Plan a trip to Richmond and enjoy beautiful surroundings and a taste of history. There are plenty of fun recreational and historical activities in this metropolitan area. Whether traveling to the city on business or pleasure, tourists can take their pick of upscale shopping, restaurants, museums, and more. Each year more than 5 million tourists visit Richmond. Outdoor activities include a tour of Maymont, a 100-acre estate that boast of beautiful gardens and landscaping. Other fun activities include canoeing at Pocahontas State Park, Richmond Metro Zoo, or spend a day at Paramount's Kings Dominion, an amusement park with more than 200 thrilling rides.
A fun family-oriented attraction is Metro Richmond Zoo. Although this zoo is small, there are plenty of things to do and see. This zoo features hands-on interaction with animals, and children will love the opportunity feed animals and pet a giraffe. Other zoo attractions include a fifteen-minute ride on the Safari Ski Ride and Jungle Carousel. The Metro Richmond Zoo is located on the outskirts of the city, and it is a little difficult to find. Tourists can take Route 288 to Hull Street Road or Route 360. Continue on the road and keep an open eye for signs.
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Explore Richmond’s history and plan a visit to the University of Richmond. Built in the 1830’s, the University features some of the finest architectural designs in the city. Walk the campus and tour the grounds. There is an old church located on campus, which is perfect for weddings. The campus is full of rich historical elements, and the perfect attractions for history or collegiate travelers. If you enjoy sports, watch a basketball game at Robbins Center.
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If looking for family-fun, come to G-Force Karts and spend the entire day in a fun atmosphere. The track features junior karts, which allow children between the ages of 8 and 15 years old to race other drivers. There are two tracks available – an adult track and a children's track. This establishment provides all necessary equipment. Simply come and have a good time. G-Force Karts also features other fun attractions such as video arcade, air hockey game, and billiards room.
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If looking for a local attraction off the beaten path, plan to spend a day at Pocahontas State Park. Located 20 minutes from Downtown Richmond, this park offers something for the entire family. Visit the Aqua Center and take pleasure in a host of water sports such as kiddie pool, water slides, leisure pools, and more. Other park attractions feature river canoe rides, two fishing lakes, campgrounds, hiking paths, kayak rental, and horseback riding trails.
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Bring the kids to Paramount's Kings Dominion and enjoy more than 400 acres of pure fun with over 200 rides. Many people say that this amusement park has the biggest and best collection of roller coasters on the East Coast. Ride favorite attractions such as Volcano, Outer Limits, and Shock Wave, a stand-up roller coaster. There are also plenty of family rides and kid-sized coasters. Watch a live performance in the park theatre, or cool off at Water Works, Kings Dominion's water park. Admission to the water park is free with general admission to the theme park.
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Once an old railroad station, the historic building located on Broad Street has been converted into one of the largest museums in Richmond. The Science Museum of Virginia features several hands-on exhibits, and patrons can learn facts about various areas of science from chemistry to electricity. Many say the museum is one of the best attractions for children. With tons of interactive gadgets and computer lab, getting children to leave the museum is challenging. Other attractions include the Museum gift shop, restaurant, and IMAX theatre.
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Tourists enjoy a variety of activities. If looking for a night of fun, come to Richmond's Comedy Sports Improv Theater and spend the night laughing. This live performance is best compared to the hit improvisation show, "Whose Line Is It Anyway?" This comedy act is designed for mature audience, and patrons can expect adult humor. Drinks and food are served throughout the show. Order a tasty appetizer, delicious cocktail, sandwich, pizza, or dessert. Performances are held every Friday and Saturday night!
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Richmond is full of beautiful landscaping and gardens. Take a quiet walk through Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden and view the tropical plants, orchids, and more. The garden blooms year-round, and tourists can tour the 40-acre grounds and observe a variety of unusual and unique plants. Children will enjoy the Children's Garden, which features a tree house and water play area. Furthermore, the Botanical Garden includes a Healing Garden, Sunken Garden, and Perennial Garden. Before leaving, stop and have lunch in the Garden Café, or purchase souvenirs from the Garden Shop.
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Davis and Main, Richmond, offers great food at a terrific price. Bring the family and choose popular American cuisines such as grilled and seafood favorites. There is also a huge selection of homemade desserts and a full bar. Come in and listen to live jazz every Tuesday.
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Bangkok Café, Richmond, is the only Thai restaurant on Richmond's Southside. Come inside and enjoy a casual ambiance and flavorsome menu selections. This restaurant offers a variety of classic Thai meals and children are welcomed!
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Easy Street, Richmond, features several low-priced entrees, which makes this restaurant a top pick for families. Dine inside the restaurant or sit outside on the patio. Delicious entrees include sandwiches, steaks, and fresh seafood.
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Bleu Bistro, Richmond, creates a quiet and relaxed ambiance that is perfect for couples, large groups, and corporate get-togethers. Listen to live music and enjoy delicious food at a great price.
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Karen's Diner, Richmond, is perfect for tourists who seek "down home cooking." Visit Karen's Diner and enjoy tasty selections such as mashed potatoes, Southern breakfast foods, and more. This casual restaurant features a private dining area, which is perfect for rehearsal dinners, luncheons, or large groups.
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Buckhead's, Richmond, features classic favorites such as the finest cut of pork and beef, fresh seafood, and more. The wine selection includes more than 800 choices, and the service is impeccable. The dark décor and dim lights create a laid-back and romantic atmosphere.
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Inter China, Richmond, offers a nice variety of luscious meals and soups. Order the house specialty Peking Duck, or choose a classic Chinese dish such as General's Tso chicken, Lo Mein, or Shrimp Fried Rice. This restaurant is perfect for families, and takeout is available.
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Escabar Restaurant, Richmond, is a fine dining Italian restaurant that features a relaxed atmosphere and great prices. Ideal for couples, families, and large parties, this restaurant offers several succulent menu selections, wine lists, and perfectly mixed cocktails from the bar.
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In and Out Restaurant, Richmond, is perfect for individuals who look for distinctive cuisines. This Korean establishment let's patrons sample a variety of exotic food such as spicy sea snail soup. Of course, the restaurant also serves several traditional or well-known dishes such as shrimp rice, spareribs, stir-fry, and more.
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Since Richmond has the fourth highest murder rate in the country, tourists should always pay attention to their surroundings and avoid certain areas. The heart of Downtown and the suburbs feature several attractions and restaurants, and are one of the safest areas of Richmond. Neighborhoods to avoid at night include the Jackson Ward area and the east side of Richmond. If driving through unsafe areas at night keep car doors locked and frequently scan the area. Do not stop at ATM’s at night, and stay in well-lit areas.
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If planning to spend a day in Downtown Richmond, it can take several minutes to find a parking space. There are plenty of parking lots and garages near Downtown attractions. However, these parking areas are costly, and a few parking lots set time limits on the space. Tourists can search for available parking on the street. Don’t forget to pay the parking meter. Traffic cops regularly patrol the streets, and parking at an expired meter justifies a parking ticket.
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This old warehouse has been converted into one of the hottest dance clubs in Richmond. Come to this stylish and trendy nightspot for Happy Hour, or choose a delicious entrée from the menu. The restaurant transforms into a dance club on Wednesday – Saturday.
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This trendy nightclub is the perfect spot for the 18 and up crowd. Located in Downtown Richmond, this is a great place to unwind after a long day. Come inside Wednesday – Saturday and enjoy live music. The atmosphere is laid-back, and the club offers a full menu selection and bar.
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