Top Honors for Top Favorites: Our 2026 Accolades
By VisitRichmondVA on
The Richmond Region continues to shine on a national—and global—stage. With recognition spanning food, culture, and outdoor adventure, the destination is earning praise from The New York Times, USA Today, and more. Here’s a look at the accolades driving Richmond’s must-visit momentum
January
Best New Theme Park Attraction
USA Today 10 Best
USA Today’s 10Best gave Rapterra at Kings Dominion national recognition as #3 for Best New Theme Park Attraction, highlighting the region’s growing appeal for thrill seekers. As the world’s tallest and longest launched wing coaster, Rapterra delivers a one-of-a-kind ride experience that’s helping put the Richmond Region on the map as a destination for high-energy fun.
6 Distillers Turning Virginia Into a Must-Visit Bourbon Destination
Heather Bien for Southern Living
In a Southern Living feature highlighting distillers putting Virginia on the map as a must-visit bourbon destination, Reservoir Distillery earned a spot among the standout names. Notably, Reservoir was the third distillery outside of Kentucky to craft bourbon in the post-Prohibition era—an achievement that speaks to the region’s innovative spirit and deepening reputation for exceptional, locally made whiskey.
Hands Down Best Brewery in Every State
Joe Thristino for The Takeout
The Veil Brewing Co. was featured in The Takeout’s list of the best brewery in every state, earning national attention for its innovative approach and standout brews, which are often ranked among the best in Virginia. With award-winning beers and global inspiration rooted in Belgium’s brewing traditions, The Veil is a must-visit stop for anyone exploring RVA’s vibrant food and drink scene.
10 Spots Where Virginia Serves Fried Catfish That Feels like Home
Rowan Prescott for DECORHINT
The Richmond Region’s rich culinary roots are on full display in a recent DECORHINT roundup of Virginia’s best fried catfish spots, with six Richmond Region restaurants making the list. Beloved local favorites like Croaker’s Spot, Southern Kitchen, Ms. Girlee’s Kitchen, Mama J’s, and Dot’s Back Inn showcase the comforting, soulful flavors that define the region’s dining scene, both for southern roots and Black-owned restaurants.
Meet the James Beard Foundation chef, restaurant semifinalists in 2026
Susan Stapleton for USA Today
Marking the region’s 10th James Beard recognition in the past decade, Chef Leah Branch of The Roosevelt was recently named as a James Beard Award semifinalist. A beloved Church Hill restaurant known for its thoughtful take on Southern cuisine, The Roosevelt has long been a standout in Richmond’s food scene, and Branch’s recognition underscores its continued excellence.
The Most Popular Races in America Aren’t All Ones You’d Recognize
Heather Mayer Irvine for Runner’s World
The Ukrop’s Monument Avenue 10K was recently highlighted by Runner’s World as one of the most popular races in the country. Ranking as the #5 largest 10K nationwide, this iconic event draws more than 20,000 runners and walkers each year to historic Monument Avenue, transforming the course into what locals call the “biggest block party ever.” With live music, spirited spectators, and a festive, costume-filled atmosphere, it’s more than a race—it’s a uniquely RVA experience that blends fitness, culture, and community in one unforgettable spring tradition.
50 Cities in the United States to Visit in Your Lifetime
Erin DeCoste for MSN Singapore
The Richmond Region continues to earn global recognition as a must-visit destination, recently landing on MSN Singapore’s list of 50 cities in the United States to visit in your lifetime. Known for its unique blend of rich history, vibrant culture, and dynamic food and outdoor scenes, the Richmond Region offers visitors an experience that’s both authentic and unexpected. From its storied past to its modern energy, the region stands out as a place where every trip feels distinctly memorable.
February
One City, Three Ways: Richmond, Virginia
Larry Bleiberg for Atlanta Magazine
The Richmond Region takes center stage in Atlanta Magazine’s “One City, Three Ways,” showcasing the destination through multiple lenses—from history and culture to food and outdoor adventure. The feature highlights how visitors can experience the region in distinctly different ways, whether diving into its rich past, exploring its vibrant arts scene, or enjoying its dynamic culinary offerings.
OpenTable Top 100 Romantic Restaurants of 2026
Nick Jachim for Savor Nation
Bookbinder’s Seafood and Steakhouse and L’Opossum were recently named to OpenTable’s “Top 100 Romantic Restaurants of 2026”, as highlighted by Nick Jachim for Savor Nation. Based on millions of diner reviews, the list celebrates standout destinations for unforgettable date nights and special occasions.
Here is the Best Vegan Restaurant in Every State
Anais Aguilera for The Takeout
The Richmond Region’s plant-based scene is also getting national recognition, with Devil’s Lettuce named the best vegan restaurant in Virginia in Anais Aguilera’s roundup for The Takeout. Known for the crave-worthy comfort food and creative plant-based dishes, the local favorite has built a strong following in the region and beyond.
USA Today’s 2026 Restaurants of the Year
USA Today
Keystone Grill is earning national recognition as one of USA Today’s Restaurants of the Year for 2026, celebrated for its timeless approach to classic American dining. Located in Colonial Heights in the Keystone Truck & Tractor Museum, the longtime favorite stands out for its retro diner atmosphere, homestyle cooking, and commitment to consistency—serving everything from hearty breakfasts to comfort food staples that keep guests coming back. This honor highlights Keystone Grill’s enduring appeal, proving that quality, nostalgia, and a strong connection to the community never go out of style.
Where to Get the Best Brownies in Every State, Hands Down
Sierra Winters for Tasting Table
River City Chocolate is earning national recognition as Virginia’s top destination for brownies, featured in Tasting Table’s roundup of the best in every state. Known for its handcrafted, small-batch desserts, the Midlothian bakery has built a loyal following with rich, indulgent creations—from classic double-fudge brownies to over-the-top variations layered with ganache, cookies, and creative toppings. Celebrating River City Chocolate’s commitment to quality and creativity, this feature proves that it’s a standout destination for dessert lovers.
March
GolfWeek’s Best: Top Golf Courses in Every State Ranked
Jason Lusk for Golfweek
RVA is quietly gaining recognition as a top-tier golf destination, with Golfweek’s Best rankings highlighting standout courses across the region. The Country Club of Virginia landed in the state’s top 10 private courses, and Royal New Kent Golf Club ranking among the best public-access layouts, golfers are starting to take notice of what RVA has to offer.
21 Underrated Cities That Might Be the Next Big Thing
Buzzfeed
Richmond is gaining buzz as one of the most underrated cities in the U.S., recognized by BuzzFeed for its progressive, diverse atmosphere and thriving food, music, and arts scenes. Its prime location—within easy reach of the mountains, the coast, and major East Coast cities—adds to its appeal as a well-rounded destination. With a fairly mild climate and growing cultural energy, the Richmond Region is poised to be the next big thing.
The Best Small Cities for Big Time Careers
New York Times
RVA earned a spot on The New York Times’ list of the best small cities for big-time careers, ranking #18 out of 20 and highlighting the region’s growing appeal for professionals. With a strong job market, livability, and access to opportunity, the region continues to attract talent seeking both career growth and quality of life, positioning it as a place where ambitious careers and vibrant living go hand in hand.
The One Art Museum You Absolutely Must Visit in Every State
Laura Gesualdi-Gilmore for Finance Buzz via AOL
The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA) has been named as a must-visit art museum in Virginia, making world-class art easily accessible to all its visitors. Opened in 1936 and currently expanding to become the fourth largest comprehensive art museum in the country, VMFA stands out for its extensive collections spanning Art Nouveau and Art Deco furniture, Indian and Himalayan works, and an impressive range of contemporary art.
Want to see what put the Richmond Region on the map last year? Check out our 2025 Accolades Round-Up for even more national recognition and standout moments. Plus, start planning your own visit by exploring our unique things to do, full of can’t-miss experiences that make RVA unlike anywhere else.