Welcome to OutRVA: Richmond’s LGBTQ+ Heartbeat

Eccentric cuisine in a fabulous and funky setting will leave you entertained and satisfied at one of Richmond’s premiere queer-owned establishments: L’Opossum.

As World Pride DC approaches and our region prepares to welcome queer travelers from across the globe, there's no better time to (re)introduce you to OutRVA—an intentional celebration of Richmond’s LGBTQ+ community.

OutRVA started over ten years ago with a simple but powerful idea: to show that Richmond is more than what people might assume about Virginia or the South. It was a grassroots effort, born from a partnership between Richmond Region Tourism and community members who wanted to shift the narrative. With help from the creative minds at VCU’s Brand Center, we built a campaign that embraced the energy of “RVA” and reflected the real Richmond—a place full of artists, makers, dreamers, and doers. Initially launched as a campaign through Richmond Region Tourism, OutRVA began as a marketing initiative to showcase the inclusive spirit and cultural richness of our city. But what started as a tourism effort quickly evolved into something much more: a platform for visibility, a connector of communities, and a champion for LGBTQ+ expression in all its forms.

Today, OutRVA lives on as a proud program of the Richmond Region Tourism Foundation, still grounded in that same spirit of love, pride, and authenticity.

At its core, OutRVA is here to tell the stories of queer Richmonders—to highlight LGBTQ-owned businesses, spotlight artists and performers, amplify events, and support the unapologetically queer individuals of this eclectic city. Whether you're here for a weekend or here to stay, OutRVA is your guide to the region’s most affirming experiences, welcoming spaces, and unforgettable moments.

Over the years, OutRVA has been more than just a resource—it’s been a presence. We’ve promoted inclusive travel and hospitality, supported artists, and collaborated with community organizations to ensure LGBTQ+ voices are seen, heard, and celebrated.

If you’re visiting Richmond for the first time—or even if it’s just been a while—know this: you’re in good company. From historic neighborhoods and eclectic art galleries to legendary drag brunches and queer-owned cafes, Richmond is bursting with LGBTQ+ culture, and OutRVA is your invitation to experience it all.

So whether you’re here for a quick day trip from DC or making Richmond your World Pride home base, make sure you check out OutRVA’s calendar, stories, and guides. Come as you are, and we’ll show you where to go.

Welcome to Richmond. Go Out. Stay Out. Live Out.