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Museums

🎨 Museums for Kids in Richmond, VA

10 children's museums, science centers, and interactive exhibits rated and reviewed by families.

Activities & Venues in Richmond

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Science Museum of Virginia tourist attraction in Richmond, VA🎨 Museum
Photo: Science Museum of Virginia

The Science Museum of Virginia transforms learning into an adventure with hands-on exhibits that let kids touch, experiment, and discover scientific concepts through play. The jaw-dropping OMNIMAX theater features a five-story domed screen that immerses families in educational films, while interactive displays across multiple floors keep children engaged for hours as they explore everything from chemistry to space exploration.

🕑 3-4 hours including an OMNIMAX show; 2-3 hours for exhibits only
Children's Museum of Richmond tourist attraction in Richmond, VA🎨 Museum
Photo: Jaemie Hillbish

The Children's Museum of Richmond is a hands-on wonderland where learning feels like pure play. With purpose-built interactive exhibits, creative art stations, and themed play areas spanning multiple floors, this museum keeps kids engaged for hours while parents appreciate the educational value woven seamlessly into every activity.

🕑 3-4 hours
Henricus Historical Park history museum in Chester, VA🎨 Museum
Photo: E. A. S.
4.6(885)$12 mi · Chester

Henricus Historical Park brings Virginia's colonial past to life through hands-on experiences that captivate curious kids. Children can meet costumed interpreters demonstrating 17th-century crafts, explore recreated Powhatan villages, and hike scenic trails along the James River where history and nature adventure combine beautifully.

🕑 2.5-4 hours
Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia museum in Richmond, VA🎨 Museum
Photo: Andre

The Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia offers families an enriching opportunity to explore African American history through thoughtfully curated exhibits that bring the past to life. With engaging displays and educational programs designed for school-age children, this museum transforms history lessons into meaningful experiences that spark important conversations and inspire young learners.

🕑 1.5-2.5 hours
Virginia Museum of History & Culture museum in Richmond, VA🎨 Museum
Photo: Virginia Museum of History & Culture

The Virginia Museum of History & Culture brings Virginia's past to life through interactive exhibits that capture kids' imaginations while teaching them about the state's fascinating history. From Civil War artifacts to hands-on activities, this museum strikes the perfect balance between educational and entertaining, making it ideal for families who want to combine learning with fun.

🕑 2-3 hours
Violet Bank Museum museum in Colonial Heights, VA🎨 Museum
Photo: Donna Spencer
4.5(121)$21 mi · Colonial Heights

Step back in time at this beautifully preserved 1815 plantation home where kids can explore Civil War history through engaging exhibits and artifacts. The spacious grounds are perfect for little historians to run around while learning about Colonial Heights' role during the Civil War, when General Robert E. Lee used the property as his headquarters during the Siege of Petersburg.

🕑 1-2 hours
Weston Manor museum in Hopewell, VA🎨 Museum
Photo: Erik Bakken
4.5(40)$17 mi · Hopewell

Step back in time at Weston Manor, one of America's oldest continuously occupied homes dating back to colonial Virginia. This historic treasure offers guided tours that bring 400 years of American history to life, plus beautiful grounds for children to explore and imagine life in colonial times.

🕑 1.5-2 hours
The Valentine museum in Richmond, VA🎨 Museum
Photo: Valentine Museum
4.4(416)$$

The Valentine brings Richmond's rich history to life through interactive exhibits and hands-on activities that captivate curious young minds. Kids can explore everything from Civil War artifacts to vintage costumes while engaging with touchable displays designed specifically for family learning. With educational programs tailored for children and a manageable museum size, it's perfect for introducing history without overwhelming little ones.

🕑 1.5-2.5 hours
Institute for Contemporary Art at Virginia Commonwealth University art museum in Richmond, VA🎨 Museum
Photo: Institute for Contemporary Art at Virginia Commonwealth University

The Institute for Contemporary Art offers a refreshing museum experience where kids can explore bold, modern artworks in a stunning architectural space that feels like a work of art itself. With free admission, family-friendly programming, and interactive exhibits designed to spark creativity and conversation, it's a perfect rainy-day activity or cultural outing that won't feel stuffy or overwhelming for younger visitors.

🕑 1-2 hours
Virginia Randolph Museum museum in Henrico, VA🎨 Museum
Photo: r.w. dawson
4.5(26)$9 mi · Henrico

The Virginia Randolph Museum offers families a meaningful window into local history through the preserved schoolhouse where pioneering educator Virginia Randolph taught. This small but impactful museum provides an excellent opportunity for children to learn about African American history, early education, and the life of a remarkable woman who transformed teaching methods in the early 1900s.

🕑 45 minutes to 1 hour

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Also in Richmond–Williamsburg