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Riverfront Canal Cruises in Richmond

40-minute, historically narrated boat tours of the james river and kanawha canal along downtown richmond’s historic canal walk..

• Riverfront Canal Cruises

Enjoy a Canal Cruise Along the Kanawha Canal in Downtown Richmond

Looking for fun and unique things to do in downtown richmond.

The boat tours travel along downtown Richmond's historic Canal Walk and review centuries of Richmond’s history, from Powhatan’s Chiefdom to the first commercially successful electric streetcar in the world, all while traveling in authentically styled canal boats. Travelers can see the unique Triple Crossing railroad, tobacco warehouses that have been converted into trendy lofts, the Virginia Capital Trail, the Low Line gardens and James River wildlife.

Hourly Historic Tours

40-minute historically narrated tours.

The canal boat tours of the James River and Kanawha Canal operate throughout the season, seven days a week from May through September, and with varying hours in April, October and November.

• Tours depart on the hour from the Canal’s Turning Basin at 139 Virginia Street, in Downtown Richmond, Virginia.
• Tickets are sold on a first come, first served basis at the Turning Basin’s ticket kiosk and online up to 18 hours in advance - HERE .
• Boats can accommodate up to 25 passengers and are accessible to those with physical disabilites.
• No pets are allowed except for registered service animals.

PLEASE NOTE : Even when it appears that tickets may be sold out online, we do still keep a number of walk-up tickets available at the ticket kiosk for each historic tour. Try arriving early or calling 804-649-2800 .

BOAT TOUR HOURS

Fri. & Sat.: Noon – 7PM

Sun.: Noon – 5PM

May – September

Mon. – Fri.: Noon – 7PM

Sat.: 11AM – 8PM

Sun.: 11AM – 7PM

Thurs. – Sat.: Noon – 7PM

Fri. – Sun.: Noon – 5PM

• Adults: $15
• Children (5 - 12 years old): $8
• Children 4 and under: FREE
• Seniors (65 years and up): $8
• $1 off historic tour tickets to all teachers, first responders, healthcare workers and military personnel who show a valid work I.D. at the ticket kiosk.

Richmond Private Charters

Private charters are the perfect outing for field trips, celebrations and family gatherings..

Canal cruise private charters are available as one- or two-hour private boat tours that are a favorite for family reunions, celebrating birthdays, engagements, corporate retreats, business groups, churches, clubs and so many more group outings. Private charters may be scheduled for any day and time during the season, but must be reserved a minimum of two weeks in advance.

Customers may choose for their boat ride to be historically narrated, or they can choose to forgo the historic narration and take in the sights while listening to light music over a provided speaker or simply conversing with their fellow guests. The boats can be outfitted with tables of various sizes that can accommodate light refreshments or a more formal, catered meal (catering is not provided by Riverfront Canal Cruises).

Pricing and Guidelines

Your chartered boat(s) may be set up in one of the following (3) configurations:

• Dining style has tables and chairs, seating a maximum of 20 passengers.
• Cocktail style has chairs, benches and a small table, seating a maximum of 22 passengers.
• Excursion style has chairs and benches, seating a maximum of 25 passengers.
• $165 per boat / per hour
• $130 per boat / per hour for seniors and non-profits/educational groups

The 32-foot-long boats are covered with a canopy to protect riders from the weather, but we recommend that all passengers check the weather the day of and dress accordingly. The boats are handicapped accessible and can accommodate up to two wheelchairs.

Charters may be scheduled for any day and time during the boating season, are dependent on weather conditions and are scheduled on an individual basis, subject to availability.

Please book charters a minimum of two weeks in advance. Once scheduled, cruises can be canceled up to 7 days in advance without penalty. All reservations must be made online.

You may hire your own caterer or bring your own food and beverages on your private charter. Riverfront Canal Cruises requires compliance with all applicable Virginia ABC laws and regulations for all private charters that bring alcohol. Unless you have hired a caterer to provide alcoholic beverages, this is likely to include obtaining your own banquet license. Information about the laws and the banquet license application are available on the Virginia ABC website . We do not hire caterers, serve or set up food and beverage service for private charters. We do, however, set up the tables and chairs/benches on the boats in advance of your charter.

Interested? Schedule online now!

Questions? Email [email protected] or call our ticket kiosk at 804-649-2800 .

Directions to Riverfront Canal Cruises

Canal walk turning basin.

Address: 139 Virginia St, Richmond, VA 23219

Parking Garage and Lot Locations Nearby

All of these locations are pay-to-park.

• East Cary and Virginia Street parking deck (fronting Virginia St)
• Surface parking lot along the Flood Wall between Virginia Street and 12th Street
• 14th and East Cary Street parking deck
• 12th and Canal Street parking deck
• Omni/James Center parking deck (underground, limited space) at 12th and East Cary Streets
• 15th and East Cary Street surface lots

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360° virtual field trip video.

Riverfront Canal Cruises has released a new 360° video featuring a virtual canal boat tour with a historical narrative. The narration touches on the SOLs for Virginia Studies and U.S. History to 1865, assisting 4th and 5th graders as they complete the school year in a fun way!

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Discover Richmond Your Way

Tours, rentals, and sales.

We offer fun and exciting public and private tours of Historic Richmond, Virginia on a Segway, Trolley, Electric bike or Gemcar. We also offer wedding charters, private group tours and events, and team building tours and charters. Learn where to go, what to see and what to do while in our beautiful city!

Did you know we offer service and repairs on all bikes?! Our technician is typically in on Tuesdays and Thursdays, but please call or email us if you are looking for day-of service! You can also fill out the form below or give us a call to discuss before dropping yours off! Service & Repair Form Check out our RVA on Wheels YouTube page for some little videos with our tour guides telling some amazing stories from Richmond's history! You can also stay updated with us through Facebook and Instagram

Our Most Popular

Landmark Segway Tour

Discover the story of Virginia’s Capital City in dynamic close-up! The riveting stories of Richmond history include enduring icons like Washington, Lincoln and Edgar Allan Poe.

Historic Trolley Tour

Travel through 400 years of history in two hours on board one of our classic trolleys! We have incredible tour guides to tell you about everything in our gorgeous river city!

Downtown E-Bike Tour

Explore RVA and all its incredible history on an electric bike! Your ride with us includes a leisurely tour of Downtown, with references to unsung heroes of the city’s historic sites, the origins of the region, amusing trivia, street art, and an appreciation of nature.

Discover Richmond on a Segway

Fun and original way to explore Richmond! Tour guides are knowledgeable and share lots of unknown facts about the city. A great way to learn more about our river city and of course, a great way to have fun! Segways are very easy to operate, and the guides will do a safety training course before each tour. Our Segway PT guides are among the most knowledgeable in and about the city and are very good at combining stories around the rich history of Richmond with humor and wit.

See Segway Tours →

Richmond Landmark Segway Tour

Discover Richmond on an Electric Bike

Electric Bike

Pedego electric bikes are a wonderful way to see and experience Richmond regardless of age or fitness level. Our river city has so much to explore, and with five levels of pedal assist and a throttle, these e-bikes make it so easy to get around! Take them through the city or along the Virginia Capital Trail to Ronnie's BBQ or Upper Shirley Vineyards!

See e-Bike Tours →

Pedego Electric Bike

Discover Richmond on a Trolley

Take in Richmond’s amazing landmarks and sites on comprehensive history tours with the RVA Trolley's great guides and expert drivers. Whether you were raised in Richmond, are visiting or just passing through, you will travel through a rich narrative of 400 years of history in one of the most fascinating and oldest cities in America.

See Trolley Tours →

Discover Richmond in a Gem Car

Private and semi-private Gem Car Tours! Join us for a 90 minute comprehensive tour of Hollywood Cemetery! As the second most-visited cemetery in the country, this is a must-see while in Richmond! Three times daily at 11am, 1pm, and 3pm - other times by appointment.

Gem Car Tours →

Hollywood Cemetery

Weddings and Private Events

Whether you need a Trolley for your special wedding day, a private team building event for your company or a customized private tour made just for you, we can help. Our helpful team is focused totally on you and your happiness is our number one priority.

Private Events →

Dream of your Wedding

Questions? Call or text us at (804) 213-2330

Discover Richmond Food Tours

Taste the best of RVA’s unique neighborhoods with Richmond’s top-rated, most delicious walking food tour!

VIEW CALENDAR

BUY GIFT CARDS

SCHEDULE A GROUP TOUR

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SCHEDULE A PRIVATE TOUR

We are Richmond’s ONLY local food tour operator – book directly with us for the best price, and skip the markup of third-party resellers! Our walking food tours give you the inside scoop in four great Richmond neighborhoods. Let us show you our favorites around town! Compare all tours here.

• Church Hill Food Tour

Discover Richmond’s origin story in the city’s oldest neighborhood and a true food + history powerhouse

Saturday – Sunday

• Carytown Food Tour

Modern, quirky, and casual, Richmond’s unique shopping district is full of delicious surprises

• Arts District Food Tour

Meet the chefs and business owners behind Richmond’s hippest and most diverse neighborhood

Friday – Saturday

Other Food Tours

If you’re looking for something more, try one of our themed tours!

SCOTT’S ADDITION BOOZE & BITES TOUR

Rapidly-evolving Scott’s Addition is quickly becoming Richmond’s go-to for food, drink, and fun. Get to know the food and beverage makers within Richmond’s hottest neighborhood!

PIZZA & ICE CREAM TOUR

Dive right into the world of pizza and ice cream in RVA! We’ll visit three of Richmond’s best and favorite pizza spots AND three of our favorite ice cream parlors for a fun and delicious afternoon.

Tour Calendar

Book Online

Purchase tickets online with our real-time, secure online booking system. You’ll receive a confirmation immediately!

View Calendar

A great gift for any occasion, and our gift cards never expire. Great for holidays, weddings, birthdays, and more!

Private Tours

Available every day of the week, our food tours, brewery tours, and scavenger hunts are a perfect team outing or get-together.

Get In Touch

Why choose Discover Richmond Tours? We’ve hosted 18,000+ guests to date!

Discover the diverse flavors of Richmond’s renowned culinary scene

Get the inside scoop into some of Richmond’s most exciting neighborhoods

Our guides and your fellow tour-goers are some of the most fun people in town

Rated the #1 tour in Richmond on TripAdvisor, with more than 700 5-star reviews

Other Ways to Discover Richmond

We offer walking food tours, scavengers hunts, and more. Come see what else Richmond has to offer:

• Brewery Tours

Discover the best of Richmond’s amazing craft beer with the city’s top-rated, most exciting brewery tour!

Discover Richmond Boxes

Our gift boxes of local goods make a great gift for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Christmas, or anytime!

• Scavenger Hunts

Step outside for some fresh air, stretch your legs, and learn a few neat things about your favorite Richmond neighborhood

Contact: (804) 213-2330 | [email protected]

© 2024 · Discover Richmond Tours · Privacy Policy · Website by Brian W. Beard

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The fun, unique way to experience Richmond

We’re RVATukTuk.

We’re bringing three-wheeled, 100% electric, open air-limos to Richmond. They’re called Tuk Tuks.

We believe that there is a better way to experience Richmond. Whether you live here or are visiting, a ride through our city with the sights and sounds all around you will give you a unique experience you won’t forget.

We provide city sightseeing, transportation for fun outings (scavenger hunts and bar hopping) as well as wedding getaways and wedding and corporate event transportation. Also check out our Best of Richmond Bakeries Tour and Civil War, Slavery, and Emancipation tour .

Environmental Commitment: RVATukTuk is an electric transportation company. We are committed to providing environmentally responsible transportation services. We certify that our organization is recycling and taking other steps to reduce the environmental impacts of its daily operations.

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The 25 Best Things To Do In Richmond, Virginia

From our favorite dishes to the can't-miss outdoor attractions, use this local guide to plan your next visit to the River City.

Get Outside

Tour richmond’s oldest neighborhood, celebrate culture.

• Wine And Dine

Enjoy The State’s Architecture

Robbie Caponetto

Much of Richmond’s story is intertwined with that of our nation, making the Commonwealth’s capital city an obvious stop for history-loving travelers. But in 2024, the attractions that draw visitors and new residents to Richmond have less to do with landmarks and more to do with the thoughtful stewardship of its citizens. Decades of cleanup turned the James River into a showpiece for the city and an example for urban waterways across the country. As Richmond and its suburbs have grown, it’s still the locally owned bakeries, restaurants , and bars that draw long lines from residents. They’re passionate about their city and they know that this kind of preservation will keep its signature character for generations to come. Whether you plan to explore the Museum District, raft down the James, or eat your way through Church Hill, the locals will be happy to have you and share just what makes River City so special. Use our list of favorite activities to outline your next visit to Richmond, Virginia.

Thomas McConnel

Experience the Mighty James River

Running from the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Chesapeake Bay, the James River is not only one of Virginia’s greatest natural resources, but a celebrated playground for Richmond’s residents. Thanks to the James River Park System, visitors can enjoy the sights and sounds of the water through free trail access. Whether you enjoy fishing, bird watching, mountain biking, or nature walks, there’s no better way to understand the city’s heartbeat. Visit locally owned Riverside Outfitters when you’re ready to get out on the water itself. They host guided rafting and tubing adventures, from relaxing floats to Class IV rapid rides. 

jamesriverpark.org , 7200 Riverside Dr, Richmond, VA 23225

Get a Taste of the Gilded Age

In 1886, Richmond attorney James Dooley and his wife Sarah began plans for a 12,000-square-foot home, seated on a hill overlooking the James River. They named the finished 33-room mansion Maymont, and filled the surrounding 100 acres with an arboretum, an Italian garden, a Japanese garden, and a three-story stone barn. The Dooleys left their home to the city of Richmond and today you can explore the grounds that now include renovated gardens, a children’s farm and several habitats for rescue wildlife. Maymont Mansion is currently undergoing its largest renovation and will reopen for the holiday season in 2024, but the park is still open to the public where guests can attend outdoor events throughout the year. 

maymont.org , 1700 Hampton St, Richmond, VA 23220

Bike the Virginia Capital Trail

Stretching the 52 miles between Richmond and Jamestown, the Virginia Capital Trail is a paved, scenic greenway for pedestrians and cyclists. The route honors the history of capitals both past and present, but also gives active visitors a chance to enjoy the Commonwealth’s scenery at a thrilling clip. Whether you take an out-and-back route from Richmond or bike all the way east, make time for a stop on the veranda at Upper Shirley Vineyards . Located one-mile off the trail, bikers can refresh with a glass of wine, a laid-back lunch, and views of the bird sanctuary at Presquile National Wildlife Rescue . 

virginiacapitaltrail.org , 2803 Dock St, Richmond, VA 23223

Make Time for a Garden Tour

The classical domed conservatory and more than 50 acres of flowers draw visitors of all ages to the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden year round. With a cherry tree walk, a rose garden, a dedicated children’s area and educational programs to suit gardeners of every level, it’s no surprise that this outdoor escape continues to be one of the Richmond area’s most popular attractions. It’s worth coordinating your visit with the garden’s calendar , so you don’t miss events like the Virginia Daffodil Society Show, spring and fall plant sales, and December’s holiday light spectacular. 

lewisginter.org , 1800 Lakeside Ave, Henrico, VA 23228

Hunt for Local Treasures

If you prefer activity of the retail variety, look no further than Carytown. Known as Richmond’s “Mile of Style,” these colorful blocks of locally owned shops capture the funky spirit of this vibrant city. Head to Mongrel for clever gifts and witty cards, browse the record selection at Plan 9 Music , and shop for one-of-a-kind apparel at Bygones Vintage . During your stroll, take a peek inside the Byrd Theater, a working 95-year-old cinema and national landmark. When it’s time for a break, park yourself at one of the window tables at CanCan Brasserie for French fare with a side of people watching.

carytownrva.com , 3120 W Cary St, Richmond, VA 23221

See the View that Named the City

When you’re ready to pause and take in sights from a comfortable seat, head to Libby Hill Park in the historic Church Hill Neighborhood. Locals say that the city’s founder, William Byrd II, gave Richmond its name after the view reminded him of England’s Richmond Hill on the Thames River. While this riverfront vista is pretty on its own, it looks even better when you’re holding a chocolate croissant from celebrated local bakery Sub Rosa or for heartier lunchtime fare, a savory New Zealand-style pie from nearby Proper Pie Co.   churchhill.org , 2801 E Franklin St, Richmond, VA 23223

Stand Where Revolution Began

History buffs can visit the St. John’s Church pew where Patrick Henry gave his “Give Me Liberty” speech, as part of the debates at the Second Virginia Convention in 1775. With an audience including future presidents George Washington and Thomas Jefferson, these words influenced Virginia’s involvement in the Revolutionary War. The church is still active today, but hosts regular tours and spirited reenactments of the convention. The graveyard surrounding the church was Richmond’s first public cemetery and serves as the resting place for many early Virginians including Elizabeth Arnold Poe, the mother of Edgar Allen Poe. historicstjohnschurch.org , 2401 E Broad St, Richmond, VA 23223

Study the Spooky Past of a Literary Legend

Founded in 1922, The Poe Museum celebrates the work of Richmond native Edgar Allen Poe and holds the world’s largest collection of his artifacts. The exhibits sit in Church Hill’s Old Stone House, the city’s oldest residential building that’s still standing today. Your museum ticket includes a tour of the Enchanted Garden and the Poe Shrine. These outdoor spaces were inspired by his poem, “To One in Paradise,” and they’ve attracted visits from cultural leaders including Gertrude Stein, Salvador Dali, and John Phillip Sousa.  poemuseum.org , 1914 E Main St, Richmond, VA 23223

Explore a Mile of Award-Winning Restaurants

It’s a poorly kept secret that some of the region’s best dishes are hiding out in this hilltop neighborhood. You’ll need reservations well in advance for most, but planning ahead will be worth it for steak-frites with staff-approved wine pairings at Grisette , the Siren’s Song seafood sampler at Alewife , or Southern favorites like cornbread and fried catfish inside the cozy Roosevelt dining room. Finish your meal with a scoop of New England-style ice cream at Spotty Dog or a creative nightcap at tropical cocktail bar, Emerald Lounge .

Julia Rendleman/Getty Images

Get a Crash Course in State History

Where else can you see George Washington’s personal diary, Arthur Ashe’s tennis racket, and a pair of buttons attributed to Pocahantas, all in one stop? The Virginia Museum of History & Culture not only houses an impressive collection of artifacts and an extensive research library for public use, but they also host rotating exhibits highlighting the state’s unparalleled influence on the country. In 2024, visitors can tour a showcase on the Rosenwald schools, an early 20th century program that built educational infrastructure for Black children across 15 Southern states. 

virginiahistory.org , 428 N Arthur Ashe Blvd, Richmond, VA 23220

See Bunny Mellon’s Personal Art Collection

The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts boasts a comprehensive body of both American and international art, but interior design enthusiasts will enjoy seeing the works donated from the personal gallery of Virginia residents Paul and Rachel “Bunny” Mellon. These include paintings by Picasso, Monet, and Renoir, sculpture by Degas, and Mrs. Mellon’s Schlumberger jewels. The always-free admission to the museum’s permanent exhibitions includes works by the Gee’s Bend Quilters of Alabama, the Rumors of War statue by Kehinde Wiley, and the largest Fabergé collection outside of Russia. vmfa.museum , 200 N Arthur Ashe Blvd, Richmond, VA 23220

Jeff Greenberg/Getty Images

Walk Through the “Harlem of the South”

Join celebrated local guide Gary Flowers on a tour of Historic Jackson Ward. By 1920, this neighborhood on the north side of downtown was the thriving center of culture and commerce for Richmond’s Black residents. The community’s famed Hippodrome Theater attracted regular visits from Ella Fitzgerald and Duke Ellington. Also known as “Black Wall Street,” Jackson Ward was home to Maggie L. Walker, the first woman in the United States to found and lead a bank. In the 1950s, the construction of the Richmond-Petersburg Turnpike bisected the neighborhood and resulted in the destruction of many historic buildings. Mr. Flowers, a fourth-generation Jackson Ward resident, leads his 1.5 mile tours through 20 of the area’s most important landmarks.  walkingtheward.com , Jackson Ward, Richmond, VA 23219

Visit the Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Central Virginia

While in Jackson Ward, head to the former Leigh Street Armory to learn more about the Black Virginians that shaped American culture. The interactive exhibits at the BHMVA share the important stories of NASCAR’S first Black driver Wendell Scott, American Civil Rights Attorney Oliver Hill, Tusekeegee Airman Howard Baugh, and the Richmond 34, a group of Virginia Union University Students who conducted a sit-in at Thalhimers department store. Don’t miss the contemporary art works as well, including an abstract sculpture that pays tribute to Hampton University’s famous Emancipation Oak.  blackhistorymuseum.org , 122 West Leigh St, Richmond, VA 23220

Wine And Dine, Commonwealth Style

Toast a special occasion with champagne sunday brunch.

There’s Sunday brunch and then there’s the Jefferson Hotel’s Champagne Sunday Brunch. When you’re looking for a reservation that’s out of the ordinary, head down the iconic staircase for an unforgettable spread that includes oysters on the half shell, a carving station with Virginia ham, the hotel’s famous spoonbread, and a glittering array of colorful desserts. Often accompanied by live jazz music, this is a dining experience you won’t soon forget. 

jeffersonhotel.com , 101 W Franklin St, Richmond, VA 23220

Acquaint Yourself With Richmond’s Best Brews

Virginia has centuries of hops history, but Richmond can claim the world’s first canned beer, invented by Kreuger Brewing Co. in 1935. Fast forward to 2012, and state legislation allowing producers to sell beer on premises inspired a wave of creative brewers to open taprooms in the River City. Today it’s hard for visitors to find themselves in a neighborhood without a brewery, but Scott’s Addition is the best place for aficionados to sample a few in a single trip. Highlights include Hardywood and their Gingerbread Stout, Starr Hill’s rooftop overlooking the neighborhood, and fruited ales at the Veil .  visitrichmondva.com/drink/richmond-beer-trail  

Sample Alpine Cuisine Without Leaving the South

Lucky for Richmonders, Top Chef contestant Brittanny Anderson chose to open her Alpine-influenced restaurant in the heart of her hometown. Bring friends to sample dishes like Gruyère and Emmentaler fondue, German flammkuchen, and cacio e pepe roasted oysters. If you’re ready to keep the fun going after dinner, head next door to sister concept, Black Lodge. Sip on classic cocktails and dressed-up Miller High Life Ponies, plus take a peek at their caviar and shot pairings.

brennerpassrva.com , 3200 Rockbridge St #100, Richmond, VA 23230

Cameron Leonard

Visit the Wine Bar That Will Make You Feel Like a Local

Step down into Jardin’s cozy basement-level wine shop and read the handwritten recommendations that accompany the bottle-filled shelves. If you’re having trouble deciding on a grape, head to the bar where the friendly staff is always eager to share a bit of sommelier knowledge and dish on their latest wine-related travel. While you can certainly take your carefully chosen bottle home with you, the outdoor patio is an ideal place to sip and take in the sights of Richmond’s fan neighborhood. Add a bit of their thoughtfully sourced charcuterie to the equation and you’re in for a lovely afternoon.  jardin-rva.com , 1520 W Main St Basement Suite 1, Richmond, VA 23220

Dig Into Soul Food Favorites at Mama J’s

If you’re looking for authentic soul food, visit Velma Johnson’s family-run restaurant in Jackson Ward. Nicknamed Mama J by her daughters-in-law, Velma has been sharing the dishes of her Richmond childhood with eager patrons for more than a decade. The fried chicken is a local favorite, but save room for side dishes like candied yams and macaroni and cheese. Even the cocktail names, like Grandpa’s Spiked Tea, underscore the familial ties running through this downtown restaurant.  mamajskitchen.com , 415 N 1st St, Richmond, VA 23219

Pay Homage to an Italian Institution

When locals are craving Italian fare like eggplant parmigiana and spaghetti with clams, they climb to the second story of an unassuming building near Virginia Commonwealth University. Edo’s Squid attracts visitors from all over the mid-atlantic to enjoy authentic, family-style dishes from the perch of its laidback dining room. Don’t assume you can simply open an app on your phone and reserve a table. Hopeful diners will need to call between the hours of 3PM and 5PM or stop by in person to make a reservation, but the plates at Edo’s are always worth the extra effort. edossquidrva.com , 411 N Harrison St, Richmond, VA 23220

Try the Family Recipes of a Greek Matriarch

After emigrating to the United States in the 1960s, Stella Dikos began working the line at her husband’s Village Cafe in Richmond, serving both American classics and traditional Greek dishes. Twenty years later, she opened her namesake restaurant that continues to be a highlight in the city’s dining scene today. Start your meal with keftedes (lamb and beef meatballs), dolmades, and spanakopita, but be sure to plan ahead for dessert. The house-made baklava, served with an optional scoop of ice cream, shouldn’t be missed. 

stellasrichmond.com , 1012 Lafayette St, Richmond, VA 23221

Eat Your Way Through a Food Tour

Not enough time to visit all of the restaurants on your list? Set aside an afternoon for a Richmond Food Tour. With stops at five to six establishments, you can get a taste for one neighborhood’s famous dishes (Carytown, Church Hill, and the Arts District) or try the city’s best pizza and ice cream with a cuisine-focused outing. In true Richmond fashion, many of the neighborhood tours include an historic landmark on the side.  discoverrichmondtours.com/richmond-food-tours  

Amy Sparwasser/Getty Images

Tour the Nation’s Oldest Purpose-Built Governor’s Residence

Completed in 1813 for Governor James Barbour, the Virginia Executive Mansion has been the home for the state’s first family ever since. Though it was renovated and expanded throughout the twentieth century, the home still reflects its original federal style designed by Boston architect Alexander Parris. The grounds include a greenhouse where produce is grown for the kitchen’s daily use, a 1950s symmetrical garden by Richmond landscape architect Charles Gilette, and the Valentine-Jackson Memorial Garden, honoring the enslaved families that lived and worked at the residence. Plaques on the walls of this garden feature letters that members of the Valentine and Jackson families wrote to their relatives in Abingdon, Virginia. The Executive Mansion is open every Tuesday and Friday for tours, and no appointment is necessary. Simply approach the gatehouse and let the guard know that you’re interested in seeing the home.

executivemansion.virginia.gov , Capitol Sq, Richmond, VA 23219

Walk By the Fan’s Grand Mansions and Row Houses

If you’re in the mood for a walking tour, start near the Branch Museum of Architecture & Design and peer at the early 20th century homes that line Monument Avenue. Heading towards the quaint Meadow Park, you’ll soon see bright row houses come into view, sure to influence your front door’s next color. For true exterior eye candy, head back up on Hanover or Grove Avenues where you’ll see well-manicured gardens and porches, in addition to artsy spins on seasonal decor. This neighborhood comes alive during Halloween, when residents’ enthusiastic displays attract trick-or-treaters from all over the city. 

visitrichmondva.com/about/neighborhoods/the-fan-richmond-va

See an English Manor House, No Passport Required

Rather than starting from scratch to build their dream home in 1925, Alexander and Virginia Weddel purchased a 16th century monastery in Warwick, England. They had the stone building shipped over to Richmond in parts before beginning construction on the soon-to-be Virginia House. Upon completion, the Tudor-style home was deeded to the Virginia Historical Society and the organization maintains the house as a museum today. Visitors can see Mrs. Weddell’s opulent decor, including fine china and silver, plus tour eight acres of gardens on the James River. 

virginiahistory.org/learn/virginia-house , 4301 Sulgrave Rd, Richmond, VA 23221

Make Plans to Visit During Virginia Historic Garden Week

For visitors interested in the interiors and architecture of present-day Richmonders, mark your calendar for the Garden Club of Virginia’s full week of home tours. While this unique collaboration between the Commonwealth’s 48 clubs spans the state, the 2024 schedule includes three days of Richmond houses. Between the Westover Hills and Windsor Farms neighborhoods, you can tour contemporary rebuilds, Georgian revivals, and elegant gardens with meticulous detail. 

vagardenweek.org/tours

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Discover Richmond Food Tours

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Comedian Taylor Tomlinson on Tuesday morning announced the dates for the first leg of her ‘Save Me’ tour, which will see her traversing the U.S. from this fall through next spring.

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Tickets will be available on presale this Thursday, July 25 from 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. local time followed by the general on sale Friday, July 26 at 10 a.m. local. You can purchase them at the link.

Coming off headlining the seventh highest-grossing comedy tour of 2023, as the only woman to break into the Top 10, Tomlinson earlier this year became the only female late-night host on network television and the youngest by two decades with the debut of After Midnight on CBS, which is currently airing weekdays at 12:37 a.m. ET/PT. To date, she’s released three hour-long specials for Netflix: Quarter-Life Crisis (2020), Look At You (2022), and Have It All (2024), the latter of which debuted at #1 on the streamer.

Tomlinson is represented by UTA and Levity Entertainment Group. View her set of new tour dates below.

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