About Richmond:

Richmond, the capital of Virginia, is among America’s oldest major cities. Patrick Henry, a U.S. Founding Father, famously declared “Give me liberty or give me death” at its St. John's Church in 1775, leading to the Revolutionary War. The White House of the Confederacy, home of Confederate President Jefferson Davis during the Civil War, is now a museum in Court End, a neighborhood known for Federal-style mansions. Richmond, VA, offers a diverse range of attractions and activities. Popular options include visiting the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA), exploring Maymont, a 100-acre Victorian estate, or strolling through the shops and restaurants of Carytown. For history buffs, the American Civil War Museum,White House of the Confederacy, and Hollywood Cemetery are great choices. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the James River Park System, Belle Isle, or the Virginia Capital Trail.

Population: 229,247 (2023)

Unemployment rate: 3.5% (Nov 2024)

Age: About 288 years

Founded: 1737

Places to visit:

Outdoor Activities:

Maymont: A 100-acre estate with gardens, a mansion, nature center, farm, and animal habitats.

James River Park System: Offers opportunities for hiking, biking, kayaking, and more.

Belle Isle: (not to be mistaken with Isola Bella in Italy!) An island in the James River with trails, rock climbing, and views of the city.

Virginia Capital Trail: A scenic trail for biking and walking, connecting Richmond to Williamsburg.

Hollywood Cemetery: A historic cemetery with beautiful views and notable graves.

Other Attractions:

Carytown: A vibrant neighborhood with unique shops, restaurants, and entertainment.

Virginia State Capitol: A historic building with tours available.

Riverfront Canal Cruises: Take a historical canal cruise to learn about Richmond's history.

Kings Dominion: An amusement park just outside of Richmond.

Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden: Beautiful gardens with a variety of plants and flowers. (Your Chicago Botanical Garden membership gives you free entry)

Monument Avenue: A historic avenue with monuments dedicated to Confederate figures. (All monuments were removed after George Floyd event. But confederate mansions remain)