Richmond in 48: Budget-Friendly Fun

Experience Southern charm on a shoestring budget in Richmond.

21 June 2023

Plan a budget-friendly trip to Richmond, known for its rich history and cultural attractions. Tour the Virginia State Capitol, stroll along the James River and explore the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. Stay at affordable accommodation options such as hostel or budget hotels.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Finding Flavor in Richmond

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at River City Diner, known for their fluffy pancakes and homemade biscuits.
  • Take a stroll through the colorful Carytown neighborhood, featuring independent boutiques and vintage shops.
  • Visit the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, showcasing art from around the world, including an impressive collection of Faberge eggs.
  • For lunch, try out Proper Pie Co., a quaint shop serving up savory and sweet pies made from scratch.
  • Take a guided beer tour with Richmond Breweries Tours, highlighting the city's booming craft beer scene.
  • Wind down the day with dinner at Mama J's Kitchen, a soul food institution serving up classic dishes like fried chicken and collard greens.
  • HOTEL: The Quirk Hotel offers a stylish and affordable option, with unique decor and a prime location in the artsy downtown area.
Day 2

Discovering History in Richmond

  • Grab breakfast at Millie's Diner, a funky spot known for their creative twists on breakfast classics.
  • Visit the iconic Monument Avenue, featuring statues of Confederate generals and historic architecture.
  • Head to the American Civil War Museum to learn about the city's role in the war and its aftermath.
  • For lunch, stop at Perly's, a Jewish deli serving up signature sandwiches and homemade soups.
  • Take a walk through the historic Hollywood Cemetery, final resting place of many famous figures including two U.S. Presidents.
  • End the day with dinner at The Roosevelt, a farm-to-table restaurant known for their modern take on Southern cuisine.
  • HOTEL: The Graduate Richmond offers a retro-inspired stay with affordable rates and a convenient location near many of the city's top attractions.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Richmond by plane is to fly into Richmond International Airport (RIC). From there, you can take public transportation or rent a car to reach your final destination.

Car

Driving is a popular way to get to Richmond, especially if you're coming from nearby cities like Washington D.C. or Virginia Beach. Major highways like I-95 and I-64 connect Richmond to other cities in the region.

Train

Although there aren't any direct trains to Richmond, you can take the Amtrak train to nearby cities like Washington D.C. or Williamsburg and then take a bus or rental car to reach Richmond.

Boat

While there aren't any direct boat routes to Richmond, you can take a scenic cruise along the James River to reach the city. The Jamestown-Scotland Ferry is also a unique way to reach Richmond, as it crosses the James River and connects with nearby towns in Virginia.

Bus

Taking a bus to Richmond is a convenient and affordable option, with companies like Greyhound, Megabus, and BoltBus offering routes to and from the city. The Greyhound bus station is located in downtown Richmond, while the Megabus and BoltBus stations are located just outside the city center.

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