Skip to main content
Sign In
Blandford Church and Cemetery Visitor's Center tourist attraction in Petersburg, VA
Photo: Blandford Church and Cemetery Visitor's Center
View of Blandford Church and Cemetery Visitor's Center in Petersburg, VA
Photo: Christopher Deckert
View of Blandford Church and Cemetery Visitor's Center in Petersburg, VA
Photo: J Duerksen

Blandford Church and Cemetery Visitor's Center

4.6(102 reviews)FreePark
🕑 1 to 1.5 hours👶 Best for ages 6 and up. Elementary and middle school students studying Virginia history will appreciate the educational content, while the walking paths and beautiful grounds keep younger siblings entertained. Older kids interested in history and architecture will find the most value in the exhibits.

About

Blandford Church and Cemetery offers families a peaceful outdoor learning experience in Petersburg, combining history with fresh air and exploration. Kids can walk the scenic paths through historic grounds while discovering stories from the 18th century through engaging educational exhibits, making it an ideal outing for families who want to blend a nature walk with a history lesson.

Highlights

  • Beautiful historic 18th-century church architecture perfect for teaching kids about colonial America
  • Peaceful walking paths through well-maintained cemetery grounds
  • Educational exhibits about Petersburg's local history at the visitor's center
  • Free admission makes it an affordable family learning experience
  • Quiet, reflective atmosphere ideal for teaching respect and history appreciation

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Visit on Saturdays when you have the most flexibility with timing (10 AM to 4 PM) and can explore at your own pace without rushing.
  2. 2.Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy on the grounds since this is a shorter activity that pairs well with outdoor eating.
  3. 3.Stop by the visitor's center first to pick up any kid-friendly materials or scavenger hunt guides that might make the experience more interactive for children.
  4. 4.Wear comfortable walking shoes as you'll be exploring outdoor paths and potentially uneven cemetery grounds.
  5. 5.Combine this free activity with other Petersburg historic sites for a full day of learning about the Civil War and colonial history.

Best Time to Visit

Saturday mornings around 10 AM offer the best experience with cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. Spring and fall provide the most comfortable weather for walking the grounds, with beautiful foliage adding to the historic atmosphere.

What to Know

Admission is completely free, making this a budget-friendly educational outing. The venue is only open Thursday through Saturday plus Sunday afternoons, so plan accordingly as it's closed Monday through Wednesday.

Seasonal Notes

Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) offer the most pleasant weather for walking the outdoor grounds. Summer visits are possible but can be hot and humid. Limited winter hours may apply during holidays, so call ahead if visiting in December or January.

Nearby Eats

Head to Longstreet's Deli (about 2 miles away) for sandwiches and kid-friendly comfort food, or try Andrade's International Restaurant for a casual family meal with diverse options that please picky eaters.

More Activities Near Petersburg

Park

South Gillfield Drive

Free

South Gillfield Drive Community Park offers families a wonderful free outdoor space in Petersburg with everything needed for an active day outside. With sports facilities, walking trails perfect for bikes and scooters, and plenty of open green space for running around, this park provides a simple but satisfying destination for families who want to burn energy without breaking the bank.

Park

Cockade Alley

Free

Cockade Alley offers a delightful pedestrian-friendly experience in Petersburg's historic Old Towne district, perfect for families who enjoy leisurely strolls while discovering local shops and eateries. The charming, car-free alley creates a safe space for kids to explore while parents browse unique boutiques, grab a bite, and soak in the area's rich history and small-town atmosphere.

Park

River Street Market

4.6Free

River Street Market brings families together every Saturday morning for a delightful farmers market experience along the Appomattox River. Kids can sample fresh seasonal produce, enjoy live music performances, and participate in special family activities while parents shop from local vendors. The outdoor community atmosphere makes this a perfect low-key weekend outing where children can explore, learn about where food comes from, and engage with the local community.

Adventure

Beaver Lake Trail

5.0Free

Beaver Lake Trail offers an easy, scenic loop that's perfect for introducing young children to nature. The well-maintained path winds around a peaceful lake where families can spot turtles, ducks, and other wildlife, making it an ideal location for a relaxed outdoor adventure that won't tire out little legs.