Tourist attractions not to miss in Richmond, Virginia

Richmond is the state capital of Virginia and was one of the three capitals of the Confederate States of America during the American Civil War. Visitors to the city can expect cool winters and humid summers, with hurricanes and tropical storms causing heavy rains some summers. Richmond boasts the fourth-largest population in Virginia, as well as a rich history and plenty of interesting places to visit. Let’s learn about some of the exciting places that tourists might want to check out.

Museum and White House of the Confederacy

The White House of the Confederacy was the residence of Confederate President Jefferson Davis during the American Civil War. In contemporary times, this venue serves as a museum of the Confederate States of America. If you would like to check out some Civil War artifacts or learn more about the war from a more balanced perspective than what is found in most history textbooks, then this is a place that is worth visiting.

Maggie L. Walker National Historical Site

This site honors the life of Maggie L. Walker, a Black American woman that grew up in Richmond after the Civil War and became the first female president of a charter bank in the United States of America. This house that was once her home serves as a museum that offers free tours. Be advised that if you are touring with a group of ten or more, you will have to make reservations prior to your visit.

Monument Avenue

If there is one place that you must visit in Richmond, it is Monument Avenue. The only street listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this Grand American Avenue is bristling with monuments and landmarks paying homage to native Virginians such as Robert E. Lee and Arthur Ashe. This boulevard is also home to annual events such as a 10K race and Easter parade.

Virginia Repertory Theatre

If history is not your thing, then perhaps you would like to take in a live show. Virginia Repertory Theatre, located on Broad Street in Richmond, hosts both classic and contemporary plays, comedy routines, and much, much more. If you are traveling with children, then you may want to check out the theatre in Willow Lawn which specializes in children’s plays.

Restaurants

It is said that Virginia is for lovers, and if your idea of a romantic night is going out for dinner, then you are in luck. Richmond is home to over 900 restaurants, specializing in a wide variety of cuisines. Terrant’s Cafe was voted as one of the best restaurants in town for a romantic night out. Here you can enjoy seafood and wine at reasonable prices. If this does not suit you taste, then you still have hundreds of venues to choose from!

Richmond is a city that history buffs will love, but it is also a great place for general tourists as well. Since there are many cheap hotels in Richmond, VA, one can visit without having to worry about spending too much on lodging. See what Frommer’s Guidebook listed this city as one of the top destinations to travel to for 2014, so it is a place that you won’t want to miss!

Photo by rvaphotodude