Best Outdoor Activities In Richmond For The Fall

River tour on the James. Credit: Dani Ferguson

Richmond is a city that has much to offer and that’s why you will always find something to do. It doesn’t matter if you enjoy a quiet stroll down Monument Avenue as the leaves are changing or you’re a foodie on the lookout for the best brunch in town. Here’s a list of our favorite things to do around River City during the autumn days. 

Taking in the sites and sounds of Carytown. Credit: Dani Ferguson

Food Tours in Richmond

Nothing beats a stroll through Richmond while enjoying your favorite beverage and tasting various cuisines. We can’t deny that the city has an impressive food scene and fall is a great time to enjoy it. The Carytown Food Tour, offered by River City Food Tours, will give you the chance to snack on everything from French cuisine to grilled cheese sandwiches. You’ll also have the opportunity to learn about the history of Carytown. If you want to learn more about Richmond’s revitalized Arts District--from Jackson Ward to Monroe Ward--sign up for the Arts District Food Tour. You’ll have mouthwatering cuisine from restaurants such as Greenleaf’s Pool Room, Fatty Smokes, and Mama J’s. 

Maymont’s Japanese Gardens Credit: WikiCommons

Outdoor Gardens

If you are looking for a night activity to fill your autumn nights, check out Garden Glow at Maymont. From now until Nov. 10, you can take in the wonderous lights that adorn the Japanese Garden at Maymont. Stroll through the garden to look at trees that glow, waterfalls that sparkle and shimmer, and take in all the illuminations of the pathways, hills, bridges, and lanterns. For more information, visit Maymont’s website. Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens offers a specialized seasonal walk in November. Take a stroll through the gardens’ collection to enhance your understanding and appreciate the beauty of nature. 

Hardywood Brewery’s Tropic Like It’s Hot. Credit: Dani Ferguson

Craft Breweries Around Richmond

Did you know that there are more than 30 craft breweries in the Richmond area? With so many options, it’s easy to lose track of time and spend an entire weekend enjoying adult beverages. If you aren’t sure where to start, Richmond Brewery Tours offers the option to sip your way through local cideries or breweries--or both if you are so inclined! The cider tour takes participants through Scott’s Addition where they’ll be able to sample ciders from Blue Bee Cider, Courthouse Creek Cider, and Buskey Cider. For a list of local breweries participating in RIchmond Brewery Tours, visit the website for more information. Richmond will also be kicking off Virginia Cider Week on Nov. 9--the event will feature ciders from all over Virginia and live music. If beer or cider isn’t the drink of choice, check out Sleepy Fox Moonshine Distillery in Ashland or Belle Isle Moonshine.   

Credit: Dani Ferguson

Take a Trip Down the James River

Enjoy a scenic trip down the James River while learning about wildlife and history during the Wildlife & History Tour. Fisherman, naturalist, and amateur historian Captain Mike Ostrander will take you on an adventure as he talks about the different types of wildlife that live around or in the James River, and the history. There are different types of excursions that are offered by Discover the James--they even have one for your kids!