Richmond is a small, charming city rich with American history. From its famous James River to its intriguing museums, Richmond has much to offer for everyone–tourist and resident. In contrast, New York City, also known as the city that never sleeps, is a vibrant, bustling city containing numerous attractions and highlights. It has countless different restaurants and museums located within walking distance of one another. Both Richmond and New York City have great experiences, but the question remains; which stands out as a better destination for travelers and locals alike?

When one thinks of New York, the first image that comes to mind is a place full of busy streets and lively crowds filling up the sidewalks. Although many places are within walking distance from each other, it is nevertheless difficult to properly arrive at specific locations. It is even more challenging to go by car, due to the road closures and the overwhelming traffic present in the city. The overcrowding also emits a great amount of pollutants, which has caused New York to be a significant topic regarding sustainability. Underground subways are also congested and unpleasant; tourists tend to worsen the problem. Richmond has a far more easy-going and friendly pace, where people do not have to worry about crowding, ensuring greater efficiency and punctuality. Particularly in the urban area, there are numerous places that people can easily walk to, such as Carytown, which offers a multitude of shops and restaurants that can be enjoyed. All throughout Richmond, in the urban, suburban, and rural areas, it is even more efficient to get to places by car, due to minimal traffic.

Another special aspect of Richmond is its ability to keep its historical charm while embracing its modernity. CNN named Richmond number one in America’s Best Towns to visit in 2024 due to its culture, arts, and history. The city is known for its historical architecture and preservation of the past. Richmond is also committed to telling the full story of its past involvement in the Civil War, instead of only pushing one perspective. Places that encompass this idea include the Richmond Slave Trail and the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia, where the Confederate monuments that were taken down in 2020 were transferred. The city also highlights other aspects of history, including St. John’s Church, which was a cathedral in which Patrick Henry, a well-known revolutionist, gave his famous “Give Me Liberty or Give Me Death” speech. The Edgar Allan Poe Museum is another significant attraction, highlighting the famous writer’s life and accomplishments. New York City, although it does have an important history, focuses on highlighting its modern role through its contemporary architecture and environment. With its “shiny” new buildings, significant urbanization, and digital advertisements, it is difficult to recognize the history of New York. An example is the Rivoli Theater, which was considered one of the best theaters in the East. Significant films that premiered there include “West Side Story” and “The Sound of Music.” In the 1980s, the economy of New York improved, and the land on which the theater was built became increasingly valuable for developers. This eventually resulted in its complete demolition in 1987 and it is now replaced by a more modern black glass building. Compared to “The Big Apple,” Richmond excels as the better city, offering both a historical and modern setting that honors the past and embraces change, instead of simply overlooking its history.

Due to its easily walkable sidewalks, efficient traveling, and historical charm, Richmond stands out as the place to visit and live. Compared to New York City’s congestion, pollution, and high-stress environment, Richmond has a much more easy-going and slow atmosphere. Additionally, the city continues embracing and preserving its history, without allowing its modernization to erase it. Richmond’s ease of exploration, rich culture, and important history prove it to be the comparatively more rewarding destination between it and New York City.

Information retrieved from Cinema Treasures, The Guardian, Cable News Network, The Times Herald, City and State NY, and Visit Richmond VA.