Things to Do in Richmond, Virginia, with the Kids

Whether visiting relatives during the winter months or living in this great city, there are always things to do in Richmond, Virginia. Adults have a wide variety of restaurants, golf courses, events and clubs to go to at any given time. But what about the kids in the family? Winter months usually find all of the outdoor activities either closed for the season or just too cold to enjoy. After a few weeks of being stuck inside, the kids begin to get restless. There are some really cool and fun places to take the kids for a few hours where they can play and learn without being outside. A few hours doing something just for them is rewarded with happy faces and a good nights sleep. One of these places is the Robins Nature and Visitor Center

Kids love animals and learning while having fun. Inside the Robins Nature and Visitor Center children have an opportunity to see native fish and wildlife from the James River and surrounding area. There are several large aquariums with large fish and one with a huge turtle. There is also a nocturnal exhibit where children can see the true creatures of the night. The biggest attraction at the Nature Center is the otters toward the back. Inside is a large plexiglass wall for viewing the otters in the comfort of the center.

Children can learn about the different characteristics of the James River and there are many hands on exhibits to keep them happy and occupied for hours. The exhibits teach the little ones about the ecology of the neighboring James River as well as a replica of Richmond's infamous flood wall. Many other interactive opportunities and a weather station round out the self-guided tour.

Robins Nature and Visitor Center is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00am to 5:00PM. As of 2010 ticket prices are $2.00 for ages 4 to 12, and $3.00 for older children and adults. Any time of the day is good because the Nature Center is seldom crowded. Call the Nature Center at 804-358-7166 or visit their web site at Maymont.org for more information.