FREE for Kids (or really cheap)

Richmond offers dozens of FREE events for kids around the area. If you’re looking for things to do in Richmond, then you’ve come to the right spot. We’ve listed dozens of FREE events, places to eat, and more. Many RVA museums offer FREE admission too. And don’t miss the many seasonal events where kids can participate in interactive crafts and events.

Visit websites or call ahead to verify information since it may change after posting on this site. Explore Richmond, Have Fun, and Save Money all at the same time!

Food

Kids Eat FREE! Check out dozens of options.

Events

Barnes & Noble Storytime. Stores offer different times and days for storytime for kids. They even have pajama night and other special events during the year. Seymour from The Children’s Museum of Richmond may show up at Short Pump location, or other B&N locations! Find the B&N nearest you to check the schedule.

Bass Pro Shops. Lots of free events throughout the year and a huge aquarium with lots of fish all year long.

Chick-Fil-A. Many locations have FREE events throughout the year with seasonal crafts. Check the store nearest you.

Children’s Museum of Richmond. Plenty of fun for kids every day! Annual memberships fees available, or pay per visit. It’s up to you!

Home Depot Workshops. Hands-on, seasonal crafts for ages 5-12. Receive kit, apron, and pin for FREE. 9am – register online.

Library Storytime. All Richmond and surrounding counties offer library storytimes and many includes crafts.

Lowe’s Build & Grow Clinic. Build a project, get a free apron, patch, and more. Seasonal themes. FREE.

Nature Exhibit at Three Lakes Park and Nature Center. FREE of charge (some special programs may charge small fee). The exhibits in the Nature Center will introduce visitors to the plant and animal life native to the area and wildlife living in the wetlands and woodlands of the park. By providing an assortment of live exhibits, dioramas, and interactive displays, the Nature Center offers something for every field of natural interest and is appropriate for all ages.

Parks and Recreation. Richmond is loaded with plenty of free parks and fun places for kids and adults. Most of them are FREE so get out and explore Richmond.

SPCA Volunteer Program for Kids. Volunteers must be 14 or older to volunteer independently (without a parent or guardian). Youth volunteers 7 or older may volunteer with a parent or guardian.

Malls

Chesterfield Town Center. A great mall with fun indoor play areas. Enjoy coin operated rides in the food court or head down to the entrance to Dillard’s for a fun play area.

Regency Square Mall. Indoor play area right beside the food court is great for younger kids. The area includes soft climbing structures and benches surround the play area, offering a place for parents or guardians to relax. There are also coin-operated kiddie rides next to the play area.

Short Pump Town Center. Enjoy lots of events and fun indoors and outdoors at multiple play areas. They have a train, Short Pump Express, that takes kids (and parents!) on a tour around the mall for just $3 (tickets available at Guest Services). Outdoor play area has lots of places for kids to play and they will love the gigantic chess set near the lower entrance to Macy’s. The indoor play area is ALL NEW in 2015 and is located at the Food Court. It has lots of places for kids to climb, jump and play. And don’t forget the monthly Short Pump Pals playgroups which are FREE for kids 6 and under. You even get special discounts and coupons. Check out ‘movin’ mania‘ while you’re there too – where kids learn to eat healthy.

Stony Point Fashion Mall. A fun place for kids with ice skating in winter and waterplay in warm weather. There are annual events and dogs are welcome too.

Museums

Local Museums. Many local museums offer special kids programs. Some are FREE admission including Wilton House, Virginia Historical Society, Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Richmond National Battlefield Park, Meadow Farm Museum at Crump Park, and others. Others may have higher fees. Visit website to see what’s available. Offers change throughout the year.