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Richmond, VA (January 23, 2025) – For travelers seeking a place with profound historical significance in African American heritage, the Richmond Region (RVA) stands out as a must-visit destination. Here, visitors can experience Black history and culture firsthand, from walking tours to museums and monuments honoring the contributions of Black Virginians.
The Richmond Region is home to national landmark sites like the Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia—one of the first sites added to UNESCO's Network of Places of History and Memory—and the historic Jackson Ward neighborhood, once known as the "Harlem of the South.” There's also the Trail of Enslaved Africans, the Emancipation and Freedom Monument, and the Slavery Reconciliation Statue, all of which provide a sobering yet essential look at the region's involvement in the Transatlantic Slave Trade.
"The Richmond Region offers the opportunity to explore Black history in a way that's authentic, reflective and forward-looking,” said Katherine O'Donnell, president and CEO of Richmond Region Tourism. “From historic landmarks to modern cultural initiatives, our region invites visitors to connect with stories of resilience, creativity, and progress.”
Thanks to community programs like BLK RVA, which celebrated its fifth anniversary in August 2024, the Richmond Region is more dedicated than ever to showcasing the people, places and spaces that highlight the Black experience in the Richmond Region. BLK RVA's success is a testament to the authenticity and growth of the region's Black culture.
“Travelers who want to experience Black history firsthand should put the Richmond Region on their bucket list,” says Tameka Jefferson, Community Relations and Diversity Program Manager at Richmond Region Tourism. “There's no better place to celebrate Black History Month than in the place where so much of it happened and where we continue to uplift and amplify our incredible Black culture.”
For more information on attractions and events in the Richmond Region this February, head to VisitBLKRVA.com or VisitRichmondVA.com.
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A Better Life for Their Children | Virginia Museum of History & Culture
Now through April 25
Explore the history and legacy of Rosenwald Schools, established by Booker T. Washington, a Black educator, and Julius Rosenwald, a Jewish businessman and philanthropist. Andrew Feiler's powerful photographs, combined with Virginia-specific content, provide a testament to the power of education and interracial collaboration.
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Rich Soil | Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden
January 18 – March 9
Inspired by the movements of Alvin Ailey's dance composition “Revelation,” artist Kristine Mays' body of work pays honor to those she calls "the ancestors," both the lives that have been recognized and those that have been forgotten.
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It's About the Hustle | Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia
January 24 – February 22
This special pop-up exhibition, curated from the BHMVA's archives, will serve as a survey of the history of labor in Virginia.
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We Are the Builders | Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia
January 29 – April 30
In keeping with the theme of this year's Black History Month, this exhibition will highlight the contributions and share the stories of Black workers in Virginia.
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36th Black History Month Celebration | Virginia State University Gateway & Event Center
February 1
Celebrate Black History Month in Chesterfield County with a kick-off party in early February and a variety of programs throughout the month.
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Black History Month Programming | Henrico County Parks
Various Dates in February
Enjoy free, insightful programming throughout the month of February. Highlights include Henrico Black History Bingo; The Ragged Road of Reconstruction: Education; and Historically Speaking: Black Revolutionary Soldiers.
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Mending Walls Murals: Discover stunning street art celebrating Black heroes and stories throughout the city of Richmond. (pictured above)
Dear Mazie: Take in this group exhibition at the Institute for Contemporary Art, featuring works inspired by the life and work of Amaza "Mazie" Lee Meredith, the first known Black queer woman to practice as an architect in the United States.
The Tin Pan: Enjoy performances from several Black musicians at this intimate dinner theater. February's schedule includes artists Karyn White, Adam Hawley and Keith Washington.
R&B Invitation Tour: Catch a vibe at this live performance from R&B legends Joe, Musiq Soulchild and Eric Benét, bringing their soulful tunes to the Altria Theatre.
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The Hive Bar & Grill: Stop by for delicious food, drink specials, and community events.
Mama J's: Richmond's classic soul food staple in Historic Jackson Ward since 2009.
Ruby Scoops: Sample all-natural, handcrafted ice cream and sorbets made by Rabia Kamara, winner of Food Network's Clash of the Cones competition in 2021.
The Estate Restaurant and Lounge: Newly opened in Colonial Heights, this eatery offers brunch, dinner, and drinks in an elevated atmosphere.
Kali Love: One of chef Mike Lindsey's newest venues, Kali Love features a California-inspired menu, colorful decor, and rooftop bar.
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About the Richmond Region
Seven destinations, each with their own personality and flavor, make up the eclectic Richmond Region. From urban bustle to small town charm, from river life to nightlife, a visit to RVA is as diverse as the people you'll meet along the way. The Town of Ashland, Chesterfield County, Colonial Heights, Hanover County, Henrico County, New Kent County and the City of Richmond warmly welcome you for an “Only in Richmond” experience. The Richmond Region celebrates diversity, equity, and inclusion through community-driven initiatives at the heart of everything that we do.
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About Richmond Region Tourism
Richmond Region Tourism, the official destination marketing and tourism organization for the Richmond Region, is a private, not‐for‐profit organization dedicated to promoting the Region to meeting, convention and sports event planners, tour operators and leisure travelers. More than 16 million people visit the Richmond Region annually, contributing nearly $2.9 billion to the local economy. Tourism generates almost 24,000 jobs in the Richmond Region.
For more information, visit VisitRichmondVA.com.
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24 Jan 2025
