Things to Do
If you are planning to take an extra day or so before or after the wedding, we wanted to give you information on some of the things to do in the greater Richmond area!
Whether you're making a weekend getaway out of our wedding or simply exploring the area, these destinations are all within an easy drive of The Mill at Fine Creek.
| Attraction | Approx. Distance
| Typical Cost | Description | Website
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Colonial Williamsburg | 50 miles | Historic Area tickets from ~$35–65 (Merchant's Square is free to explore) | Experience America's largest living history museum with restored 18th-century buildings, costumed interpreters, unique shops, and excellent dining.
| https://www.colonialwilliamsburg.org |
| Busch Gardens Williamsburg | 53 miles | ~$60–100+ | Consistently ranked among the world's most beautiful theme parks, featuring award-winning roller coasters, live entertainment, and European-themed villages.
| https://buschgardens.com/williamsburg |
| Kings Dominion | 48 miles | ~$45–85 | Virginia's premier amusement park with more than 60 rides, thrilling coasters, a water park, and family attractions.
| https://www.kingsdominion.com |
| Monticello | 49 miles | Grounds ~$20; House tours ~$35–45 | Tour Thomas Jefferson's iconic mountaintop home, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with beautiful gardens, exhibits, and sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
| |
| Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA) | 28 miles | Free (special exhibitions extra) | One of America's premier art museums, featuring collections from around the world, sculpture gardens, and an outstanding café.
| |
| Maymont | 27 miles | Grounds Free; Mansion ~$10 | A spectacular 100-acre Victorian estate with formal gardens, wildlife exhibits, walking trails, and a beautifully restored mansion.
| |
| Metro Richmond Zoo | 20 miles | ~$25–35 | Home to over 2,000 animals, with giraffe feeding, a safari train, zip lines, and one of Virginia's top-rated family attractions.
| https://metrorichmondzoo.com |
| Powhatan State Park | 6 miles | $5–7 per vehicle | Just minutes from the venue, enjoy hiking, kayaking, fishing, scenic James River overlooks, and peaceful woodland trails. |
Richmond has become one of the East Coast's premier food destinations, offering everything from award-winning fine dining to family favorites and unique local experiences. Whether you're celebrating, exploring, or simply looking for a memorable meal, these restaurants are among the area's most beloved.
| Restaurant | Style | Typical Cost | Why You'll Love It
|
|---|---|---|---|
| L'Opossum | Fine Dining | $75–150+ per person | Richmond's most celebrated dining experience. Eclectic French-inspired cuisine, whimsical décor, and impeccable service make it perfect for a special night out. Reservations are highly recommended.
|
| Lemaire | Fine Dining | $60–120+ per person | Located inside the historic Jefferson Hotel, Lemaire offers refined Southern cuisine in one of Virginia's most elegant dining rooms. Ideal for anniversaries and celebrations.
|
| Fine Creek Brewing Company | Brewery & Farm-to-Table | $20–40 per person | Just steps from The Mill at Fine Creek, enjoy award-winning craft beer paired with locally sourced seasonal dishes in a beautiful countryside setting with indoor and outdoor seating.
|
| Stella's | Mediterranean | $25–45 per person | Frequently considered one of Richmond's favorite restaurants, Stella's serves authentic Greek cuisine in an intimate, lively atmosphere. Their flaming saganaki is legendary.
|
| Lost Letter | Italian Experience | $50–90 per person | A romantic candlelit restaurant known for handmade pasta, exceptional wines, and one of Richmond's most beautiful garden patios. Perfect for date night.
|
| Can Can Brasserie | French Brasserie | $20–45 per person | Located in Carytown, this lively Parisian-style café is ideal for brunch, lunch, or dinner after a day of shopping. A Richmond institution.
|
| The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing | Waterfront Dining | $30–60 per person | Dine overlooking the James River with fresh seafood, steaks, and spectacular sunset views. One of Richmond's most scenic restaurants.
|
| Mama J's Kitchen | Southern Comfort | $15–30 per person | A local favorite serving authentic Southern soul food including fried chicken, catfish, collard greens, and homemade desserts in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. |
| The Tobacco Company Restaurant | Historic Dining | $30–60 per person | Set inside a beautifully restored 19th-century tobacco warehouse in Shockoe Slip, this Richmond landmark combines history, atmosphere, and classic American cuisine.
|
| Bottoms Up Pizza | Family Dining | $15–30 per person | A Richmond classic known for hearty pizzas, sandwiches, and a fun, family-friendly atmosphere in the historic Shockoe Slip district.
|
Whether you're looking for live music, sports, outdoor festivals, or family fun, there's something happening throughout Central Virginia during your stay.
| Event | Best For | Typical Cost | Description | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Richmond Flying Squirrels vs. Portland Sea Dogs (Home Series) | Families, Sports Fans | $12–35 | The Flying Squirrels host the Portland Sea Dogs (Boston Red Sox affiliate) at brand new and incredible CarMax Park. Saturday night's game features VCU Night, while Sunday's afternoon game includes family activities and player autographs.
| https://www.milb.com/richmond |
| Richmond R&B Festival | Young Adults | $40–100 | An outdoor festival featuring national and regional R&B performers, food trucks, craft beverages, and a lively downtown atmosphere.
| https://www.eventbrite.com |
| Festival of the Arts at Dogwood Dell | Couples & Families | Free | Richmond's beloved outdoor performing arts series continues with live music and theater performances in a beautiful natural amphitheater.
| https://www.rva.gov/parks-recreation/festival-of-the-arts |
| Friday Cheers at Brown's Island | Young Adults | $10–20 | Richmond's signature outdoor concert series featuring nationally touring bands on the James River waterfront. Check the lineup as the date approaches.
| https://venturerichmond.com |
| Stony Point Summer Concert Series | Couples | Free | Relax with live music, lawn seating, local food vendors, and family-friendly entertainment at Stony Point Fashion Park.
| https://www.shopstonypoint.com |
| Richmond Kickers Soccer Match (if home) | Families & Sports Fans | $15–35 | One of America's oldest professional soccer clubs often has late-summer home matches. Check the schedule for this weekend.
| https://www.richmondkickers.com |
| Bryant Park Artisan Market | Everyone | Free | Browse dozens of local artists, makers, food vendors, and crafts in one of Richmond's favorite neighborhood parks.
| https://www.artisanmakers.org |
| Saturday at Hardywood Park Craft Brewery | Adults | Free admission | Live music, food trucks, craft beer, lawn games, and one of Richmond's most popular brewery gatherings.
| https://hardywood.com |
| Riverfront Canal Cruises | Couples & Families | ~$18–25 | Take a narrated cruise through Richmond's historic canal system while learning about the city's fascinating history.
| https://venturerichmond.com/our-events/canal-cruises |
| Live Music at River City Roll | Young Adults | Free–$15 | Richmond's popular boutique bowling venue regularly hosts live bands, outdoor games, cocktails, and late-night entertainment. |
Things to Do
If you are planning to take an extra day or so before or after the wedding, we wanted to give you information on some of the things to do in the greater Richmond area!
📍 About 50 miles from The Mill
💲 Historic Area Tickets: ~$35–65 (Merchant's Square is free to explore)
Experience America's largest living history museum with restored 18th-century buildings, costumed interpreters, unique shops, horse-drawn carriages, and outstanding restaurants.
Website:
https://www.colonialwilliamsburg.org
📍 About 53 miles
💲 Admission: ~$60–100+
One of the world's most beautiful theme parks featuring award-winning roller coasters, live entertainment, international cuisine, and European-themed villages.
Website:
https://buschgardens.com/williamsburg
📍 About 48 miles
💲 Admission: ~$45–85
Virginia's premier amusement park with over 60 rides, thrilling roller coasters, a water park, and family attractions.
Website:
https://www.kingsdominion.com
📍 About 49 miles
💲 Tours: ~$35–45
Tour Thomas Jefferson's mountaintop home, explore beautiful gardens, and enjoy spectacular views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Website:
https://www.monticello.org
📍 About 28 miles
💲 Free (special exhibits extra)
One of America's premier art museums featuring world-renowned collections, sculpture gardens, and an outstanding café.
Website:
https://vmfa.museum
📍 About 27 miles
💲 Grounds: Free • Mansion: ~$10
A magnificent 100-acre estate featuring formal gardens, wildlife exhibits, walking trails, and a beautifully restored mansion.
Website:
https://maymont.org
📍 About 20 miles
💲 Admission: ~$25–35
Home to over 2,000 animals, with giraffe feeding, safari experiences, and one of Virginia's top family attractions.
Website:
https://metrorichmondzoo.com
📍 Just 6 miles away
💲 $5–7 per vehicle
Enjoy hiking, kayaking, fishing, scenic James River access, and peaceful woodland trails just minutes from the wedding venue.
Richmond has become one of the East Coast's premier culinary destinations, with everything from James Beard-recognized restaurants to classic family favorites. Whether you're celebrating, looking for a memorable date night, or just grabbing a casual meal, these are some of our favorite spots.
📍 Oregon Hill • About 35 minutes from The Mill
💲 $75–150+ per person
Richmond's most celebrated fine dining experience. Expect imaginative French-inspired cuisine, eclectic décor, and impeccable service. Perfect for a special occasion.
Best For: Romantic dinner • Foodies
Website:
https://www.lopossum.com
📍 The Jefferson Hotel • Downtown Richmond
💲 $60–120+ per person
Located inside the historic Jefferson Hotel, Lemaire serves refined Southern cuisine in one of Virginia's most elegant dining rooms.
Best For: Anniversary dinners • Classic fine dining
Website:
https://www.lemairerestaurant.com
📍 Adjacent to The Mill at Fine Creek
💲 $20–40 per person
Just steps from the wedding venue, enjoy award-winning craft beer and locally sourced seasonal cuisine in a beautiful countryside setting with indoor and outdoor seating.
Best For: Casual lunch • Craft beer • Groups
Website:
https://finecreekbrewing.com
📍 Richmond's Near West End
💲 $25–45 per person
One of Richmond's most beloved restaurants, Stella's is famous for authentic Greek cuisine, warm hospitality, and an intimate atmosphere.
Best For: Couples • Mediterranean cuisine
Website:
https://www.stellasrichmond.com
📍 Scott's Addition
💲 $50–90 per person
A stylish Italian restaurant known for handmade pasta, exceptional wine, and one of Richmond's most charming garden patios.
Best For: Date night • Wine lovers
Website:
https://www.lostletterrva.com
📍 Carytown
💲 $20–45 per person
A lively Parisian-style café that's perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner after exploring Carytown's unique shops and boutiques.
Best For: Brunch • Shopping day
Website:
https://www.cancanbrasserie.com
📍 James River Waterfront
💲 $30–60 per person
Fresh seafood, steaks, and panoramic views of the James River make this one of Richmond's most scenic dining destinations.
Best For: Sunset dinner • Waterfront views
Website:
https://www.boathouseva.com
📍 Jackson Ward
💲 $15–30 per person
A Richmond institution serving authentic Southern comfort food, including fried chicken, catfish, collard greens, and homemade desserts.
Best For: Families • Southern cuisine
Website:
https://mamajskitchen.com
📍 Historic Shockoe Slip
💲 $30–60 per person
Dine inside a beautifully restored 19th-century tobacco warehouse featuring soaring atriums, historic architecture, and classic American cuisine.
Best For: Out-of-town visitors • Historic ambiance
Website:
https://www.thetobaccocompany.com
📍 Shockoe Slip
💲 $15–30 per person
A Richmond favorite for over 30 years, serving hearty pizzas, sandwiches, and salads in a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.
Best For: Families • Casual dining • Large groups
Website:
https://www.bottomsuppizza.com
Richmond has a full calendar of entertainment, sports, and outdoor activities during wedding weekend. Whether you're looking for a fun family outing, a night out with friends, or a memorable date night, here are a few options nearby.
📍 Allianz Amphitheater at Riverfront • Downtown Richmond
📅 Saturday, August 29 • Evening
💲 Tickets vary (~$50+)
One of Richmond's biggest entertainment events that weekend! R&B superstar Kehlani brings her national tour to the riverfront amphitheater for an energetic evening of music. A great option for younger guests, couples, or anyone looking for a night out after wedding festivities.
Best For: Young adults • Couples • Music lovers
Website:
https://www.allianzamphitheater.com
📍 CarMax Park • Richmond
📅 Friday, August 28 – Sunday, August 30
💲 ~$12–35 per ticket
Enjoy America's favorite pastime with the Richmond Flying Squirrels. A baseball game is an easy, relaxed option for families and groups looking for something fun before or after wedding events.
Best For: Families • Sports fans • Groups
Website:
https://www.milb.com/richmond
📍 Funny Bone Comedy Club • Richmond
📅 August 28–30
💲 Ticket prices vary
A unique experience for movie fans—watch the beloved classic The Princess Bride and hear behind-the-scenes stories from Cary Elwes, who played Westley in the film.
Best For: Couples • Movie fans • Nostalgic adults
Website:
https://www.funnybonerichmond.com
📍 Dogwood Dell Amphitheater • Richmond
💲 Free
Richmond's beloved outdoor performing arts venue hosts summer performances featuring music, theater, and community entertainment in a beautiful park setting.
Best For: Families • Couples • Budget-friendly outing
Website:
https://www.rva.gov/parks-recreation/festival-arts
📍 Richmond
💲 Free admission (food & drinks extra)
One of Richmond's most popular brewery destinations, featuring craft beer, food trucks, outdoor spaces, and frequent weekend live music.
Best For: Adults • Groups • Casual afternoon
Website:
https://www.hardywood.com
📍 Downtown Richmond
💲 ~$18–25
Relax aboard a narrated boat tour through Richmond's historic canal system while learning about the city's fascinating history.
Best For: Couples • Families • Visitors exploring Richmond
Website:
https://venturerichmond.com
📍 Richmond
💲 Free (shopping & dining extra)
Spend an afternoon exploring Carytown's boutiques, coffee shops, local restaurants, and historic theaters, or pair it with a museum visit nearby.
Best For: Couples • Shopping • Casual exploring
Website:
https://www.carytown.org
📍 James River Park System
💲 ~$25–60
Richmond's James River is one of the city's greatest assets. Rent a kayak, paddleboard, or enjoy riverside trails and scenic overlooks.
Best For: Active guests • Outdoors lovers • Families
Website:
https://riversideoutfitters.com
📍 The National • Downtown Richmond
💲 Varies by performance
Richmond's historic concert venue hosts touring bands, comedians, and special events throughout the year. Check the schedule for additional shows added closer to the weekend.
Best For: Music lovers • Younger guests • Nightlife
Website:
https://www.thenationalva.com
📍 Various wineries within driving distance
💲 Tastings ~$10–25
Spend a relaxing afternoon exploring Virginia wine country, with several excellent wineries located within an easy drive of The Mill at Fine Creek.
Best For: Couples • Older guests • Relaxed afternoon