When you rent a car in Richmond you will be able to explore the surrounding area. Historic Route 1 runs 2,450 miles, connecting the states of Maine and Florida. It is the oldest highway to serve the East Coast, taking in places of interest such as the FBI headquarters. Those travelling with children should be sure to stop off at the Bronx zoo. The route comprises lots of variety, taking in everything from small towns to cities such as Miami and Boston. Route 1 makes for a great road trip in your Avis rental car.

There are also a number of state parks and forests in close proximity to Richmond. Historic Route 1 also takes in the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge, one of the best preserved freshwater systems in America. The refuge offers you the chance to explore the breath-taking scenes of wildlife set in marshes, lakes and islands. It’s huge, with almost 402,000 acres housing woodpeckers, cranes and alligators among others.

The city is renowned for its choice of museums as well as civil war attractions. You can drive the Virginia Civil War Trails, and follow the same path taken by soldiers in the 1860s. There are over 400 sites to visit, taking in national parks. Why not start your Richmond Civil War tour at the Richmond National Battlefield Park Civil War Visitor Center. You will be taken on the journey of Richmond and its battlefields through exhibits and audio-visual activities. The American Civil War Center is highly recommended, as it discusses the different threads of the Civil War, the Union, Confederate and the African-American stories and places them within the bigger picture of what was going on nationally.

History of Richmond
Situated in Virginia, the city was named Richmond after the English town of Richmond in London as the view from James River reminded the first settlers of the view of the River Thames from Richmond Hill. Richmond has been at the centre of American history, serving as the capital of the Confederacy during the Civil War. It has been the backdrop to many famous speeches such as Patrick Henry’s ‘Give me Liberty or Give me Death in 1775.

Richmond has been an important centre of industry due to its system of canals, represented on the city flag and later its railroads. The canals were built to ensure transportation for goods bypassing Richmond’s rapids. The rapids in question are classified as Class IV and are perfect for white-water rafting, canoeing or kayaking. Thrill seekers can also check out NASCAR racing, a form of auto racing. Those looking for a bit of the quiet life can play golf in one of twenty Richmond Virginia golf clubs.