About the Richmond Area

Richmond, Virginia is considered a true mid-sized city of the South: modern while mindful of its rich heritage. Founded in 1607 by British explorers journeying up the James River from the first settlement in Jamestown, it was the home of Pocahontas. In 1775, Patrick Henry made his famous “Give me liberty or give me death” speech in St. John’s Church. Thomas Jefferson designed the Virginia state capital located in downtown Richmond. During the Civil War, the city was named the Capital of the Confederacy. Eight major Civil War battles were fought within the city and in the surrounding countryside.  The famous Hollywood Cemetery holds the remains of Jefferson Davis, twenty-five Confederate generals along with over 1,800 veterans of that war.  It is also the resting place for Presidents James Monroe and John Tyler.  Edgar Allen Poe considered Richmond his home as it was the place where he grew up, married and first gained his literary reputation.  Arthur Ashe, the famous tennis professional was born and raised in Richmond. Today, museums, monuments, and battlefields commemorate Richmond’s nearly 400-year history.

Richmond VA Floodwall

View of Richmond from the Flood Walk

Any visitor would be remiss if they did not visit many of the historic areas.  Monument Avenue is well known for its wide, tree-lined median with statues of famous Richmonders including General Robert E. Lee on horseback, General Stonewall Jackson, General JEB Stuart, Jefferson Davis, and at its far end, tennis great Arthur Ashe Jr.

Richmond’s location is in the heart of the Mid-Atlantic region is centrally located in Virginia on the falls of the James River. While many believe the best part of Richmond is its geography, others appreciate the short drive to the mountains, the beach, and the nation’s capital.

While offering a unique and surprising mix of cultural sophistication and legendary Southern charm, Richmond also boasts an excellent quality of life. Richmond recently was named one of America’s 30 “Most Livable Communities” by Partners for Livable Communities, a national non-profit organization .  From countless fine-dining restaurants to outdoor parks and trails, to fine arts, theater and architecture, culture is plentiful here. A vibrant climate along with beautiful scenery make this Virginia capital a great place to call home.

Read what the Richmond Times-Dispatch has to say about White Oak, an area shopping mall.

Broadstreet in Richmond St John's Church Richmond VA Richmond view from Manchester St James River VHS Richmond View from Libby Hill VMFA
Broadstreet in Richmond St John's Church Richmond VA Richmond view from Manchester St James River VHS Richmond View from Libby Hill VMFA

What’s Nearby