Things to Do in Richmond in September

September Weather in Richmond

29°C (84°F) High Temp

21°C (70°F) Low Temp

89 mm (3.5 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is September Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect fall weather with comfortable 21-29°C (70-84°F) temperatures for walking Richmond's historic districts and riverfront trails without summer heat exhaustion
September marks peak harvest season - local farmers markets overflow with Virginia apples, pumpkins, and craft vendors, while brewery patios offer ideal outdoor drinking conditions
Tourist crowds thin dramatically after Labor Day but attractions remain fully operational with extended hours, meaning shorter lines at American Civil War Museum and easier restaurant reservations
James River water levels stabilize after summer, creating optimal conditions for kayaking and Belle Isle exploration with 12+ hours of daylight for outdoor activities

Considerations

Early college football season brings weekend crowds and higher hotel rates, especially when VCU or University of Richmond play home games
September rain can disrupt outdoor festivals and river activities - storms are brief but intense, averaging 10 rainy days per month
Some summer-specific attractions like outdoor concert series begin winding down, reducing evening entertainment options compared to peak season

Best Activities in September

James River Kayaking and Belle Isle Exploration

September offers ideal river conditions with stable water levels and comfortable temperatures for paddling. The James River flows at optimal levels for beginners after summer heat subsides, while Belle Isle's hiking trails provide perfect conditions for post-paddle exploration. Mornings offer glass-like water conditions before afternoon breezes pick up.

Booking Tip: Reserve kayak rentals 5-7 days ahead as September weekends fill up with locals escaping summer heat. Full-day rentals typically cost $45-65, half-day $30-45. Look for outfitters offering shuttle service to put-in points. Check current river conditions in booking section below.

Historic Richmond Civil War Walking Tours

Cool September temperatures make this the ideal month for exploring Richmond's extensive Civil War sites on foot. You can comfortably walk 3-5 km (2-3 miles) through downtown battlefields and historic districts without summer humidity. The golden September light creates perfect conditions for photography at Tredegar Iron Works and surrounding sites.

Booking Tip: Book guided tours 7-10 days ahead, especially for weekends. Self-guided options cost $15-25, guided walking tours typically $35-50 per person. Tours run 2-3 hours - start by 10am to finish before potential afternoon rain. See current tour options in booking section below.

Virginia Fall Brewery Trail Adventures

September launches Virginia's craft beer harvest season, with breweries releasing fresh hop ales and pumpkin varieties. Comfortable outdoor temperatures make brewery hopping perfect, especially in Scott's Addition district where you can easily walk between 6+ breweries. Outdoor patios reopen after oppressive summer heat.

Booking Tip: Brewery tours typically cost $25-40 including tastings. Book weekend tours 10-14 days ahead as September draws beer tourists from DC/Baltimore. Weekday tours offer better availability. Many breweries offer food trucks on weekends. Check current brewery tour options in booking section below.

Maymont Park and Estate Tours

September transforms Maymont's 40 hectares (100 acres) into a photographer's paradise with early fall foliage and comfortable walking temperatures. The mansion tours become pleasant without summer air conditioning battles, while outdoor gardens peak with late-season blooms. Wildlife exhibits are most active in cooler September mornings.

Booking Tip: Mansion tours cost $10-15, while park access remains free. September weekends can be busy with wedding photography, so visit weekday mornings for peaceful exploration. Tours run every 30 minutes, 10am-4pm. No advance booking required for general admission.

Poe Museum and Literary Richmond Walks

September's atmospheric weather perfectly complements Richmond's literary heritage tours. Comfortable temperatures allow 2-3 hour walking tours through Shockoe Bottom where Edgar Allan Poe lived, while early autumn ambiance enhances the gothic atmosphere of indoor museum exhibits.

Booking Tip: Museum admission typically $8-12, combination walking tours $20-30. September brings literature students back to colleges, creating more diverse tour groups. Book weekend literary tours 5-7 days ahead. Afternoon tours often better as morning fog can obscure historic building details.

Pocahontas State Park Hiking Trails

Located 32 km (20 miles) south of Richmond, September offers perfect hiking conditions with cooling temperatures and early fall color changes. The park's 24 km (15 miles) of trails become comfortable for day-long exploration without summer heat stroke risks. Wildlife activity increases as animals prepare for winter.

Booking Tip: Park entry typically $4-7 per vehicle, camping $25-35 per night. September weekends fill up with locals - reserve campsites 14+ days ahead if staying overnight. Weekday visits offer empty trails and better wildlife viewing. Bring layers as morning temperatures can be 8°C (15°F) cooler than afternoons.

September Events & Festivals

Mid September

Richmond Folk Festival

One of Virginia's largest free outdoor music festivals featuring traditional folk, blues, and world music on multiple stages along the James River. Over 200 artists perform across three days with extensive food vendors and craft demonstrations.

Late September

2nd Street Festival

Jackson Ward's celebration of African American culture and Richmond's jazz heritage with live music, soul food vendors, and historical presentations along 2nd Street's historic corridor.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Light rain jacket or packable umbrella - September storms are brief but intense, often hitting during afternoon hours

Layered clothing for 8°C (15°F) temperature swings - mornings start cool at 21°C (70°F), afternoons reach 29°C (84°F)

Comfortable walking shoes with good tread - Richmond's cobblestone areas become slippery when wet

Light cotton or linen shirts - 70% humidity still requires breathable fabrics despite cooler temperatures

SPF 30+ sunscreen - UV index of 6 still requires protection during river and outdoor activities

Small backpack or day pack - ideal weather means you'll spend most time outdoors exploring

Light sweater or hoodie for evening brewery patios and outdoor dining

Waterproof phone case if planning James River activities - September rain can appear suddenly

Portable phone charger - comfortable weather means longer outdoor exploration days

Insider Knowledge

Local college students return in September, so restaurants near VCU offer student discounts if you ask - many extend these to tourists to fill slower weekday tables

September mornings before 10am offer the best photography lighting at Capitol Square and Maymont, plus you'll avoid tour groups that typically arrive after 11am

Richmond's food truck scene explodes in September as outdoor eating becomes comfortable again - follow RVA Food Truck Association on social media for daily locations and new vendors

Many hotels offer 'Richmond resident rates' if you book by phone rather than online - worth calling directly as September marks shoulder season pricing transitions

Avoid These Mistakes

Assuming restaurants stay open late like summer months - many reduce hours after Labor Day, so check current schedules before planning dinner after 9pm

Packing only shorts and t-shirts - September mornings can feel surprisingly cool at 21°C (70°F), especially near the James River

Booking outdoor activities for late afternoon without checking weather - September rain typically hits between 2-5pm, so morning and early afternoon offer better conditions