Looking for museums in Richmond, VA? Richmond’s museums reflect the city itself. Creative, historic, curious, and always evolving. Whether you’re drawn to world-class art, want to dive deeper into Richmond’s history, are looking for hands-on experiences with your kids, or simply want a unique way to spend an afternoon, there’s a museum here for you.
From free cultural experiences like the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts and Institute for Contemporary Art to interactive destinations like the Science Museum of Virginia and Children’s Museum of Richmond, these local favorites showcase the many sides of Richmond.
Explore Museums in Richmond, VA
For the Art Lovers: Creativity Around Every Corner
Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
Institute for Contemporary Art
The Branch Museum of Architecture and Design
From world-class collections to contemporary exhibitions, Richmond’s art scene offers inspiration for every type of creative mind.
For the History Seekers: Stories That Shaped Richmond
The Valentine
Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site
American Civil War Museum
Poe Museum
Richmond’s history is complex, fascinating, and woven into the neighborhoods around us. These museums bring the people and stories behind the city to life.
For the Curious Minds: Learning Through Experience
Science Museum of Virginia
Children’s Museum of Richmond
Some of the best learning happens when you can touch, explore, and ask questions. These museums turn curiosity into an adventure for visitors of all ages.
1. Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA)
When people search for museums in Richmond, VA, the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts is often the first place that comes to mind, and for good reason.
The VMFA is one of the largest comprehensive art museums in the United States, featuring more than 50,000 works of art spanning thousands of years and cultures. Visitors can explore everything from ancient artifacts and European masterpieces to contemporary installations.
One of the best parts? General admission is free.
Beyond the galleries, the VMFA lawn has become a Richmond gathering place where locals picnic, relax, and enjoy community events throughout the year.
Don’t Miss: First Fridays at VMFA
On the first Friday of each month, VMFA stays open late with live music, vendors, interactive activities, and opportunities to experience the museum after hours.
It’s one of Richmond’s favorite ways to enjoy the city’s arts scene, and because admission is free, it’s an easy addition to your weekend plans.
Admission: Free
Hours:
- Saturday–Tuesday: 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
- Wednesday–Friday: 10 a.m.–9 p.m.
2. Science Museum of Virginia
Located inside Richmond’s historic Broad Street Station, the Science Museum of Virginia combines science, technology, and history through interactive exhibits designed for all ages.
While it’s a favorite among families, the museum also offers unique programming for adults, making it one of Richmond’s most versatile attractions.
Don’t Miss: Science on Tap + Sunrise Science
The Science Museum regularly hosts creative events that bring science outside of traditional museum hours.
Science on Tap offers a chance to explore scientific topics in a casual setting, while Sunrise Science gives visitors the opportunity to experience the museum in a unique way.
These programs are part of what makes the Science Museum more than just a daytime attraction.
Admission:
- Adults (13–59): $17.50
- Children (3–12): $15
- Seniors (60+): $15
- Children under 3: Free
Hours:
- Daily: 9:30 a.m.–5 p.m.
- Friday: Open until 8 p.m.
3. Children’s Museum of Richmond
Looking for family-friendly things to do in Richmond, VA? The Children’s Museum of Richmond is a local favorite.
Designed specifically for younger visitors, the museum encourages creativity, imagination, and exploration through hands-on exhibits and interactive experiences.
It’s a great option for families looking for an indoor activity during Richmond’s hot summers or rainy afternoons.
Don’t Miss: Special Family Events
The Children’s Museum regularly hosts themed events, seasonal activities, and programs designed around creativity and learning.
Admission:
- Adults: $12
- Children: $12
- Seniors: $11
- Infants under 12 months: Free
Hours:
- Tuesday–Sunday: 9:30 a.m.–5 p.m.
- Monday: Closed
4. American Civil War Museum
Richmond’s history is one of the things that makes the city unlike anywhere else.
Located at Historic Tredegar along the James River, the American Civil War Museum explores the Civil War through artifacts, exhibits, and personal stories.
The museum provides visitors with a deeper understanding of the people and events that shaped Richmond and the nation.
Don’t Miss: Historic Tredegar Events
Throughout the year, the museum hosts special programming including history lectures, guided tours, demonstrations, and educational events.
Admission:
- Adults: $18
- Seniors (65+): $14
- Youth (6–17): $10
- Children 5 and under: Free
Hours:
Daily: 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
5. The Valentine
If you want to understand Richmond, start with The Valentine.
This museum is dedicated to telling Richmond’s story through exhibits, collections, historic tours, and programs focused on the people and neighborhoods that shaped the city.
Located downtown, The Valentine is a great stop while exploring Richmond’s historic districts.
Don’t Miss: Richmond History Programs + Tours
The Valentine frequently hosts walking tours, lectures, and special programs that highlight Richmond’s architecture, neighborhoods, and hidden stories.
Admission:
- Adults: $12
- Seniors (55+) and groups: $10
- Children under 18, students, military, and members: Free
Hours:
- Tuesday–Sunday: 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
- Thursday: Open until 7 p.m. (free admission)
- Monday: Closed
6. Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site
Located in historic Jackson Ward, the Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site celebrates one of Richmond’s most influential figures.
Maggie L. Walker was a civil rights advocate, entrepreneur, suffragette, and the first Black woman in the United States to charter and serve as president of a bank.
Visitors can tour her restored home and learn about her impact on Richmond and beyond.
Don’t Miss: Jackson Ward
After your tour, spend some time exploring Jackson Ward, one of Richmond’s most historic neighborhoods. Once a thriving center of Black entrepreneurship and culture, the neighborhood is filled with landmarks, local businesses, and stories that shaped the city.
Admission: Free
Tours: 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 2 p.m., 3 p.m.
7. Institute for Contemporary Art (ICA)
Institute for Contemporary Art at VCU
The Institute for Contemporary Art brings modern art and creative conversations to Richmond’s Arts District.
Part of Virginia Commonwealth University’s School of the Arts, the ICA features rotating exhibitions designed to encourage visitors to think differently about art and culture.
Don’t Miss: Artist Talks + Exhibition Openings
The ICA regularly hosts artist conversations, performances, and community programs connected to current exhibitions.
Admission: Free
Hours: Tuesday-Sunday 10 AM-5 PM
8. Poe Museum
The Poe Museum is one of Richmond’s most unique cultural attractions.
Located in Shockoe Bottom, the museum celebrates Edgar Allan Poe’s life, writing, and connection to Richmond through exhibits, artifacts, and stories.
Don’t Miss: UnHappy Hour
Forget a traditional museum visit. UnHappy Hour transforms the Poe Museum into an after-hours experience featuring themed events, drinks, music, and community gatherings.
It’s a truly unique Richmond experience.
Admission:
- Adults: $12
- Seniors: $10
- Military: $10
- Youth: $6
- Children under 6: Free
Hours:
- Tuesday–Saturday | 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
- Sunday | 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
- Monday | Closed
9. Virginia Holocaust Museum
The Virginia Holocaust Museum provides an educational and meaningful look at the Holocaust through artifacts, exhibits, and personal stories. The museum focuses on preserving history while encouraging visitors to reflect on resilience, human rights, and the importance of remembrance.
Admission:
- Adults: $10
- Students and children: Free
- Active military: Free
Hours:
- Monday–Friday | 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
- Saturday–Sunday | 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
10. Virginia Museum of History & Culture
Founded in 1831, VMHC is one of the oldest historical organizations in the United States and houses millions of items documenting Virginia’s past. Through exhibitions, artifacts, and educational programs, visitors can explore the people, events, and ideas that shaped the Commonwealth.
Don’t Miss: Special Exhibitions & Events
VMHC regularly hosts lectures, author talks, family programs, and special exhibitions that bring Virginia history to life. The museum also participates in First Fridays, offering opportunities to experience history in a more casual setting.
Admission:
- Adults: $15
- Seniors (65+), educators, students, active military & veterans: $13
- Youth (ages 6–17): $10
- Children 5 and under: Free
- Members: Free
Hours:
- Daily: 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
- Closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Da
More Richmond Museums
Richmond’s museums extend far beyond this list. From architecture and history to transportation and historic homes, there are even more ways to explore the stories, creativity, and experiences that make the city unique.
A few more museums and cultural experiences to discover:
- The Branch Museum of Architecture and Design: Explore the connection between architecture, design, and the spaces we live in.
- Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia: Discover the achievements, culture, and history of African Americans in Virginia.
- Agecroft Hall & Gardens: Step inside a Tudor home brought from England and preserved in Richmond.
Discover What Makes Richmond Home
One of the best parts of living in Richmond is that there is always something new to explore.
From world-class museums and historic neighborhoods to local restaurants, parks, and community events, Richmond offers the kind of experiences that turn a city into home.
At The Yeatman Group, we don’t just help people find a house. We help them discover the communities and experiences that make Richmond such a special place to live.