Richmond is equally famous for its small town atmosphere and its big city business. The sprawling metropolis blends seamlessly with the beauty of its natural surroundings. Historic monuments stand proudly among modern developments. Richmond simultaneously celebrates its past and future without missing a beat.
Living in Richmond
Richmond is home to a metropolitan population of around 1.2 million. The suburbs surrounding the city feature every variety of architecture and atmosphere.
The area is constantly growing, but deep historical roots help maintain a sense of identity, even in the farthest suburbs. Monuments to local historical figures and plaques commemorating civil war events are found throughout the metropolitan area.
Recently, the city has drawn attention from its suburbs back to downtown. The riverfront area has been renovated into an upscale mixed use shopping and office district. This transition is still in the early stages, but living inside the city is becoming a popular alternative to dealing with dense local traffic.
Business in Richmond
The economy of Richmond is as varied as it is thriving. Due to its location on the trade route of the James River, the city has been a major business hub since it was founded.
Numerous Fortune 500 and Fortune 1000 companies have their headquarters in the greater Richmond area. Richmond is also home to U.S. government agencies, lobbyists, and a branch of the Federal Reserve Bank.
Leisure Richmond
Richmond has a warm southern climate with mild winters. Outdoor activities are popular year round, and there are over 1500 acres of parks in the metropolitan area.
The downtown riverfront district is convenient to many of the city's historical monuments and architectural landmarks, and offers paddleboat tours for a unique perspective. The city has long been famous for its museum and theater district.
Travel Around Richmond
Richmond sits at the intersection of interstates 64 and 95, with many local highways connecting the city and suburbs. Amtrak provides commuter rail service to nearby cities.
Downtown Richmond still features parts of its original grid system. Since the metropolitan area spreads so far out, it is easiest to learn it one neighborhood at a time.
Public transportation in Richmond is minimal and unpopular. Bus service runs primarily within the downtown region with little or no service to the suburbs. Owning a car is considered a necessity by most residents.