Explore the City

Richmond — or "RVA" as locals call it — has a little bit of everything. From a river running through the heart of our city to a thriving arts scene, there's plenty to love. Come visit and explore for yourself.

People and a white water raft sitting by the side of the James River.

“The River City”

Our hallmark James River is the centerpiece of Richmond’s thriving outdoor scene and distinguishes us as the only American city with Class IV rapids within city limits. For you, that means canoeing, kayaking, hiking, biking, rock climbing, swimming, fishing, and just generally relaxing are all right at your fingertips — not to mention a prime and popular site for faculty and student research projects. On a sunny afternoon, you’re sure to find Spiders all over the rocks at nearby Pony Pasture Park.

Overview of a dining table with two individuals enjoying an assortment of colorful foods and dishes

A Foodie's Heaven

Richmond’s food scene is one of its calling cards. Here, the hard part isn’t finding a great place to eat — it’s deciding which option to choose. More than 700 restaurants range from national award winners to beloved local comfort food spots, while popular farmers’ markets and food festivals happen all year long. And speaking of national award winners, we have those right here on campus as well. UR’s dining services program is frequently cited among the nation’s best.

Exterior view of the Virginia Capitol building with the sun shining from behind.

Thriving Capital City

As the capital of Virginia, Richmond is at the center of the state’s business and government activity. From the state legislature, federal courts, and the home of the Governor, to a Federal Reserve Bank, numerous Fortune 500 companies, and nationally acclaimed creative agencies — Richmond has it all. For Spiders, that means a hotbed of internship, research, and work opportunities are just a free and easy shuttle ride away.

Cultural Centerpiece

Richmond is more than the political capital of Virginia — it’s also the arts and culture capital. The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, one of the nation’s top art museums, attracts high-profile exhibitions of work by internationally renowned artists. Richmond is home to a symphony and a ballet company, well-known venues and niche galleries, independent radio and the nation’s largest folk festival. Any night of the week, performances are pouring from stages large and small all around the city. And the Modlin Center for the Arts —right here on campus — is at the heart of it all.

The Washington Monument in Washington, D.C. at sunrise.

Just Two Hours Away

Richmond’s location in the heart of Virginia, near the intersection of interstates 95 and 64, gives Spiders access to all that the region has to offer. Take a two-podcast drive in any direction and you can dip your toes in the Atlantic Ocean, wind through the Blue Ridge Mountains on the Appalachian Trail, or immerse in cultural and internship opportunities in Washington, D.C.

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Explore the City

“The River City”

A Foodie's Heaven

Thriving Capital City

Cultural Centerpiece

Just Two Hours Away

Explore the City

"Happiest Metro Area in the U.S."

“The River City”

One of the "Best Places to Live in the USA"

A Foodie's Heaven

Named a top 10 international food travel destination

Thriving Capital City

No. 11. for top U.S. metro areas to start a business

Cultural Centerpiece

One of 52 places worldwide to visit

Just Two Hours Away

One of "The 10 Coolest U.S. Cities to Visit"