8 Unique Things to Do in Richmond, VA

Richmond is Virginia’s capital, and it’s jam-packed with life. No matter what kind of experiences you’re interested in having, there’s something here for everyone —and there’s so much to do and see here that even those born here would take a lifetime to do and see it all. 

Below, we’ll uncover the eight most unique things to do in Richmond, VA, that’ll keep you entertained and wanting to come back for more!

1. James River Pipeline Walkway 🚶

Just next to Richmond is the famous James River and its Pipeline Rapids Walkway. Sure, there are plenty of trails and nature to see in and around Richmond, but the James River Pipeline Walkway is the only one of its kind — meaning that it’s home to an active working pipeline that you can walk along.

But that’s not all. There’s also a riverside floodwall, and on the eastern edge of the park there’s Brown’s Island which offers more exciting views and a path to a small beach where you can swim, fish, and kayak during the summer. When the water levels are high, watching the river rage along is interesting enough, as it can often be too loud to hear anyone around you.

Address: 310 S 14th St, Richmond, VA 23219

2. The Edgar Allan Poe Museum 💀

Did you know that Edgar Allan Poe lived in Richmond as a child? The Edgar Allan Poe Museum commemorates the famous poet and author’s time growing up here with collections of his original writings, letters, belongings, and much more. 

Once you step into this museum, you’ll be transported back to the early 1800s as you walk through the buildings and gardens that replicate his early life. Two black cats live on the property, which adds to the atmosphere, and there’s even a memorial of Edgar himself — and it’s strangely always covered in lipstick, which may or may not be a result of the museum’s Unhappy hour!

Address: 1914 E Main St, Richmond, VA 23223

Phone: (804) 648-5523

3. The Circuit Arcade Bar 🎮

If you’re in the mood to play games, the Circuit Arcade Bar is home to more than 80 new and retro video games. This includes plenty of vintage arcade games, including pinball and skeeball, and they serve beer on tap as well as food so you don’t go hungry or thirsty while you compete with your friends for top-ranking positions.

All you have to do is check in when you get there, and they’ll give you the details on how things work. (essentially, you’ll open a tab that’ll allow you to pour the beers yourself, and you’ll get a prepaid game card that’ll allow you to play any game you choose.)

Address: 3121 W Leigh St, Richmond, VA 23230

4. A Walking Food Tour 🌮

Food tours are an excellent way to explore Richmond’s rich food history and regular history. You can book one of these food tours via Discover Richmond Tours, and they’ll take you down some of the best food-related neighborhoods, including Carytown, Church Hill, Scott’s Addition, and even the Arts District.

The food you’ll get to try out varies by the specific food tour, so make your choice and be prepared to try new things!

Phone: (804) 213-2330

5. A Scavenger Hunt 🔍

If a food tour isn’t on the agenda, but you still want to find a unique way to explore the city, you may want to sign up for a scavenger hunt. Discover Richmond Tours also offers city-wide scavenger hunts that’ll lead you to and through the city’s most interesting sights, history, and stories. 

Each point of interest will prompt you with a trivia question that can be answered simply by looking at your surroundings. You can choose among several types of scavenger hunts, from the Capitol Square hunt to the downtown Richmond hunt and the Museum District hunt — plus, there’s a self-guided mural tour that provides a map of over 60 murals and artist’s stories!

Address: varies

Phone: (804) 213-2330

6. The Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden 🌸

The Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens has been voted as the fourth-best gardens in the US. This place is absolutely stunning, and it’s considered an integral part of the city as it offers up a tranquil and beautiful place for an afternoon stroll.

Among the 50 acres of gardens, the highlights include the dome conservatory, rose garden, and the Asian garden. There’s also a cafe inside where you can grab a snack and a drink to take with you as you explore the grounds.

Address: 1800 Lakeside Ave, Henrico, VA 23228

Phone: (804) 262-9887

7. Urban Rock Climbing on the Manchester Bridge Wall 🪨

Not all outdoor adventurists are created equally. If hiking isn’t exciting enough for you, you may want to try some urban rock climbing in the most ideal spot — the Manchester Bridge. The Manchester Bridge offers rock climbing routes for all ranging from 30 to 60 feet on granite blocks, and it’s part of the James River Park system, making it easy to find.

There are also stone bridge abutments that can be climbed in several methods, including the top rope, sport, trad, or mixed methods. All rock climbing levels are welcome here, and it’s the perfect place for newbies to learn top rope anchors, sport climbing, self-rescue skills, and rappelling. It also offers some pretty incredible views!

Address: Located in James River Park

8. The Science Museum of Virginia 🧪

The Science Museum of Virginia is educational and fun for the whole family. Here you can get creative with hands-on exhibits and science experiments. You can even build your own experiments or test your skills by playing air hockey with a robot.

The best part of this science museum is that you don’t need kids to enter —  it’s for all ages!

Address: 2500 W Broad St, Richmond, VA 23220

Phone: (804) 864-1400

Work With Your Local Roofing Pros

You’ll never grow bored with all there is to do in Richmond, Virginia. The River City is full of memorable events, fine arts, Civil War history, and much more. While you’re out enjoying the city, let the professionals at Kenneth Daniel Roofing take care of your roof repairs or replacements. 

Schedule your free roofing inspection today!