22 Free Things to Do In Richmond, VA

Families visiting Richmond, VA will love all of the free things to do in this historic and vibrant cultural city. America's history can be thoroughly explored through free visits to historic monuments, countless museums, an assortment of tours, and even while relaxing and adventuring at the numerous parks within the city.

Enjoy this concentrated list of 22 must see, free Richmond destinations that are well worth a visit.

1. Delve right into Richmond's history with a guided or self guided tour through The Virginia State Capitol and Executive Mansion which was designed by Thomas Jefferson! The Capitol is home to America’s oldest legislative assembly and boasts many historical statues and paintings, rare exhibit objects, and a newly restored legislative chambers.
2. Capitol Square Park surrounds the Capitol Building and the Executive Mansion. Don't miss a walk through the serene park where grand monuments of Virginia's key historical figures stand and regally watch over the park. Check out the chiming bell tower, where you can find maps and information about the area and meander through the well manicured landscape of this peaceful park.
3. Stop by the The White House and American Civil War Museum for a look at a well preserved Confederate home and a great collection of Civil War artifacts. It is free to tour the three floors of the museum. For a small cost and to make your visit more robust, you can take a highly recommended guided tour of the White House.Visit scenic Maymont for a relaxing day in Richmond. Bring along a picnic and enjoy the magnificent Japanese gardens and peruse the expansive carriage collection on display. Children and adults can also enjoy the petting zoo, glorious arboretum and endlessly explore the massive 33-room mansion on site.
4. If you happen to be in Church Hill on a Sunday, be sure to stop by the Historic St. John's Church, where Patrick Henry gave his famous speech during the Revolutionary War. The historic reenactment of that day is performed by professional actors and the show is free on Sundays. You can also explore the old cemetery and do stone rubbings of the headstones while you peruse the sacred grounds.
5. Not too far from St. John's Church is the National Historic Site of the Chimborazo Medical Museum. Chimborazo Hospital was the largest hospital in the Richmond area during the Civil War and this small museum reflects the sobering reminder of our collective past, the medical advancements that have been made since that time and the tragedy and devastating cost of the Civil War.

6. Visit the Three Lakes Park and Nature Center where the three worlds of air, water, and land come together for all ages to explore. Enjoy hands on exhibits and marvel at the up close view of the underwater world through the 50,000 gallon aquarium tank.

7. Whether you are looking for some downtime or some recreational adventure, seek out the green space throughout the James River Park System. Be prepared for the family to be relaxed and rejuvenated after participating in endless outdoor activities available here. So, pack a picnic lunch and bring along your active gear and enjoy the adventures in the park and on the river.

8. There is endless access to free culture available at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. Explore the well maintained grounds and immerse yourself in the impressive art collections and the architectural delights at one of Richmond's great treasures.

9. Right next door to the Art Museum, you will find Virginia Historical Society and Museum. Explore the Story of Virginia and view the largest display of Virginia artifacts on permanent public display.
10. Arouse your senses on a walking tour at Lavender Fields Farm just outside of Richmond. Learn about the herb growing process at this little patch of heaven that produces over 300,000 USDA Certified Organic herb and vegetable plants each year. Finish up your tour with a free sample of lavender lemonade and a complimentary treat of the homemade honey lavender ice cream that is made at the farm.
11. Take a walk or a drive down beautiful and historic Monument Avenue. Admire the dominating Confederate statues and the stunning architecture of the stately homes that line this breathtaking street.
12. Escape the hustle and bustle of the big city with a relaxing Canal Walk along the James River. Enjoy green space, scenic views, extensive murals and learn some Civil War history along the way. Benches line both sides of the walkway which provide a great place to rest and take in the beauty of Richmond's skyline.
13. At the end of your Canal Walk, be sure to make a quick stop at the the Tredegar Iron Works Museum for some informative insights into Virginia's Civil War history. This historic factory gives you a glimpse of the past via various artillery exhibits. Enjoy the informative documentary videos available for viewing and be sure to ask the knowledgeable park ranger any questions that you may have.
14. Take a walk through time at the Hollywood Cemetery which also overlooks the James River. Be sure to see the Civil War section, the presidential burial grounds and the stunning mausoleum with Tiffany stained glass windows, where you will find the most breathtaking view of Richmond.
15. Marvel at the larger than life lobby of Richmond's grandest hotel, The Jefferson Hotel. Peruse artifacts from over a century of the hotel’s history which are housed at the bottom of the lobby's Grand Staircase. Lots of famous people have graced this fine hotel including thirteen U.S. Presidents, Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra and many more.
16. Delve into the world of genealogy and research your family tree for Virginia ancestors at The Library of Virginia. Enjoy rotating and in depth educational exhibits and top notch research facilities with very knowledgeable staff at your fingertips.
17. You will not want to miss visiting the The Maggie Walker National Historic Site! Prepare to be inspired as you learn about this amazing African American pioneer woman who worked hard and became the first woman banker in America. Her home is so incredibly well preserved and the park rangers recount her incredible story of perserverence, ingenuity and the mark that she made on the history of Richmond.
18. Meadow Farm at Crump Park is a great place to visit with the whole family. Enjoy lots of open space to play, a lovely and abounding playground, lots of farm animals to view up close, a museum and a true working farm of the 1860s. On site there is a historic Pre-Civil war house with docents in costume and character who will take you through the home at scheduled tour times.
19. For the more mature crowd, take a humbling and somber visit to the Virginia Holocaust Museum. Experienced docents will guide you through the history of the Holocaust, the unsettling details, local stories and experiences and their impact on the world.
20. There is so much to learn and see at the Virginia War Memorial that scenically overlooks the James River! Respectfully, delve into the stories of men and women that fought for our country. View life-like human sculptures in full regalia representing every American conflict as well as a small and informative museum, eternal flame, and memorial wall.
21. Take a bike ride or a walk on the picturesque Virginia Capital Trail. Enjoy the 52-mile stretch of dedicated, paved pedestrian and bicycle trail connecting Richmond to Williamsburg, Virginia. There are picnic areas, restaurants and restrooms along the way as you bike your way through countryside along the scenic Route 5 corridor.
22. Visitors should keep in mind that Richmond offers a monthly celebration of the arts every first Friday of the month! Richmond's finest art galleries open their doors to artists, fans and friends for shows, live performances and more.