Discovering Richmond, Virginia

Discovering Richmond, Virginia: A Must-Visit Guide for Families

Richmond, Virginia, offers an incredible array of activities and sights that make it an ideal destination for families. Just an hour's drive from Wilderness Presidential Resort, this vibrant city is rich in history, culture, and fun. Whether you're looking to dive into the past, enjoy some outdoor adventures, or indulge in some retail therapy, Richmond has something to keep every member of the family entertained. And when you're not exploring Richmond, Wilderness Presidential Resort provides a perfect home away from home with its plethora of on-site activities. Here’s your ultimate family guide to experiencing the best of Richmond and making the most of your stay at the resort.

Museums and Historical Sites, Richmond, Virginia

1. The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA): Start your Richmond adventure at the VMFA, a world-class museum with an extensive collection that spans thousands of years. Its family-friendly environment and fascinating exhibitions make it a great place for kids and adults alike to appreciate art from around the world. The museum also offers interactive activities for children, making art both accessible and enjoyable for younger visitors.
   • Website: Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
2. The Science Museum of Virginia: Engage with science hands-on at the Science Museum of Virginia. Here, families can explore exhibits ranging from space travel to health, and participate in daily live science demonstrations. The museum’s "Boost!" exhibit allows visitors to experience science with all five senses, making it a hit among curious kids.
   • Website: Science Museum of Virginia
3. American Civil War Museum: For a dose of history, the American Civil War Museum offers a comprehensive look at the Civil War from multiple perspectives. It's an excellent opportunity for kids to learn about the complexities of history in an engaging way. The museum’s exhibits include personal artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays.
   • Website: American Civil War Museum

Outdoor Adventures in Richmond, Virginia

1. Maymont: Maymont is a 100-acre Victorian estate and public park with beautiful gardens, a nature center, and a children's farm. Families can stroll through various gardens, visit the historic Maymont Mansion, and see native wildlife habitats. The estate also features a robust schedule of family-friendly events throughout the year.
   Feeding the goats is always a popular family activity.
   • Website: Maymont
2. Metro Richmond Zoo: Discover the wild side of Virginia at the Richmond Zoo, where you can meet over 2,000 animals from around the world. The zoo offers interactive experiences like giraffe feeding and educational talks that make the visit both fun and informative for kids.
   • Website: Richmond Zoo

Shopping and Dining Richmond, Virginia

1. Short Pump Town Center: If shopping is on your agenda, Short Pump Town Center is the place to be. This open-air mall features a variety of stores, from big brands to local boutiques, and numerous dining options to satisfy any craving. The center also has a play area for children and hosts family-friendly events throughout the year.
   • Website: Short Pump Town Center
2. Carytown: Carytown is Richmond's unique mile-long stretch of local boutiques, restaurants, and cafes. It’s perfect for finding one-of-a-kind items and enjoying some of the best eats in the city. Don’t miss the iconic Byrd Theatre, a historic movie theater that offers regular screenings of classic films.
   • Website: Carytown

Relaxing at Wilderness Presidential Resort

After a day of exploring Richmond, return to the comfort of Wilderness Presidential Resort, where leisure and adventure meet. Whether you choose to unwind in a fully-equipped cabin or take part in the numerous on-site activities, the resort ensures that there’s never a dull moment.

• Adventure Park: Challenge yourselves with the ropes and ziplining course, Goliath Ladder and rock wall.
• Pickleball, Disc Golf and Mini Golf: Enjoy some friendly competition with family games.
• Escape Room: Test your wits and teamwork in the thrilling Jewel of Zanzibar escape room.
• Water Activities: Spend some time on the water with kayaks, aqua cycles, and SUPs, or opt for a leisurely boat ride in one of the Jon boats.
• Geode Cracking: Discover the wonders of geology by cracking open geodes.
• More On-Site Fun: With activities like fishing, hiking, and 3 swimming pools including a heated indoor pool, every family member can find something to enjoy.

Making Memories in Richmond and Beyond

Richmond’s mix of cultural, historical, and outdoor activities makes it a must-visit destination for families. Coupled with the array of experiences offered at Wilderness Presidential Resort, your trip can be as diverse and fulfilling as you wish. From the historic streets of Richmond to the tranquil surroundings of the resort, every moment spent here promises lasting memories for the entire family. Whether you're exploring the vibrant cityscape or enjoying the resort's many amenities, this vacation spot ensures a perfect balance of excitement and relaxation.

Discovering Richmond Virginia, just 1 hour from Fredericksburg and Wilderness Presidential Resort.