As the former capital of the Confederacy during the Civil War and the current capital of Virginia, Richmond is a city steeped in history. It’s located on the shore of the James River, which has become a distinct identity of this metropolis. This river, with Class III and IV rapids, provides an adventurous time in the middle of the city, especially around Belle Isle. Richmond also has a vibrant nightlife with various breweries and bars, mainly in the neighbourhood of Scott’s Addition.
Apart from plenty of outdoor riverside adventures, it also has various indoor attractions, such as museums and cultural centres. For an immersive indoor experience and to witness its rich history, keep reading about the best things to do indoors in Richmond, Virginia.
1. Immerse yourself in world art at Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Opened in 1936, this renowned museum houses around 50,000 art pieces from cultures around the world. From modern to contemporary American art and from the finest selections of South Asian to Himalayan art, it features a vast and exclusive collection, making it perfect for students and art enthusiasts. While you can witness the museum’s permanent collection for free, special exhibitions are usually chargeable.
After you complete touring the museum, you can satiate your empty stomach and have drinks at the on-site Best Café or Amuse Restaurant.
Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
Address: 200 N. Arthur Ashe Blvd, Richmond, VA 23220, United States
Website: Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
Opening hours: Wed - Fri: 10am - 9pm; Sat - Tue: 10am - 5pm
Price: Free
2. Keep learning at Science Museum of Virginia
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
With thought-provoking exhibits and in-depth live demos, Science Museum of Virginia has been sparking the curiosity of young and developed minds alike. Apart from checking out the exhibits, you and your kids can get imaginative and solve problems on the hands-on exhibits in The Forge. The museum is also home to a giant-screen theatre, The Dome, which lets you immerse yourself in the various informative documentaries that are screened every day.
After a fun day of learning, you can grab quick snacks from the café or buy souvenirs from the gift shop.
Science Museum of Virginia
Address: 2500 W Broad St, Richmond, VA 23220, United States
Website: Science Museum of Virginia
Opening hours: 9:30am - 5pm (daily)
Price: From 10 USD
3. Play, drink and eat at The Circuit Arcade Bar
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Located in Scott’s Addition, The Circuit Arcade Bar offers a vintage vibe and is perfect for light-hearted fun and drinks. With games, beer and snacks, this is one of the best places in the city to catch up with old friends or go on a fun-filled date with your partner.
This place offers several arcade classics and pinball games, making for an exciting time. For snacking, the bar serves chicken wings, fries, tacos, chips and pretzels, which are quick enough to be paired up with beer and games.
The Circuit Arcade Bar
Address: 3121 W Leigh St, Richmond, VA 23230, United States
Website: The Circuit Arcade Bar
Opening hours: Tue - Thu: 5pm -11pm; Fri: 5pm - 2am; Sat: 1pm - 2am; Sun: 1pm - 10pm (closed on Mon)
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4. Get fascinated by state history in Virginia Museum of History & Culture
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
With a collection of over nine million items, Virginia Museum of History & Culture is one of the best places to research the history of Virginia. From artefacts, such as weapons and militaria, to printed material, such as maps, books and journals, its collection has always assisted historians and students.
Once you are done checking out the artefacts, you can refresh yourself and have meaningful conversations about history over coffee and quick snacks at the on-site café. You can also check out the museum store and buy items, such as books, home decor, art and accessories.
Virginia Museum of History & Culture
Address: 428 N Arthur Ashe Blvd, Richmond, VA 23220, United States
Website: Virginia Museum of History & Culture
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 5pm (closed on Sun)
Price: From 5 USD
5. Walk back in time at American Civil War Museum- Historic Tredegar
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Historic Tredegar on Thursday, May 4, 2017
Sitting by the James River, this Civil War museum is located on the site of Tredegar Iron Works where the first cannons shot in the war were made. It is one of the three establishments run by the American Civil War Museum, all of which take visitors through the whole story of the brutal war.
This museum spans two floors of exhibits depicting the complete journey from the beginning to the aftermath. For the convenience of visitors, free on-site parking is included with the admission ticket.
American Civil War Museum- Historic Tredegar
Address: 480 Tredegar St, Richmond, VA 23219, United States
Website: American Civil War Museum- Historic Tredegar
Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (daily); Summer hours vary
Price: From 9 USD
6. Climb high at Peak Experiences - Richmond
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
If you want to do something adventurous but also want to escape the summer heat, then you have to check out Peak Experiences - Richmond. Located at the Sports Center of Richmond, it is an indoor rock climbing centre with over 15,000 sq. ft (1,393.55 sq. m) of climbing terrain. The centre also features a separate group event space where you can improve teamwork and collaboration skills.
This family-friendly establishment and adventure are perfect for building self-esteem and ingressing leadership skills in your kids.
Peak Experiences - Richmond
Address: 1375 Overbrook Rd, Richmond, VA 23220, United States
Website: Peak Experiences - Richmond
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 6am - 11pm; Sat - Sun: 10am - 8pm
Price: From 12 USD
7. Celebrate African-American history at Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
For around four decades, Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia has been a cornerstone in promoting and celebrating the history and achievements of Black leaders and figures.
Apart from permanent exhibits depicting Emancipation, Reconstruction and other events, this establishment keeps featuring new exhibitions. One of the most striking sights in the museum is the structure showcasing the historic Emancipation Oak. You can also get important dates and timelines at your fingertips with the 35-ft (10.7-m) multi-panel touch screen.
Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia
Address: 122 W Leigh St, Richmond, VA 23220, United States
Website: Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia
Opening hours: Wed - Sat: 10am - 5pm (closed from Sun to Tue)
Price: From 6 USD (Free for children aged four & under)
8. Have fun group activities at Wine & Design
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
For your next group activity with friends, family or workmates, visit Wine & Design and make lasting memories while painting and enjoying wine or beer. The establishment organises regular public and private painting classes throughout the week, and entry is by reservation only. Prices also vary for each class.
Apart from painting sessions, you can also book D.I.Y. sessions in which you can use your creativity to make handmade gifts and home decor, among many other things. For your little ones, kid-friendly Art Buzz sessions are organised as well.
Wine & Design
Address: 2707 W Broad St-The Fan District, Richmond, VA 23220, United States
Website: Wine & Design
9. Remember the Holocaust victims at Virginia Holocaust Museum
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Housing artworks, photographs and other collections, Virginia Holocaust Museum commemorates millions of those killed during the Holocaust. Moreover, this place has over 230 horrifying testimonies from survivors and witnesses of the carnage. You can also find a research library, which houses over 5,000 books, documentary films and sound recordings depicting the genocide, making it ideal for researchers and students.
Due to the sensitive records of the event, the museum authority does not recommend it for children below grade six.
Virginia Holocaust Museum
Address: 2000 E Cary St, Richmond, VA 23223, United States
Website: Virginia Holocaust Museum
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 5pm; Sat - Sun: 11am - 5pm
Price: Free
10. Solve mysteries and escape at Gnome & Raven
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Make a wish! Magic Lamp opens THIS WEEK! Travel to the magical world of the genie Balazar Bolderdash, and help him earn...
Posted by Gnome & Raven on Monday, March 22, 2021
Featuring four one-hour-long escape rooms, Gnome & Raven is perfect for those looking for a mysterious and rushing adventure. Out of the four escape rooms, the Magic Lamp has won two awards, making the establishment one of the best in the business. With varying difficulties, from pre-beginner to advanced, the escape rooms provide an exciting adventure for people of all ages.
The establishment also offers a birthday package for kids aged 8 to12, which includes a birthday cake, drinks and a gift, apart from the 60-minute escape room session.
Gnome & Raven
Address: 9200 Stony Point Parkway, Richmond, VA 23235, United States
Website: Gnome & Raven
Opening hours: Wed - Fri: 1pm - 8pm; Sat: 10am - 8pm; Sun: 1pm - 6:30pm (closed on Mon & Tue)
Price: From 149 USD (group of 1-4 people)
Explore the rich history of Richmond
You can easily witness the past of Richmond by visiting the history and art museums here. Moreover, you can also find thrilling indoor activities, making for a fun-filled time with friends and family. So, the next time you are in Richmond and looking for indoor attractions, be sure to visit one of these places.
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