Last Updated on May 2, 2026 by Kristin
Richmond, Virginia offers a mix of historical sites alongside gourmet restaurants, a bustling arts scene and plenty of outdoor activities. Besides being a great destination in its own right, Richmond is also a convenient starting point for a road trip to national parks, beaches and charming towns. Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore these destinations at your own pace and take the scenic route. Here are the best road trips from Richmond.
Fabulous Road Trips from Richmond
Washington, D.C.
109 miles / 1 hr. 55 mins.
One of the most popular road trips from Richmond is to Washington, D.C., which draws in millions of visitors each year for its historical sites, cultural institutions, restaurants and entertainment offerings. First-time visitors should leave plenty of time to see the White House, Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, the National Mall and the United States Capitol. Don’t miss the city’s many cultural institutions, such as the Smithsonian National Air & Space Museum, the National Gallery of Art and National Museum of African American History and Culture. >> Recommended hotels in Washington, DC
Luray
124 miles / 2 hr. 20 mins.
If an escape into nature sounds divine, consider Luray. This quaint town in the Shenandoah Valley is home to charming restaurants, boutiques and galleries housed in historic buildings. Don’t miss the Shenandoah Heritage Village, which recreates an 1800s farming village filled with historic buildings, a gift shop and vineyard. Luray is also home to the world-famous Luray Caverns, where visitors can take a spectacular journey underground to appreciate otherworldly limestone formations. Luray is also a stone’s throw from Shenandoah National Park, which features 500 miles of hiking trails and camping spots. If you have some more time to explore, take a spin on Skyline Drive, a 105-mile National Scenic Byway offering sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. >> Recommended hotels near Shenandoah National Park
Raleigh, North Carolina
169 miles / 2 hr. 31 mins.
Richmond is also a couple of hours from North Carolina’s Research Triangle region, which features three destinations worth visiting: Raleigh, Durham and the college town of Chapel Hill. With a car, you can explore all three easily. For your first stop, head to the state capital of Raleigh, which features historical sites including the North Carolina Museum of Art and North Carolina Museum of Natural Science. Drive a half hour northwest to Durham, which features Duke University’s scenic campus, museums and public gardens. Travel another half hour southwest and you’ll end up in Chapel Hill, which is home to the University of North Carolina and the North Carolina Botanical Garden.
Wilmington, North Carolina
257 miles / 3 hr. 46 mins.
Craving sun and sand? Head to the historic city of Wilmington and take your pick of scenic beaches. Wilmington is home to three beaches, all with a different feel. Grab breakfast or lunch in downtown Wilmington, take a stroll along the Riverwalk path and enjoy the historic district’s mansions and museums. Then, head about 25 minutes east to Wrightsville Beach, beloved for its blue waters. A bit further south is Carolina Beach, which features a boardwalk with rides, games and great food. If you’re looking for a quieter experience far from the crowds, head south to Kure Beach. Here you’ll find the Fort Fisher State Historic Site and the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher.
Asheville, North Carolina
372 miles / 5 hr. 26 mins.
One of the most beloved cities in North Carolina is Asheville, known for its mountain views and laid-back, artsy vibe. Explore galleries in the River Arts District, play historic games at the Asheville Pinball Museum and take a food tour to try an eclectic mix of downtown Asheville’s best restaurants. Having a car means you can also hop on the Blue Ridge Parkway to take a scenic drive through the mountains and enjoy the area’s many scenic overlooks and hiking trails to enjoy waterfalls and great views. >> Recommended hotels in Asheville
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