of your favorite things to do in Richmond VA?

For more Richmond Virginia travel guides, you can also check out:

• Best Hotels Near Kings Dominion
• How To Visit Kings Dominion On A Budget
• 25 Ways To Celebrate Your Birthday In Virginia
• Must Visit National Parks In Virginia

Thanks for reading!