Considering an allied travel assignment in Richmond, Virginia? Virginia’s capital offers a mix of history, outdoor recreation, arts, food, and unique neighborhoods, making it an exciting destination to call home during your next contract.
For traveling allied health professionals, Richmond offers more than a new place to work. When you’re off the clock, you can explore the James River, visit museums, discover local restaurants, spend an afternoon shopping, or take advantage of Richmond’s location for weekend trips throughout Virginia.
Whether you’re a respiratory therapist, imaging professional, surgical technologist, laboratory professional, or another allied traveler, here’s what to know about living and exploring Richmond during your assignment.
Why Take an Allied Travel Assignment in Richmond?
Richmond combines the attractions and amenities of a state capital with easy access to outdoor recreation.
The city is known for its history, arts and culture, food scene, and location along the James River. You’ll find museums, shopping districts, trails, parks, restaurants, and year-round activities to explore throughout your assignment.
For allied travelers spending several weeks or months in Richmond, that means plenty of opportunities to make the most of your time outside of work.
Things to Do in Richmond, VA
Explore the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
Art lovers should put the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA) near the top of their Richmond bucket list.
The museum’s permanent collection includes more than 50,000 works spanning thousands of years of world history. General admission is also free, although some special exhibitions require tickets.
It’s an easy option for a free afternoon between shifts—and somewhere you can return to throughout a longer allied assignment.
Spend a Day at Belle Isle
One of Richmond’s biggest attractions is the James River, and Belle Isle gives you a great way to experience it without leaving the city.
Accessible by pedestrian bridge, the island features wooded trails, mountain biking areas, historic sites, fishing areas, and rock-climbing opportunities.
It’s a great destination for a walk, run, or relaxing afternoon outside after a busy week at your facility.
Always pay attention to local river conditions and safety guidance before participating in activities near or on the James River.
Explore Maymont
Looking for a slower-paced day outside? Head to Maymont.
This historic Richmond estate features gardens, wildlife experiences, historic buildings, and the Robins Nature Center. The grounds are free to visit, while some attractions and experiences may require admission.
If you’re spending an entire season in Richmond, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to return and see how the grounds change throughout your assignment.
Shop and Eat Your Way Through Carytown
Spend a day off exploring one of Richmond’s most popular shopping districts.
Carytown is a walkable neighborhood filled with local boutiques, restaurants, cafés, and entertainment. Rather than planning just one stop, give yourself an afternoon to wander around and find a few favorite places.
When you’re living somewhere for an allied travel assignment, exploring neighborhoods like Carytown can help you experience Richmond more like a local than a visitor.
Experience Richmond’s History
Richmond has a complex history with deep connections to Virginia and U.S. history.
Throughout your assignment, you can visit destinations such as the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia, Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site, The Valentine, and Virginia Museum of History & Culture.
The Richmond Slave Trail, St. John’s Church, and other historic sites offer additional opportunities to learn about different chapters of the region’s history.
With several weeks or months to explore, an allied travel assignment gives you time to experience these destinations at your own pace.
Discover Richmond’s Arts and Culture
Richmond has plenty to explore beyond its major museums.
The city is home to murals, galleries, performing arts venues, and regular arts events. First Fridays, Richmond’s monthly art walk, is another way to explore the city’s creative community.
Check local event calendars throughout your contract—you may discover festivals, concerts, markets, exhibitions, and other events happening while you’re in town.
Get Outside Along the James River
If you prefer spending your days off outdoors, Richmond has plenty of options.
The James River Park System offers opportunities for hiking, biking, kayaking, climbing, and other recreational activities.
You can also explore the Virginia Capital Trail, which begins in Richmond and extends 52 miles toward Williamsburg.
Whether you’re looking for a quick walk after your shift or a full day outdoors, Richmond makes it relatively easy to add some fresh air to your routine.
Discover Richmond’s Food Scene
One advantage of spending several weeks or months on assignment is having enough time to find your own favorite local spots.
Use your time in Richmond to explore different neighborhoods and discover coffee shops, brunch spots, restaurants, bakeries, and takeout favorites.
Instead of limiting yourself to downtown, make a list of neighborhoods you’d like to explore throughout your contract. By the end of your assignment, you may have a few Richmond favorites you’ll want to visit again.
Take a Weekend Trip From Richmond
Have a few consecutive days off? Richmond’s location makes it a convenient starting point for exploring more of Virginia and the surrounding region.
Potential trips include:
- Williamsburg
- Charlottesville
- Virginia Beach
- Shenandoah National Park
- Washington, D.C.
You don’t necessarily need to travel far, either. A day spent exploring another section of the Virginia Capital Trail or one of the communities surrounding Richmond can be an easy change of scenery.
Tips for Allied Travelers Moving to Richmond
Before arriving for your Richmond allied assignment, spend some time researching where you’ll live and how you’ll get to your facility.
Consider:
- Your commute and typical shift times
- Parking at your healthcare facility
- Furnished housing options
- Access to grocery stores and everyday essentials
- Proximity to restaurants and activities
- Whether you’ll need a car
- Your assignment length
- What you want to experience while you’re in Virginia
Don’t forget to ask your MedPro recruiter questions as you prepare for your move. Having a plan before you arrive can make it easier to settle in and start enjoying your new destination.
Make Richmond Your Next Allied Travel Destination
An allied travel assignment can be about more than where you work. It’s also an opportunity to experience a new destination while continuing to grow your healthcare career.
In Richmond, you can spend your days off exploring the James River, visiting museums, trying new restaurants, discovering local neighborhoods, or heading out on a weekend adventure.
Ready to see where your allied career could take you next?
Explore MedPro’s current allied travel jobs and start searching for your next assignment.