Things to Do in Richmond in August

August Weather in Richmond

31°C (88°F) High Temp

21°C (70°F) Low Temp

102 mm (4.0 inches) Rainfall

65% Humidity

Is August Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect outdoor activity weather - mornings and evenings are comfortable at 21-24°C (70-75°F) with low humidity before 10am and after 6pm
Local festival season with Richmond Folk Festival (mid-August) and outdoor concerts at Maymont Park every weekend
James River water levels ideal for tubing and kayaking - consistent flows after July heat without autumn low water
Peak farmers market season with Virginia corn, tomatoes, and peaches at their absolute best - Saturday South of the James market is legendary among locals

Considerations

Afternoon thunderstorms 8 days per month typically hit between 2-5pm, forcing indoor plans during peak sightseeing hours
High humidity 65% makes walking tours uncomfortable midday - locals avoid downtown walking between 11am-4pm
Tourist shoulder season means some seasonal restaurants reduce hours and several brewery tours only run weekends

Best Activities in August

James River Tubing and Kayaking Adventures

August offers perfect river conditions with consistent water levels and warm 26°C (79°F) water temperatures. Morning launches (8-11am) avoid afternoon storms while evening sunset paddles (5-7pm) showcase Richmond's skyline. The river flows are predictable after summer rains, making it ideal for beginners.

Booking Tip: Reserve morning time slots 5-7 days ahead through outfitters near Pony Pasture or Belle Isle. Full-day trips typically cost $45-75 per person including equipment. Book through licensed outfitters for safety equipment and shuttle service - see current options in booking section below.

Historic District Walking and Cycling Tours

Early morning (7-10am) and evening (6-8pm) temperatures make exploring Fan District and Monument Avenue comfortable. August's longer daylight hours until 8pm allow extended evening tours when historic architecture looks stunning in golden hour lighting. Avoid midday heat when locals retreat indoors.

Booking Tip: Self-guided works best with morning start times. Guided walking tours typically cost $20-35 per person for 2-hour experiences. Bike rentals run $25-40 per day. Book evening food and history combination tours 3-5 days ahead - check current tour schedules in booking section below.

Virginia Brewery Trail Experiences

August is peak season for brewery patios and outdoor beer gardens. Local breweries feature seasonal August releases using Virginia-grown hops and summer ingredients. Evening brewery tours (5-8pm) allow you to experience Richmond's craft beer scene when temperatures drop and live music starts on outdoor stages.

Booking Tip: Weekend brewery tours book up 7-10 days ahead, especially combination food and beer experiences. Guided brewery tours typically cost $60-85 per person including tastings and transportation. Weekday self-guided options offer more flexibility - see current brewery tour options in booking section below.

Maymont Park and Gardens Exploration

August showcases Maymont's gardens at summer peak with blooming crape myrtles and active wildlife. Early morning visits (8-10am) offer comfortable temperatures for the 40-hectare (100-acre) park before heat builds. The mansion tours provide air-conditioned relief during midday, while evening concerts happen regularly in August.

Booking Tip: Park entry is free, but mansion tours cost $8-12 per person and fill up weekends. Book mansion tours 3-4 days ahead online. Allow 3-4 hours for full park experience. Evening concert tickets typically cost $15-25 - check current events in booking section below.

Civil War Battlefield Tours

August weather is ideal for early morning battlefield visits when temperatures are cool and humidity low. Richmond National Battlefield Park offers excellent interpretation during longer summer daylight hours. The battlefield sites are less crowded in August shoulder season, allowing more personal experiences at key Civil War locations.

Booking Tip: Self-guided driving tours work well with early morning starts. Guided battlefield tours typically cost $35-55 per person for half-day experiences. Book guided tours 5-7 days ahead, especially weekend tours. Allow full day for comprehensive Civil War site visits - see current tour options in booking section below.

Farmers Market and Food Hall Tours

August is absolute peak for Virginia produce - corn, tomatoes, peaches, and early apples are at their best. Saturday markets like South of the James offer incredible local ingredients when locals do their weekly shopping. Food halls provide air-conditioned relief with local vendors showcasing August harvest ingredients.

Booking Tip: Visit Saturday markets early (8-10am) for best selection and comfortable temperatures. Food tours combining markets and restaurants typically cost $75-95 per person. Weekend food tours book 7-10 days ahead. Allow 3-4 hours for comprehensive market and tasting experience - see current food tour options in booking section below.

August Events & Festivals

Mid August

Richmond Folk Festival

Major outdoor music festival featuring traditional music from around the world on multiple stages along the James River. Free admission with food vendors, craft demonstrations, and cultural performances. One of Richmond's biggest cultural events.

Every Saturday in August

Maymont Park Summer Concert Series

Weekly outdoor concerts in the park's natural amphitheater featuring local and regional musicians. Bring blankets and picnic supplies. Popular with locals who arrive early to claim good spots on the lawn.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight, moisture-wicking shirts - 65% humidity makes cotton feel sticky, synthetic blends dry faster

Compact umbrella or light rain jacket - afternoon storms hit suddenly and last 30-45 minutes

Comfortable walking shoes with good grip - summer rain makes brick sidewalks in downtown slippery

SPF 30+ sunscreen - UV index reaches 7 and reflects off the James River during water activities

Refillable water bottle - staying hydrated is crucial in 31°C (88°F) temperatures with humidity

Light cardigan for evening - temperatures drop to comfortable 21°C (70°F) after sunset

Insect repellent for river and park activities - mosquitoes are active near water in summer

Portable phone charger - using GPS and camera in heat drains batteries faster

Cash for farmers markets - many vendors don't accept cards, especially at smaller market stalls

Light daypack for carrying water, rain gear, and layers as weather changes throughout the day

Insider Knowledge

Locals eat lunch indoors between 11am-3pm during August - restaurants offer better service and sometimes lunch specials during these 'slow' hours when tourists avoid the heat

Free parking becomes available after 6pm on weekdays in downtown meters, perfect timing for evening activities when temperatures cool to comfortable levels

Richmond's RVA bike share system gets heavy use early morning and evening - reserve bikes through the app rather than hoping to find them at popular stations

Many locals spend August afternoons at Short Pump Town Center or other indoor malls - it's not just shopping, it's free air conditioning and a social scene

Avoid These Mistakes

Planning outdoor sightseeing during 12pm-4pm when humidity peaks and afternoon storms hit - locals know to be indoors during these hours

Underestimating how quickly afternoon thunderstorms develop - that distant rumble means you have 15-20 minutes to get inside

Overdressing for air conditioning - restaurants and attractions keep indoor temperatures at 18-20°C (65-68°F), which feels arctic after being outside