Things to Do in Richmond in April
April weather, activities, events & insider tips
April Weather in Richmond
Is April Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect mild weather for outdoor activities - daytime temperatures around 20-24°C (68-75°F) ideal for walking the 1.6 km (1 mile) downtown loop without overheating
- Cherry blossoms and dogwoods peak in early-mid April, transforming Monument Avenue into a spectacular 5.6 km (3.5 mile) pink and white corridor - locals time their morning runs for 7-8am when lighting is perfect
- Patio season begins at Richmond's craft breweries - brewers release spring seasonal beers and outdoor seating opens after winter closure, with happy hour crowds manageable before summer tourist surge
- Civil War sites become accessible again after muddy winter conditions - battlefield walking trails at Cold Harbor and Gaines' Mill are firm and comfortable for the 3.2 km (2 mile) historical circuits
Considerations
- April showers arrive without warning - expect 76 mm (3 inches) of rain spread over 10 days, often as sudden downpours that can drench you in minutes while exploring outdoor attractions
- Allergy season peaks with tree pollen counts reaching severe levels - Richmond sits in a river valley that traps pollen, making outdoor activities challenging for sensitive visitors
- Weekend crowds surge as locals emerge from winter hibernation - Belle Isle and Hollywood Cemetery parking fills by 10am on sunny Saturdays, forcing 0.8 km (0.5 mile) walks from street parking
Best Activities in April
Civil War Battlefield Tours
April weather makes Richmond National Battlefield Park trails comfortable for the first time since October. Ground conditions are firm after winter thaw but before summer heat makes the exposed battlefield walks grueling. Wildflowers bloom along Cold Harbor and Gaines' Mill trails, adding color to historical interpretation. Morning temperatures around 15-18°C (59-64°F) are perfect for the 90-minute guided walks.
James River Outdoor Adventures
April marks the sweet spot for James River activities - water temperatures reach 12-15°C (54-59°F), still cool but manageable for kayaking and rafting. Class II-III rapids run high from spring rains but remain safe for beginners. Belle Isle trails are dry enough for rock hopping but haven't yet become crowded summer hangouts. Perfect weather for the 3-hour float from Pony Pasture to Reedy Creek.
Historic District Walking Experiences
April's mild temperatures make Richmond's brick sidewalks and cobblestone streets comfortable for 3-4 hour walking explorations. Church Hill's steep grades and Fan District's tree-lined blocks are pleasant without summer's oppressive heat and humidity. Spring blooms frame Victorian architecture perfectly for photography. Early morning or late afternoon tours avoid the brief but intense April showers.
Brewery Trail Cycling
April weather opens Richmond's expanding brewery scene to cycling connections. The Virginia Capital Trail's 83 km (52 mile) paved route to Williamsburg becomes rideable after winter, but most visitors focus on the urban brewery triangle connecting Scott's Addition, downtown, and Manchester - about 8 km (5 miles) of mostly flat, bike-friendly streets. Craft breweries debut spring seasonal releases in April.
Maymont Park Nature Immersion
April transforms Maymont's 40-hectare (100-acre) grounds into Richmond's premier outdoor attraction. Wildflower meadows peak, mansion gardens burst with azaleas and tulips, and wildlife becomes active after winter dormancy. The Japanese Garden's cherry trees typically bloom mid-April. Temperature and humidity make the 2-3 hour walking circuit comfortable before summer heat makes it challenging.
Food Market and Neighborhood Tours
April sees Richmond's farmers markets return to full spring offerings after winter's limited selection. South of the James Market and others showcase early vegetables, local meats, and artisan products. Neighborhood food scenes in Scott's Addition and Church Hill become walkable again with comfortable temperatures for multiple stops. Outdoor dining reopens at many establishments.
April Events & Festivals
Easter at Historic Churches
Richmond's historic churches like St. Paul's Episcopal (where Jefferson Davis worshipped) and St. John's Church (Patrick Henry's 'Give me liberty' speech site) hold special Easter services often open to visitors. These provide unique access to buildings central to American history with special musical programs and traditional celebrations.
Earth Day Environmental Programs
James River cleanup events and environmental education programs typically occur around Earth Day. These offer hands-on ways to experience Richmond's river ecosystem while contributing to conservation efforts. Many include guided nature walks and educational components about the river's role in Richmond's history and ecology.