Top 10 Tourist Spots in Richmond: Stroll Through Beautiful Streets with Historic Buildings

Richmond is a city located in the state of Virginia, USA. There are many popular tourist spots around the James River that flows through the city center.
Richmond is a city that values history. The records of the American Civil War, the founding of America, and the people involved can be found throughout the city. With its many historic buildings, art museums, and museums, it offers a deep understanding of Richmond's and America's culture and history. Here are some of Richmond's must-visit tourist spots.

1. Maymont

Maymont is a popular tourist destination along the James River in Richmond. It was a lavish private residence from 1893 to 1925, and later opened to the public. Today, it attracts many visitors and is also used for weddings.
The estate features a castle-like mansion designed in Romanesque Revival style, surrounded by gardens in various styles, including an Italian Garden and a Japanese Garden. It is a great place to explore. There is also a farm with animals and a nature center, making it a perfect spot for families.
Inside the mansion, you'll find many rooms with exhibits such as white fireplaces, a luxurious swan-shaped bed, and beautiful woven sofas. Families with children can enjoy feeding animals like horses, rabbits, and ducks at the farm. The nature center also houses animals like alligators, seahorses, and otters, so be sure to visit Maymont during your trip to Richmond.

2. Edgar Allan Poe Museum

If you take a stroll down East Main Street in downtown Richmond, you'll come across the Edgar Allan Poe Museum. The entrance may look like an ordinary building on the street, but once you enter, you'll find a spacious area with a garden surrounded by red brick buildings and a fountain, evoking a sense of history.
At the entrance of another building, there is a statue of Edgar Allan Poe, who is still beloved as an American hero. Poe was the first American to attempt to make a living as a professional writer, and anyone interested in literary works or writing should not miss this museum.
The museum displays some of Poe's personal belongings, such as his vest, trunk, and cane. Additionally, there are many books containing his poems and stories. The museum offers five different themed exhibits across five buildings, making it a must-see destination in Richmond.

3. Agecroft Hall

Agecroft Hall, located along the James River, is a manor house built in the late 15th century. Originally located in Lancashire, England, the building was dismantled, shipped across the ocean, and reconstructed in Richmond.
Many tourists explore the house on guided tours. The house features luxurious wooden panel walls and windows with leaded glass, blending European and American interior styles into a beautiful space. Notable areas include a large parlor that offers both comfort and privacy. It functioned not only as a bedroom but also as a place to dine.
Outside, you'll find a beautiful English garden, filled with aromatic flowers when in bloom. The artfully designed garden is a must-see. There’s also a gift shop with English-inspired products, perfect for souvenirs.

4. Hollywood Cemetery

Hollywood Cemetery, known as one of the most visited cemeteries in the United States, is located along the James River and features a garden cemetery with a small hill within its grounds. Visitors can stroll along the wide pathways, visiting the graves of many notable individuals.
The cemetery is the final resting place of several famous figures, including James Monroe, the 5th President of the United States, John Tyler, the 10th President, as well as judges and governors. Visitors can join guided tours to hear explanations, but for families with children, Segway Richmond offers a fun option to explore the cemetery on a Segway. There are also trolley and electric vehicle options, so be sure to check them out.

5. St. John's Church

St. John's Church, where daily tours are held, is located along East Broad Street on a grassy site with a white church featuring a tower, a visitor center, and historic graves.
Visitors on the church tour are guided by actors dressed as Patrick Henry and Thomas Jefferson, learning about Virginia’s role during the American Revolution. One of the highlights is hearing Patrick Henry’s famous speech, "Give me liberty, or give me death," in the very place where it was delivered, captivating many tourists.
The cemetery tour shares the history of the graves, including notable figures like George Wythe and Edward Carrington, who contributed to Virginia’s development. The historical tales are brought to life through entertaining costumes, making for an enjoyable experience.

6. Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site

The Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site was the former home of African American activist Maggie L. Walker. Born and raised in Richmond, she was the first African American woman to become a bank executive. At a time when women did not yet have voting rights in the U.S., her achievements were groundbreaking. She was dedicated to fighting against both racial and gender discrimination, and poverty in the black community.
The house, now a tourist site, is a large two-story building with more than ten rooms, including a library. It features personal items like medicines and hair dyes, offering a glimpse into her daily life. Family photos, social activism badges, and newspaper clippings help visitors understand her interests and character. Be sure to visit this historic home during your trip to Richmond.

7. Fan District

The Fan District is located on the west side of downtown Richmond and is named after the fan-shaped layout of the streets. This historical residential area features a blend of architectural styles, with buildings dating from the late 19th to early 20th century. It is a popular tourist spot, showcasing Richmond's architectural heritage.
Along West Main Street, from 1301 to 1307, you'll see a vibrant display of houses in orange, blue, and green. As you stroll through the district, you can admire a variety of buildings, including Richardsonian Romanesque, Colonial Revival, and Art Deco styles.
In addition to its architectural charm, the district also offers restaurants, commercial establishments, a chapel, and attractions such as the Robert E. Lee Monument. Enjoy the blend of Richmond's history and artistic cityscape during your visit.

8. The American Civil War Museum

For those interested in American history, the American Civil War Museum is a must-visit. The Civil War, fought over whether to continue the institution of slavery, is a defining event in U.S. history. The museum houses important documents from the era, along with more than 100,000 items, including artifacts, photographs, and historical items related to African American history, making it a thought-provoking experience on human rights.
There are three exhibition sites in Richmond: Historic Tredegar, Appomattox, and the White House of the Confederacy Museum, each offering fascinating exhibits. If you're visiting Richmond, be sure to check them out.

9. Virginia Museum of Fine Arts

The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts showcases a collection of over 35,000 works of art from major cultural regions around the world. It is particularly renowned for its stunning collection of South Asian, Himalayan, and African art. Art lovers will find this museum especially appealing, with its extensive collections of Art Nouveau, Art Deco, and American modern contemporary art.
Among the highlights is a Russian crystal Easter egg with two paintings framed in gold, and an English silver spoon container adorned with mermaids and marine life motifs. The museum also features French Art Nouveau pieces with elegant curves, such as a wooden cabinet mirror and drawer designs. The beauty of these works is truly worth experiencing.

10. Science Museum of Virginia

At the Science Museum of Virginia, you can experience high-tech presentations in the Dome, a large digital theater. These presentations cover topics such as the journey of butterflies, volcanoes, tornadoes, the moon, and auroras, all in stunning detail.
The museum also offers interactive exhibits such as "Question Power," where visitors can track real-time energy consumption and learn ways to reduce carbon emissions, and "Boost," where you can engage in physical challenges like tightrope walking and yoga, or sample healthy snacks prepared by the kitchen staff. These exhibits are fun for both children and adults, making it an excellent choice for families visiting Richmond.
A recent highlight is the "Speed" exhibit, which allows you to experience things that are usually too fast to see or experience by slowing them down. You'll discover what lies behind various speeds—be sure to check it out during your visit.

Summary

If you're enjoying a stroll through Richmond, popular spots include the "Monument Avenue," where you can explore parks with historical monuments, and the "Canal Walk," offering beautiful views along the James River. For shopping, head to "Carytown," or for a panoramic view of the city, the "City Hall Observation Deck" is a must-visit.
Although not covered here, the "Virginia State Capitol" is also a highly rated tourist destination, where you can learn about history and tour the beautiful building. Enjoy your visit to the amazing city of Richmond.