Best Things to do in Richmond | Must-see attractions 2025

The Edgar Allan Poe Museum

Tu-Sa 10:00-17:00; Su 11:00-17:00

Museum

1914 East Main Street

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The Edgar Allan Poe Museum in Richmond, Virginia, showcases the largest collection of artifacts related to the author, including manuscripts and personal items.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

General Admission: $8. Discounts for seniors and students available.

Dogwood Dell

3:00 PM–10:00 PM

Theater

Richmond

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Dogwood Dell in Richmond, VA, is an outdoor theater known for its lush setting and diverse performances, including plays, concerts, and festivals throughout the summer.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Some events may charge a fee for premium seating or special access.

Virginia Museum of Fine Arts

Sa-We 10:00-17:00; Th-Fr 10:00-21:00

Museum

200 N Boulevard (at Grove Ave)

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Virginia Museum of Fine Arts in Richmond houses over 5,000 years of art, offering vast collections of modern, antiquities, and Fabergé eggs with free general admission.

Duration: More than 3 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden

Mo-Su 09:00-17:00

Museum

1800 Lakeside Ave (at Hillard Rd)

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Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden spans 50 acres with diverse themed gardens and a classical domed conservatory, offering year-round beauty and educational experiences.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Adults: $13, Seniors (55+): $11, Youth (3-12): $8, Children under 3: Free.

Science Museum of Virginia

Mo-Sa 09:30-17:00; Su 11:30-17:00

Museum

2500 W Broad St (at Terminal Pl)

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The Science Museum of Virginia in Richmond offers hands-on science education through interactive exhibits covering health, energy, and natural science.

Duration: 3-4 hours.

General Admission: $14. Children (3-12): $10. Discounts for seniors and military.

Virginia House Museum

"appointment only"

Museum

4301 Sulgrave Road

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Virginia House Museum in Richmond showcases English manor architecture and Virginia's history. It's run by the Virginia Historical Society and available by appointment.

Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours.

Free. Appointments are required for visits.

The John Marshall House

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

818 E Marshall St (9th)

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John Marshall House Museum in Richmond, VA, showcases the life of Chief Justice John Marshall, featuring original furnishings and insights into early American law.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Guided tours available for a fee.

Children's Museum of Richmond

Mo off; Tu-Su 09:30-17:00

Museum

2626 West Broad Street

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Richmond Children's Museum in Virginia offers interactive exhibits for children to explore, learn, and play, fostering active learning through engaging experiences.

Duration: Approximately 2–3 hours.

General admission: $10, discounts available for children and seniors.

Wilton House Museum

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Museum

215 S Wilton Rd (Cary Street Rd)

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Wilton House Museum, a Georgian architectural gem in Richmond, Virginia, showcases the only 18th-century James River plantation house open to the public.

Duration: 1.5 hours.

General Admission: $10; Seniors (65+) and students: $7; Children under 12: Free.

Greater Richmond Convention Center

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Business Center

403 N 3rd St (btwn E Marshall St. & E Leigh St.)

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Greater Richmond Convention Centre is a state-of-the-art venue in Richmond, VA, hosting diverse events and trade shows with modern facilities and accommodations.

Duration: 2 hours for exhibitions; longer for larger events.

Events may require a ticket; consult event details for pricing.

Virginia Union University

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

University

1500 N Lombardy St (Brook Rd.)

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Virginia Union University is a private historically black university in Richmond, Virginia, emphasizing academic excellence and cultural heritage.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Campus tours may have specific fees.

Richmond City Hall

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Public Building

900 E Broad St

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Richmond City Hall, built in 1894, serves as the seat of city government with notable Richardsonian Romanesque architecture and vibrant community activities.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may require tickets.

Supreme Court of Virginia

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Public Building

100 N 9th St (at E Franklin St)

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The Supreme Court of Virginia, located in Richmond, serves as the highest court in the state, overseeing judicial proceedings and interpretations of state law.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. No fees for court visits or hearings.

University of Richmond

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

University

28 Westhampton Way (University of Richmond)

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University of Richmond Museums offers a diverse collection of art and history, located within the University of Richmond, Virginia, fostering education and cultural appreciation.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Chesterfield County Airport

7:00 AM–8:00 PM

Airport

7431 Airfield Dr (off VA-288)

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Chesterfield County Airport, located in Virginia, USA, serves general aviation services with a focus on local and regional flights.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Flights and training sessions vary in price.

Arthur Ashe Athletic Center

6:00 AM–9:00 PM

Event hall

3001 N Boulevard

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Arthur Ashe Athletic Center in Richmond offers facilities for tennis, basketball, and swimming, paying tribute to the legendary tennis player Arthur Ashe.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Entry is free, but specific events may require a paid ticket.

Altria Theater

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Theater

6 N Laurel St (W Main St.)

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Landmark Theater, located in Richmond, VA, is part of the CenterStage complex and hosts a variety of major performances and theatrical productions.

Duration: 2-3 hours for a show.

Varies by event; check the official website for specific performances.

Short Pump Town Center

10:00 AM–10:00 PM

Mall

11800 W Broad St (at Lauderdale Dr)

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Short Pump Town Center is an open-air shopping mall in Richmond, VA, featuring major retailers like Macy's and Dillard's, along with various dining options.

Duration: 2–3 hours.

Free. No tickets needed for entry.

American Civil War Museum- Historic Tredegar

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

500 Tredegar St

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The American Civil War Center at Historic Tredegar in Richmond explores the Civil War's multifaceted legacy through authentic artifacts and dynamic exhibits.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

General Admission: $10 (Adults), $5 (Children 6-17), Free for Children under 6.

Tuckahoe Plantation

11:00 AM–4:00 PM

Sights

12601 River Rd

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Tuckahoe Plantation, established circa 1733, is Thomas Jefferson's boyhood home and a National Historic Landmark in Richmond, Virginia, showcasing early American architecture.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Free for general admission. Special events may require a paid ticket.

The Richmond Railroad Museum

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

102 Hull St

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Old Dominion Railway Museum offers insights into railway history with notable train cars and artifacts housed in a historic station in Richmond, Virginia.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Virginia State Capitol

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Public Building

1000 Bank St (at N 10th St)

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Virginia State Capitol in Richmond is a historic Colonial-style landmark designed by Thomas Jefferson, housing the Virginia General Assembly since 1619.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Historic St. John's Episcopal Church

12:00 PM–5:00 PM

Church

2401 E Broad St Corner of E. Grace Street and 25th Street...facing E. Grace Street

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Historic St. John's Episcopal Church in Richmond features Patrick Henry's famous 'Give me Liberty or give me Death!' speech. Daily tours show its rich history.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Special events may require tickets.

Virginia Holocaust Museum

Mo-Fr 09:00-17:00, Sa-Su 11:00-17:00, Nov We[4] 09:00-13:00; Nov Th[4] off, Jan 01 off, easter off, Dec 25 off, Dec 31 off

Museum

2000 E Cary St (S 20th St)

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The Virginia Holocaust Museum in Richmond educates visitors on Holocaust tragedies and honors survivors who settled in the area through impactful exhibits.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

White House of the Confederacy

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

1201 East Clay Street

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The White House of the Confederacy in Richmond served as Jefferson Davis's executive mansion from 1861 to 1865. Explore its rich history through guided tours.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour for the tour.

Guided tours require a ticket. Check the website for current pricing.

Virginia War Memorial

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Monument

621 S Belvidere St

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Virginia War Memorial in Richmond honors military heroes with a museum, education center, and shrines listing names of war dead since 1956.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

City Hall Observation Deck

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Public Building

901 E Byrd St

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City Hall Observation Deck in Richmond offers panoramic views across the city, featuring its unique architecture and historical significance.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may require a ticket purchase.

Tredegar Iron Works

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

470 Tredegar Street

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Tredegar Iron Works in Richmond, Virginia, was the largest ironworks in the Confederacy, integral during the American Civil War and now serves as the American Civil War Museum.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Art Works Studios & Galleries

12:00 PM–6:00 PM

Museum

320 Hull St

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Art Works Studios & Galleries in Richmond features 75 artist studios and 5 galleries showcasing local and international art, with original pieces available for purchase.

Duration: About 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may have a covered cost.

The Valentine

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

1015 East Clay Street

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The Valentine, founded in 1898, explores Richmond's 400-year history through exhibitions, educational programs, and the 1812 Wickham House.

Duration: Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Capitol Square Park

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Park

9th & Grace Streets

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Capitol Square Park in Richmond, VA features historical gardens, monuments, and the Virginia State Capitol, designed by Thomas Jefferson, emphasizing cultural and civic importance.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may require tickets.

Virginia Governor's Mansion

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Public Building

Capitol Square

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Virginia Governor's Mansion in Richmond is a historic residence showcasing Federal architecture and serving as the longest occupied governor's quarters in the U.S. since 1813.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free. Special events may require a paid ticket.

The Branch Museum of Architecture and Design

Mo-Sa 10:00-17:00

Museum

2501 Monument Avenue

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The Branch Museum of Architecture and Design in Richmond highlights the impact of design through interactive exhibits in a historic mansion.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Bill "Bojangles" Robinson Monument

Open 24 hours

Monument

Adams and W. Leigh Streets

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The Bill 'Bojangles' Robinson Monument in Richmond honors the famed tap dancer, showcasing his cultural contributions and local heritage.

Duration: Approximately 30 minutes.

Free.

Pony Pasture Park

Open 24 hours

Park

4301 Riverside Dr

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Pony Pasture Park in Richmond offers scenic views along the James River, ideal for hiking, picnicking, and nature observation. Its diverse wildlife and serene environment attract outdoor enthusiasts.

Duration: Typically 1-3 hours.

Free. No additional fees for park entry or use of trails.

Sixth Mount Zion Baptist Church

10:00 AM–3:00 PM

Church

14 W Duval St (at Cameo St)

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Sixth Mount Zion Baptist Church is Richmond's largest African-American church, featuring notable architecture and a rich historical background.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated for maintenance and community programs.

Crossroads Art Center

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Museum

2016 Staples Mill Rd (Broad St)

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Crossroads Art Center in Richmond, VA, showcases work from over 225 local artists, promoting public awareness of visual arts through exhibitions and education.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some workshops and special events may require a paid ticket.

Visual Art Studio

We-Fr 12:00-15:00,16:00-18:00; Sa 12:00-15:00

Museum

208 E Broad St

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Visual Art Studio in Richmond, United States offers hands-on art experiences, workshops, and exhibitions, fostering creativity in a vibrant community space.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Some workshops may have associated costs.

Saint Patricks Catholic Church

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

215 N 25th St (E. Broad St.)

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Saint Patrick's Catholic Church in Richmond, VA, offers a rich history and beautiful architecture, serving as a spiritual home for the community since 1841.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated but not required.

Belle Isle

Open 24 hours

Park

300 Tredegar St

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Belle Isle is a city park on the James River in Richmond, featuring trails, rocky shores, and a pedestrian bridge, ideal for walking and biking.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. No admission fee for general entry.

Libby Hill Park

Open

Park

2801 East Franklin Street

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Libby Hill Park in Richmond, Virginia, is one of the earliest city parks, featuring scenic views, benches, and tall trees across its elevated green space.

Duration: More than 1 hour.

Free.

Chimborazo Park

6:00 AM–8:00 PM

Park

3200 E Broad St Adjacant to Chimborazo Medical Museum

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Chimborazo Park in Richmond, US, features extensive trails, sports facilities, and rich biodiversity. It's an ideal location for recreational activities and community events.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a ticket.

Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

122 W Leigh St the pciture shown is not this museum but the Tredegar Iron works

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The Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia in Richmond showcases African-American culture through exhibits, artifacts, and a historic building built in 1895.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Confederate War Memorial Chapel

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

2900 Grove Ave

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Confederate War Memorial Chapel in Richmond honors Confederate soldiers. It features unique architecture and serves as a cultural historical site for visitors.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcomed to support maintenance and events.

Park365

8:00 AM–8:00 PM

Park

3600 Saunders Ave

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Park365 in Richmond, United States offers children a vibrant play space with modern equipment, splash pads, and open areas for families to enjoy outdoor recreation.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. No charges for entry or use of playground equipment.

T. Tyler Potterfield Memorial Bridge

Open 24 hours

Bridge

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The T. Tyler Potterfield Memorial Bridge in Richmond, VA, is a pedestrian and bicycle-friendly span over the James River, connecting parks and offering scenic views.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free to access.

Fort Harrison Battlefield

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

8621 Battlefield Park Rd (off Route 5)

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Fort Harrison Battlefield in Richmond, VA, marks the site of a significant Civil War battle in 1864, featuring preserved earthworks and historical parks.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Special events may have a fee.

Forest Hill Park

7:00 AM–9:00 PM

Park

4021 Forest Hill Ave

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Forest Hill Park in Richmond, Virginia features historic homes, scenic trails, diverse wildlife, and hosts community events. A registered historic site with rich natural beauty.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a paid ticket.

Institute for Contemporary Art at VCU

11:00 AM–6:00 PM

Museum

601 W Broad St (N Belvidere St)

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The Institute for Contemporary Art at VCU in Richmond, VA, features dynamic exhibitions focused on contemporary art, design, and culture, accessible to all visitors.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Try-Me Gallery

11:00 AM–7:00 PM

Museum

1623 W Main St

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Try-Me Gallery in Richmond features immersive art displays and interactive installations, showcasing local artists within a contemporary setting.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Certain workshops may require a paid ticket.