Nature & natural history museums in Virginia

Gunston Hall was the home of George Mason, one of the founding fathers of the United States. Today, it is recognized as a significant historical site and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors to Gunston Hall can learn about the life and contributions of George Mason, gaining a deeper understanding of the nation's history.

The Mariners' Museum and Park, situated in Newport News, Virginia, holds the prestigious title of America’s National Maritime Museum, as designated by Congress. This recognition underscores the museum's significance in the realm of maritime history and culture, making it a noteworthy destination for those interested in exploring America's rich maritime heritage.

The Norfolk Botanical Garden is a sprawling 158-acre botanical garden and arboretum located at 6700 Azalea Garden Road in Norfolk, Virginia. This expansive garden is a haven for plant lovers and nature enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of flora and fauna spread across its vast grounds. Whether you're a seasoned botanist or a casual visitor, the Norfolk Botanical Garden provides a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Meadowlark Botanical Gardens is a sprawling 95-acre property located in Vienna, Virginia. The gardens are a beautiful blend of nature and artistry, offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can explore the gardens at their own pace, taking in the stunning landscapes and diverse plant life.

The Virginia Living Museum, located in Newport News, Virginia, is an open-air museum that showcases a variety of living exhibits of indigenous species from Virginia. These exhibits provide a unique opportunity for visitors to learn about and interact with the local wildlife in a safe and controlled environment.

Maymont is a sprawling 100-acre Victorian estate and public park located in Richmond, Virginia. The estate is home to the historic Maymont Mansion, an arboretum, formal gardens, a carriage collection, native wildlife exhibits, a nature center, and a Children's Farm. This diverse range of attractions makes Maymont a versatile destination for tourists of all interests.

Tuckahoe, also known as Tuckahoe Plantation or Historic Tuckahoe, is a significant historical site located in Tuckahoe, Virginia. It is situated on Route 650 near Manakin Sabot, Virginia, overlapping both Goochland and Henrico counties. The plantation is six miles from the town of the same name, making it easily accessible for visitors.

Interesting cave complex, rumors say that Thomas Jefferson himself climbed them. Informative tours available.

Green Spring Gardens is a public park that includes a historic 18th-century plantation house known as 'Green Spring'. This house is the centerpiece of a national historic district that was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2003. The park is a testament to the rich history of the area and offers a unique glimpse into the past.

Occoneechee State Park is a state park situated near Clarksville, Virginia. It is located along Buggs Island Lake, providing a scenic and tranquil environment for visitors. The park's location offers a unique blend of natural beauty and recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Historic Huntley, also known as Huntley Hall, is a Federal-style villa and farm that dates back to the early 19th century. It is located in the Hybla Valley area of Fairfax County, Virginia. This historic site offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing architecture and design from the Federal period. Visitors can explore the villa and farm, taking in the rich history and beautiful surroundings.

The Chesapeake Arboretum, located at 624 Oak Grove Road, Chesapeake, Virginia, is a 48-acre arboretum. It is dedicated to promoting horticultural and environmental knowledge through exhibits, education, and research. Two acres of this vast space are dedicated to themed gardens, providing a diverse and enriching experience for visitors.

The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, previously known as the Virginia Marine Science Museum, is situated in Virginia Beach, Virginia, just south of Rudee Inlet. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique opportunity to explore marine life and science in a comprehensive and engaging manner.

In 1975, the estate of Chatham Manor was bequeathed to the National Park Service. Today, it serves as the headquarters for the Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park. This makes it a significant location for those interested in history and nature.

The Hahn Horticulture Garden, previously known as the Virginia Tech Horticulture Garden, is a botanical garden and arboretum that spans across 7 acres. It is situated in Blacksburg, Virginia. This expansive garden is a part of the Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University campus.

Boxerwood Nature Center and Woodland Garden is a unique arboretum spanning 15 acres. It is situated at 963 Ross Road near Lexington in Rockbridge County, Virginia, United States, nestled within the picturesque Shenandoah Valley. This location offers visitors a chance to explore both native and unusual plant specimens in a serene and natural setting.

Pocahontas State Park is situated in Chesterfield, Virginia, a short distance from the state capital, Richmond. This location makes it easily accessible for visitors who are in or around the capital city. The park's proximity to Richmond also provides an opportunity for tourists to explore the rich history and culture of Virginia's capital alongside the natural beauty of the park.

The Williamsburg Botanical Garden is a one-hectare botanical garden located in Williamsburg, Virginia. It is managed by a non-profit committee from the local community. The garden is a testament to the community's commitment to preserving and showcasing the region's diverse flora.

Staunton River Battlefield State Park is a significant historical site located in Virginia. The park is uniquely positioned, straddling the Staunton River in Halifax and Charlotte counties. This location offers visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of the area while also immersing themselves in the rich history of the region.

The Virginia Zoological Park, located adjacent to Lafayette Park in Norfolk, Virginia, spans across 53 acres. This expansive area provides ample space for a variety of animal exhibits and attractions.

Avoca, also known as the Avoca Museum, is a historic home situated near Altavista in Campbell County, Virginia. The house was designed by the renowned Lynchburg Architect, John Minor Botts Lewis, and was constructed in 1901. This construction followed the unfortunate destruction of the original and second dwellings by fire in 1879 and 1900 respectively.

The Walter McDonald Sanders House is a historic house located in Bluefield, Tazewell County, Virginia, United States. It is the centerpiece of the Sanders House Center complex. This house is a significant part of the local history and offers a glimpse into the architectural style of the late 19th century.

The Mill Mountain Zoo is a diverse habitat for 85 animals across 35 species. Notably, it provides a safe haven for two endangered species, the red panda and the snow leopard. The zoo is committed to the conservation of these species and offers visitors a unique opportunity to observe these rare animals in a controlled environment.

The Virginia Museum of Natural History, founded in 1984, is the state's natural history museum located in Martinsville, Virginia. It is a significant institution that offers a wealth of knowledge and insight into the natural history of the state and beyond.

The Metro Richmond Zoo is a privately owned zoo located in Chesterfield County, Virginia. It is situated approximately 20 miles southwest of Richmond, making it a convenient destination for both locals and tourists. The zoo is home to a diverse range of animals and offers a variety of experiences for visitors of all ages.

Interesting historical mansion and beautiful gardens, all nice and neat in one area. Go see it if you like history.

where maritime history comes to life. Peruse our website and then come to see our beautiful park and museum for yourself. Our exhibits reveal the maritime history of the Deltaville area beginning with the catastrophic impact of the Delmarva meteorite 35 million years ago and chronicle the more mode

The Isle of Wight County Museum offers a diverse range of exhibits that span different periods of history. These include prehistoric fossils, colonial and pre-colonial artifacts, a replica of a turn-of-the-century country store, and displays that interpret the Smithfield ham industry. The museum's most notable artifact is the world's oldest edible cured ham, which is a testament to the region's rich culinary history.

The Museum of Chincoteague Island is situated at 7125 Maddox Boulevard, Chincoteague, Virginia, in the United States. This location is easily accessible and serves as a hub for understanding the rich history and culture of Chincoteague Island.

The Edith J. Carrier Arboretum is a unique botanical garden and arboretum located on the campus of James Madison University in Harrisonburg, Virginia, United States. It is nestled in the scenic Shenandoah Valley, offering visitors a chance to explore a diverse range of plant life in a beautiful setting.

Bluebird Gap Farm is a public city park and petting zoo situated in Hampton, Virginia, at 60 Pine Chapel Road. It offers a unique opportunity for visitors to interact with a variety of farm animals and fowl, as well as wild animals native to Virginia.

The Tidewater Arboretum, also referred to as the Hampton Roads Arboretum, is a well-maintained site by the Hampton Roads Agricultural Research and Extension Center, which is a part of Virginia Tech. This connection ensures that the arboretum is kept to a high standard, with expert knowledge and care applied to its upkeep.

The Danville Science Center is a science museum that is affiliated with the Science Museum of Virginia. It is located in the tobacco warehouse district of Danville, Virginia. This location gives the museum a unique historical context, as it is situated in an area that played a significant role in the tobacco industry of the state.