In the 1880s, Lewis Ginter, a wealthy businessman, opened a resort on this land just northwest of Richmond. An avid gardener, he planted and cared for much of the foliage that still thrives in the park today. Upon his death, the property passed to his niece who opened a hospice for children in Ginter's home. She also cultivated the gardens and imported several rare plants. The land is now operated by the city as a botanical garden. Explore the Victorian garden, nature trails and the home, and perhaps stop at the Tea House for lunch.
For 150 years the Virginia Historical Society has been collecting portraits, manuscripts, and artifacts, such as books, bound serials, sheet music, the largest collection of Confederate-made weapons in the world and much more. Semi-permanent exhibits include, "The Story of Virginia, an American Experience" and "The Seasons of the Confederacy." During 2014, most of the exhibition places will be closed for renovations - however, the library, museum shop, and select programs are still available.
The Museum and White House of the Confederacy is a neoclassical mansion built in 1818. President Jefferson Davis lived here during the Civil War years, and several pieces of furniture owned by him are on display. Adjacent to the restored White House is a museum containing more than 15,000 artifacts and 500 flags from the Confederate era. The collection includes the swords and other personal effects of Generals Jackson, Lee and Stuart. Personal papers, government documents, journals and rare books are on exhibit.
Built in 1726 as the home of Benjamin Harrison IV and his wife, this Georgian mansion features beautifully-landscaped grounds filled with magnificent gardens and terraces. A knowledgeable guide dressed in a period costume will lead you through the plantation itself, which is filled with valuable antiques and furniture. The tour also includes a visit to a museum of Civil War artifacts. Special group rates are available.
Built in 1790, this is the oldest brick house surviving in Richmond. For 45 years it was the home of the third Chief Justice of the United States, John Marshall. Restored as a museum, it contains original home furnishings and artifacts from Marshall's professional life. This a must-see for all history lovers.
Explore the universe at Richmond's Science Museum. A variety of hands-on exhibits, a planetarium and an IMAX theater make this spot a favorite for families. Children and adults will find something to fascinate them at every turn. The museum features a children's theater, live shows of the current night sky and a journey into the living cell. Also shown here are current IMAX films.
Step through the enchanting garden-like courtyard of the Thomas Kinkade Gallery. You will find yourself surrounded by soft, impressionistic paintings full of light, color and texture. Artists Thomas Kinkade and Howard Belurens depict scenes ranging from the Chicago Water Tower to wide open spaces and flowing rivers. Kinkade is an award-winning painter who has been honored along with Norman Rockwell as a charter inductee into the Bradford International Hall of Fame for Plate Artists. Belurens has been painting since the Depression.
Established in 1962, the Rice House was designed by architect Richard Neutra for the industrialist Walter Lyman Rice. Done up in a chic modern international style, the house looks splendid in twilight. After Rice's death, the family donated the place to Science Museum of Virginia that now exclusively uses the property for events and as a guesthouse for visiting scientists. The site is now a part of the US National Register for Historic Places since 1999.
Built in 1822 by William Winfree, Magnolia Grange is a beautiful and carefully restored Federal-style plantation home. The house features wallpaper and carpeting which are not usually found in other Richmond area restored homes. Magnolia is also noted for its elaborate ceiling medalions and carvings on its doors, windows and mantels.
Westover was built in 1730 by the founder of Richmond, William Byrd. The view of the river and the beauty of the house and grounds make this one of the most enchanting spots in Virginia. The Elizabethan knot garden, a majestic gate topped with sculptures of metal and stone and sprawling lawns dotted with century-old tulip poplars are a delight to encounter. The intricately carved banister of the massive staircase is amazingly detailed. Charles City is about 1 1/2 hours from Richmond. Take I-64 east to Route 155 south to Route 5.
This Georgian home was originally part of Westover Plantation and was named by William Byrd for his daughter. In 1847, Evelynton became home to the Ruffin family. Their patriarch, Edmund Ruffin, fired the first shot at Fort Sumter which started the Civil War. A combination ticket is available with Berkeley, Sherwood Forest and Shirley plantations.
Openings on the first Friday of each month bring new artists to the Chasen Galleries. Featuring a larger grouping of artists, numerous mediums are represented here including paintings, sculpture and pottery. Also featured are works of 3D art, ceramic tile pieces and glazed tile paintings. Chasen has a fine collection of estate art and fine art books as well.