Welcome to Richmond
Vibrant arts and culture and a thriving dining and brewery scene in one of the country’s oldest cities.
As the capital of Virginia, Richmond is rich in history, culture, and modern affluence. It’s one of the oldest settlements in the U.S., second only to Jamestown. You’ll find over 300 historical markers all across the city. Today, it’s a hub of government, industry, entrepreneurship, law, and finance, so it has a very strong economy. It’s a major metropolitan area, yet it also offers plenty of green space and natural surroundings.
Richmond’s neighborhoods are eclectic and full of character. Downtown Richmond alone has numerous distinct areas, including the Arts District, the Financial District, historic Monroe Ward and Jackson Ward, and the newer, more residential Manchester neighborhood. You’ll find everything from luxury condominiums and townhouses to converted warehouses and penthouse lofts downtown. In the suburbs, such as Ginter Park, Brandermill, and Bon Air, you’ll find master-planned communities and streets lined with single-family homes, some featuring classic Victorian architecture from the 19th and early 20th centuries.
What to Love
- Growing government, finance, and industrial sectors
- Beautiful and luxurious homes in quiet and affluent neighborhoods
- Great railway and public transportation systems
- Vibrant food and brewery scene
- Outdoor recreation and water activities on the James River
- Fantastic art scene with art galleries and mural
Local Lifestyle
In part a college town, Richmond is a bustling cosmopolitan city full of culture and history. Its strong economy attracts professionals, while its thriving arts scene appeals to creative types. As one of the first cities in the U.S., there are also long-time residents whose families have lived here for generations, and they help foster a strong sense of community. The abundance of outdoor recreation also makes it an ideal destination for those who want a more active lifestyle.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
With its thriving and diverse dining scene, Richmond has become a premier foodie destination. Set in a historic tobacco warehouse that dates back to 1866,
The Tobacco Company Restaurant is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. They serve elevated Southern-inspired cuisine in an elegant supper club atmosphere. The restaurant boasts two distinct dining spaces, a cocktail bar, and a nightclub, and hosts live music in the evenings and weekends.
At
Short Pump Town Center Shopping, you’ll find several popular restaurants, including the Boat House, which serves seafood, and
Texas de Brazil, an upscale steakhouse serving meat tableside. The open-air plaza also features well-known brands such as Banana Republic, Lululemon, and an Apple Store.
In the charming Westhampton neighborhood,
Libbie and Grove is a shopping and business district with chic boutiques, trendy cafes, top-notch restaurants, and unique shops selling everything from specialty gifts to small-batch wines.
In the more Bohemian area of Richmond,
Carytown’s main street is lined with shops and eateries that feature farm-to-table cuisine and cater to the more health-conscious diners. You’ll find colorful murals all over the neighborhood, and most businesses here are locally owned and operated.
Things to Do
One of Richmond’s best-preserved Victorian estates,
Maymont Park is a museum and public park with formal gardens, an arboretum, and wildlife exhibits. It can be rented for weddings and private events. For baseball fans, the San Francisco Giants' beloved minor league team,
Richmond Flying Squirrels, plays at The Diamond Arena.
To kick off the holidays, the
Dominion Energy Christmas Parade features an exciting lineup of floats and marching bands from local schools. It usually begins at the Science Museum of Virginia and ends near the Richmond Coliseum. Other popular annual events include the Irish Festival, the Folk Festival, and the Strawberry Festival.
