Canal Walk, Richmond, Virginia, A Stroll Through History

It was in 1784 that work began on a canal system in downtown Richmond, Virginia. George Washington himself surveyed the digging of these canals. Heavily used in the early to mid 1800's, the canals were badly damaged in the Civil War. In 1998, the city of Richmond began an extensive restoration project and now the area is a spot where visitors can take a walk and learn a bit about Richmond history while enjoying the beautiful scenery.

Some say there is not much to do along the Canal Walk, and that is true if one is looking for abundant shopping and a thriving night life. What the Canal Walk does offer, however, is a look at Richmond's history in a setting that was an important part of that history.

Because the area that is now Canal Walk is steeped in history, it is only appropriate that historical elements are the highlight of the walk. Visitors can see a replica of the box that slave Henry Brown used to famously ship himself to freedom after his family was cruelly taken from him and sold to a North Carolina farmer. Visitors can also stop by the Richmond Civil War Visitor Center and learn a bit about the role that Richmond played in that war.

The rich history is likely a big part of what makes Canal Walk a popular residential area. There are luxury, resort style apartments that are located on the James River.

Canal Walk can be viewed from the water thanks to a ferry that runs on the James River, or they can walk through the area which allows as leisurely a visit as is desired. As visitors stroll through Canal Street they can stop to read about historical events which are posted on signs along the route.

They can also stop for a moment to just sit and enjoy the beautiful scenery. While Canal Walk is located within the limits of a major city and offers spectacular views of the same, it at the same time has a park-like feel thanks to the tree lined dirt paths.

There are beautiful old buildings and railroad tracks, which are interesting to look at whether or not you are a lover of 19th century architecture. At the end of the tour, there are several dining options which are located on the east end of the walk.

During the summer months, outdoor concerts are held on Brown's Island and, depending on where one stands, views of the James River rapids or the canals can be seen.

The walking tour is open to the public 24 hours a day 365 days a year.