Fun Things To Do In Richmond, Virginia

Thomas and I escaped about an hour away for an overnight this weekend! Here is our list of fun things to do in Richmond, Virginia!

Nothing fuels a marriage like a little getaway!

Thomas and I escaped to Richmond this weekend while his mom watched Birch for us (SO VERY THANKFUL!) and Mazen spent time at his other home. 

We had about 24 hours to see some sights and enjoy some R&R away from the kiddos. 

We booked a room at The Jefferson Hotel downtown. I was worried it might be a little fussy for us, but it was actually perfect! The service was outstanding, and our room was totally updated and comfortable. 

Just check out this swanky bathroom, complete with a TV built into the mirror! 

We were also super happy with free parking and a very early check in time of 10 a.m. 

After unpacking, we had the day ahead of us and set out to explore!

Fun Things To Do In Richmond, Virginia

The James River + Belle Isle

We drove down to the James River where we parked and headed across a cool foot bridge to Belle Isle. 

The river was so shallow you could see the bottom! We saw lots of kayakers and rafters floating down.

Belle Isle is a park on an island smack in the middle of the James. There were nice paths and places you could wade out on rocks and dip your toes in the river. 

It was much too cold for swimming, but people were kayaking and flipping over in the chilly water!

We sat on this log and watched the water go by for a while before walking the second 1.25 miles back to our car. 

Sightseeing in the Fan

Thomas went to Virginia Commonwealth University, so we drove through his old neighborhood to visit the houses he lived in. Apparently this one was the party house!

Lunch at Salt & Forge

We happened upon this cute lunch spot using Google Maps and picked up a superfood salad and a turkey, blackberry, and brie sandwich. We shared both – fabulous mid-day break!

Afternoon Dip In The Pool

The Jefferson Hotel has an indoor pool, and we took a dip because we could! We had it to ourselves and did some reading in the chairs.

Scott’s Addition Brew Tour

Then it was time for happy hour! Our friends recommended the Scott’s Addition neighborhood for some beer hopping (ha! hops!) so we headed there in the late afternoon. It was about a 10-minute drive from the hotel. 

The Veil Brewing

First stop: The Veil Brewing.

We didn’t know if we’d be able to get in with a few groups appearing to be waiting, but we luckily were taken to a barrel that was our personal standing table. Everything was outside and social distanced, which we appreciated! 

Star Hill Beer Hall + Rooftop

We walked to nearby Vasen Brewing next but they didn’t have space, so we headed to Star Hill’s rooftop, ironically a little piece of Charlottesville in RIC! 

More outdoor social distancing with a great view!

We shared an IPA flight here. Ramble On was my fav!

Dinner at Brenner Pass

Our final stop in Scott’s Addition was Brenner Pass for a 6:30 p.m. dinner resy.

One of T’s friends recommended the following list for dinner: Gersi, Brenner Pass, Shagbark, Grisette, Alewife.

I loved the vibe of the neighborhood! It felt a bit like California without any big trees. 

We shared a half dozen oysters to start and I had a delicious glass of red wine.

For entrees I ordered Crispy Arctic Char that was SOOO good, and Thomas ordered the duck. We both loved our entrees and also shared a side of grilled asparagus with crispy rice on top. Oh and some yummy grilled focaccia bread with anchovy paste! Outstanding meal and service. 

And for dessert – a Strawberry Tahini Sundae with rum marshmallows!!!

Sunday Breakfast at The Jefferson

Our final event was a special breakfast before we hit the road home. Belgian waffle with spiced whipped cream and berry compote for me, and eggs benny for Thomas!

We had such a great time! 

There is so much more to see and do – museums and gardens and shopping – but we felt we had a good balance of relaxing and sightseeing. We’ll have to keep going back! 

What Is Richmond Virginia Known For?

Richmond, Virginia, is known for its deep historical significance, vibrant culture, and thriving arts scene. Here are some of its key highlights:

Historical Significance

• Capital of Virginia: Richmond has been the capital of Virginia since 1780.
• American Revolution: Patrick Henry delivered his famous “Give me liberty, or give me death!” speech at St. John’s Church in 1775.
• Civil War History: Richmond was the capital of the Confederacy during the Civil War and home to key sites like the American Civil War Museum and Tredegar Iron Works.

Arts & Culture

• Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA): One of the top art museums in the U.S., with collections spanning from ancient artifacts to modern works.
• Street Art Scene: The city is known for its murals and annual Richmond Mural Project.
• Music & Festivals: Hosts events like the Richmond Folk Festival and Riverrock, celebrating music, outdoor sports, and arts.

Food & Drink

• Craft Beer Capital: Richmond has a booming craft beer scene, with over 30 breweries.
• Southern Cuisine: Known for dishes like pimento cheese, BBQ, and fried oysters.
• James Beard Award-Winning Restaurants: The city has gained national recognition for its culinary scene.

Outdoor Activities

• James River: One of the few urban areas with Class III-IV rapids, great for kayaking and rafting.
• Parks & Trails: Features scenic spots like Belle Isle, Pony Pasture, and the Virginia Capital Trail for biking and hiking.

Architecture & Monuments

• Hollywood Cemetery: The resting place of two U.S. presidents (James Monroe and John Tyler) and Confederate leaders.
• Capitol Building: Designed by Thomas Jefferson, it’s one of the oldest state capitols in continuous use.

Snapshots from Mother’s Day

Mother’s Day flower surprise from Verde Natural Florals. 

And Mother’s Day treats with my big Mazen yesterday afternoon! He made me a Lego shaped like a heart. Birch gave me homemade soap that he made at his preschool! 

Hope you guys had a lovely weekend celebrating mamas of all kinds <3