Monthly Archives: August 2018

What to do in Richmond, VA

Things to Do/Places to Visit


If you’re looking for great collections of art, the Virginia Museum of Fine Art is sure to please you. Best known for its five Faberge eggs, it also contains works by other famous artists and large collections of African, Indian, and other art. Visitors have praised the large amount of works, saying the museum is “impossible to see everything in just one visit.” Aside from the amazing artwork, the museum also features a restaurant within. The restaurant, considered one of the best in Richmond, is called Amuse. The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts is open every day. On Saturday to Wednesday, the museum opens at 10 am and closes at 5 pm. On Thursday and Friday, the museum is open from 10 am to 9 pm. General admission won’t cost you, but special exhibits and events might. Parking also costs money, at around $5.

 


One of the most popular tourist attractions in Richmond, the Virginia State Capitol is known for Thomas Jefferson designing parts of it. Other than admiring the building’s beautiful design and architecture, visitors can stroll the grounds and take photos. The surrounding area, called Capitol Square, is known for containing several monuments that are dedicated to the civil rights movement. Other famous monuments are also placed here, such as some of Thomas Jefferson, Patrick Henry, and Edgar Allan Poe. If you want to learn more about the capitol, consider taking a free guided tour, given by knowledgeable guides. The Virginia State Capitol is open every day, from 9 am to 5 pm on Monday to Saturday, with free tours offered from 9:30 am to 4 pm. On Sundays, the capitol is open from 1 pm to 5 pm, with the tours offered from 1 to 4 pm.

 


Located on property that used to be Powhatan Indian hunting grounds, the 50-acre garden is another popular attraction in Richmond, Virginia. Here, you can see many plants, as well as visit its domed conservatory, the “only one of its kind in the mid-Atlantic.” The garden also hosts annual events for the family, such as Butterflies LIVE! and the GardenFest of Lights. If you start feeling hungry, visit the on-site café and tea house, where you can enjoy light snacks and tea. If you’re looking to start a garden of your own, head over to the garden shop to buy some plants of your own. The Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden is open from every day from 9 am to 5 pm. Entrance for adults costs $13, $8 for those aged between 3 to 12, and free for those under 3. For certain occasions, extended hours are offered.

 


If you and your family need a break from all the educational fun, head over to Kings Dominion, where you can enjoy a different type of fun. The 400-acre water and theme park is one of the most popular attractions in Richmond, racking up thousands of visitors each month. If you’re looking for thrill rides, several are offered here. The Grizzly coaster, a thrill ride, is one of the most popular. If you want to have a splash with your kids, the Soak City water park entrance is included in the general admission price. Recent visitors have complained about the high food price. They recommend eating outside of the park, as packed food and drink are not allowed into the park. Kings Dominion is open from 10:30 am until 10 pm from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend. They are also open certain days and weekends throughout the rest of the year. The water park opens at noon every day. Entrance price costs $55 for everyone who purchases online. For tickets at the gate, the price is a bit steeper at $66 per person.

 


If you’re a fan of history, head over to the Virginia Historical Society. This museum offers a large collection of Civil War artifacts, including writings, newspapers, pictures, records, and even music. This free museum is a fun and educational attraction, especially for rainy days. Special exhibits and events might cost a bit extra cash. The Virginia Historical Society is open every day from 10 in the morning to 5 in the evening. The library portion is closed on Sundays, but open every other day of the week along with the museum. For information about special events and exhibits, head over to the Virginia Historical Society’s website.

 


Yet another museum, this one is more special than the others. Founded by one of Richmond’s youngest Holocaust survivors, Jay Ipson, the museum teaches about the details of the Holocaust as well as of the Ipson family. Regarded as one of the nation’s best Holocaust museums, visitors have flocked to the museum to learn about the stories of Holocaust survivors. The museum is open every day of the week from 10 am to 5 pm Mondays to Fridays, and from 11 am to 5 pm on Saturday and Sunday. There is no cost to enter. Because of the graphic nature of the museum, kids in the sixth grade and below are recommended to stay home.

 


Once the sprawling home of wealthy residents of Richmond, the property was given to the city at the time of their deaths. Today, this is a popular activity to do in Richmond. Maymont contains Japanese gardens, a carriage collection, and a petting zoo and arboretum. This is not to mention the magnificent 33-room mansion. Imagine living in this 12,000 square foot house, with a room for anything and everything. Recent visitors suggest packing a lunch, which you can enjoy on the mansion lawn, because there is just so many things to do. This might be the only problem with the estate: that Maymont features too much to see and do. Many visitors decide to take more than one trip here. The Maymont estate grounds and visitor center are open Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 am to 5 pm. Throughout the months of April to September, the grounds and gardens are open until 7 pm. The spectacular mansion is open from noon to 5 pm Tuesday to Sunday. Entrance is free, but donations are suggested for some exhibits and tours.

Best Way to Tour Richmond, VA

  • The best way to tour the city of Richmond (as well as many other cities) is by chartered buses and vans. Explore at your own pace within the safety of your private vehicle. Don’t worry about ordering an Uber or Lyft when you have your own exploration vehicle. Through Prompt Charters, you can order the buses you need. Prompt Charters is an amazing, affordable chartered vehicle company that caters to your every needs. Whether you need a bus for school trips, marriages, parties, campaigns, or whatever else, Prompt Charters can help you. Prompt Charters offers buses, mini buses, school buses, party buses, and more. Most activities and destinations listed above and below are accessible by chartered buses. Visit the promptcharters.com to book your rental bus today!

Best Places to Shop/Eat

  • Carytown Shopping –If you’re looking for a place bustling with energy and a great variety of shops, Carytown is the place to go. The place is filled with fashion, specialty, home décor, beauty, and more stores, as well as several services.
  • Chesterfield Towne Center – The Chesterfield Towne Center is a popular shopping mall south of the James River. Chesterfield offers a great selection in terms of shopping, dining, and services with more than 140 shops.
  • Regency Square Mall –Regency Square Mall is another amazing shopping center featuring over 100 shopping options, as well as great eating and entertainment options.
  • Short Pump Town Center –The Short Pump Town Center is a great outdoor shopping center, with several great stores as well as a variety of dining options.
  • Antique Village Mall Complex – Every great city has a great spot for antiques. Well, this is that spot for Richmond. The Antique Village Mall has all the antiques and goods you’ve ever wanted..
  • L’Opossum – If you’re looking for an amazing sit-down restaurant, L’Opossum is the place to go. The French-American restaurant is rated the #1 fine dining restaurant in Richmond by tripadvisor.
  • Lunch Supper – Richmond is filled with great local food, but the one that really stands out is Lunch Supper. The American restaurant is rated the #1 local cuisine restaurant in Richmond by tripadvisor.

 

 

Enjoy your Vacation!

The San Diego Charter Bus Vacation

San Diego

San Diego, one of the most popular cities on the West Coast, is a popular tourist spot. The city was the first European settlement of what is now California. Years later it became part of America and an amazing vacation spot. If San Diego had its own dictionary, the word “boredom” would not exist. Read further down for places to visit, things to do, and places to shop and eat. Our Charter Bus Services may be the best option for a comfortable ride to these attractions.

Places to visit/Things to Do

 

  • Balboa Park

Balboa Park

One MUST visit San Diego’s cultural heart, Balboa Park. Home to 17 museums, gardens, and the San Diego Zoo, Balboa is the largest urban cultural park in North America. The 1,200 acre park is a must see on a visit to San Diego and reflects San Diego history through its impressive architecture, beautiful art, and cultural events held throughout the year. Located only a few blocks from downtown, the park is a hit for both locals and visitors. For more information on Balboa Park, visit the park’s website.

  • San Diego Zoo and Safari Park

San Diego Zoo

The San Diego Zoo is the one of the most famous zoos in the country, housing 3,500 rare and endangered animals. Pandas, giraffes, elephants, polar bears, koalas, and rhinos are just a few of the animals living here. To get more time with the animals of Africa, visit the Safari Park located 32 miles away from the zoo. Here, you can find lions, elephants, cheetahs, zebras, gorillas, and more. To get the most out of the event, consider taking a few safaris. For information for the zoo itself, visit their website. For safari park’s information, visit their website.

  • SeaWorld San Diego

San Diego Sea World

SeaWorld gives visitors the opportunity to interact with wildlife like no other. At SeaWorld, you get to see sea lions, otters, sea turtles, penguins, sharks, rays, and many more. If you’re looking for a great, fast ride, visit the Manta Ray rollercoaster. If you’re fine with getting wet, ride the Journey to Atlantis and the Ship Wreck Rapids ride. Other activities include more coasters, animal exhibits, and entertaining shows. For information on pricing and dates, visit SeaWorld San Diego’s website. *(Note: Bring comfortable walking shoes and extra pair of clothes if getting wet.)
 

  • USS Midway Museum

Uss Midway Museum

As San Diego is a large military city, there are military properties and bases located throughout the area. The USS Midway is one of these properties that offer a closer look into the job of the military. The USS Midway is the longest-serving American aircraft carrier of last century, carrying over 225,000 throughout its life. Now it offers 60 exhibits and many restored aircraft to the public. Explore the ship’s interior down to the last detail. For interesting information, we recommend you talking to the volunteers there, as many of them are military veterans. For purchasing tickets, visit their website.

  • Coronado Beach

Coronado Beach

This beach isn’t exactly in San Diego, but its close enough (across the bay). Coronado Beach is one of the most popular beaches in the area, with its miles-long shoreline. Located in Coronado, the “Crown City”, you can admire the beautiful scenery and the magnificent mansions that sit behind the beach. After you’re done spending time on the water, we recommend you to take a stroll down the beach’s shoreline, known for its views of San Diego. The best time of day for incredible views is at the time for sunset. While the beach is beautiful at night, don’t stay there too late into the night, as there is a curfew from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. daily.

  • Cabrillo National Monument

Cabrillo National Monument

The Cabrillo National Monument is located at the southernmost tip of Point Loma, where you will find the statue of Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo. Cabrillo was the first European explorer to navigate the Cali coast. The main reason people visit is for the incredible views of the Pacific Ocean, downtown San Diego, Coronado, and the mountains of Tijuana, Mexico (only visible on clear days). After your scenic viewing, head down Cabrillo road to visit the tide pools or to take a walk along the adjacent bluffs. For more information on the monument, visit the Cabrillo National Monument website.

  • Maritime Museum of San Diego

Maritime Museum

The Maritime Museum offers visitor a look at what San Diego used to be: a busy seaport. You can tour several types of historic vessels, including sailing ships and submarines. The world’s oldest active ship, the Star of India, is also located here at the museum. If just touring the boats isn’t enough of an experience for you, you can sail on one of the museum’s boats, including the Californian, the official tall ship of the State of California. For prices and tours, visit the Maritime Museum of San Diego’s website.

  • Mission and Pacific Beaches

Pacific Beaches

Mission Beach and Pacific Beach are other popular beaches in the San Diego area, thanks to nearby attraction and facilities. While it is two beaches, they are one giant, connected shoreline. Every year, thousands of tourists visit the beach. The beach is a popular spot for surfing as well, great for both beginners and seasoned surfers. Separating the two beaches is Belmont Park, home to the Giant Dipper wooden roller coaster, a 100+ year-old National Historic Landmark. The park also features other rides and arcades. Although there is no fee for entry to the beaches, Belmont does charge. For prices, visit the park’s website.

  • Sunset Cliffs

Sunset Cliff

Sunset Cliffs is another place for amazing ocean views in Point Loma. Stretching across 68 acres, the sandstone cliffs and vegetation offer some amazing scenery. The best time to visit, as the name implies, is sunset. To avoid the majority of the crowds, visit the Cliffs sometime during the week, not the weekend. There are also nearby beaches, some popular for surfing. Expect to see many locals catching waves here. If you head towards Sunset Cliffs Natural Park, you can find several walking trails that run along the ocean.

Best Places to Shop & Eat

 eat

  • Mission Boulevard – Located next to Mission Beach, Mission Boulevard is a popular shopping destination. After soaking up in the sun, hit up the boulevard for the many restaurants and retailers.
  • Fashion Valley – If you’re looking for high-end retailers, Fashion Valley is the place to go. Shop here for designer brands such as Chanel, Nordstrom, and Gucci.
  • Las Americas Premium Outlets – The Las Americas Premium Outlets is the largest outlet mall in the San Diego area. You can shop here for designer brands as well as more affordable brands.
  • University Towne Centre –The UTC offers a combination of high-end retailers and top-notch restaurants. After shopping for the brands you love, you can grab a delicious bite to eat at some of the better restaurants in San Diego.
  • Seaport Village –The Seaport Village is a quaint little area featuring over 50 specialty shops and galleries. You can buy collectibles, home accessories, jewelry, souvenirs, and other items here.
  • Little Italy – You can’t shop at San Diego without shopping at Little Italy. This shopping destination is filled with art galleries, home décor stores, and boutiques. Also, don’t miss out on the amazing Italian food served here.
  • Gaslamp Quarter –Take the opportunity to shop at one of the most historic sites in San Diego. Filled with over 100 specialty shops, galleries, and restaurants, this area has everything to fulfill your needs.
  • Cedros Avenue Design District –Cedros Avenue Design District is 2 ½ blocks filled with shops, restaurants, spas, and boutiques. Also, looking for architects or designers? Many world-renowned have offices here.
  • Trulock’s Seafood, Steak, and Crab House – Rated the #1 fine dining restaurant in San Diego by tripadvisor, this is the place to eat at. Treat your family or take your date here to enjoy the delicious meals.
  • Blue Water – If you’re looking for some amazing local food, look no further. Visit Blue Water, a restaurant rated #1 for local food in San Diego by tripadvisor. You or your stomach won’t leave here disappointed.
     

Things to Bring to San Diego

  • Sunscreen – Don’t fry in the sun
  • Comfortable footwear – Keep your feet comfortable as you enjoy
  • Clothing/Swimwear –Bring comfortable clothing for exploring and swimwear for getting into the water
  • Proper ID’s –You will need these for several activities
  • Camera –Keep the memories forever with pictures
  • Extra batteries/chargers –Keep the juice in your devices

 

 

Enjoy your Vacation!