Looking for somewhere in the east to fill your U.S road trip, or complete your east coast vacation? Or perhaps you have a three-day weekend coming up, and want somewhere new and exciting to explore. If you’re passing through Virginia, you have to check out the artsy and historic capitol city. We suggest spending those 3 days in Richmond, Virginia. After all, it must be worth visiting as Lonely Planet named it one of their top 10 underrated cities to visit just a few years ago! That makes a weekend in Richmond a perfect getaway, and this Richmond 3 day itinerary will help you plan.
It is large enough to keep you busy with plenty of things to do in Richmond, yet it is small enough to have a laid back feel. Why do locals love it here? Because you can live the city life but for a fraction of the cost. Why do visitors love it here? Because it is a perfect mix of history, art, culture, and outdoor adventures, with an excellent food and craft drink scene as icing on the cake.
By the way, I am Trang, of Travel With Trang, and I lived in Richmond, VA – also known as “RVA”, during my college years. I came up with this Richmond 3 day itinerary based on attraction location and proximity to each other. If you’re not already planning a weekend in Richmond, perhaps it will entice you, and if you are planning to travel to the city soon, it will serve as a good guide. So without further small talk.
How to Spend 3 Days in Richmond
Reserve one of Richmond’s Top Hotels now.
Getting to Richmond
Richmond is located at the center of the eastern portion of Virginia, about halfway between Washington D.C. and Norfolk, being about 100 miles from each. The idea of a weekend in Richmond is made more appealing by the fact that it is easier to get to than many American cities.
By Highway
Richmond is at the juncture of Interstates 64 and 95. Interstate 95 runs from Boston all the way to Miami, passing through almost every major metropolitan area on the east coast. This enables easy access from anywhere in the eastern states. Interstate 64 travels from Norfolk to St. Louis. Although Richmond lies on the eastern portion of this highway, it still provides a relatively direct route to the city from the Midwest.
By Air
Richmond is served by the Richmond International Airport which is less than 10 miles from the downtown area. Nine major airlines operate out of the airport, which fly to all major hubs in the US, and a few European destinations.
By Rail
There are two Amtrak stations in the city, which together are served by 5 different regularly scheduled routes running up and down the east coast. In addition, less than 100 miles away are connecting stations that provide travel from Chicago and New Orleans.
A Weekend in Richmond – Day 1
Stretch Your Mind and Body at The Science Museum of Virginia
After a long plane ride into the Richmond Airport or a road trip from Washington DC, one of the best things to do is to get moving, and this place is perfect for that! For this first pit stop, you can play with a 100+ interactive exhibits in this museum. Learn about your health, animals, the Amazon, space, Earth and more!
It’s a fantastic place to have the kids release their energy, as there are a variety of fun challenges for them to do such as tightrope walking, memory games, and seeing food being cooked inside the Kitchen Stadium.
Their 76-foot Dome Theater is the largest film screen in Virginia. It wraps around you, making you feel as if you’re in the movie itself. Outside of the museum stands The Grand Kugel, a 29-ton granite ball that spins and moves on water at the slightest touch.
Lunch at Village Café
After exploring the science museum, you’ll probably strike up a hunger by now. Head on over for lunch at The Village Café – a popular spot among locals and students alike. It’s a solid place, serving American food and was also featured on Guy Fieri’s show “Diners, Drive-ins and Dives”.
After exploring the science museum, you’ll probably strike up a hunger by now. Head on over for lunch at The Village Café – a popular spot among locals and students alike. It’s a solid place, serving American food and was also featured on Guy Fieri’s show “Diners, Drive-ins and Dives”.
Drive Down Monument Avenue
This never-ending street was formerly lined with a series of monuments and statues related to the history of Richmond. While these statues included prominent citizens, such as Arthur Ash, there was a predominance of Confederate figures, such as General Robert E. Lee, and President Jefferson Davis.
Although it started with public protests, ultimately the city decided to remove many of the statues of the prominent Confederates. While this history must be remembered so that we may continue to grow as a nation, and perhaps someday heal, its glorification is finally being recognized as unacceptable.
Monument Avenue is still a beautiful promenade, and if you happen to come at the right time of the year, you’ll catch the annual Monument Avenue 10K Marathon. My favorite part is watching the costumes fleet, where people race in creative and sometimes hilarious outfits! It all goes to a great cause and charity, such as the VCU Massey Cancer Center.
Delve into the Rich History of the City
Hollywood Cemetery
Take a walk through the Hollywood Cemetery. The graveyard is the final resting place of U.S. Presidents James Monroe, founder of the Monroe Doctrine, and John Tyler. There are of course, and other historic figures such as General J.E.B. Stuart, and thousands of Confederate soldiers. You can sign up for tours if you’re interested in learning more any of the historic people buried in Hollywood.
The Civil War Museum
Then take the short drive to the American Civil War Museum. From there you can start by making the short walk up to the Virginia War Memorial and pay your respects if you would like. The memorial honors the states fallen soldiers up throughout US history. There is also an intriguing display which features over 5,000 toy soldiers of different countries and eras.
The Civil War Museum is located in the former cannon foundry of the adjacent Tredegar Iron Works. The museum seeks to relay the story of the war from all perspectives, including that of confederate soldiers and union soldiers, and the black Americans on both sides.
Tredegar was once one of the most prosperous iron foundries in the country, and the primary supplier of cannons and munitions to the confederacy during the Civil War. Most of the foundry buildings were destroyed by fire, but what remains has been refurbished into a fascinating indoor outdoor museum, with numerous artifacts. Together, these two sites tell the story of Richmond’s role in the war in an unusual and interesting way.
Explore the Outdoors At Brown’s Island And Belle Isle
Once you have had your fill of history, you are in the perfect location to walk on over to Brown’s Island. If you’re visiting in the spring or summer, you can catch their weekly Friday Cheers Concert series by the river for only $5-$10.
You can continue over to Belle Isle to be outdoors with nature and its running trails (I’m not a runner, so I just take leisurely walks). There you’ll also find these large smooth rocks, or islands, scattered throughout the James River. People can be found sunbathing or lounging in the pockets of water formed by these rocks. You can add a bit of fun to your weekend in Richmond here.
You can kayak or go whitewater rafting further out in the river. Looking for cheap equipment rental or a guide? Here’s a secret for you: Look into the local major university – Virginia Commonwealth University’s (VCU) Outdoor Adventure Program.
They’re located right next to VCU’s renovated state-of-the-art Cary Street Gym (also worth checking out if you need to get a workout, swim, or rock climbing session in). The Outdoor Adventure Program building is where you can sign up for activities such as paddle boarding, caving, climbing, and more at a discount rate compared to tourist operations and companies.
Dinner at Edo’s Squid
After heading back to your accommodation to freshen up, drive on over for dinner at Edo’s Squid – a hole in the wall Italian place (their burro e parmigiana pasta with penne is simple yet oh-so tasty), or if you’re in the mood for southern food with an upscale twist, try Julep’s.
Support Local Vendors & Artists At “First Friday”
Following dinner at either restaurant, walk down Broad Street to First Friday.
If you happen spend your weekend in Richmond on the First Friday of the month, check out this evening showcase of ever-changing art galleries, exhibitions, street performers, and vendors selling trinkets, jewelry, and miscellaneous items – all lined up along Broad Street.
Enjoy A Performing Arts Show
Didn’t come to Richmond on the first Friday of the month? Not to worry – the performing arts scene is strong here.
You can watch the Richmond Ballet Group dance at the Carpenter Theatre, performing shows such as the famous “Nutcracker” and “Cinderella”. You can catch opera and theater shows as well.
A perk of being in Richmond, VA is that you get to see touring shows for a much lower rate than many other cities. I saw the “Lion King” Musical for only $25 at the Altria Theater. My friend saw “Wicked” and Lady Gaga in concert for only $40 each!
Into live music? The National is the concert venue to see a band play live. Its smaller space offers you a more intimate concert going experience.
A Weekend in Richmond –Day 2
See Where Today’s Laws Are Made At The State Capitol
Start your day off downtown, at Virginia’s Capitol. The colonial-style building was designed by Thomas Jefferson, and houses the “oldest elected legislative body in North America.” The building is stunning inside, and even moreso inside. It offers free guided tours to the public throughout the week.
If you are actually here on Saturday (since it is a Richmond weekend getaway), you can still walk around the Capitol grounds, which has monuments for Patrick Henry and Thomas Jefferson. Random trivia fact: Steven Spielberg’s film “Lincoln” was shot right here!
Learn History At The Virginia Holocaust Museum
Although Richmond may seem an odd place to have a Holocaust Museum, it was founded by Holocaust survivor, Jay Ipson, who made his home in the city. There are detailed replicas of a transport train car, a crematorium, and the Nuremburg trial, along with many artifacts and photos. Visitors are reminded of this terrifying time in history, and hear Mr. Ipson’s story about his family’s experience in concentration camp and his journey that brought him to Richmond.
Delve into a Spooky Story
If you prefer a bit of literary history, step across the street to the Edgar Allen Poe Museum. Poe was born in Boston, but after being orphaned, he was brought to Richmond at a very young age, and spent much of his childhood in the city. Housed in the oldest house in Richmond, the museum attempts to convey what it was like to grow up in Poe’s time and household. It includes original manuscripts, personal artifacts, and art work.
Lunch at Mama J’s Kitchen
Before we leave the center of town, make sure to grab lunch at Mama J’s Kitchen. It’s very good ol’ southern comfort food. After all, you gotta try some while you’re in Virginia, and Mama J’s is a Richmond classic.
Watch NASCAR Or Root For the Local Baseball Team
If it is Saturday, it is a perfect day for checking out some outdoor sporting activities. Watch professional drivers race at the Richmond Raceway, a short track venue that hosts some of the NASCAR series.
The Richmond Flying Squirrels baseball team plays against other minor league teams at the Diamond Baseball Field. So, sit back, grab a hotdog and ice cold beer, and enjoy the game with a friend!
Enjoy The Night Life In Downtown, RVA
For the evening, head back downtown. If it is Saturday night, skip on over to the “Shockoe Bottom” & “Shockoe Slip” area. There are plenty of restaurants, bars, and a handful of clubs here. Some places that people visit on weekend evenings include The Tobacco Company and Sine Irish Pub.
Sample Local Beers Or Be A Foodie & Get A Taste Of Richmond
Not into having a crazy and late night? Here are some other ideas for your evening out:
If you’re into beer, check out the local breweries such as Blue Bee Cider, Hardywood Park Craft Brewery, and Strangeways Brewing. If you prefer a guided tour, check out Richmond’s Brewery Tours Company.
Hungry instead and can’t be bothered in figuring out where and what to eat? Look into the River City Walking Food Tour. They’ll take you to Richmond’s neighborhoods to taste the best of what this city has to offer. There are three areas of the city you can choose to explore the foodie scene: the Arts District area, Carytown area, or the Church Hill area to eat.
A Weekend in Richmond – Day 3
Eat And Shop In Carytown & The Malls
After a late night out, we’ll take it easy today. Drive on over to Carytown and have brunch at Can Can Brasserie – a locals favorite that serves French-style food.
Carytown is a casual yet cute area as it’s a mile-long strip of shops, ranging from boutique to novelty to high-end restaurants on Cary Street. Also, the Byrd Theater there shows older movies for only $2!
Some of my favorite places to check out are: World of Mirth (a gifts & specialty store), For The Love of Chocolate (candy shop), and Penzey’s Spices (high quality herbs, spices, and seasoning blends). Carytown is a very popular area, making it perfect to hold events here such as the annual Carytown Watermelon Festival – the largest watermelon festival in the US. If you happen to be there in August, make sure to stop by and check it out. The event can get quite crowded so probably best to avoid it if that’s not your scene.
If you’d like to get all your shopping in before your trip ends, there are three major malls that are fairly close to each other: Richmond’s Stony Point Fashion Park, Regency Square, and the Short Pump Town Center where you can shop until you drop.
Wander In The Virginia Museum Of Fine Arts (VMFA)
After brunching and strolling around Carytown, make a quick drive over to the VMFA.
Here you can spend hours looking at art from all over the world including Picasso, with collections of contemporary, European, and Asian art. Feeling tired? You can take a break at their cafe by the reflecting pool or relax by the Sculpture Garden.
Wind Down & Relax At Maymont Park
After a long and busy three-day weekend in Richmond, pick up some groceries and have a picnic at Maymont Park. As one of the largest public parks in Virginia, it holds the Italian Garden, Japanese Garden, and Arboretum. There’s also a petting farm, making it perfect for the kids! It’s a beautiful place to visit, especially during the Spring time when flowers are in bloom.
If you happen to be there in August, you can join the thousands of music lovers at the Richmond Jazz Festival, which is held here.
How is that for 3 Days in Richmond?
And there you have it, our Richmond 3 day itinerary! Unless you’ve lived here, Richmond is easily overlooked. Art, science, history, and food are all rolled into this one city. If you have more time, there is a lot more to do!
Other things to do in Richmond that you might be interested in:
- Richmond National Battlefield Park
- The Maggie L Walker National Historic Site
- Historic Tuckahoe – childhood home of Thomas Jefferson
- Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia
- The Richmond Slave Trail, including the Richmond African Burial Ground, Lumpkins Slave Jail, and the Slave Auction Site Memorial
- Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden
- Historic mansions, such as Wilton House, Agecroft Hall and Gardens, Virginia House, and the John Marshall House
- The Canal Walk Murals
- The Floodwall Walkway, the Pipeline Walkway, or the Canal Walk
- Historic St. John’s Church
As you see, there are plenty of things to do in Richmond. What’s more, Richmond is just a short drive from Colonial Williamsburg, Historic Jamestown, Busch Gardens and the Virginia Beach! Make sure to stop by along your road trip or visit on a long weekend and enjoy your stay for at least a few days!
Don’t forget to make your reservation for one of Richmond’s favorite hotels!
If you are looking for other weekend options in the southeast, you might like:
- Weekend in Savannah, Georgia
- A Weekend in Columbia, South Carolina
- A Weekend in Chattanooga, Tennessee
- A Weekend in Nashville, Tennessee
- A Weekend in Biloxi and Gulfport, Mississippi
- A Weekend in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi
- A Weekend in New Orleans, Louisiana
Or, if you need a bit of sun and surf, go as further south:
- Weekend in Key West.
- A Weekend in Punta Gorda, Florida
- A Weekend in Panama City, Florida
Don’t Get Lost in the History – PIN IT PLEASE!
Trang is the formerly of “Travel With Trang”, a blog and resource website showing how everyone can make their travel goals happen whether it be through organizing and prepping for their trip, showing how they can live and work abroad, or inspiring them to build confidence to start traveling and transform their life. You can also find her on Instagram, @travel.with.trang, on Twitter @TravelTrang, and Pinterest.
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Looks like plenty of fun activities in Richmond – the Civil War museum looks especially intruiging.
Edgar Poe was born in Boston not Richmond
Our apologies. The correction has been made.
Looks pretty cool never too much looked into VA as a get a way, but this changed my mind on that a little..
I had never thought of Richmond before this either, but the Virginia Beach area attracts a LOT of people for a quick getaway. I am trying out Charlottesville in April myself though.
I thought the same until I realized there’s quite a bit to do, but much cheaper than the major US cities 🙂