Now a sprawling metropolitan area flanking the James River in the center of the state, Richmond has been Virginia's capital since 1780 and has been the stage for much history. The city has a host of other attractions, including fine old homes, an excellent fine arts museum, a hands-on science museum with state-of-the-art planetarium, and a botanical garden. But its prime attractions are the monuments, battlefields, and museums that recall the nation's bloodiest conflict. If you have any interest in the Civil War, Richmond is an essential stop.