Ready for a weekend filled with endless exploration and rich culture, all while stopping by to try award-winning spirits at some of Virginia’s best craft distilleries? If you’re not sure where to start, we’ve done the research for you – here’s your guide to a “spirited” adventure in Central Virginia. We’re starting off with part one, specifically in the Greater Richmond region.
Scroll for a complete list of distilleries to visit (itinerary included) and recommendations on lodging, food and activities to enhance your stay. Your next adventure with #VaSpirits will be one to remember.
Everything we mention below is conveniently mapped out here.
SIPS
Richmond is known as the River City of the Commonwealth, and the greater Richmond region is home to 11 local distilleries – making it a spirits lover’s dream for adventure and perfect sips. Each of these Richmond distilleries adds something unique to your weekend away (or staycation). Before you leave, you’ll want to plan another trip to indulge in all the city has to offer. Use this itinerary to start your journey and manipulate based on your ideal starting point and final destination.
Belle Isle Moonshine
Sip some of Richmond’s finest with Belle Isle Moonshine. They start by using 100% organic corn and purified water from the James River to create innovative infusions like honey habanero and lemon lavender. Each bottle reflects Belle Isle Moonshines’ dedication to quality and creativity. Stop by the tasting room to see where the magic happens or pick up ready-to-drink Belle Isle Canned Cocktails in select stores for immediate tastiness.
- 615 Maury St., Richmond, VA 23224
- (804) 723-1030
- Website
Cirrus Vodka
Cirrus Vodka crafts spirits with a commitment to excellence. Triple-distilled and made from high-quality russet potatoes, Cirrus stops at nothing to achieve a smooth, creamier flavor profile. Hang out on the outdoor patio to sip cocktails with friends, or head to a nearby restaurant for a bite to eat, many of which carry this local favorite.
- 1603 Ownby Ln., Richmond, VA 23220
- (804) 495-1148
- Website
Dogged State Distilling Company
Inspired by the adventurous spirit of the mahi-mahi, Dogged State Distilling Company distills each batch of vodka with passion and patience to capture a bold, smooth flavor. Whether you’re near Amelia Court House or Blackstone (just outside of Richmond), visit the Dogged State Diner for dinner and quality cocktails with family and friends.
- 16401 Goodes Bridge Rd., Amelia Court House, VA 23002
- (804) 561-2741
- Website
Hill Top Distillery
Sitting quietly in Maidens overlooking the James River, Hill Top Distillery is an ode to Virginia agriculture, handcrafting each award-winning spirit with local flavors and techniques. From coffee-flavored whiskey to tangerine-flavored moonshine, each visitor can find something to love. Check out the Hill Top Barn for tastings and live music during the warmer months and sip a Virginia pour with friends.
- 2750 Maidens Loop , Maidens, VA 23102
- (804) 212-8645
- Website
Lincoln Ridge Distillery
Nothing sits better on a wedding and event center than a distillery. Owners Richard and Monique Smith released their hand-crafted premium vodka and bourbon whiskey in 2024 using locally sourced ingredients. Visit theChesterfield bottle shop to pick up your next favorite pour to “enjoy the smoother things in life.”
- 2149 Reymet Rd, Richmond, VA 23237
- (804) 707-4373
- Website
Main Line Brewery
Need a night out? Visit Main Line Brewery for spirits, live music, lawn games and community events. Located right next to Cirrus Vodka and around the corner from Virago Spirits, Main Line is the perfect hub for sips and celebrations! If you can’t make it out for a fun night, search #PupsofMainLine on socials for all the cute pup content at home.
- 1603 Ownby Ln., Ste. 7, Richmond, VA 23220
- (804) 387-9670
- Website
Reservoir Distillery
Reservoir Distillery celebrates the heritage of spirits-making in the Commonwealth and what it takes to make a quality bottle of whiskey. Expand your horizons by joining Reservoir’s own Shelley Sackier, director of distillery education, in a Whiskey Nosing & Tasting 101 Masterclass. Here, you will learn about the history and science behind distillation and how to enjoy the perfect pour.
- 1800A Summit Ave., Richmond, VA 23230
- (804) 912-2621
- Website
Sandy River Distillery
With a love for travel and adventure, owners Mark and Candice opened Sandy River Distillery to pay homage to the bootlegging history and their home island, Saint Maarten. Nestled between farmlands in Prince Edward County, the couple tests the boundaries of traditional distilling while using Virginia-grown products to craft their award-winning spirits. Visit the distillery to sip spirits under the pavilion, or stay a while and explore the Sandy River Outdoor Adventure Resort, with an adventure park, boat rentals, pool, farm and more!
- 147 Monroe Church Rd., Rice, VA 23966
- (434) 392-7275
- Website
Three Crosses Distilling Company
Three Crosses Distilling Company is Powhatan County’s inaugural legal distillery. Owners and distillers, John and Michelle, handcraft spirits with a passion and commitment to spirits-making heritage. John, driven by Appalachian culture, oversees production with care, while Michelle brings her passion for Bourbon to every batch. Come for the spirits but stay for the food at this Powhatan gathering spot.
- 3835 Old Buckingham Rd., Powhatan, VA 23139
- (804) 818-6330
- Website
Trial & Error Distilling
Richmonders may know them as Bombolini, a neighborhood favorite for hand-made pasta, but we know them as Trial & Error Distilling, a small-batch distillery where tradition meets adventure. From meticulously crafted limoncellos to complex gins, the selection reflects the passion for the unexpected. Located in Richmond’s historic Fan district, Trial & Error offers a fusion of cultures and flavors for locals and visitors alike to enjoy.
- 1606 W. Main St., Richmond, VA 23220
- (804) 213-0212
- Website
Virago Spirits
The spirit of the “Virago” – strength, courage, determination and vision – is the embodiment of the quality craftsmanship behind Virago Spirits. Visit the elegant tasting room for amazing handcrafted gins, rums and signature cocktails, and check the event page to register for a tour of the operation or an Art of the Cocktail class.
- 1727 Rhoadmiller St., Richmond, VA 23220
- (804) 355-8746
- Website
DINING
The Greater Richmond Area is teeming with unparalleled restaurants loved by locals and visitors alike. Here, you’ll find inventive, farm-to-table options that pair perfectly with local spirits. There are far too many to list them all, but here are a few of our favorites.
- Sip the spirits of Dogged State Distilling Co. while eating at the diner of the same name for a perfect pairing of local flavors.
- For another #VaDistillery choice, pick up a ready-to-eat pasta meal at Bombolini, which also houses Trial & Error Distilling right in the heart of Richmond.
- There are FIVE distilleries in and around RVA’s Scott’s Addition district, for walkable restaurant options, visit LUNCH.SUPPER!, Fat Dragon Chinese Kitchen and Bar and Pinky’s.
- If you’re not sure what you’re in the mood for, visit Howlett’s Restaurant & Tavern in Chester, near Lincoln Ridge Distillery, for its diverse menu and specialty options.
- Check out the Goochland Restaurant for brunch before heading to Hill Top Distillery. The hometown atmosphere is what draws people in, and comfort food is what has them coming back for more.
- Want to feel like a RVA local? Check out the Edo Squid for cultivated Italian dining. Half the adventure is finding the restaurant; the other half is enjoying pasta like no other. Dine at The Daily Kitchen & Bar for lunch after spending the afternoon shopping local in Carytown. There are several gluten-free menu options for visitors seeking delicious, accommodating meals.
- Head over to Shindigz for a sweet treat and local artisan crafts.
- End the day with a bit of luxury at Lemaire, located in the Jefferson Hotel– book a reservation in advance to get your premier dining fix.
For more dining ideas in Greater Richmond, visit here.
STAYS
From quaint and relaxing inns to luxury resorts, you’ll find the perfect place to extend your adventure. We’ve found a variety of special options for a memorable stay in RVA and beyond.
- The Sandy River Outdoor Adventure is a hidden gem with Sandy River Distillery on-site, in addition to a pool, high ropes obstacle course, farm, kayaks and more. After you finish your evening in the SRD tasting room, walk to your cabin or luxury tipi for glamping at its finest.
Check out one of these unique stays for a cozy night after a day of exploring:
A bit of boutique and luxury:
EXPERIENCES
While spirits are obviously the main attraction of your adventure, the River City (Richmond) has over 30 museums to visit and explore. If shopping and exercise is more your thing, stop by Carytown and support small businesses and walk along the trails of Belle Isle for beautiful views of the James River.
Richmond Museums:
- For art lovers and enthusiasts, the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts and Institute of Contemporary Art is the perfect place to enrich yourself with the magic of creativity.
- For history buffs, the Virginia Museum of History and Culture, the Black History Museum, the Valentine Museum and the American Civil War Museum are great ways to learn about the history of Virginia and beyond.
- To spark curiosity on your weekend away, visit the Science Museum of Virginia and strap in for a viewing at The Dome, Virginia’s largest planetarium.
While you’re traveling through the heart of Old Dominion, don’t miss out on the scenic views the state has to offer. For an exclusive guide on state parks and trails, visit here.
Full-day activities:
- Kings Dominion & Soak City – Enjoy world-class roller coaster thrills and
- Pick your own fruit at Chesterfield Berry Farm.
- Metro Richmond Zoo – See 2,000 animals representing 190 species from around the world for an educational afternoon.
- For an easy-going night out, catch a movie at the eclectic Byrd Theatre in Carytown, or stay in your car and see a film on the big screen at the Goochland Drive-In Theater.
- #DYK, there are over 170 parks in the City of Richmond? Maymont is a local favorite, but you can’t miss the others as you cruise around the city.
- Hang out with Nutzy, the mascot of the Richmond Flying Squirrels, for an evening of baseball at the Diamond.
- From mini golf to duckpin bowling, The Park has something for everyone to enjoy if you’re looking for a night of fun and excitement.
While you’re sampling spirits at Richmond distilleries, you might as well explore more of the craft beverage scene. It’s a blossoming industry here, so go out and get a taste of local wineries and craft breweries.
For more guides and resources on Richmond, head to visitrichmondrva.com.