Richmond City Walk 🚶♀️

Winter in the U.S. doesn’t always offer the most scenic views 🏙️❄️, so since Richmond isn’t too far, I decided to take a city walk and learn more about its history. I started at the Virginia State Capitol and the surrounding civic plaza—classic Western architecture and landscaping 🏛️🌳. After wandering around outside and taking some photos, I entered through the public entrance on Bank of America Street. I’d read online that reservations might be needed, but I got in directly—maybe because it was a holiday and the legislature wasn’t in session. A kind older gentleman at security pointed me toward the reception area where guided tours were available. I was a bit worried about my English listening skills 😅, so I initially explored on my own using written guides. About 40 minutes in, I ran into a tour led by another senior gentleman (likely in his 70s, moving slowly but with great passion!). I wasn’t sure if it was a private or paid tour, but he noticed me and asked, "Do you want to join us?" "Can I?" "Of course!" So I joined—and learned so much more than wandering alone! 🧠✨ He shared fascinating details about exhibits and Richmond’s history. One highlight was a painting of the Revolutionary War (that’s a British general with the big belly, and Washington on the white horse 🐎😂). After the Capitol, I continued walking around downtown. I strolled along a pathway overlooking the James River 🌉, passed by the train station (pretty empty—not many people or trains 🚉), and admired architecture that felt more urban than the usual "American suburb." Still, the streets were fairly quiet—not sure if it was because of the holiday or just Richmond’s vibe. #RichmondVA #Virginia #CityWalk #HistoryLover #TravelDiary #USCapitals