About the City of Richmond
Richmond is the capital of the Commonwealth of Virginia and is surrounded by Henrico County to the North/West and Chesterfield County to the South. Located at the intersections of Interstate 95 and Interstate 64 and surrounded by Interstate 295 and Route 288, the population was 200,123 in 2007, with an estimated population of 1,212,977 for the Richmond Metropolitan Area, making it the third largest in metro area in Virginia. When it comes to authenticity, no city delivers more than Richmond. Here, more than 400 years of history and modern day culture come together with unprecedented accessibility and live on through magnificent architecture, monument-lined cobblestone streets, and world class museums. Anchored by the James River, which bisects the city, Richmond is the only urban setting with Class IV rapids, one of many options for outdoor recreation. With over 900 restaurants, fantastic shopping (you have to visit the new Stony Point and Short Pump malls!) and exciting events, there is never a dull moment in the Richmond metro area. A great central location, you are only 1 hour from the mountains and wine country around Charlottesville, about 1 hour and 45 minutes from our nation’s capital, and 2 hours from the sand and sun at Virginia Beach.
The History of Richmond
Virginia may have more history than any other state and much of it occurred right here in the Richmond area. Richmond first came to life in 1673 when William Byrd I was granted lands on the James River that included the area that would become Richmond. William Byrd II inherited his father's land in 1704, and in 1737 founded the town of Richmond at the Falls of the James. Byrd named the city Richmond after the English town of Richmond near (and now part of) London, because the view of the James River was strikingly similar to the view of the River Thames from Richmond Hill in England.
During the Revolutionary War period, several notable events occurred in the city, including Patrick Henry's "Give me liberty or give me death" speech in 1775 at St. John's Church, the site of the Second Virginia Convention. During the Civil War, Richmond served as the capital of the Confederate States of America, and many important Civil War landmarks remain in the city today, including the Virginia State Capitol and the White House of the Confederacy, among others.
Arts and Entertainment The Richmond entertainment scene offers a year-round schedule of musical, theatrical, artistic and dance performances. Many professional arts groups, including the Richmond Ballet, Richmond Symphony and Virginia Opera, perform regularly. If you prefer theater, choose from Theater IV's family performances, the Richmond Shakespeare Festival's outdoor productions or the “Broadway in Richmond” series at the Landmark and Carpenter Theatre. Want to enjoy an outdoor concert? You'll find one in nearly every direction from May through September. We also have dozens of art galleries, a couple of comedy clubs and a few film festivals. Though it’s known for rich history, the Region also boasts a wonderful host of Richmond art museums and galleries. Whether your tastes include nature paintings, sculptures, or avant-garde works, you’re sure to find something amazing. For other great entertainment options, you can white water raft on Class IV rapids, plan a go-kart Grand Prix or cheer on your favorite NASCAR driver – because Richmond Virginia recreation means something different to everyone. From competitors to spectators to everyone in between, the Region is a sportsman’s paradise and a sports fan’s dream. Book a tee time at more than 20 local golf courses or scale an indoor climbing wall. Find out when NASCAR roars into Richmond International Raceway next or catch a Richmond Kickers soccer game. The Richmond region offers an abundance of sports and recreation activities for everyone. |