VMFA is a state-supported, privately endowed educational institution created for the benefit of the citizens of the Commonwealth of Virginia. Its purpose is to collect, preserve, exhibit, and interpret art, to encourage the study of the arts, and thus to enrich the lives of all. The special exhibit running from April-July 2022 is Whistler to Cassatt: American Painters in France.
Richmond Slave Trail is a walking trail that chronicles the history of the trade of enslaved Africans from Africa to Virginia until 1775, and away from Virginia, especially Richmond, to other locations in the Americas until 1865. It begins at Manchester Docks, a major port in the massive downriver Slave Trade that made Richmond the largest source of enslaved Africans on the east coast of America from 1830 to 1860. The trail then follows a route through the slave markets of Richmond, beside the Reconciliation Statue commemorating the international triangular slave trade, past Lumpkin's Slave Jail and the Negro Burial Ground to First African Baptist Church, a center of African-American life in pre-Civil War Richmond.
Maymont is a 100-acre historic estate and park, located in Richmond, Virginia, with many unique experiences for all to enjoy. Stroll through the gardens and arboretum, see native wildlife habitats, feed friendly goats, explore The Robins Nature Center and visit the Mansion.
Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden offers year-round beauty on a historic property with more than 50 acres of spectacular gardens, dining, and shopping. A classical domed Conservatory is the only one of its kind in the mid-Atlantic. More than a dozen themed gardens include a Children’s Garden, Rose Garden, Asian Valley, and Cherry Tree Walk.
Ready for a little adventure, fun, and excitement? Set aside a full day to explore our local theme park which is just a short drive from downtown Richmond. More than 60 rides, shows, and attractions. Kids love Planet Snoopy and thrill-seekers can get an adrenaline fix on our collection of world-class coasters and rides. Splash and slide at Soak City, our all-inclusive water park, and experience our all-new redesigned area, Coconut Shores.
Nestled in the heart of Richmond, Carytown is a unique shopping, dining, and entertainment district. With a focus on small, locally-owned businesses, Carytown is home to the historic Byrd Theater as well as several unique dining and boutique shopping destinations. Adjacent to the Museum District and Byrd Park, Carytown is a necessary stop for a day well spent in the city.
A downtown riverside area, Shockoe Bottom has cobblestone streets dotted with upscale fashion stores. At the Virginia Holocaust Museum, visitors can see a full recreation of the Nuremberg courtroom. The Edgar Allan Poe Museum richly documents the famous resident’s life. Hip crowds fill cafes, seafood restaurants, and brunch spots, while 17th Street Market hosts festivals, live music, and a weekly farmers’ market. Recommended restaurants include Bottom's Up Pizza, Elephant Thai, Station No. 2, and Capital Ale House.
Short pump is a district in western Henrico that features shopping, dining, and other entertainment attractions. One of the largest features in Short Pump is Short Pump Town Center, a large outdoor mall with lots of shops and restaurants. Our favorite eateries in Short Pump include Cooper's Hawk, Cheesecake Factory, and Firebirds. Other restaurants in the area include Mellow Mushroom, Carrabbas, California Pizza Kitchen, Texas de Brazil, and many more. In addition to Short Pump Town Center, you will also find HomeGoods, Kohls, Ulta Beauty, and several other popular shopping destinations. Attractions include Dave and Busters, Short Pump Park, Massage Envy, and SkateNation Plus.
Located in the heart of downtown Richmond and Virginia Commonwealth University, Altria Theater is the largest venue of Richmond CenterStage's performing arts complex. While there, be sure to tour VCU's campus to see where D'Won and Shayla's budding friendship began.