From Old to New Experience all of Richmond Virginia this Fall

“Fall is a great time to visit Richmond for two reasons,” says Erin Bagnell, public relations manager, Richmond Metropolitan Convention & Visitors Bureau. “There a lot going on with all of the festivals and events, and it’s a nice time of the year.”

And that’s not just a blanket statement, either. However, it only tells half of the story on what makes Richmond a great destination to experience.

Rich in history, Bagnell points out there’s over 400 years of history represented here, dating back to the beginning of the nation’s history.

“From the cobblestone streets to Monument Avenue to the refurbished tobacco homes, history seeps into everything here,” she says.

“We take it a step further than just talking about history here, you really feel it as well.”

You can feel it in such places as the Virginia State Capitol (map), designed by Thomas Jefferson that houses the nation’s oldest legislative assembly. Enjoy the reenactment of Patrick Henry’s famous line, “Give me Liberty or Give me Death,” at St. John’s Church (map). Explore the American Civil War Center (map) that Bagnell says provides a look at the war through three unique perspectives: Union, Confederate and African American. Meander through Henricus Historical Park (map), recreated site of the second English settlement. Discover the historic Jackson Ward neighborhood, one of Richmond’s oldest neighborhood that once known as “Harlem of the South.”

While it is quite easy to immerse yourself in Richmond’s history, you don’t want to miss out on the city’s other offerings. Places like the various wineries to the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (map) to Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden (map) should be included on your itinerary to round out your experience. And for those needing some thrills, there’s the Intimidator 305 at Kings Dominion (map), and rafting with Riverside Outfitters.

And then there’s the food. No getaway anywhere would be complete without enjoying a meal or two at a local establishment. And Richmond doesn’t disappoint in this area, either.

“It’s all about the food here,” comments Bagnell. “There’s tons of different options.”

She adds that the area is fortunate to have a lot of surrounding farms, and that the farm-to-table movement is really big here.

In addition, Bagnell says there a lot of fusion restaurants as well.

“There’s always something interesting and different. The restaurant scene doesn’t disappoint.”

As for Richmond itself, Bagnell says it’s an authentic destination.

“You’re getting the full experience. There’s nothing false about it.”

Did You Know: You can experience Richmond in a variety of different ways through tours. You can explore by Segway, see where certain movies were filmed in the area, or take a canal cruise.

photo credit: (top left) Monument Avenue, (middle right) St. John’s Church, (bottom left) Canal Boat, all courtesy of Richmond Metropolitan Convention & Visitors Bureau.