Virginia Association of Museums

Patrick Henry’s famous “Give me Liberty or give me Death” speech took place in Richmond in 1775. Today, Richmond is more than just Virginia’s state capital; it’s where the American South begins. Come explore these local favorites to get a true taste of the town.

Welcome to Richmond

Shake up your trip at what Southern Living called "The South's Best Restaurant".

When you're exploring a new town, you always want to experience something memorable. In that regard, Chef David Shannon's L'Opossum is an experience just by entering the space. 

It's been such a local favorite for the past few years Southern Living Magazine's readers recently named L'Opossum the best restaurant in the South.

As you stand on the corner of Pine and China, the restaurant appears to be a plain building in a residential neighborhood. Yet walking inside is like diving down the rabbit hole. Colored lights and plant arrangements hang from the ceiling, a hodgepodge of paintings and artwork hang on the walls. Even though the space is dim, you'll still find tables where slices of chocolate cake are literally on fire.

And you'll find that the food is just as forward-thinking and creative as the restaurant's ambiance. Dishes catch your eyes with one glance at the menu, ranging from intriguing (fabergé eggs) to suggestive (Baby Got Coubliac). You'll see creative takes on all the classics, from foie gras with "persimmon pleasures" to beef wellington with truffled duxelle to macaroni and cheese truffle mornay cream.

Between the restaurant's creative takes on French cuisine, its dismissal at fine dining snootiness, and the bohemian atmosphere, L'Opossum is a great restaurant to try high quality food without worrying if you belong with the crowd. It's that inclusive, fun atmosphere that David Shannon wants to nurture at L'Opossum, which is partially motivated by his LGBTQ identity:

I have always tried to create a very inclusive environment for all, knowing that visibility on all fronts is key for our LGBTQ community. Being located in a city that was once the capital of the Confederacy, it is important to me to always remain out and LGBTQ-forward in my approach to running L’Opossum.

Get a spot at the best restaurant in town

Dinner And Warm Drinks At L'Opossum

Explore the seat of Virginia's state government and the state's role in American history.

Even if you're not a history nerd, a quick stop to the Capitol is worth your time, if only to pay respects to some of the brightest founding members of this country. Richmond is the third home of the Virginia General Assembly, the oldest ongoing state legislature in the country.

Placed at the top of Shockoe Hill, the Capitol overlooks the falls of the James River.

In 1779, at the outbreak of the Revolutionary War, then-Governor Thomas Jefferson urged the Virginia General Assembly to move the state capital from Williamsburg to Richmond. Jefferson continued to be involved with the construction of the capitol even when he served as ambassador to France in the 1780s.

 Although he was a self-taught architect, Jefferson created a scale model for the other directors to show how the three branches of Virginia's government (legislative, executive, and judicial) could combine so that all three buildings were in the same location.

Jefferson hired French architect Charles-Louis Clérisseau to help with the project. They modeled the capitol after Maison Carrée, a Roman Temple in Nimes, France. Many people consider the temple a model of perfect classical design. Construction on Jefferson’s capitol was slow-paced, and the stucco-clad brick building finished in 1800.

Today, visitors at the Capitol can see the various nods to Virginians throughout American history such as George Washington, Stonewall Jackson, and even Edgar Allan Poe.

Yet perhaps the most noteworthy feature of the capitol was its symbolic departure of British architecture and embrace of neoclassical styles. WWTW says of Jefferson's goals:

The Virginia State Capitol was Jefferson’s declaration of independence from British architecture. Its influence is seen in more than two centuries of neoclassical government and commercial buildings across America, from local banks and post offices to the U.S. Capitol Building in Washington, D.C

The Capitol

Take in the sights of the gorgeous gardens in this 100-acre Victorian estate and public park.

Maymont Park is one of the most scenic spots in Richmond, and it all began with James H. Dooley. A graduate of Georgetown College (now Georgetown University), he came into prominence during Richmond’s Reconstruction years. 

Dooley began a legal career soon after the Civil War and served in the Virginia General Assembly in the 1870s. He soon grew his wealth after becoming involved in real estate, railroads, steel, and banking.

By 1893, Dooley completed a large stone mansion built on a large estate overlooking the James River. He named it “Maymont” after his wife, Sallie May. They were among Virginia’s biggest philanthropists, and they left the estate to the City of Richmond to use as a museum and pubic park after their death. Today, Maymont is one of Richmond's biggest attractions and the city takes much care into its upkeep.

Lovers of the Victorian/Gilded Age aesthetic often drift towards the guided tours for the Dooleys’ mansion, where the only way to guarantee a tour is to purchase a ticket in advance. Here, visitors can take a peek into the lavish lifestyles of the American railroad tycoons at the turn of the century. Those who are more nature-inclined won’t be disappointed. There is still plenty to explore with 100 acres of land.

Many Maymont visitors are drawn to the park's two largest gardens: the Italian Garden and the Japanese Garden. While Dooley commissioned the gardens for the original estate, they underwent renovation in the late 20th Century to expand the gardens and better reflect the styles of the two cultures they represent. 

In the Italian garden, for instance, you will find many fountains, various levels, and geometrically shaped beds. In the Japanese Garden, visitors experience a "stroll garden" style that uses classic elements from Japan's biggest cities to offer changing impressions of natures as different areas come into view.

If you'd like to get out of the way of engagement photo shoots in the gardens, Maymont also boasts a diverse arboretum with more than 200 species of trees and woody plants. Children will also enjoy the Children's Farm, where Maymont keeps its farm animals. 

Various other creatures, many of whom are injured and cannot live in the wild also make their home in the park. As you explore the estate, you might come across bald eagles, black bears, foxes, deer, elk, and American bison. 

The grounds are free to explore, but don't miss a tour for Dooley Mansion

Post photo by @kevinjkelleyphoto via Instagram.

A Stroll Through Maymont

The Quick Hotel's lobby sofas are comfy after a day of walking, but its gallery is full of wonders...

When most people think of art galleries, you might think of snooty critics in Paris or New York sipping on wine and bidding thousands of dollars on mostly blank canvases. That’s exactly what Kate Ukrop wanted to avoid when she opened Richmond’s Quirk Gallery with her husband Ted in 2005.

They chose "Quirk" as a gallery name to encourage curiosity and whimsy. The gallery also added a gift shop, similar to what could be found at an exhibit in an art museum. Quirk Gallery quickly became a hot spot for local artists to showcase and sell their art. 

The gallery's success allowed the Ukrops to open a boutique hotel in 2015 under the same name. They moved the gallery right next door, and the hotel lobby offers an entrance to the gallery. 

Quirk continues to showcase multiple artists in its gallery every month. Not only can visitors purchase the artwork, but the gallery shop also carries Quirk-centric products that live up to its name (boyfriend-smelling candles, anyone?)

As you move around the space, you'll notice that the muted colors, abundant white space, and clean lines give a minimalistic and elegant feel. The building that houses the Quirk Hotel and Quirk Gallery was originally the luxury department store J.B. Mosby & Co and it was constructed in 1916. 

The Ukrops took the building's history to heart when they transformed the space, keeping many of the original architectual details. Combined with artisan dining and beautiful sitting areas in its lobby, the Quirk Gallery is a perfect place for anyone who loves aesthetically pleasing environments.

Post photo from @annakardosphoto via Instagram.

Souvenirs At The Quirk Gallery

No trip to the South is complete without a proper biscuit, but these take tradition to the next level.

Biscuits are synonymous with the American South, and when you're in a city so significant to the region's history, it makes sense to have a biscuit place. At least, that's the idea behind Nicole and Byron Jessee's The Fancy Biscuit. 

The couple acknowledges that The Fancy Biscuit isn't the first biscuit-centric spot in Richmond, and will point out some of their personal favorite places like Early Bird Biscuit Co. But they envisioned a different concept and sought to put their own spin on biscuits. As the Richmond Times-Dispatch noted:

They envisioned their buttermilk biscuits being simple and straightforward, piled high with creative toppings, and best eaten with a fork and knife. With their eatery, The Fancy Biscuit, they’ve risen to the challenge.

Located near Richmond's historic Fan District, The Fancy Biscuit is a short walk from beautiful Victorian homes and Virginia Commonwealth University.  Always looking to be a good member of the community, The Fancy Biscuit partners works with local brands and suppliers.

While the space is intimate, it gives an impression that you’re eating in someone’s kitchen. The artsy decor also gives off a warm, Southern Hospitality feel that adds to the feeling that you’re eating right at home.

When you walk up to The Fancy Biscuit, you’ll see employees rolling and cutting biscuits right in the window. Once you’re seated, you’ll have to take a minute or two to go over all your biscuit options. 

Some combinations are classic, like shrimp and grits, and others are a little more intriguing, like country ham with Shyndigz house caramel sauce. Whether you’re a carnivore or vegetarian, there’s an option for you.

Particular with your tastes? You can build your own biscuit sandwich, too.

Even if you're not feeling like eating biscuits, The Fancy Biscuit has a loaded menu starring classic dishes like fried green tomatoes, chicken pot pie, meatloaf, and even salads those those who have an incredible amount of self control.

Post photo from @lizandheidi via Instagram.

Breakfast at the Fancy Biscuit

It might be a bit cold outside, but Lamplighter Coffee Roasters have drinks to keep you warm.

Winter weather calls for cozy clothes and hot drinks, and one of the most popular cafes in Richmond provides a cup of coffee and a friendly atmosphere to keep you warm. Just a short walk from the capitol building, Lamplighter Coffee is a local favorite worth visiting for a while.

Lamplighter Coffee opened in 2009 by spouses Noelle and Zach Archibald. Although Noelle has Richmond roots, the pair met in the Pacific Northwest. Once they moved, they learned that there was a market for specialty coffee in their community of bicyclists and artists in Richmond. And indeed, bicycle culture is very much a part of Lamplighter Coffee you'll find motifs in their name, decor, cups, and the packing on coffee beans available for purchase.

10 years later, there are three locations for Lamplighter Coffee in Richmond and they offer catering and delivery services. For a small business to have so much growth in what was previously thought to be a small market for coffee, Lamplighter Coffee is a case study for success. 

Part of their success is in their coffee; it's actually that good. They source their coffee from a variety of places, but Lamplighter Coffee roasts all of their beans in Virginia. For those who lean more towards Team Tea rather than Team Coffee, Lamplighter also has tea options, including Matcha lattes.

Thanks to Zach's experience in the food industry, all locations also offer snacks and sandwiches for those looking to pair their drink with a light meal. Even though most people associate coffee shop workers with huge cities, you'll still see hipsters and students alike hanging out and getting work done.

And if you've ever been curious about delving deeper in coffee culture, Lamplight also hosts classes for all enthusiasts. Their seminars range from teaching coffee fundamentals to newbies and training baristas for skills such as creating latte art and operating specialized equipment.

Love coffee? Take a class with Lamplighters while you're in Richmond

Grab A Cup At Lamplighter Coffee

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Plan your spring break family fun in Chicago! Check it out on the Choose Chicago channel on Vamonde.

Plan a family getaway the kids won't soon forget!

Spring Break Family Fun

Explore some of the locations of the Chicago blues scene of the 1960s with this VAMONDE adventure, based on the Chicago History Museum exhibition, "AMPLIFIED: Chicago Blues."

Chicago History Museum

Explore some of the locations of the Chicago blues scene of the 1960s with this VAMONDE adventure, based on the Chicago History Museum exhibition, "AMPLIFIED: Chicago Blues." Southern black migrants brought the blues to Chicago, where the music helped them forge connections and transform an unfamiliar, often inhospitable city into a new home. The music was also transformed—electrified and amplified to compete with urban noise. The photography of Raeburn Flerlage captures the streets, clubs, homes, and studios where a community of musicians defined the Chicago blues sound.

AMPLIFIED: Chicago Blues

From a 20th century resurgence that rivaled the Harlem Renaissance, to spectacular displays of Victorian Era architecture, this South Side neighborhood is responsible for tremendous cultural and social advances that are not to be missed.

The heart and soul of Chicago lies in its 77 vibrant neighborhoods, and going beyond the loop (Chicago’s downtown business district) will give you a much needed escape from the hustle and bustle of the skyscraper district. As part of the Beyond the Loop video series, The Second City and Goose Island Beer Company have teamed up with Choose Chicago to explore the local hotspots in Chicago’s Bronzeville neighborhood. Discover why Bronzeville is more than just an artsy pocket on the South Side.

Bronzeville and Beyond

"How can I possibly be expected to handle school on a day like this?" We've all been there, even if we're not Ferris Bueller. After your mornings stretch, you look outside at the shining sun, soft breeze, and then wonder, "How can anyone expect me to handle work on a day like this?" So take the day off! While you're at it, follow in Ferris Bueller's footsteps too as Choose Chicago takes you through the film locations that made Ferris Bueller's Day Off such a wonderful adventure (but make sure Ed Rooney isn't on your tail).

It’s Ferris Bueller's Day Off! Take a day to explore the city, but don't get caught by the incredulous Principal Rooney! Kick it like a couple of wise-cracking high school kids at The Art Institute of Chicago and peer down from over 100 stories in the air with the Skydeck at Willis Tower. (Cover photo from @thiswashollywood via Instagram)

Ferris Bueller's Day Off

Chicago’s legendary Second City comedy troupe and Goose Island Beer Company have teamed up with Choose Chicago to create the quintessential Old Town experience. Join us as we explore the historic neighborhood and discover its many claims to fame.

As part of the Beyond the Loop video series, The Second City and Goose Island Beer Company have teamed up with Choose Chicago to create the quintessential Old Town experience. Discover why this neighborhood has been home to immigrant families, gays, hippies and young professionals alike over the years.

Quintessential Old Town

The Second City and Goose Island Beer Company team up with Choose Chicago to how you why even 120 years after the Columbian Exposition, Hyde Park is still a profound point of historical and social importance in Chicago.

The heart and soul of Chicago lies in its 77 vibrant neighborhoods, and going beyond the loop (Chicago’s downtown business district) will give you a much needed escape from the hustle and bustle of the skyscraper district. As part of the Beyond the Loop video series, The Second City and Goose Island Beer Company have teamed up with Choose Chicago to explore the local hotspots in Chicago’s Hyde Park neighborhood. Join us as we show you why even 120 years after the Columbian Exposition, Hyde Park is still a profound point of historical and social importance in Chicago.

Hyde Park: Obama's Neighborhood

The Budget Savvy Travelers

Temperatures are rising and the days are getting longer. This is a sure sign that schools will soon be out for summer vacation. Families looking for fun, affordable ways to keep kids busy during hot days will appreciate this guide that shares some great ways to cool off around Chicago—most are even free.

Best Places to Cool Off in Chicago

Craving a getaway, but short on vacation time or extra travel funds? Why not consider embarking on a culinary adventure? Chicago is a great city to experience the world through food! There are over 100 different neighborhoods in the city, each with its own unique flavors and traditions to share. Chicago has always celebrated a diverse array of people, cultures, and cuisines. Therefore, it's not surprising that Chicago consistently ranks high in top foodie destinations in the United States. For those of us that can’t book a plane ticket to satisfy our travel “craving,” taking a culinary adventure is truly the next best thing. Chicago offers a great opportunity to be carried away to a dreamy, distant place–if only through our palates alone.

Traveling the World Through Food | Chicago

Haley Guidry

Only have a short time to visit Chicago? No problem! With this guide, you can fit it all in - in just a weekend!

Spending a Weekend in Chicago

Looking for some free activities to explore in Chicago? You'll be surprised to learn that there are many things to do around the city that are absolutely free of charge!

6 Chicago Hidden Gems to Explore For Free

Wrigley Field holds the very identity of the Chicago Cubs. But Wrigley isn’t the only spot that embodies the spirit of the Cubbies. Lakeview is home to so many rich businesses that are full of North side pride!

Lakeview Chamber of Commerce

Wrigleyville isn’t the only haven for fans of the Chicago Cubs. Take an adventure “Beyond Wrigley” into West Lakeview to explore some of the neighborhood icons and local businesses that are full of Cubbies pride!

Beyond Wrigley

Glessner House

Glessner House -

An architectural treasure in Chicago

Glessner House - An architectural treasure in Chicago

Welcome to the Chicago Cultural Center, a landmark home of the arts.

The People's Palace

Chicago Architecture Center

Chicago has long been a laboratory for architectural innovation and experimentation. Let the Chicago Architecture Center lead you through the stories behind some of the city’s most significant skyscrapers. Come on an adventure to unlock the secrets of ten iconic Chicago Buildings.

Cover photo courtesy of Jessica Cabe

10 Iconic Chicago Buildings

Chicago Chinatown Chamber of Commerce

An Adventure through all the Best Spots in the City

Must Visit Attractions in Chicago

Chicago has one of the most iconic skylines in the world. This insider guide shows you the best vantage points to capture a memorable photo of the skyline of Chicago. Best of all? These are all places that you can visit that are all free of charge.

Where to Find Chicago's Best Skyline Views for Free

Start on Chicago's South Side and travel back in time as you explore visit the homes of some of the most influential LGBTQ+ people in the city's vibrant history. Make your way through Washington Park and Woodlawn moving north towards Rogers Park.

Learn about Chicago's vibrant LGBTQ+ history on this cultural excursion through various parts of the City. This tour covers the historic markers and residences of some of Chicago's top LGBTQ+ luminaries. Find out how they left their marks from Washington Park and Woodlawn all the way up north to Rogers Park.

Explore Gay Chicago History: LGBTQ+ Landmarks Tour

Around every corner of The Magnificent Mile lie surprising pieces that make up the rich history of downtown Chicago.

The Magnificent Mile

Around every corner of The Magnificent Mile lie surprising pieces that make up the rich history of downtown Chicago. Unexpected turn-of-the-century ballrooms, lavish chandeliers, stained glass fit for royalty, atlases of the Renaissance, former mansions of America's elite, eclectic bars, iconic burger joints, classic cocktails, and unbeatable views make up our guide to the top hidden gems around the district.

The Magnificent Mile's Hidden Gems

Chicago is a city built of neighborhoods and cultures and Chinatown is the prime example. Just south of Chicago's Loop, Chinatown is bustling with people, traditional cuisine, and of course culture.

Chicago is a city built of neighborhoods and cultures and Chinatown is the prime example. Just south of Chicago's Loop, Chinatown is bustling with people, traditional cuisine, and of course culture. Hop on the Red Line, a bus, or even a water taxi and discover one of Chicago's most unique neighborhoods.

Chicago's Chinatown

This adventure, based on the Chicago History Museum exhibition, "Remembering Dr. King: 1929–1968," invites you to explore some of the locations Dr. King frequented in Chicago.

A Baptist minister and champion of nonviolent activism, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was one of the most influential figures of the civil rights movement. He spent considerable time in Chicago protesting racial discrimination, particularly in housing and education.
This VAMONDE adventure is based on the Chicago History Museum exhibition, "Remembering Dr. King: 1929-1968," and invites you to explore in person some of the locations King frequented in the city and to consider how Dr. King’s work remains relevant today, fifty years after his assassination.

Martin Luther King Jr. in Chicago

Join Julia Bachrach, former Chicago Park District historian, on a journey through Humboldt Park to learn more about the role the 150-year-old park served as key experimental grounds for Jens Jensen's Prairie style of landscape architecture.

Julia Bachrach

Established 150 years ago, Humboldt Park can be thought of as a living landmark with layers of history that reflect contributions by important landscape designers, architects, and artists. The most noteworthy, Danish immigrant Jens Jensen (1860 – 1951), revered the indigenous scenery of the Midwest and created the Prairie style of landscape architecture. Humboldt Park provided important grounds for his process of experimentation. Jensen went on to design estates for prominent businessmen such as Julius Rosenwald, Harold Florsheim, and Henry Ford. Join Julia Bachrach, former Chicago Park District historian and author of "The City in a Garden: A History of Chicago’s Parks," on a journey to learn more about how Humboldt Park served as Jens Jensen’s Experimental Grounds.

Humboldt Park: Jens Jensen’s Experimental Grounds

The Art Institute of Chicago is no stranger to "best museums” list, but beyond Michigan Avenue there are many amazing galleries displaying works from heavy hitters like Keith Haring and Hebru Brantley. Get inspired by these galleries and their collections

Chicago Scene

Chicago is home to countless world renowned cultural institutions. The Art Institute of Chicago is no stranger to "best museums” list, but beyond Michigan Avenue there are many amazing galleries displaying works from heavy hitters like Keith Haring and Hebru Brantley. There’s something for everyone at these galleries, whether you’re simply an appreciator of art or a seasoned collector.

Art Galleries: Beyond The Museum Campus

Not your everyday Chicago adventure, these unique outings go inside, behind-the-scenes, and even underground to show off a different side of the city.

From the lair of a notorious Chicago gangster to the infectious groove of a legendary blues club, this adventure will have you socializing, singing, and exploring the city all day (and night!) long. Personally curated by the Vamonde team (a group of foodies, architecture buffs, music fanatics and bar-hopping explorers) this adventure will provide you with the incredible stories and secrets behind some of Chicago’s notorious and renowned spots. Did we mention gingerbread cookies at the Waldorf Astoria?

A Chicago Insider’s Adventure

Join the American Writers Museum on a journey through Chicago's neighborhoods to learn the fascinating stories of some of the city's literary landmarks.

American Writers Museum

Join the American Writers Museum on a journey through Chicago's neighborhoods to learn the fascinating stories of some of the city's literary landmarks. A special adventure created in honor of the 2017 American Library Association Annual Exhibition and Conference.

Chicago Literary Landmarks Hunt

Photojournalist Paul Natkin captures his love for music through the lens of his camera and has worked with the biggest names in music during his 40-year career. Paul speaks with blues experts to help you explore Chicago’s blues scene past and present.

Paul Natkin

Photojournalist Paul Natkin captures his love for music through the lens of his camera and has worked with the biggest names in music during his 40-year career. In this adventure,  Paul goes beyond the Chicago Blues Festival to speak with blues experts to help you explore Chicago’s blues scene past and present.

Beyond the Blues

The Gathering Spaces are a series of artist-designed community areas along the Burnham Wildlife Corridor, a 100-acre ribbon of urban wilderness spanning Lake Shore Drive. Travel along the corridor to discover how the artists linked nature and culture.

Chicago Park District

The Gathering Spaces are a series of five artist-designed community areas along the Burnham Wildlife Corridor (BWC), a 100-acre ribbon of urban wilderness spanning both sides of Lake Shore Drive. The five Gathering Spaces reflect the nature and culture of the area and serve as assembly grounds and rest areas for people exploring the Corridor. The spaces were designed and created by teams of local artists in partnership with community-based organizations in the Chinatown, Bronzeville, and Pilsen neighborhoods. On this adventure, we'll travel along the BWC to get the inside scoop on the creative process, community goals, and environmental context of each Gathering Space.

Lakefront Gathering Spaces

Broadway in Chicago

With more than 200 theaters, Chicago is home to a rich and varied theater community, well known for a diverse mix of original productions that began here and then went on to Broadway and the world. Broadway In Chicago currently own many of the anchor theatres in Theatre District, including the CIBC Theatre (home of Hamilton), the Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place, the Cadillac Palace Theatre, and the James M. Nederlander Theatre which broke records when it housed Wicked from 2005-2009. Let Broadway In Chicago take you through a tour of the theatres that make up the Chicago Theatre District.

Chicago Historic Theatre District

Jason Brammer is known for his distinctive mixed media assemblage based works, surreal paintings and drawings, murals and site-specific installations. Join us as we take you across the city and unearth how some of your favorite works came to be.

Jason Brammer

Portals, Pyramids, & Octopods: The Art of Jason Brammer

You might have already heard about a few of these destinations, consider this your local guide to the Wicker Park bars that are in some way (think hidden entrance) or another (think no address) -- secret.

Holiday Jones Hostel

Because we’re terrible at keeping secrets and because Wicker Park has too many cool off-the-beaten-track places to explore, Holiday Jones Hostel has created this adventure to give you the inside scoop on the best lounges, dive bars, and speakeasies to visit and pretend like you’re a regular.

Wicker Park's Best Kept Secrets

Choose Chicago® is the official destination marketing organization for Chicago, Illinois. When you’re in Chicago, you’re home. With the countless experiences there are to have here, you're absolutely welcome to do any and all of them.

Welcome to Richmond

Dinner And Warm Drinks At L'Opossum

Dinner And Warm Drinks At L'Opossum

The Capitol

The Capitol

A Stroll Through Maymont

A Stroll Through Maymont

Souvenirs At The Quirk Gallery

Souvenirs At The Quirk Gallery

Breakfast at the Fancy Biscuit

Breakfast at the Fancy Biscuit

Grab A Cup At Lamplighter Coffee

Grab A Cup At Lamplighter Coffee

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