DC Day Trip | 13 Hours in Richmond, VA

Spring break escape to Virginia’s capital — Richmond! 🚗💨 All these stops are totally FREE (no tickets needed!). Perfect for a fun, budget-friendly day! 1️⃣ Maymont Step back into the 19th century! 🏰 Explore gorgeous gardens, a historic mansion, and even pet friendly farm animals 🐐. Perfect for families and photo lovers! Loved the Japanese and Italian gardens. The park is huge — you could easily spend the whole day here! 2️⃣ ZZQ Texas Craft Barbeque 👏 HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! Known as the best Texas-style BBQ on the East Coast. Many drive hours just to try it! Started as a food truck, now serving authentic smoky goodness. 🍖 Try our order (see pic for inspiration)! Only $20-30 per person. ⚠️ Pro tip: Go after 2 PM to avoid crowds, but some meats may sell out! 3️⃣ James River Park Pipeline Walkway Adventure alert! 🚶‍♂️ Walk the narrow pipeline pathway — it only fits one person at a time! Super fun and a bit thrilling with great river views. 4️⃣ Blanchard's Coffee Broad Street ☕ Industrial-chic coffee shop with amazing vibes. Their seasonal specials are delicious! Perfect place to recharge. You can also grab bags of beans or ready-to-brew coffee to take home. 5️⃣ Libby Hill Park One of the best spots to catch the sunset! 🌅 Offers a stunning panoramic view of the James River and Richmond’s skyline. So peaceful and picture-worthy! 6️⃣ Virginia Museum of Fine Arts 🎨 Art lovers, don’t miss this! The Asian art collection is especially impressive. Free general admission — great for a cultured break. Other places worth checking out: 📍 Children's Museum of Richmond – perfect for kids 📍 Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden – beautiful blooms 🌸 📍 The Poe Museum – a must for Edgar Allan Poe fans 📍 Carytown – cute streets for shopping & eating 📍 Hollywood Cemetery – historic & scenic Richmond is packed with fun, family-friendly spots and great food. Perfect for a 1-2 day trip from DC! 👏 #DCWeekend #RichmondVA #DCTravel #FreeThingsToDo #FamilyTravel #VAEats #DMVFood #RichmondGuide #DayTripIdeas