Richmond is the capital city of the US state of
Virginia and is also one of the oldest major cities in the United States of America. It is a principal city of the Greater Richmond Region and the Metropolitan Statistical Area. The city is the fourth most populated city in the state, and its metropolitan area is the third most populated in Virginia.
Richmond was established in 1737, and it became an independent city in 1871, much of which is attributed to notable people like Patrick Henry, a US founding father who is commonly known for his declaration, "Give me liberty or give me death."
Today, Richmond has a vast economy that is fully driven by its intricate government and the fact that it is the financial, economic, educational, and tourist hub of its region. The city also prides itself in a vast cityscape, with a rich blend of both ancient and modern architecture. The best views of the city are achieved from across the James River and from the ultra-modern skyscrapers across the city.
One of the significant landmarks is that of Saint John's Church that was built back in 1741 and remains the oldest church in the city to date. The Jackson Ward neighborhood is another beautiful landmark that has since been listed as a National Historic Landmark, complete with its bright red and white-colored building rows. Visitors also like to visit the Monument Avenue, a spot in downtown Richmond that has many statues and monuments that have been iconic in shaping the history of the city. Its scenic surroundings made up of parks and gardens are instrumental in the outdoor activities of the town. The Main Street Station is one of the oldest buildings in Richmond, and it still holds offices and a railroad station. The Virginia State Capitol Building stands mighty and iconic amid scenic surroundings of beautiful parks and gardens and well-manicured lawns.
Richmond experiences a humid subtropical climate of Köppen Cfa. Its summers are hot and humid and its winters very cold. Springs have lovely weather, albeit short-lasting, amid the beautiful flowery blossoms that fill the city with sweet and fresh scents. Autumn brings its fair share of beauty with the stunning golden-brown fall foliage amid the crisp air. Photography and picnicking are among the everyday activities of both seasons.
Summer enjoys highs of 91.8°F (33.2°C) on average, with some days having as high as 98.8°F (37.1°C)! The nights, however, average 71.8°F (22.1°C). The afternoons receive mild showers of rain, albeit not enough to interrupt regular activities. The wettest month is
August, with a low 4.6" (116.8mm) in precipitation.
Winter has its mercury in the highs of 50.4°F (10.2°C) and lows of 26.4°F (-3.1°C). Snowfall is not rare, even though it is in the form of traces, with the snowiest month barely collecting 8.6cm of snow.
The peak of the travel period in Richmond begins in
April and ends in
September, during the last of spring and through summer. Between
October and
November, during autumn, there is noted an upsurge in the number of visitors too. These periods have warm and pleasant days, typical of excellent outdoor weather. On top of that, most of the festivals are held around these times, adding to the crowds.
On the 4th of
July annually, Richmond holds its Independence Day celebrations amid parades, costume parties, and live shows and concerts in select venues. The State Fair of Virginia comes around September and October on varying dates. Then in October, the famed Richmond Folk Festival is held.