Things to Do at Maymont

Complete Guide to Maymont in Richmond

About Maymont

Maymont in Richmond showcases authentic historical architecture and cultural artifacts preserved through careful restoration efforts. Admission ranges from $10 (10 USD) to $25 (25 USD) depending on guided tour options and seasonal pricing variations. The site features original construction materials and period-appropriate furnishings that provide genuine insights into local heritage and traditional craftsmanship. Visit during weekday mornings when crowds are smaller and lighting is optimal for photography The experience combines educational value with atmospheric details where weathered stone surfaces warm under morning sunlight while visitors explore spaces that have witnessed centuries of local history and cultural development.

What to See & Do

Maymont Mansion

The centerpiece 33-room Gilded Age mansion with original furnishings, Tiffany windows, and elaborate period rooms that give you a real glimpse into Victorian luxury

Wildlife Exhibits

Native Virginia animals including black bears, bobcats, bald eagles, and river otters in naturalistic habitats - the otter exhibit is particularly entertaining

Children's Farm

Working farmstead with barnyard animals, heritage breed demonstrations, and hands-on activities like blacksmithing that actually engage kids

Japanese Garden

Surprisingly authentic 12-acre garden with waterfalls, stone lanterns, and seasonal plantings that's genuinely peaceful even when the park is busy

Italian and English Gardens

Formal European-style gardens with fountains, pergolas, and seasonal displays - the Italian Garden's stone work is particularly impressive

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Grounds open daily 10am-5pm year-round. Mansion tours Tuesday-Sunday with varying seasonal hours. Nature Center open Tuesday-Sunday 10am-5pm.

Tickets & Pricing

Admission to grounds and most attractions is free. Mansion tours $5-8 for adults, children under 5 free. Carriage and tram rides $3-5 when available.

Best Time to Visit

Spring (April-May) for blooming gardens and mild weather, or fall (October-November) for foliage. Weekday mornings tend to be less crowded.

Suggested Duration

Plan 3-4 hours minimum for a thorough visit, though you could easily spend a full day exploring everything

Getting There

Maymont sits just 10 minutes from downtown Richmond at 2201 Shields Lake Drive. Free parking spreads across several lots throughout the property, with the main Spottswood Road entrance being your safest choice. City buses reach the park too-though a car gives you better options. Walking or biking from downtown works well. You'll pass through some of Richmond's better neighborhoods on the way. Those hills will test you though.

Things to Do Nearby

Hollywood Cemetery
Historic cemetery with elaborate Victorian monuments and graves of Confederate leaders, plus great James River views

Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
Top-tier art museum with impressive collections ranging from ancient to contemporary, including notable Fabergé eggs

The Fan District
Richmond's most walkable neighborhood with Victorian architecture, local restaurants, and tree-lined streets perfect for strolling

Belle Isle
Small island in the James River with hiking trails, Civil War ruins, and rock-hopping opportunities along the rapids

Carytown
Local shopping district with independent boutiques, cafes, and the historic Byrd Theatre showing second-run movies

Tips & Advice

Download the Maymont app for self-guided tours and current animal feeding schedules - the timing can make a big difference in what you see

Bring a picnic and plan to eat on the grounds - the food options inside are limited and the outdoor settings are genuinely lovely

Wear comfortable walking shoes as you'll be covering quite a bit of ground, and some paths can be uneven, especially near the river

Check the mansion tour schedule in advance as they can fill up on weekends, and consider starting there since it's more structured than the rest of your visit