The old Richmond Dairy building was abandoned years ago and was used in the mid-80s as artist studios. Places for kids in Norfolk. Today, it is home to the American Civil War Museum, which tells the story of that conflict from both the Union and Confederate perspectives. Whether youre craving a coastal escape, hiking in the mountains or vineyard-hopping, Richmond is the perfect starting point for a range of day trips. The crisp, cold air brings with it a ton of awesome seasonal activities for you and your friends or family. You can experiment with optical illusions, try virtual reality games, or even launch a rocket. Would you like to go on a kayak ride right through the middle of a big city? The area is also home to several events and festivals throughout the year, making it a great place to visit no matter what time of year it is. A year prior to drafting the Declaration of Independence in 1776, Thomas Jefferson attended the Second Virginia Convention held inside St. Johns Church. All Rights Reserved. All rights reserved. Fall brings a riot of color as the leaves change, and in winter, the grounds take on a serene beauty, blanketed in soft white snow. There is parking for 150 cars but crowded conditions make summer parking extremely difficult. Each building focuses on different events throughout Poes life. So peaceful, so beautiful. The western terminus trailhead is located at Great Shiplock Park in Richmond, Virginia, and the eastern terminus trailhead is located at the Jamestown Settlement in Williamsburg, Virginia. Found this place by accident as we were looking for a place to have a picnic. In addition, Richmond is home to several festivals devoted to various genres of music. Science Museum of Virginia. Art Galleries Many with FREE or low-cost admission. National Historic Landmark registration file, White Bank Park: Inclusive Playground in Colonial Heights, Virginia, Wildrock, A Natural Playground for Children, Hike it Baby offers FREE outdoor recreation for children & caregivers, Richmond Historic Cemeteries offer quiet solace of nature, window to the past and notable art, Shop small, shop artsy: local boutiques in the Richmond area, Free and Cheap Date Ideas in Richmond, Virginia, Spring Cleaning Tips from Tricia Miller of Miller Family Vibes, The Ultimate List of RVA Parks and Playgrounds, RVAs Stroller Friendly Walks with Water Views. Richmond is fortunate to have such a beautiful and historic garden right in its backyard. National Donut Day is Friday, June 2. Even weddings. 2023 Wander With Alex. Be sure tosubscribe to email updates,follow @rvacheapon Twitter orlike RVA (Richmond) on the Cheapon Facebookto stay in the know about the latest freebies & deals. Every year during the winter, the tour lights up! If youre among the latter, know that youll havejust one, Richmond has a booming craft cocktail scene, and theres nobetter time to discover it for yourself than during the coldest seasonof the year! Sit back and relax on a private tour. Henricus also was the English home of Pocahontas.Visit Henricus Historical Park and relive Americas beginnings. RT @jonesjay: Belated shot from Friday night's Blue Commonwealth gala in Richmond - I always love to see the great things @royermattw and the @VAYD members do all across Virginia. River features include multiple small rapids and lots of big rocks. There is also a skating rink, bowling alley and many neighborhoods under development. The Byrd Theatreis open 365 days a year regardless of weather, however our schedule is not necessarily the same each day. Pony Pasture Rapids 11. With more than 200 animals on exhibit, there is something for everyone to see. This article originally appeared on Wander With Alex. Kings Dominion 5. This majestic Tudor mansion is impressive in its own right, but even more so when you consider that it was completely dismantled and shipped across the Atlantic from England to Virginia in the 1920s. THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Richmond with Kids (Updated 2023) - Tripadvisor 2023 Lonely Planet, a Red Ventures company. Belle Isle. Byrd Theatre. Richmond Mural Project. The estates 33,000 square feet command a majestic view of 55 acres of rolling hills and woodlands. It also provides access for Class II whitewater boating and good fishing for smallmouth bass. You can access the James River all around RVA. This is an adventure of a lifetime. Agecroft Hall. Biking river-side on the Virginia Capital Trail. For less hassle, visit Pony Pasture from late May to early September before 11 a.m. Quirk Hotel. She was the first African American woman in the United States to found a bank. Check out our, Running from Nov. 21, 2022 through Jan. 8, 2023, the, If being outdoors isnt your thing, check out Richmonds most popular (and mostly free!) The development of the first hospital, the chartering of the first college in the New World and other important events that occurred at Henricus contributed to the significant roles this settlement played in the creation of a way of life and a nation. Kinds Dominion is one of the most entertaining things to do in Richmond when visiting. . Richmond, Virginia, is quickly becoming known for its thriving craft beer scene. Ethan Lynne on Twitter: "RT @jonesjay: Belated shot from Friday night's Do you want to go to Kings Dominion and ride a ride like 800 times? Take the tour in all neighborhoods and districts and be amazed. With 52 miles of trail, there is something for everyone! Visitors can enjoy strolls through the peaceful gardens or participate in traditional tea ceremonies. No matter what time of year it is, there is always something to see and do at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden. This remote island in the middle of the river is accessible via a pedestrian bridge. The Belle Isle 10. Things to Do in Richmond, VA with Kids | Kids' Activities in Richmond The park is reached from the Tredegar Street pedestrian footbridge and is pet-friendly. The Walkers purchased the house in 1904 and soon began making changes. Church Hill District. Richmond, Virginia, is a historic city with a lot to offer, from its charming downtown area to its many museums and historical sites. 19 Best Things to Do in Richmond | U.S. News Travel it's worth walking up to and reading about its history. Today, Belle Isle is a popular spot for recreation and is also home to an environmental center. The Capitol, a National Historic Landmark, is located downtown on Capitol Square bounded by 9th, Capitol, Governor, and Bank Sts. In addition to its many attractions, the Childrens Museum of Richmond is also home to a cafe and gift shop. Be the architect of your own trip as you discover the best things to do in the USA through insider tips, suggested itineraries and handy maps. Its hard to believe that the pastoral 100-acre Maymont Estate is right in the heart of Richmond. Enjoy outdoor waterfront dining at the Cases Del Barco restaurant, or check out the local shops. The Capitol Square Grounds are open daily from 7:00am to 11:00pm. No part of this site may be reproduced without our written permission. They also host special college nights and special pricing nights. Scotts Addition. To get a comprehensive view of the city, including its history, head to Libby Hill Park in Richmonds historic Church Hill neighborhood. An 18-foot, two-and-a-half ton Czechoslovakian crystal chandelier suspended over the auditorium contains over 5,000 crystals illuminated by 500 red, blue, green and amber lights. The museum has a variety of exhibits, including a dinosaur exhibit, an exhibit on the human body, and an exhibit on the history of Virginia. It's hard to believe that the pastoral 100-acre Maymont Estate is right in the heart of Richmond. By M8966WEstevew. Short Pump now has many shopping centers and upscale restaurants and is a bustling hub of activity. There! The garden was originally built in 1911, and it has been meticulously maintained ever since. Maggie Lena Walker achieved national prominence as a businesswoman and community leader. The mall is the areas centerpiece, but numerous shops and businesses line the streets. 478 Kid-Friendly Activities. The top attractions to visit in Richmond are: Things to Do in Richmond, VT - Richmond Attractions. Alexandrea Sumuel is a travel writer and the founder of the Wander With Alex travel blog, where she provides vacationers and travel enthusiasts with trip ideas, travel guides, news, and itineraries. The Maymont Japanese Garden is a true oasis in the city, providing an excellent opportunity to learn about another culture. 31 Best Things to Do in Richmond, VA (for First-Timers) Through the permanent exhibit, educational programming, and outreach, the museum employs the history of the Holocaust and other genocides to educate and inspire future generations of Virginians to fight prejudice and indifference. Sinister Scares of Shockoe Bottom Tour 3. Thanks Steve and the entire Umiak team, we had an amazing day! Stop by for a visit and be amazed with the brightly decorated lobby and rooms. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Richmond - Tripadvisor Richmond is a haven for beer lovers, with more than 30 craft breweries in the city. Just a short drive for incredible fun and entertainment fun for all ages. Let the road trips, family vac, Looks like Europe is THE summer vacation destinati, The significance behind the stacked rocks, Arubas beautiful Arikok National Park! You can see how Richmond was transformed during the war years and learn about the lives of soldiers and civilians caught up in the conflict. Visit websites below to confirm hours, fees if applicable, and other information. The Walker family owned the home until 1979, when it and all the contents were purchased by the National Park Service. And if youre around during Christmas, dont miss the Miracle of Christmas event its FREE! Rentals, Tours, Shuttles. Beer and service were amazing too. Richmond Raceway is a one-of-a-kind racetrack thanks its rich history and exciting races. Or soak up the sun in the newly expanded Soak City, an all-inclusive 20-acre water park. Whats not to love? With its sprawling grounds, manicured gardens, historical manor house, nature center and childrens farm, Maymont is widely considered one of the best places for families to visit in Richmond any time of the year. Henricus is where the American dream of success and self-reliance began. Arena Racing. The nightlife in Shockoe Slip bustles with activity, trendy lounges and clubs offer every kind of evening entertainment from jazz to blues and rock to dance music. Sites, attraction, monuments, exhibitd, trails and parks. Dont miss this tour! Used as a Union prisoner-of-war camp during the Civil War, Belle Isle is now a popular spot for hiking, biking, sunbathing on the rocks and (cautiously) swimming in the river. With over 1,000 new residential units and a growing number of amenities, the neighborhood is quickly becoming one of the most sought over areas in the region. The museum also features a collection of artifacts from the war, including weapons, uniforms, and personal items belonging to Union and Confederate soldiers. Frequently Asked Questions about Richmond. Today, the capitol is open to the public for tours and features a museum dedicated to Virginia history. Free. Okay. To get a taste of the city's distinctively quirky side, make a beeline for Carytown, Richmond's top neighborhood for shopping. Can only imagine how beautiful it is in the Summer months. The 50,000 gallon aquarium also gives visitors a fish-eye view of the underwater world. Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden 6. Explore the Black History Museum and Cultural Center for both famous and forgotten stories of African-Americans' lives in Virginia. 1. Admission is $9 for adults and $3 for children under six. Dover Hall. The mega-milk bottles are located at Adams and Marshall in Downtown Richmond. The park is located at 13301 N. Woolridge Road, Midlothian, VA 23112. Gone with the Wind? The permanent collection includes everything from ancient and pre-Columbian art to Faberge, photography and modern art. Maymont 5. RVA on the Cheap is a member of Living on the Cheap, a network of websites published by frugalistas, journalists and consumer advocates. The area is an affluent edge city of RVA. Playing like a champ at the Science Museum of Virginia , Virginia Museum of Fine Arts and any of Richmond's three Children's Museum locations. Happy Birthday! Agecroft Hall. You have to see them. Unless youre lucky enough to attend a private event, get married here, or have a special invite, this one might be hard to see. And during the winter holidays, the Gardenfest of Lights is a must see for a magical experience. Not just any library. There are places to rack up the billiards or savor your favorite cigar. ( Richmonds Altria Theater is located to the west of downtown Richmond, across from historic Monroe Park. Riverfront Canal Cruises offers guided tours in a canal boat up and down the canal. Check out our, Every season has its staple event. One of the first major industrial sites in the United States became a 44-acre preserve when Mid-Lothian Mines Park opened in 2004. This is my husbands and I Not a deal breaker by any means, as everything else about the experience was great. But the price is great and way more affordable then Stowe. Discover Virginias rich and unique history by visiting the research library, attending an event, or exploring one of their exhibition galleries. But in the winter, we ogle holiday lights! The Childrens Museum of Richmond is where kids can learn and play. Whether youre a history buff or just looking to learn more about this crucial period, the American Civil War Museum is well worth a visit. Theres a good reason Richmonds nickname is the River City: the James River snakes right through the center of town, offering an easily accessible retreat for nature lovers. Belle Isle 7. Perched on a hill above the James River rapids with views of the city skyline, this expansive cemetery has served as the final resting place for Richmond notables since the late 1800s, including presidents James Monroe and John Tyler. 4. Kings Dominion. Historic displays, tractor and truck pulls, small engine displays, living history exhibits including sawmill, arts and crafts, antique and modern construction, sorghum molasses making, carnival rides, animal exhibits, equestrian events, and much more. So here's how. In addition, the museum offers a variety of programs, including a planetarium show, a hands-on science lab, and a tour of the museum. These eight Black hiking groups are bringing Black Americans to the outdoors. The James River and the Kanawha Canal were intended to be a hub for shipping goods up Virginia's coast, but a railroad was built around the same time, rendering the canal obsolete. Along the way, theyll sample a variety of local brews, learn about the citys rich brewing history, and meet the people who are keeping that tradition alive today. We enjoyed a perfect, end of summer walk on the paths winding amongst 8 feet-plus tall, beautiful, showy sunflowers, some in burnt orange color, mostly in the traditional yellow. This church is very unique! Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. With interactive exhibits and hands-on activities, the museum offers a fun and educational experience for children of all ages. Rent a bike and do the 52-mile Virginia Capital Trail. Places like Buskey Cider and Blue Bee Cider have you covered. It is unbelievable. RVATukTuk Sightseeing Tour (Editor's Choice) 2. Very interesting to learn of the effect of the Holocaust on the Richmond, Virginia jewish people. Tacky Lights Tour (seasonal). This is a popular swimming and sunbathing area. Open 365 days a year with free admission for all, the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts boasts a world-class collection containing nearly 50,000 works of art. Free Things to do with kids in Williamsburg. The Virginia Museum of History and Culture 9. Head over to, Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window), Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window), Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window), Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window), Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window), Winter events and festivals guide for Richmond. Are these the craziest sports in the world? Enjoy the Tacky Lights Tour. Really. Plus, it is just not nice. Locals especially like to boast about having access to the only Class IV white water rapids in an urban setting in the country. The zoo is home to more than 2,000 animals (and counting!). If youre looking for things to do in Richmond, shopping Short Pump is an enjoyable experience for all. Hollywood depends on the generous support of donors in order to ensure the long-term care of the cemetery.President James Monroes Tomb, President John Tylers monument, Davis Circle, Monument of the Confederate War Dead, stunning view of the James River, and the Iron Dog are just a few of the sites. Maymont Mansion is a well-preserved document of Gilded Age design and the taste of well-educated, cosmopolitan millionaires. Take a stroll down Canal Walk and learn more about the area via the history medallions and statutes along the 1.25-mile route. Virginia Holocaust Museum. Virginia Holocaust Museum. The capitol was the site of several important events during the Civil War, including the vote to secede from the Union and the inauguration of Confederate President Jefferson Davis. Speciality Museums History Museums. Founded in 1975, Kings Dominion is a 400-acre theme park 25 minutes from Richmond, Virginia. Henricus Historical Park. Visitors can also go fishing, kayaking, or canoeing in the river. The Best Things to Do in Richmond, VA: A Complete Guide to Virginia's Capital. There is also a train that visitors can ride around the park. This takes place in September each year just 10 minutes from Short Pump. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. With a collection that spans more than 5,000 years of history, the museum is a great place to spend the afternoon. Take on the class III and IV rapids of the James River. *This article contains affiliate links to trusted partners. Even our saddest memories must be preserved. It was a very hot summer night, so Found this place by accident as we were looking for a place to have a picnic. Outdoor Labyrinth Walks in the Richmond area offer contemplation, movement, Five family-friendly spots to explore the James River, Free Open Studio Sundays at Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Discounts & Free Programming for Military Families, Celebrating Indigenous Culture in the Richmond area, Spotting sunflower fields around Richmond, July 4th Independence Day Festivities in Richmond, Virginia, Dogwood Dell Festival of the Arts: FREE Entertainment & Events, Love Ridge Mountain Lodging: Beautiful, Comfortable, Affordable, Enjoy free food & drinks at Chick-fil-A this summer, Free and cheap things to do in Richmond this weekend, Krispy Kreme celebrates July 4th with free doughnuts. Hollywood Cemetery. Take A Tacky Lights Tour Every season has its staple event. Waterparks In West Virginia. Kings Dominion is also home to one of the worlds tallest water slides, Heights of Fear. Short Pump Town Center 6. Monument Avenue. The experience was even better than we anticipated it would be. This includes more than a dozen themed gardens like the Rose Garden, Asian Valley and the Childrens Garden, and youll find a cafe, tea house and shop on site. Capital Trail. The, One of Richmonds most beautiful parks, Maymont can be enjoyed during all seasons. Altria Theater. The Richmond Folk Festival, for example, features a wide range of traditional and contemporary music from around the world. Today, Richmond's Canal Walk is a popular dining, shopping, and entertainment area. The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA) was founded in 1934 and has an impressive collection of art from around the globe. Richmond is a thriving metropolis with a rich history. 25 Jun 2023 19:41:08 The building is now an awesome apartment building with the bottles intact. Around the holidays, the Gardenfest of Lights is a beloved local tradition with thousands of lights and festive attractions. Virginia Historical Society. Scotts Addition is the City of Richmonds fastest growing neighborhood, home of an eclectic mix of apartments, homes, restaurants, breweries, shops and more tucked away in the northwest corner of West Broad Street and North Boulevard. Field Day of the Past. Stroll the hilly grounds, discover the Japanese gardens, tour the mansion, or visit the zoo. Named for the fan shape created by its streets, this residential neighborhood is populated by stately mansions and rowhouses built at the turn of the century. The neoclassical building, designed by Thomas Jefferson, was completed in 1788 and has been home to the Virginia General Assembly since 1800. The ski instructor staff (Gayle, Barney and Keith) were great, friendly and knowledgeable. Open daily 8am-5pm. The museum is located in Richmond, Virginia, and is open Monday through Saturday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. The Byrd Theatre is an architectural treasure chest adorned with paintings, marbled walls, gold leaf arches, a richly appointed mezzanine, and some of the original patterned mohair-covered seats. Authentically opulent. We had, A view of the property from our bedroom balc, Museo Maya de Cancun was a rare cultural find in t, Hollywood Cemetery Segway Tour in Richmond, Red Rock Country: 22 Outdoor Things to Do in Sedona, AZ, 26 Things to Do in Louisville, KY on Vacation + Day Trips. A tree-lined oasis in RVA. Swimming, however, is discouraged as the rapids make for rough waters. Subscribe to Lonely Planet newsletters and promotions. The Metro Richmond Zoo is a great place to visit for family fun. You can explore Richmonds past by taking a stroll through one of its many historic districts or by visiting its iconic monuments and memorials. 3. Founded in 2010, the Richmond Mural Project invites local and national artists to create large-scale murals in downtown Richmond. The house also illustrates the dynamic interplay between server and served, working class and upper class and black and white through a compelling exhibition in its restored below-stairs rooms the culmination of a decade-long research project that was completed in 2005. Dairy Bottle. Like the Henrico Kite Festival, The Great Pumpkin Fest at Kings Dominion, the Richmond International Dragon Boat Festival on the James River, and Publick Days at Henricus Historical Park. The Monument Avenue Historic District extends to West Franklin Street at Stuart Circle extending westeard for 14 blocks. If youre looking for a delicious way to experience Richmond, Virginia, you should check out one of the many food tours available. Admission is $10 for adults and $8 for children. TripBuzz found 98 things to do with kids in or near Richmond, Virginia, including 71 fun activities for kids in nearby cities within 25 miles like Midlothian, Petersburg, Hopewell and Glen Allen. River City Food Tours. The track has a deep history, dating back to 1946 when it was first built as a half-mile dirt track. Artist Paul DiPasquale created it in 1983. With its sprawling grounds, manicured gardens, historical manor house, nature center and children's farm, Maymont is . We said it! Built as a replica of the county's 1750 Courthouse, the museum is located directly behind the historic 1917 courthouse. The bike-friendly Canal Walk connects the Virginia Capital Trail and Low Line gardens on the east to Browns Island and Belle Isle on the west. Enjoy a cocktail on the rooftop bar, and explore this fun little piece of entertainment right in the middle of the old city. (The cost varies for special exhibitions, free for members.) Or, you can come face-to-face with dinosaurs at Dinosaurs Alive! Midlothian Mines & Rail Road Park. Do you want to feed a giraffe out of your hand? Mission: The Virginia Holocaust Museum preserves and documents the Holocaust in exhibits and its archival collections. The museum features permanent and rotating interactive exhibits like Speed, which invites visitors to feel hurricane-force winds and challenge a robot as they learn about motion and time. And if youre looking for something a little different, you can always head to one of the citys many museums or art galleries, which often host live music performances. Its annual NASCAR race is typically one of the seasons most anticipated events. Rockwood Nature Center. Here are some of the top things to do. Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. The project has received rave reviews from locals and visitors, and has helped to put Richmond on the map as a destination for public art. The 1300-seat Byrd Theatre, named after William Byrd, one of the founders of Richmond, is one of the nations finest cinema treasures. Volunteer Paul was our guide, and he was very knowledgeable and friendly. Make the most of your time in the USA with Lonely Planets range of travel guides. Thank you for voting us one of the top botanical gardens in the U.S.. Byrd Theatre, which was built in 1928 in Richmond, Virginia as one of the Nations Grand Movie Palaces and today is both a State and National Historic landmark. Since 1938, St. Johns Church Foundation has been charged with the preservation of St. Johns Church, now a National Historic Landmark. The building also houses the Virginia governors office and serves as a symbol of state power and pride. Fun Things to do in Richmond - Family Days Out Check them out, Festivals & Fairs many of them with FREE admission. The city has a thriving live music scene from bluegrass and country to rock and punk. For almost 90 years, Monticello has been maintained and kept open to the public by the Thomas Jefferson Foundation, Inc., which owns over 2,500 acres of Jeffersons 5,000-acre plantation. Over the ensuing decades, The Jefferson has become synonymous with extraordinary dining, breathtaking architecture, flawless service and Richmond.. Just to name a few, theres, Jumping in an ice coldbody of water on purpose? One, Happy SUMMER! Its technically not RVA, but its close enough! The trail includes over 30 breweries, all within easy walking or biking distance of each other.