Unusual & Offbeat Destinations in Richmond, United States

1. Ripley's Believe It or Not!

Experience the bizarre and unusual at Ripley's, featuring oddities from around the world.

Oddities Collection: Collection of over 500 artifacts showcasing the strange and unexpected
Interactive Exhibits: Engaging, hands-on exhibits that challenge your perceptions of reality
Educational Experience: Promotes understanding and appreciation of the world's curiosities

Visit a Gilded Age estate with beautiful gardens and animal exhibits.

Historical Mansion: Experience life in the early 20th century through guided tours
Nature & Wildlife: Explore nature trails and see deer, sheep, and other animals
Garden Variety: Stroll through unique gardens featuring Japanese, Italian, and children's areas

Catch performances in a former water pumping station on Brown's Island.

Unique Venue: Performances take place in a historic, industrial setting
Diverse Productions: Offers theater, dance, music, and comedy productions
Community Focus: Supports local artists and fosters artistic growth in the community

Discover a treasure trove of magic artifacts and learn tricks from professional magicians.

Magic Museum: Collection of over 10,000 magical items and memorabilia
Hands-On Experience: Workshops where you can learn magic tricks from experts
Educational Programs: Offers educational programs for schools and scout groups

Explore Richmond's history through artifacts and exhibits at this local museum.

Local History: Showcases over 300 years of Virginia history
Interactive Exhibits: Engaging exhibits that encourage visitor participation
Rotating Displays: Regularly changing displays keep content fresh and exciting

Explore the mysteries of science through interactive exhibits and shows.

Interactive Exhibits: Hands-on activities designed to engage visitors of all ages
IMAX Dome Theater: Large screen IMAX films for an immersive viewing experience
Planetarium: Stargazing and space exploration shows in a dome theater

Dine or boat on the James River with stunning views of Richmond.

Scenic Views: Beautiful, unobstructed views of the James River and downtown Richmond
Dining Options: Variety of restaurants offering casual to fine dining options
Boat Rentals: Rent a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard for a fun day on the river

Explore Richmond's charming historic district with unique shops and restaurants.

Historic Architecture: Victorian-era houses and architecture dating back to the 1800s
Local Shops: Unique boutiques offering locally made goods and gifts
Food & Drink: A wide variety of dining options from casual to fine dining

Learn about the history and impact of slavery in Richmond.

Historical Significance: Traces the journey of enslaved Africans through downtown Richmond
Educational Experience: Promotes understanding and appreciation of this difficult history
Community Impact: Encourages dialogue about racial injustice and its ongoing effects

Tour the beautiful state capitol building with stunning architecture and history.

Historical Significance: Built in the late 1800s, this architectural masterpiece has been the seat of Virginia government
Guided Tours: Offers guided tours to explore the building's history and architecture
Art & History: Features a large collection of paintings, sculptures, and historical artifacts

Explore an extensive collection of art from around the world.

World-Class Collection: One of the largest collections of art in the United States
Diverse Exhibits: Includes works from ancient times to modern day
Research Center: Provides opportunities for research and scholarship in the field of art history

Honor Virginia's veterans at this moving tribute to their service.

Veteran Tribute: A beautiful, peaceful place to honor and remember those who served
Museum & Exhibits: Historical exhibits that tell the story of Virginia's military history
Educational Programs: Offers educational programs for schools and scout groups

Explore beautiful gardens filled with plants from around the world.

Diverse Plant Life: Features over 1,800 types of plants
Garden Variety: Includes themed gardens such as the Children's Garden and Rose Garden
Conservation Efforts: Supports conservation efforts through education and research programs

Learn about the Civil War's Battle of Richmond at this historic park.

Historical Significance: Sites related to the Battle of Richmond during the American Civil War
Educational Experience: Promotes understanding and appreciation of this significant event in history
Hiking Trails: Offers hiking trails for visitors to explore the park's natural beauty

Discover the story of the Confederate States of America at this history museum.

Confederate History: Collection dedicated to the history and culture of the Confederate States
Artifacts & Exhibits: Features artifacts, documents, and exhibits related to the Confederacy
Educational Programs: Offers educational programs for schools and scout groups