We love a good house or museum tour as much as the next person (perhaps more!), and we’ve found plenty of design throughout the Richmond area that is both inspirational AND COVID-safe. Check out these local options to get your design fix and some fresh air while you are at it!
Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden
A perennial outdoor favorite, Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden will open up for an all-outdoors version of its popular Dominion Energy Garden Fest of Lights from November 23rd-January 10th. With thousands of lights, favorite light displays from past events, and new features such as outdoor model trains, the whole family can experience the beautiful garden and grounds (Even fur babies are welcome to frolic on December 3rd and January 7th!).
The Branch Museum of Architecture and Design
The Tudor revival, Branch House is open for a few limited tours, but a large scale Trojan horse crafted out of bamboo created by local artist Ed Pokoj (and named Ody the Outsider) is reason enough for a outdoor visit when the weather is nice. If you are still craving an inside peek, check out the insider webinars on topics such as decorative plasterwork and brickwork.
Maymont
With over 100 acres, Maymont’s treasures can be experienced during multiple visits. Although the Victorian Dooley Mansion is currently closed, you can easily make an afternoon walking the grounds and visiting Maymont’s multiple gardens while boosting your knowledge with Maymont’s free audio tour. A visit to the farm and wildlife areas is a must-do when you have some animal lovers in your crew.
Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
The VMFA is open at this time, but inspirational art can easily be found without stepping indoors by visiting the Robins Sculpture Garden. From Chihuly’s Red Reeds to Kehinde Wiley’s Rumors of War, the museum’s outdoor space is not to be missed and is a great fix for cabin fever.
Berkeley and Shirley Plantations
A little further afield (about 30 minutes from Richmond) are a number of historic plantations. The grounds of Berkeley, which served as the movie set of acclaimed film “Harriet”, are currently open for exploring. Visit in December when greenery and natural arrangements from the Berkeley gardens will be incorporated as festive decorations to celebrate the holidays.
The grounds, gardens, and outbuildings of Shirley Plantation, Virginia’s first plantation, are also open. After visiting either of these historic homes (both of which acknowledge the complexity of their roles in the lives of enslaved persons and invite further inquiry), head over to Upper Shirley Vineyard for a picnic and live music on the lawn as well as impressive views of the Presquile National Wildlife Sanctuary.
