5 best ways to see Richmond, from a canal cruise to bike tour

The folks at Venture Richmond — our city's downtown booster club — put together its list of "essential tours" just in time for summer.

Why it matters: Downtowns across the country were partially abandoned during COVID-19 as office workers shifted to remote life. Now the central city is ready to welcome us back for a peek of all it has to offer and the way it's changed in the last two years.

Venture's list highlights everything from biking and walking to trolleying and whitewater rafting. Plus:

• Haunts of Richmond Ghost Tours — happening year-round in case you thought otherwise.
• Canal Cruises — for a lazy afternoon on the canal system boosted by George Washington (something I learned on a Valentine walking tour).
• Richmond Mural Tours — to check out the ever-changing landscape of our kick-ass murals.

Can't decide? We can help.

Karri's pick: The JXN's Project Vanguard Route. Launched in October 2021 to coincide with the 150th anniversary of Jackson Ward, the self-guided walking tour celebrates the "Harlem of the South" and the previously untold stories of the men and women who helped shape the neighborhood and the city.

Ned's pick: Basket & Bike's Downtown Sunset Bike Tour. I love bike rides. You can cover a lot of ground, but way more intimately than in a car. And they make it easy to visit all the scenic trail and river spots that make the city so unique.