10 Things to do in Richmond with Kids!
Richmond is a city full of history, culture, and outdoor fun. But what makes it really special is how family‑friendly it is. This city has plenty of activities that keep kids entertained while also teaching them something new. Whether your family loves museums, parks, or hands‑on learning, Richmond has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll share 10 best things to do in Richmond with kids, with each section explain into detail so you can plan your trip with confidence.
1. Metro Richmond Zoo
Opened in 1995, Metro Richmond Zoo is home to more than 2,000 animals from around 180 different species, invite visitors to see wildlife from all over the world. One of the most exciting attractions is the Treetop Zoofari, a zipline adventure that lets guests view the zoo from above, while it also offers interactive experiences where visitors can feed budgies, giraffes, and barnyard animals. Families can take a ride on the Safari Train, which travels through areas with free‑ranging animals, and programs like the Summer Safari Day Camp, which provides children with fun educational opportunities.
2. Science Museum of Virginia
The Science Museum of Virginia is filled with exhibits on biology, physics, engineering, and environmental science, all designed to help people understand how the world works. One of its biggest attractions is The Dome, a modern planetarium where families can enjoy stunning shows about space and natural world. The museum Special programs, such as National AI Literacy Day, bring fresh topics to life with hands‑on activities that make learning fun. Guests can also watch live science experiments, including demonstrations with liquid nitrogen and sound waves to make the visit feel memorable.
3. Riverfront Canal Cruises
The Riverfront Canal Cruises give families an enjoyable way to explore Richmond’s history while floating along the Jam es River and Kanawha Canal. These narrated boat rides last about 40 minutes and take guests through the Canal Walk in Downtown, sharing stories that range from the time of Powhatan’s Chiefdom to the city’s role in developing the first successful electric streetcar. Along the route, the boats pass by well‑known landmarks such as the Triple Crossing and private charters are available for special occasions, offering a unique way to celebrate while enjoying Richmond from the water.
4. Children’s Museum of Richmond
The Children’s Museum of Richmond is designed to let kids learn through play, offering hands‑on activities such as arts and crafts and simple science experiments that help children build problem‑solving skills in a fun way. A pretend grocery store exhibit allows kids to step into real‑world roles, while the construction zone gives them space to build and imagine freely. The water play area let children explore movement and flow in a playful setting. The museum hosts STEM workshops, storytime sessions, and seasonal events that provide even more opportunities for learning and creativity.
5. Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden
Covering 50 acres, Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden is filled with more than a dozen themed spaces, such as the Rose Garden, Asian Valley, and Cherry Tree Walk. At the center is the Conservatory, a domed greenhouse that displays tropical plants and seasonal exhibits throughout the year. The Children’s Garden is especially popular, offering interactive play areas and exhibits designed for young visitors to learn and explore. The garden also hosts events like Groovin’ in the Garden, an outdoor concert, and GardenFest of Lights, a holiday celebration that turns into a glowing winter wonderland.
6. Maymont Park
Once the home of James and Sallie Dooley, the Maymont Park is a 100 acres estate that welcomes visitors to explore its gardens, historic sites, and family‑friendly attractions. The Maymont Mansion gives a clear look into the Gilded Age, with rooms and exhibits showing what life was like in late 19th century. Inside, themed gardens such as the Italian and Japanese Gardens provide peaceful places to walk and enjoy the landscapes. Families especially love the farm area, where kids can meet goats, sheep, and other animals up close, while the Robins Nature Center has exhibits about local wildlife.
7. Richmond Raceway
Opened in 1946, Richmond Raceway is one of the city’s most recognized attractions and is famous for its ¾ mile D‑shaped oval track. Known as “America’s Premier Short Track,” it hosts NASCAR Cup Series races along with other exciting events throughout the year. Fans can enjoy more than just racing, with options like infield access, camping areas, premium seating, and even concerts and trade shows held at the venue. For those who want a hands‑on thrill, the NASCAR Racing Experience gives visitors the chance to drive an actual race car on the track, making it a bucket‑list activity for many.
8. Altria Theater
Built in 1927, Altria Theater is the largest theater between New York City and Atlanta and remains a central part of Richmond’s performing arts scene. Visitors can enjoy Broadway productions, live concerts, comedy shows, and community gatherings throughout the year. As part of the Richmond CenterStage performing arts complex, the venue supports cultural programs across the city. Welcoming both national and international performers, the Altria Theater brings a diverse lineup of entertainment to Richmond, making it a key destination for anyone who enjoys live performances.
9. Kings Dominion
Spread across 400 acres, Kings Dominion is a popular amusement park that features more than 60 rides, including 13 roller coasters such as Intimidator 305, famous for its steep drops and fast speeds. Families can also enjoy Soak City, a large water park inside the park that has wave pools, slides, and splash zones, making it a perfect place to cool off during the warmer months. Throughout the year, Kings Dominion transforms for special events like Halloween Haunt and WinterFest, turning the park into themed destinations filled with entertainment, decorations, and seasonal activities.
10. The Diamond
Located on Arthur Ashe Boulevard, The Diamond has long been a central part of Richmond’s baseball history. It serves as the home field for the Richmond Flying Squirrels, the Double‑A affiliate of the San Francisco Giants, as well as the VCU Rams baseball team. Before that, from 1985 until 2008, the stadium hosted the Richmond Braves, the Triple‑A affiliate of the Atlanta Braves. With seating for over 12,000 fans, and over the decades, The Diamond has brought baseball fans together and created unforgettable memories, making it an important landmark in Richmond’s sports culture.
FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. What are the top kid‑friendly museums in Richmond?
Richmond has several museums that are perfect for children. The Science Museum of Virginia is a favorite, with hands‑on exhibits and a planetarium that makes learning about space fun. The Children’s Museum of Richmond is built just for kids, with play areas like a pretend grocery store and water play zone. Families also enjoy Maymont’s nature center, which mixes wildlife with interactive displays. Together, these museums give kids a chance to learn, play, and explore in simple ways.
2. Are there indoor activities for kids in Richmond?
Yes, Richmond offers plenty of indoor fun for families. The Science Museum of Virginia and the Children’s Museum of Richmond are both indoors, making them great options on rainy days. The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts also has family programs that introduce kids to art in easy ways. Indoor play centers and libraries around the city often host storytime sessions and workshops. These activities keep children engaged while giving parents a comfortable space to enjoy with them.
3. What are the best outdoor attractions for kids in Richmond?
Families who love the outdoors will find many options in Richmond. Maymont Park is a top choice, with gardens, farm animals, and wide open spaces for kids to run around. Belle Isle is another favorite, offering trails, river views, and spots to explore nature. Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden has a Children’s Garden with play areas and seasonal butterfly exhibits. Local parks like Byrd Park and Forest Hill Park also provide playgrounds and picnic areas.
4. Are there seasonal events for families in Richmond?
Richmond hosts family‑friendly events throughout the year. In summer, Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden holds concerts and special programs. Fall brings Halloween Haunt at Kings Dominion and harvest festivals at local farms. Winter is highlighted by GardenFest of Lights, where the botanical garden glows with holiday decorations. Spring often features outdoor festivals, parades, and community gatherings. These seasonal events give families something new to enjoy each time they visit the city.
5. What sports experiences can kids enjoy in Richmond?
Sports are a big part of Richmond’s culture, and kids can join in the excitement. Families can watch baseball games at The Diamond, home of the Richmond Flying Squirrels. The Richmond Raceway hosts NASCAR events, which are thrilling for older kids and teens. Local parks and recreation centers also offer youth sports programs, from soccer to basketball. Some venues even allow kids to try interactive experiences, like the NASCAR Racing Experience.
6. Are there any unique experiences for kids to enjoy in Richmond?
Yes, Richmond has several one‑of‑a‑kind experiences for children. The Riverfront Canal Cruises let families explore the city’s history while floating along the water. The Metro Richmond Zoo offers interactive animal encounters, including feeding giraffes and riding the Safari Train. The Edgar Allan Poe Museum introduces older kids to literature in a creative way. Seasonal camps, like the Summer Safari Day Camp at the zoo, provide hands‑on learning.
