We have a whole Friday to kill in Richmond. We are not sure what to do and see. We have both traveled to Richmond for work and really did not find anything of interest to visit but we are assuming we are not aware of things. We know about colonial Williamsburg and the outlets. Is there anything else to do?

any positive (or negative) ideas/advice are welcome. Thanks!

There's a couple Confederate Museums I believe.

Richmond has plenty of interesting opportunities and I hope you'll find one you like. Do you have meals planned yet? Lots of good restaurants in the city.

Activities:
Are there Children in your group? They recently redid the Children's museum. http://www.c-mor.org/

You could visit the beautiful Lewis Ginter Botanical gardens: http://www.lewisginter.org/

Visit historic Maymont:
http://www.maymont.org/

Or check out the science museum (kid oriented): http://www.smv.org/

Hope you find something to enjoy in Richmond!

You sound kind of negative about the prospect. Rather than randomly throw out suggestions, perhaps you'll share what your interests are and people can direct you.

Which Friday are you visiting?

I agree with schlegal1 that Richmond has lots of appealing opportunities.

Thanks for the replies!

I welcome restaurant suggestions. We are from NYC so we are open for anything and $$$ is really no object.

We have no kids so we are not really interested in kid friendly activities.

My husband and I both have been to Richmond in the past for work and during our free time, we found there was not alot to do. I was trying to be negative-it was just an observation. Sorry if it came off that way.

Williamsburg and Jamestown are within an hour's drive.

Lmaev:
Well, I'm actually not good for restaurnt recs. While I have done all the activities I have suggested above, I have not eaten out much in Richmond. We always go to Bottom's Up Pizza. http://www.bottomsuppizza.com/
It's our favorite--thick sourdough crust but it probably isn't anything to rave about to NYers used to "real" pizza =)

I've been to "Comfort", too and it's great. http://www.comfortrestaurant.com/

Hope some of the other posters can tell you where the locals like to eat (I hear great things about Mama Zu, an Italian restaurant). There are lots of choices--I can't remember a little Thai restaurant I really like there...I'll post back if I remember...

When will you be in town?

I spend the occasional weekend in Richmond visiting friends and I've enjoyed visiting the LG Botanical Gardens that have already been recommended, as well as walking around the Univ. of Richmond campus, which is pretty. Another enjoyable way to kill an afternoon, especially if it's a nice day, is walking around the Carytown district, which has lots of cute shops and restaurants.

I have eaten at some good restaurants but unfortunately they were selected by my local friends and I have no idea on the names.

Have you visited the James River plantations? you might enjoy those if Richmond does not appeal.

I know you have great art museums in NYC, but you should visit the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. I especially love the Faberge eggs and other Faberge objects.
If you enjoy American literature, a visit to the Poe Museum would also be good.
If you are a fan of history, go to the Museum of the Confederacy or take a tour of the Virginia State Capitol.
There's a lot of wonderful things to see and do in Richmond--I should make a return visit soon!

I second the tour of the capitol building. Be sure to grab a fresh limeade from the snack bar!

My DH is a huge Civil War fan - so the Museum of the Confederacy was a must for us. We all enjoyed it - even the 2 teenagers and the MIL!

Thanks for all the GREAT replies!!
This is terrific information!

We will be in Richmond on 5/2.

If you're interested in gardens and historic homes, the week of April 19th is Historic Garden Week in Va. Lots of special events are going on all over the state but especially in Richmond, the James River Plantations, and Williamsburg.

Regarding restaurant rec's, Richmond isn't NYC so I'd go for something NY doesn't do well like BBQ. Buzz and Ned's is the real deal in Richmond.

Again, what are your interests?

It is probably important to know that Friday, May 3 is the beginning of NASCAR race weekend at RIR. Tons of people come out - so be sure to avoid the areas surrounding the racetrack.

Of course if you are interested in racing there is always the Busch race Friday night.

I meant May 2...sorry!

I'd also recommend the Museum
of Fine Arts. It has one of the
finest collections of 18th century British
silver outside the V&A. Absolutely
gorgeous!

I'd suggest walking along the city's canal walk to the city's Civil War Center (http://www.tredegar.org/). A short walk past the museum there is a pedestrian suspension bridge spanning the James River. On the other side is Belle Isle, a large park that once served as a prison, I believe, during the Civil War. Have a picnic on some rocks, dip your toes in the river (will be chilly!), and take a walk around. Here's a site for more info:
http://www.discoverrichmond.com/serv...=1137836330564

At night, I'd check out Capital Ale House (the downtown location on Main Street) for a drink.
http://www.capitalalehouse.com/

For coffee, wine, lunch, and wi-fi, I'd check out Gutenberg Cafe.
http://www.cafegutenberg.com/

Should have asked where you are staying--I assume downtown. Also, will you have a car?

Thanks for the heads up about the Nascar race!!

Katie- We are staying at the Jefferson and will have a car.

THANKS SO MUCH for the all replies!!!!