Whether you’re new to river sports or are longtime aficionado, Richmond is a fabulous spot for all levels to get on the water for some paddling-excitement. RVA Paddlesports consider themselves “a kayak school with a rafting problem” because they’ve had such an enormous response to their rafting adventures. The company offers a bevy of classes including flat-water kayaking, half-day (and two-day) intro to kayaking, kayak roll clinics, and several rafting journeys. Tandem kayaks are also on-hand if you want to keep your child in arm’s reach.

Kids need to be 5 or 6 years of age and at least 45 pounds (to fit well into the lifejackets) to kayak or raft. Hours vary.