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First-Timer’s Guide to Richmond, Virginia: A 2-Day Itinerary That Mixes History, Art, and Southern Grit

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First-Timer’s Guide to Richmond, Virginia: A 2-Day Itinerary That Mixes History, Art, and Southern Grit
Richmond isn’t just Virginia’s capital — it’s a living museum of American history that decided to get a tattoo, start a craft beer scene, and host punk shows in old church basements.
If you’re visiting for the first time, you’ll find yourself wandering cobblestone streets one minute and sipping a nitro cold brew in a graffiti-covered alley the next.

Here’s your Illphated-approved guide to making the most of 48 hours in RVA.

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Day 1 – History Meets Hipster
Morning – Coffee & Capital Views

Start at Lamplighter Coffee Roasters — it’s got that local, slightly industrial vibe with a killer roast.

Stroll over to the Virginia State Capitol, designed by Thomas Jefferson, and wander the surrounding Capitol Square.

Late Morning – Canal Walk & Shockoe Slip

Hit the Canal Walk for public art, historic markers, and a little perspective on how the city grew up along the James River.

Explore Shockoe Slip, full of cobblestone charm, boutique shops, and old warehouses turned into restaurants.

Lunch – BBQ or Biscuits

ZZQ for Texas-style brisket that somehow found its way to Virginia and never left.

Or Perly’s for an old-school Jewish deli with a southern twist.

Afternoon – Museums & Murals

The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA) is world-class and free.

Wander around the Fan District to see tree-lined streets, historic row houses, and RVA’s mural scene.

Evening – Sunset & Skyline

Head to Libby Hill Park for one of the best sunset views of the city.

Dinner at Lemaire if you want upscale Southern, or Mama J’s Kitchen for comfort food straight from the soul.

Nightcap at The Jasper, a speakeasy-style cocktail bar that nails the details.

Day 2 – The James River & Neighborhood Hopping
Morning – Breakfast & River Trails

Grab breakfast at The Fancy Biscuit — the name says it all.

Walk or bike the Belle Isle Trail for James River views, rock hopping, and a taste of RVA’s outdoorsy side.

Late Morning – Carytown & Shopping

Explore Carytown, Richmond’s quirky shopping district — vintage stores, indie bookshops, and specialty food markets.

Lunch – International Flavors

Beijing on Grove for refined Chinese cuisine.

Or Bamboo Cafe for a funky diner vibe with eclectic eats.

Afternoon – Breweries & Street Life

RVA’s beer game is strong — check out The Veil Brewing Co. or Hardywood Park Craft Brewery.

If you’re more into caffeine, Rostov’s Coffee & Tea is a Richmond staple.

Evening – Arts & Eats

Catch a performance at Altria Theater or live music at The Broadberry.

Dinner at Heritage for modern Southern or Sub Rosa Bakery for wood-fired bread and pastries that taste like art.

Quick Illphated Tips
Stay central — Quirk Hotel for artsy vibes or Graduate Richmond for rooftop pool energy.

RVA’s neighborhoods each have a personality — if you have more time, dive into Scott’s Addition, Church Hill, and Manchester.

Bring comfy shoes — cobblestones + hills = stealth workout.

Locals are friendly but opinionated — if you ask for food recs, prepare for passionate debates.

Bottom line:
Richmond’s the kind of place where you can spend the morning learning about Civil War history and the afternoon drinking a sour beer in a converted train station. Two days will give you a taste, but you’ll leave wanting more.

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