We noticed that you're using an unsupported browser. The TripAdvisor website may not display properly.
We support the following browsers:
Windows: Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox. Mac: Safari.
All 88 Richmond Attractions »

James River

22nd Street and Riverside Drive, Richmond, VA 23223
804-780-5733
Ranked #11 of 74 attractions in Richmond
4.5 of 5 stars 22 Reviews
Type: Bodies of Water
Activities: Kayaking, Swimming
Owner description: This river running right through downtown Richmond offers sightseeing rides on an antique paddlewheel steamer or on a raft with a trained guide, as...... more » Owner description: This river running right through downtown Richmond offers sightseeing rides on an antique paddlewheel steamer or on a raft with a trained guide, as well as wading, fishing, rafting, kayaking or simply relaxing on the river banks and gazing out at the city. « less
Update attraction details
Write a Review

22 reviews from our community

Visitor rating
    13
    8
    0
    1
    0
Date Rating
Richmond, Virginia
Senior Contributor
22 reviews 22 reviews
Reviews in 6 cities Reviews in 6 cities
9 helpful votes 9 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed May 28, 2012 NEW

There are many walkways along the James River that, in some areas, offer views of the downtown and the opportunity to observe birds catching fish. Other areas provide biking trails in addition to hiking. Bring your camera and binoculars,... and a big smile to greet the many friendly people there! More

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 6 more reviews by Nelson M for Richmond
Richmond
Senior Contributor
39 reviews 39 reviews
Reviews in 14 cities Reviews in 14 cities
7 helpful votes 7 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed May 26, 2012 NEW

Love this natural resource right in the middle of the city. Lots of options to enjoy, swim, raft, kayak, bask on the rocks, fish, etc. More

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 17 more reviews by islelvr for Richmond
Richmond, Virginia
Senior Reviewer
7 reviews 7 reviews
Reviews in 2 cities Reviews in 2 cities
4 of 5 stars Reviewed May 16, 2012

Pony Pasture gets regular visit. Sit and relax, walk the road, watch nature unfold, or see kayakers show off their skills. Maybe lay on the "beach." More

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 3 more reviews by gordon595 for Richmond
Midlothian, Virginia
Reviewer
4 reviews 4 reviews
Reviews in 2 cities Reviews in 2 cities
5 of 5 stars Reviewed April 25, 2012

LOVED the Flowers, waterfalls, music, dining areas, trees, trees, trees , fabulous place to visit with or without kids More

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 2 more reviews by jeannette y for Richmond
Richmond, Virginia
Reviewer
4 reviews 4 reviews
Reviews in 2 cities Reviews in 2 cities
1 helpful vote 1 helpful vote
5 of 5 stars Reviewed April 24, 2012
1
person found this review helpful

If you enjoy seeing the beauty of nature, then come see the James River, its the next thing to white water rivers. More

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 2 more reviews by Jane J for Richmond
Urbanna, VA
Reviewer
5 reviews 5 reviews
Reviews in 5 cities Reviews in 5 cities
4 helpful votes 4 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed April 18, 2012

The James River has literally shaped the lives of several of my friends! The river runs right through the heart of Richmond and it provides some of the best whitewater one can find, rock for climbing and bouldering, fantastic fishing, a series of parks and the legendary Ralph White ( a modern day Thoreau). I've watched this river produce two... More

Was this review helpful? Yes
N Chesterfield
Senior Contributor
27 reviews 27 reviews
Reviews in 4 cities Reviews in 4 cities
1 helpful vote 1 helpful vote
4 of 5 stars Reviewed April 14, 2012

The James River has something for everyone. Miles of trails, bike paths, islands, rocks to walk to the middle, whitewater for kayaks......Fabulous More

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 21 more reviews by rfp p for Richmond
Norfolk, Virginia
Top Contributor
226 reviews 226 reviews
Reviews in 40 cities Reviews in 40 cities
56 helpful votes 56 helpful votes
4 of 5 stars Reviewed April 11, 2012
2
people found this review helpful

Richmond lies on the Fall Line. That not only made it an important center for commerce in Virginia but it continues to make it a great urban kayaking. But if you're not a professional, have a great ride or hike on the many trails on both sides of the James River or the Islands in between. There are pedestrian bridges... More

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 16 more reviews by Robert B for Richmond
Norfolk, Virginia
Top Contributor
83 reviews 83 reviews
Reviews in 24 cities Reviews in 24 cities
31 helpful votes 31 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed April 11, 2012
2
people found this review helpful

LOVE this river as it weaves its way through Richmond. White water rafting is fun - they look up and there are buildings! Usually class 3 & 4 rapids. We like to hike on Belle Isle from the Shockoe area, walking around Brown's Island is also a favorite. Bring the kids and enjoy this river. More

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 12 more reviews by kthomasva for Richmond
Contributor
14 reviews 14 reviews
Reviews in 3 cities Reviews in 3 cities
2 helpful votes 2 helpful votes
4 of 5 stars Reviewed April 9, 2012
1
person found this review helpful

If you go to 5th St. and turn right that will take to you the entrace to Belle isle next to Tredegar Iron Works Civil War Museum. There is a long bridge that goes over the river to the small island. They have recently built in handicapped ramps that go into the water! There are benches and a covered area... More

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 11 more reviews by Marissarrington for Richmond

Travelers who viewed James River also viewed

Maymont
4.5 of 5 stars 131 Reviews
Richmond, VA
Carytown
4 of 5 stars 55 Reviews
Richmond, VA
 
Monument Avenue
4.5 of 5 stars 59 Reviews
Richmond, VA
Hollywood Cemetery
4.5 of 5 stars 84 Reviews
Richmond, VA
 

Been to James River? Share your experiences!

Write a Review Add Photos Add Videos

Owners: What's your side of the story?

If you own or manage James River, register now for free tools to enhance your listing, attract new reviews, and respond to reviewers.

Manage your listing
See all sites
Cruise Critic

The ultimate cruise resource: cruise reviews, deals, news and advice.

SeatGuru

The world's most comprehensive source for airline seats, airline info, & in-flight amenities.

Family Vacation Critic

The best family vacations start here.

Best beach houses of 2012 »