16 things to do with your parents when they visit Richmond (that don't involve drinking)
Planning a day or weekend full of activities when the ‘rents come to town can be stressful — so here is a list of ideas to showcase the city in all its glory (without just hopping from one boozery to the next all day long) so you can relax and enjoy their company.
— by Celeste Chance, Contributor Writer
Visit Museums
Image Credit: @vmfamusuem
Science Museum of Virginia
Spark your curiosity with a trip to the Science Museum. This 223,000-square-foot building features hands-on exhibits where you can test your speed or be fully immersed in a planetarium showing in The Dome.
Location: 2500 W Broad St (Scott’s Addition)
Hours: Wednesday - Sunday, 9:30 am - 5 pm; Monday - Tuesday, Closed
The VMFA
Walk the halls of the VMFA and tour some of Virginia’s best art with rotating exhibits and pieces that are displayed year-round. Don’t miss out on the sculpture garden where you can enjoy installations while sipping a coffee from the Best Café or enjoy a meal at the Amuse Restaurant.
Location: 200 N Arthur Ashe Blvd (Museum District)
Hours: Saturday - Tuesday, 10 am - 5 pm; Wednesday - Friday 10 am - 9 pm
The Valentine
Dive deeper into Richmond’s history with a visit to The Valentine. For over a century this museum has been collecting and sharing Richmond stories that have shaped the city today.
Location: 1015 E Clay St (Court End)
Hours: Monday, Closed; Tuesday - Sunday, 10 am - 5 pm
The Poe Museum
In the heart of Shockoe Bottom lies The Poe Museum where you can learn about the famous Edgar Allan Poe and his time spent in Richmond. The Museum features collections of his work including first editions, manuscripts, and more.
Location:1914 E Main St (Shockoe Bottom)
Hours: Monday, Closed; Tuesday - Saturday, 10 am - 5 pm; Sunday, 11 am - 5 pm
Virginia Museum of History and Culture
Sharpen up on your VA knowledge at The Virginia Museum of History and Culture. This museum features the largest display of Virginia artifacts and exhibitions that share the story of our state.
Location: 428 N Arthur Ashe Blvd (Museum District)
Hours: Daily 10 am - 5 pm
Temporarily Closed, Check here for updates
Explore the Outdoors
Image Credit: @lewisginter
Maymont
Take a stroll through one of the gorgeous gardens at Maymont. This 100-acre Victorian estate features an arboretum, Japanese and Italian garden as well as wildlife habitats, nature center, children’s farm, and Maymont Mansion.
Location: 1700 Hampton St (Maymont)
Hours: Daily 10 am - 7 pm
The James River
A visit to Richmond isn’t complete without a trip to the river. Enjoy a walk along the pipeline where you can overlook unique nature and wildlife or if you’re feeling adventurous, get active and kayak with RVA Paddlesports to experience the river first-hand.
Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens
This 50-acre botanical garden is the perfect place to bring the ‘rents for a peaceful getaway. Escape the noise of the city with walks in one of their many gardens, tour the classical domed conservatory which features a variety of plants and room to explore butterflies.
Location: 1800 Lakeside Ave (Lakeside)
Hours: Daily 10 am - 5 pm
See the Sights
Image Credit: @rvatuktuk
TukTuk Tour
Looking for a different way to show your parents the city? Try a TukTuk tour. RVATukTuk uses electric open-air limos for a unique touring experience with a variety of options from historical tours to a scavenger hunt.
Location: Location varies on booking
Hours: Daily 10 am - 11:30 pm
Segway Tour
Embrace the Paul Blart Mall Cop vibes on a Segway tour with RVA on Wheels. This fun touring experience allows you to see the city from a closer view with a variety of guided tours to choose from such as street art or Richmond landmarks.
Location: 1301 E Cary St (Shockoe Slip)
Hours: Monday - Friday 12 - 5 pm; Saturday - Sunday 10 am - 5 pm
Hit the Shops
Image Credit: @mongrel
Carytown
If your parents are looking for some unique Richmond memorabilia or one-of-a-kind gifts, take them to Carytown. This district features dozens of shops to peruse, restaurants to choose from, and the historic Byrd Theatre. Check out Mongrel for Richmond-themed gifts and treasures.
South of the James Farmers Market
Shop everything local at the South of the James Farmers Market. This 100% producer-only market has over 50 vendors from farmers to makers so you’re sure to find something healthy and sustainable.
Location: Bryan Park
Hours: Saturday 9 am - 12 pm
The Arts District
If you’re looking for a place that has it all from art to shopping, then check out the Arts District. Located next to Jackson Ward and Monroe Ward, the Arts District features shops along Broad Street with popular stores like Ledbury and Mod and Soul. Don’t forget to check out some art along the way at The Quirk Gallery.
Catch Live Music
Image Credit: @bramblypark
The Hof Garden
We love a good rooftop and what better way to enjoy a view of the city than with live music! The Hof Garden located in Scott's Addition is a three-story building featuring a taproom, event space, restaurant, and rooftop. Check out their website for updates on regularly scheduled weekend shows.
Location: 2818 W Broad St (Scott’s Addition)
Hours: Monday - Tuesday, Closed; Wednesday - Thursday, 4 - 10 pm; Friday 4 pm - Midnight; Saturday, 11 am - Midnight; Sunday, 11 am - 10 pm
Mainline Brewery
What started as a new brewery in Scott's Addition, has quickly become a popular destination for live music. The large outdoor venue has ample seating and a stage inside for rainy days. Visit their website to see their full calendar of events.
Location: 1603 Ownby Ln (Scott’s Addition)
Hours: Monday, Closed; Tuesday - Thursday, 4 - 10 pm; Friday, 4 - 11 pm; Saturday, 1 - 11 pm; Sunday, 1 - 7 pm
Brambly Park Winery
This urban winery sitting on 2-acres of land in Scott's Addition offers more than just wine. Enjoy food from their restaurant outside on a picnic table while taking in the live music they offer during the week and weekends. Check here to see events posted regularly.
Location: 1708 Belleville St (Scott’s Addition)
Hours: Monday - Thursday, 4 - 10 pm; Friday, 3 - 10 pm; Saturday - Sunday, 11 am - 10 pm
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