Exploring a city can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to be! Here are the best things to do in Richmond for free.
There aren't many places in the Unite States where you can see so much history and beauty on the cheap! Check out some of our favorite places to explore in Richmond for free!
First Freedom Center
The Valentine First Freedom Center is an educational facility dedicated to commemorating and educating visitors about the freedom of religion and conscience. It celebrates how Thomas Jefferson guided Virginia’s Statute for Religious Freedom in 1786.
Library of Virginia
The Library of Virginia was founded in 1823 with the goal of preserving and providing access to the state’s printed and manuscript holdings. It’s full of fascinating historical documents, including ledgers of plantation owners, Indian treaties, and Virginia’s original copy of the United States Bill of Rights. This is truly a historical wonderland, and one of the best things to do in Richmond for free.
Maymont House Museum
A first trip to Maymont has to start in the Robins Nature and Visitor Center. From there, follow the path to the 1893 Maymont Mansion, or perhaps go to the Japanese and Italian Gardens. Animal lovers will adore the nature center, wildlife exhibits, and children’s farm. There are so many areas to explore, making this one of the best things to do in Richmond for free.
Old Dominion Railway Museum
This museum is housed in a restored Railway Express Agency car, making it one of the more unique things to see in Richmond for free. It’s full of historical photos and artifacts, making for a really fun and educational day.
St. John’s Church
Here is yet another historical site to see in Richmond for free. St. John’s is the spot where Patrick Henry famously said “Give me liberty or give me death!” It’s the oldest wooden church in Virginia and is still actively attended to this day. Tours are also available seven days a week.
Three Lakes Nature Center
If you have a little one who loves reptiles, amphibians and fish, you really can’t find a better thing to do in Richmond for free than this center. It contains a 50,000 gallon freshwater aquarium and the surrounding park is open from sunrise to sunset daily.
Virginia Holocaust Museum
The Virginia Holocaust Museum was founded in 1997 in an effort to preserve and educate people on the atrocities of the Holocaust. The exhibit draws a multitude of visitors and is one of the most popular things to do in Richmond for free.
Virginia Capitol and Executive Mansion
The Capitol was designed by Thomas Jefferson, and it houses America’s oldest legislative assembly. There are daily guided tours that showcase historical statues and paintings, rare objects, and newly restored legislative chambers. Self-guided tours are also permitted.
