Make some history this weekend.

For a week or a weekend, a trip to the Richmond area means great food, shopping, and entertainment. On your next trip, add a little history with a visit to one of the area’s breathtaking battlefields.

More than monuments, they’re a chance to enjoy the outdoors, spend time with friends and family, and immerse yourself in history. Best of all, from almost anywhere in the area, you’re surprisingly close to a battlefield. So, it’s easy to enjoy a hike before taking in a show at The National, or just walk off Sunday brunch! To add some history to your next holiday, start with an itinerary below.

From retrospect to re-enactments, this day plan is built for those who want to jump right into history.

Print or download your tour map
Get the day started with a traditional southern breakfast at the Riverbound Cafe
Head over to Cold Harbor Battlefield Park
Grab an authentic French lunch at at Bistro Bobette
Stroll along Monument Avenue, then take a guided tour of Jefferson Davis’ mansion at The White House of the Confederacy, visit the brand new American Civil War Museum at Historic Tredegar, the Tredegar Iron Works, or the authentic 1753 plantation house at The Wilton House Museum
Finish your day with a tour and sunset at Malvern Hill Battlefield Park

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Malvern Hill Sunset. #sunset #malvernhill #richmond #va #vaisforlovers #sun #orange #farm #fence

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Whether you’re into science, nature, or even roller coasters, enhance your historical experience with fun and family-friendly activities all weekend long!

Print or download your tour map
Make time for at least one meal at local favorite Millie’s Diner
Sneak in some education with a trip to Cold Harbor Battlefield Park or Malvern Hill Battlefield Park – sunrise and sunset are great for stunning photos
Keep the kids active and engaged with a visit to:
Stop off for ice cream at Richmond’s famous Bev’s Homemade
Ease into evening with delicious comfort food at Mama J’s Kitchen

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My little photographer trying his hand at the #bflies exhibit at @lewisginter today. When the exhibit ends next month he's going to be so sad. We'll be counting down until it opens again next April! #lewisginter #kidsatplay #withlovehalle #rva #rvagardentrail #exploreVA #explorerva #lewisginterbotanicalgarden #butterfliesLive #kidsbehindthecamera #woodencamera#imaginativeplay #kidsatplay #montessoritoys #imagination #woodtoys #woodentoys #waldorftoys #openendedplay

A post shared by Jenn (@nifer1015) on Sep 20, 2018 at 6:44pm PDT

Shopping and shows? Sights and nightlife? We’ve pulled together a plan for historical fun and lasting memories.

Print or download your tour map
Enjoy some boutique retail therapy at:
Check the show schedule for your favorite performers at The National theater
Start the evening with cocktails and dinner at Kabana Rooftop (or check out the Richmond Beer Trail)
Clear your head with a refreshing walk through Cold Harbor Battlefield Park or Malvern Hill Battlefield Park
Don’t miss Sunday Champagne Brunch at the historic Jefferson Hotel

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Rooftop apps and aperol . . . . . . . #foodporn #foodie #apps #aperol #happyhour #richmond #rvafoodie #rva #rvafood #rvaeats #kabana #rooftop #sonyalpha #foodblog #foodgram #smallplates

A post shared by Heirloomen | Courtney (@heirloomen) on Sep 20, 2018 at 6:01pm PDT

Virginia is for lovers, so it’s no surprise that Richmond is for romance. Enjoy a getaway that mixes history, dining, and activities perfect for connecting with your better half.

Print or download your tour map
Check the show schedule for your favorite performers at The National theater
Enjoy a quiet hike through Cold Harbor Battlefield Park or Malvern Hill Battlefield Park
Fall into fresh foodie paradise at the South of the James Farmers Market
Stroll along the historic Riverfront Canal Walk
Stop off for ice cream at Richmond’s famous Bev’s Homemade
Dive into endless sushi with dinner at Level Restaurant and Bar
Take a drive down scenic Monument Avenue
Finish off the perfect weekend with Sunday Champagne Brunch at the historic Jefferson Hotel

Before you go

We’ve got some tips and advice for prepping for a visit to Richmond’s historic battlefields and surrounding areas, including hours, weather, accommodations, and directions -- everything you need to make your visit a comfortable and memorable one!