Richmond

This Muslim Friendly Travel Guide is part of eHalal.io Travel Group

Richmond is the capital of Virginia, a state in the United States|American South (United States of America) | South. Richmond has a population of 200,000 and the adjacent counties of Henrico and Chesterfield combine to create a local population of more than 1,250,000 people.

Districts

Richmond has been called a city of neighborhoods, each one with a distinct look, flavor, and identity. All are recognized by Richmonders as unique neighborhoods, almost as though the city were a collection of several small towns.

Districts of Richmond

Richmond/The Fan

Richmond/Museum District

Richmond/Downtown (includes Shockoe (split into Shockoe Bottom and Shockoe Slip), Jackson Ward and Tobacco Row)

Richmond/West End

Richmond/Southside

Richmond/Northside

Richmond/East End (includes Church Hill, Union Hill, Chimborazo, Fulton)

Richmond Halal Travel Guide

Skyline of Richmond, Virginia - Richmond skyline looking across James River

Previously inhabited by the Powhatan Indians and the site was settled in 1607 by Capt. Christopher Newport and Capt. John Smith, both English, and named after the London suburb of Richmond-upon-Thames, by William Byrd II. The settlement - little more than a trading post for furs, hides, and tobacco - did not become a city until 1742, and became the state capital of Virginia in 1782. One of the oldest American cities, Richmond is much more progressive and diverse in culture than most areas of the South. Historically, Blacks in Richmond enjoyed certain limited liberties that would have been unthinkable elsewhere in the South. Most notably, nearly one in five African-Americans in the city was free. Black barbers and seamstresses owned their own businesses and, along with black ironworkers and other skilled free laborers, owned houses as well. Even as Richmond exported slaves throughout the Lower South, those slaves who remained in Richmond labored and lived under far different circumstances than slaves elsewhere. While the great majority of female slaves used to serve as domestics in their owners’ houses, male slaves would often work in Richmond’s tobacco-pressing factories, flour mills and the massive Tredegar Ironworks and other businesses, alongside free blacks and whites. It is because of these historic freedoms that Richmond is the birthplace of the First African Baptist Church. This church was formerly a church where Whites, Free Blacks, and Slaves would worship alongside each other. However and the church separated from the First Baptist Church once African Americans were given permission to establish their own Church in 1841.

The First African Baptist Church was regularly rented by whites for concerts, minstrel shows and political rallies, including a debate by working-class whites over union versus secession, held in a church where a slave-owning white minister led free blacks and slaves in regular worship: surprising as the scene might seem, to Richmonders during this time it was wholly unremarkable. Despite the city's position in the confederacy, Richmond is not a typical Southern town. Richmond was and still is an industrialized urban center with strong economic ties to the North and West as well as the South. It was home to slaveowners and slaves, white immigrants and free blacks. Similar to nearby Baltimore, Richmond is known for its significant amount of Eastern European and Yahudi cultural influence. Unlike most immigrants in cities further North and the majority of Richmonds immigrants have been in the area since the mid 1800s at the latest. It is because of this that they are very well established and often considered to be apart of Richmonds old money elite. Companies such as Ukrops Homestyle Foods, Thalhimer, Weinstein Properties, Markel Corporation, Schwarzschild Jewelers and the Sauer Company are all named for Wealthy Richmond immigrants. Neighborhoods such as Carver and Sauers Gardens were also founded by and named for Eastern European and Yahudi immigrants. Despite this and the Shockoe Bottom entertainment area is where slave rebellion leader Gabriel had his head hung from a pike.

Despite the city being very Pro-Union, during the American Civil War, it served as the capital of the Confederacy. When the Northern Army invaded Richmond and the fleeing Confederate government set fires to the city's munitions stores and government records they were unable to take with them. The fire grew out of control when winds picked up, and most of the city burned. The soldiers from the Union helped to put out the fires upon their arrival. The day after the city fell, Abraham Lincoln made a visit to the city. Though much of its colonial past has disappeared, it is rich in Civil War history and lore. There are, among other things, a Civil War prison site on Belle Isle and the house Robert E. Lee lived in and the state Capitol (which Thomas Jefferson designed and said was inspired by the Maison Carrée at Nimes, France) which served as the Confederate Capitol during the war, a museum of the Confederacy and the original Confederate White House, and Hollywood Cemetery in the heart of the city where more than 18,000 Confederate soldiers are laid to rest. Richmond has the most forged iron outside of New Orleans, and one of the first African American neighborhoods (Jackson Ward).

Visitor information

• Richmond Visitor Center | 405 North 3rd Street at Marshall ☎ +1 804 783-7450 | Opening Hours: 9AM Monday - 5PM daily

• Airport Visitor Center | 1 Richard E. Byrd Terminal Dr., Ste. A; Lower Level - Baggage Claim Area; Sandston, VA 23250 ☎ +1 804 236-3260 | Opening Hours: Mon. - Fri. 9:30am-4:30pm, Sat. & Sun. noon-5pm

• Bass Pro Shops | 11550 Lakeridge Parkway, Ashland, VA 23005 ☎ +1 804 615-5412 | Opening Hours: Thursday-Monday 10am-6pm

Travel to Richmond

By car

Richmond is on I-95 less than 2 hours south of Washington DC. I-64 runs east-west through the city which provides easy access to Norfolk, Virginia Beach, Williamsburg, and Charlottesville. In addition, several other major roadways such as the Powhite Parkway (Route 76) and the Chippenham Parkway (Route 150), and Route 288 connect Richmond to other areas such as Chesterfield and Midlothian.

Muslim Friendly Rail Holidays in Richmond

See also: rail travel in the United States

Two Amtrak train stations serve Richmond.

• Staples Mill station 37.6178, -77.4969 - Richmond Staples Mill Road station Richmond Staples Mill Road Station Building - - Richmond's primary station, located in an older section of suburban Henrico County, and is served by Northeast Corridor trains as well as several lines continuing south toward the Carolinas and Florida. Travelers heading downtown should plan on a $20-$25 taxi fare. Amtrak also offers an Thruway Bus connection to downtown.

• Richmond Main Street Station 37.534722, -77.429167 - Richmond Main Street Station Main Street Station A - The historic downtown station has recently been renovated and reopened, but is only served by the few Northeast Corridor trains terminating at Newport News, and the segment between Staples Mill and Main Street can be affected by delays as the train traverses CSX's ACCA rail yard, a major freight hub.

Buy a Flight ticket to and from Richmond

{{See also|air travel in the US

• Richmond International Airport IATA Code: RIC 37.505, -77.3194 in nearby Sandston, about a $20 taxi ride east of downtown - Richmond International Airport RIC Terminal Building is served by most major domestic carriers plus discounters JetBlue and Southwest.

Chesterfield County Airport (IATA Code: FCI) to the south of the city and Hanover County Airport (IATA Code: OFP) to the north handle general aviation.

Travel on a Bus in Richmond

Greyhound Bus Lines has a large terminal located on Boulevard...about 4 miles west of Downtown Richmond and 1 mile north of the Museum District.

The city is also served by Eastern Travel, a chinatown bus line that picks up and drops off passengers at its station near the intersection of Boulevard and Broad Street. It is half the price of Greyhound, and while it only runs one departure and one arrival a day (at 7AM and 10PM) is relatively reliable. This bus serves two destinations from Richmond: Washington, DC and New York City. Many more options of this type are easily reached in both of these cities.

Megabus offers service from Philadelphia, Newark (Delaware) | Newark, DE, Baltimore, Washington, D.C.]], Hampton (Virginia) | Hampton, Durham (North Carolina) | Durham, Charlotte, Fayetteville (North Carolina) | Fayetteville, Columbia (South Carolina) | Columbia, Athens (Georgia) | Athens, and Atlanta. Buses arrive and depart at the Richmond Travel Plaza on E Main Street across from Main Street Station. Fares from $1 and up.

BoltBus offers service from New York City and Washington, D.C.]] Buses arrive and depart at 351 West Cary St, near the junction of South Jefferson St.

How to get around in Richmond

By car

The easiest way to get around Richmond is by car. Roadside parking spaces are relatively easy to find but be in the look-out for no parking areas - particularly the "Fan District." The city is laid out on a grid system and is easy to navigate, however, many streets in the oldest parts of the city are very narrow and one-way.

Travel on a Bus in Richmond

The Greater Richmond Transit Company, or GRTC, operates a bus service across the city and partially into neighboring Henrico and Chesterfield Counties. Their phone number is: +1 804 358-4782. The average fare is $1.50 for local routes and $2.00 for the express routes, exact change or Go-Cards are the only available methods of payment, you can find Go-Cards at local groceries and convenience stores. The system is best utilized if you are already downtown, and need to go throughout the city itself. Many find it easiest to Park at an all day garage and use one of the multiple lines along Broad street to avoid paying for more parking.

What to see in Richmond

Pattern building, Tredegar Iron Works, Richmond, Virginia - Tredegar Iron Works

Best things to do in Richmond

The James River

The section of the James River running through Richmond offers many opportunities for a day out. Due to Richmond's location at the fall line and the James River has many rapids right downtown which are great for white water rafting. The rapids are class III but may become class IV in the right weather conditions. The ones closest to downtown can be quite dangerous without an experienced guide. However and there are many smaller rapids just slightly upstream which can safely be run in a raft or innertube. One can travel at a lazy pace, stopping to repeat rapids or swim through quickly. In order to run the rapids in this way, one must have two cars, parking the first at the bottom exit point and the second at the entry point.

There are parks on both sides of the James River above downtown, but the Pony Pasture section of the James River park is an excellent place to begin a few hours on the rapids. Just make sure to pull out when you see a sign on the right side of the river with an arrow directing you to do so; otherwise you will have great difficulty on the larger rapids. The river is quite clean and mostly surrounded by woods for this section. Make sure to try the rope swing under one of the railroad bridges. Many people simply swim around in between the smooth rocks at Pony Pasture without leaving that section. There are excellent trails through the woods on both sides and this section is used for the XTERRA Triathalon in June.

IMPORTANT SAFETY NOTE - due to the river's currents, sudden drop-offs and large (and sometimes hidden) rocks, it has been known to get the best of even those with years of experience. As serene as it may look in places within the city, many local residents have stories about someone they know who got in trouble with the river due to not taking the proper precautions, even just a few feet from the river bank. Do not risk when rafting or tubing, always wear a life jacket. Do not wade or swim outside of areas known to be safe by local residents, such as between the rocks at Pony Pasture. In addition, be aware of weather conditions, as the river is prone to severe flash flooding during rainstorms, which changes conditions very rapidly and without much warning.

Live music

Despite churning out a good number of internationally known rock, indie, metal, punk and R&B acts, many outsiders don't think of the former capital of the Confederacy as being a hotbed of diverse musical arts. However, largely thanks to the thriving arts scene associated with and around Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond has quite the music scene. Clubs offer a diverse selection of genres from rock, indie, metal, punk, hardcore, alternative, blues, jazz, jam, country and bluegrass. In addition to international and national acts that come through town and there is a vibrant (and often fiercely independent) local music scene which has spawned a good number of internationally renowned acts in recent years.

Halal Restaurants in Richmond

Many of Richmond's fine restaurants may be found in the historic neighborhood downtown called Shockoe Bottom, in the Richmond/Downtown|Downtown area

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Richmond

Richmond - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Richmond, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Richmond. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Richmond and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Richmond. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Richmond. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations inRichmond: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Richmond.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Richmond: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Richmond, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Richmond.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Richmond, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Richmond, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Richmond and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Richmond, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Richmond, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Richmond without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Richmond is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Richmond.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Richmond is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Richmond, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Richmond Media: info@ehalal.io

Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in Richmond

eHalal Group Richmond is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Richmond. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in Richmond.

At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Richmond ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property.

For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Richmond. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living.

If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in Richmond, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values.

For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in Richmond are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at realestate@ehalal.io

Muslim Friendly Hotels

• SpringHill Suites Richmond Virginia Center - 9701 Brook Road 37.6642703, -77.45969330000003 ☎ +1-804-266-9403 + | checkin=3:00 PM / Check-out: 12:00 PM This hotel offers free wireless high-speed Internet and daily breakfast buffet.

Cope

• Style Weekly - "Greater Richmond's alternative newsweekly."
• Brick Weekly - "A comprehensive cornucopia of music, arts & entertainment for Richmond."

Stay Safe

Richmond has a fairly high crime rate, but the vast majority of serious crime occurs in and around the city's public housing projects, located mostly in the northeast, eastern and southside sections of the city. Muggings and purse snatchings, however, occur throughout the city, so be careful when walking or standing around at night.

Popular night-spots around downtown, such as The Fan District and the areas around Virginia Commonwealth University and Shockoe Bottom can become dodgy at night, so it is best to avoid walking alone or on side streets. While all of the night spots are generally safe, it is also wise to avoid any confrontations inside or outside of late night restaurants, especially in Shockoe Bottom, as incidents have sometimes lead to stabbings or shootings. This goes for fights between other people; just go the other way.

In addition, much of the free and affordable parking in Shockoe Bottom is located under the freeway and train overpasses and have many dark areas; be aware of your surroundings when returning to your vehicle after dark. As always, use common sense and avoid walking or parking in any areas that seem unsafe.

Most areas of the city are also notorious for vehicle break-ins, so it is always best to have nothing visible inside your car, including shoes, clothing or trash if you park on the street, in open lots, or in unsecured parking garages.

Avoid swimming or wading in the James River within the city, as the currents and dropoffs are notorious for getting the best of even those most experienced with the river. If swimming, restrict yourself to public-access beaches or stretches of rocks such as Pony Pasture or Belle Isle's northern side, or avail yourself of local guidance. In addition, if on the riverbanks, be aware of weather conditions, as some areas around the riverfront are prone to flash-flooding.

Travel Next

• Colonial Williamsburg - Located roughly 50 miles east of Richmond on I-64 in the historic neighborhood of the town of Williamsburg, this "living history museum" in recreates Virginia's 18th century capital as it appeared preceding and during the American Revolution.

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