The Best Day Trips From Richmond Virginia

Richmond, the capital of Virginia, is a city that has a number of museums and galleries, and is always buzzing with activities and things to do. There is also plenty to see and do outside the city, but within easy access so you can be back from a day of exploring and in Richmond again for the night. Here are some of the best day trips to take.

Charlottesville

In addition to the home of Thomas Jefferson, Monticello, Charlottesville boasts a beautiful historic downtown area. Just about 70 miles from Richmond, a day trip to Charlottesville should include a tour of Monticello, a walk through the quaint, brick-lined row of shops downtown, and plenty of good food!

Colonial Williamsburg

Monticello Wine Trail

If you love a good glass of wine and scenic views, the Monticello Wine Trail is what you need. Just outside of Charlottesville, the area has over 30 wineries in beautiful countryside settings. An easy day trip to see some vineyards and enjoy a few tastings or glasses, but make sure to have a designated driver.

Tappahannock cruise to Tangier Island

Head to the small town of Tappahannock, about 45 miles from Richmond and get on a relaxing cruise up the bay to the small island of Tangier. Explore the island on foot or rent a bike, and enjoy some of the best crab cakes in Virginia before heading back.

Whitewater rafting

Escape the bustle of the city by rafting down the James River rapids and stop at a deserted island to enjoy some snacks and refreshments. You won’t be far from the city, but it sure will feel like you are miles away!

Lake Anna

Just 60 miles away from Richmond, Lake Anna is an expansive and beautiful 13,000-acre lake. Head here for a day on the water, or fishing, swimming and hiking.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.