Richmond, Virginia is for Lovers

Spring is the time for family travelers and, in particular, couples, to visit Richmond, Virginia, when gardens are in bloom and the city hosts the annual Riverrock Festival. This year, the city’s arts and cultural calendar is especially full as they honor Richmond’s diverse history and communities.

Admire the romantic Gilded Age opulence of Maymount before exploring its magnificent Italian garden. Enjoy the flowers and fountains from a seat in one of the gazebos before descending into the estate’s serene Japanese garden.

Stop by the Valentine Museum to see one of America’s finest collections of fashions from the 18^th century to the present. Return after dusk to see the outdoor “Signs of the Times” display of vintage neon signs fully lit.

The Virginia Museum of History and Culture will debut its renovation with a grand opening on May 14,   

highlighting the city’s emphasis on diversity by telling a more complete story of Virginia’s past. The museum transformed its exhibits to include reflections on the racial and gender inequities throughout its history. In the same spirit, Reclaiming the Monument temporary light installations “reclaim” the monument to Robert E. Lee with projected images and symbols of diversity, civil rights and inclusion.

Fans of Gothic literature will want to visit the Poe Museum, celebrating its 100^th anniversary this year at the author’s Richmond home.

The Riverrock Festival celebrates the outdoors with music, art and outdoor activities,  including trail runs, yoga classes, mountain biking, kayaking, fishing and sustainability projects. The festival offers a free chance to try sports such as kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding.

Relax over a dinner for two in one of Richmond’s wide variety of restaurants. A favorite is L’Opossum, spinning French cuisine with southern flair in dishes such as roast quail creole and desserts like lavender-limoncello crème brûlée. At the new-American Lillie Pearl you’ll find dishes such as lobster & shrimp & grits, and buttermilk-battered fried chicken.