RVA Travel Guide: Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon Weekend

If you’re gearing up to #RunRichmond on November 12, then you’ve already put in the hard work to take on the Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon, CarMax Richmond Half Marathon, or VCU Health Richmond 8k, so let us help with your travel planning. In addition to a top-notch race experience, Richmond has plenty to offer before and after your race. Take a look at a few of the top destinations to check out in RVA, thanks to our friends from Richmond Region Tourism, and start creating your RVA itinerary ahead of race weekend!

Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA)

200 North Arthur Ashe Boulevard

Richmond, VA 23220

FREE GENERAL ADMISSION (fee required for some exhibits)

The VMFA is one of RVA’s most popular attractions and is one of the largest comprehensive art museums in the United States. Explore the museum’s wide-range of collections including modern and contemporary art, Chinese, South Asian, Himalayan, and African art. Also be sure to check out their newly-opened exhibit, “Storied Strings: The Guitar in American Art.” This exhibition features over 120 works of art which explore the unique symbolism of the guitar in American art from the early 19^th century to the present day.

The James River

(Brown’s Island Access Point)

500 Tredegar Street

Richmond, VA 23219

The James River is one of the many highlights of the Richmond Region offering a beautiful escape into nature just steps from downtown Richmond, and it features prominently on the Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon course and post-race party. In fact, the James River was ranked top 3 in USA Today’s 2022 10Best Reader’s Choice Awards for “Best Urban Kayaking Spot.”

Set out to explore the many parks and trails throughout the James River Park System, including  Pony Pasture Park – a popular riverfront location with sandy banks and shallow waters along the shoreline. Or, head to Belle Isle, an island hangout in the middle of the river that includes wooded trails and a mountain biking skills course. Click here to check out a full listing of James River activities and access locations.

Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden

1800 Lakeside Avenue

Henrico, VA 23228

Looking to immerse yourself in nature and take in a scenic view? Check out Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, one of RVA’s popular outdoor attractions and greenspaces! Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden offers year-round beauty with more than a dozen themed gardens, a classical domed Conservatory and so much more. Take a stroll through the gardens, explore secret spaces and enjoy Lewis Ginter’s world-class botanical displays.

Hardywood Park Craft Brewery

2410 Ownby Ln

Richmond, VA 23220

Find some time to relax with a refreshing craft beer while you’re in the Richmond Region! After enjoying one of their brews at the CoStar Group Post Race Party on Brown’s Island, you can head to Hardywood Park for a cold one paired with delicious eats from their pizza kitchen. Unwind in their outdoor beer garden by a firepit and discover your new favorite RVA craft beer. Plus, be sure to check their schedule for live music, trivia nights, bingo and more! (All ages and leashed pets welcome.)

Scott’s Addition

W. Broad St/Arthur Ashe Boulevard

Richmond, VA 23230

Scott’s Addition is no stranger to fun! Within the once bustling industrial area, runners have a plethora of ways to celebrate their accomplishment—head to a nationally- recognized restaurant, enjoy a rooftop bar, check out boutique bowling and a hopping social scene at River City Roll, try your hand at a shuffleboard bar, and much more. It all awaits in Scott’s Addition.

Richmond isn’t just a city, it’s a destination. There’s so much to explore, so be sure to check out local shopping, dining, nightlife, history, wellness spaces and more during your visit.

See what events are happening in RVA this weekend!

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