Fast-Paced Thrills and Long-Standing History in Henrico County, VA

Walk in the shadows of history in Henrico County, Virginia – established in 1634 as one of the state’s eight original shires. Named for Henry, Prince of Wales, the oldest son of King James I of England, its boundaries included an area from which 10 Virginia counties – including Chesterfield County – and three cities, including the City of Richmond, were later formed. Trace the footsteps of the English settlers, who first explored the area in 1607, led by Captain Christopher Newport, and then again four years later with Sir Thomas Dale. By 1776, the area had experienced a rebirth and sent two representatives to the Fifth Virginia Convention, which ultimately proposed separation from the British, leading to the Declaration of Independence. Tour the sites of many key Civil War battles – including Seven Pines and Malvern Hill – fought on the soil of what is now Henrico, VA. Feel the significance of this critical turning point in American history.

Today, order has been fully restored to Henrico County, where 260,000 residents live in a well-planned, 244-square-mile community. Witness the diversity of landscape, from the fast-growing, upscale, open-air Short Pump area … to Westhampton’s traditional homes and scenic University of Richmond campus … to Northern Henrico’s middle-class, suburban neighborhoods, which marked the first in the Region back in 1950.

A Wide Selection of Attractions and Activities in Henrico, Virginia

Celebrate the preservation of the past alongside the wonders of the present in Henrico County, VA. Visit Stuart's Monument, where Major General J.E.B. Stuart was mortally wounded during the Civil War. Tour the Virginia E. Randolph Museum, named in memory of a noted African-American educator and founder of Virginia's vocational educational system. Step back in time at Meadow Farm Museum and Crump Park – featuring a 19th-century farmhouse, gardens and more than 150 acres of woodlands. Discover a nature lover’s paradise at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, which boasts 40 acres of grounds, one of the largest and most diverse perennial gardens on the East Coast, and a nearly 17,000-square-foot Conservatory, housing exotic and unusual subtropical and tropical plants.

For high-octane thrills, don't miss the thundering sounds and speed of NASCAR and IRL IndyCar racing at Richmond International Raceway. Experience the action-packed, adventurous side to Henrico, VA.

Search for Henrico hotels and lodging in the West End and Airport areas.

Experience the Stirring Legacy of Henrico County, Virginia

Watch our nation’s past, present and future come to life in Henrico, Virginia. From Civil War monuments and nature conservatories to NASCAR and IndyCar racing at Richmond International Raceway, there’s something for everyone in this historic area. Start planning your trip now!