Richmond, Virginia, or “RVA” was recently named #1 on CNN Travel’s list of America's 10 Best Towns to Visit in 2024! The region’s unique blend of history, diverse culinary delights, and outdoor activities that locals know and love have made Richmond a premier travel destination with small town charm that visitors are sure to enjoy. But don't take our word for it - read on to learn why CNN Travel ranked RVA #1 in the nation!
#1. Diverse & Delicious Food & Drinks
The Richmond Region’s culinary scene is thriving, with its diverse neighborhoods and flavors, robust offering of Black-owned eateries and a booming beer scene.
"Lillie Pearl blends West African ingredients with Southern cuisine, Maya Latin Kitchen has deliciously messy birria tacos, and Mantu features Afghan fine dining." – CNN Travel
Try something new during your trip and follow along the Richmond Region Beer Trail. With over 30 craft breweries to explore throughout the region, including the popular Scott’s Addition neighborhood, Richmond is your craft beverage capital. Not a beer fan? RVA also boasts the first ever Richmond Region Mimosa Trail and is home to numerous wineries and coffee spots, including James River Cellars Winery and Urban Hang Suite.
#2. Historic & Vibrant Neighborhoods
Richmond’s neighborhoods are rich in character and history, with a mix of contemporary neighborhood hotspots and historical sites around every corner. Richmond is also a destination where you can dive deep and witness its complex and ever-evolving history.
“Today, the neighborhoods offer a variety of bars, entertainment venues and historical sites, including a museum dedicated to onetime Richmond resident Edgar Allan Poe as well as markers along the Richmond Slave Trail, a self-guided walking route that tells the somber history of slavery in the city.” – CNN Travel
Visitors can learn about Richmond’s role in the Civil War at the American Civil War Museum or visit the historic St. John’s Church in Church Hill to see where Patrick Henry delivered his famous “Give me liberty or give me death!” speech. Check out other historic areas and landmarks across the region including the Jackson Ward neighborhood, a vibrant cultural hub that was once nicknamed the Harlem of the South.
#3. Unmatched Outdoor Entertainment
Enjoy a blend of natural beauty and urban bustle all in the heart of the Richmond Region! From the class IV white water rapids on the James River flowing through the city’s downtown corridor to sprawling picturesque parks and outdoor street festivals, endless outdoor fun is year-round in RVA.
“That easy hop from one interesting spot to the next is just one more reason to head to Richmond right now.” – CNN Travel
The region’s commitment to outdoor fun can be seen in places like Maymont and Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden plus festivals like the Carytown Watermelon Festival and the Richmond Folk Festival. Explore even more of the region’s outdoor attractions.
Discover all that RVA has to offer and see why this destination was named #1! Plan your trip to check out the hotspots and hidden gems that make the Richmond Region a must-visit according to CNN Travel.
Need more inspiration for your next RVA trip?
Discover even more things to do in the Richmond Region in our latest blog post!
100 THINGS TO LOVE ABOUT THE RICHMOND REGION
