Renowned for its outstanding gardens, beautiful architecture, and rich history, Maymont offers something for everyone. From farm animals to carriage rides and a beautiful mansion from the 1800s, Maymont is a Richmond experience that shouldn't be missed.
Best and Worst Times to Visit Maymont
The peak of Richmond's garden season is late April to early May, when temperatures have not yet risen to stifling highs and the magnificent variety of flora is in full bloom. Though Maymont is open year round, the astounding gardens are not at their best in the cold winter months, and Richmond summers can be oppressively hot and muggy. Maymont offers a variety of family friendly events which may compliment your vacation plans, so be sure to check ahead of time and plan accordingly.
Must See and Do at Maymont
Maymont's gardens are showstopping in their beauty and complexity. The Italian Garden is perfect for a romantic stroll, while the Japanese Garden quiets and inspires the soul. Visitors would be remiss to neglect a tour of the stately mansion, which is a prominent Richmond landmark and offers a glimpse into the city's Gilded Age.
Admission to Maymont
Rather than charging specific ticket prices, visitors are instead asked for suggested donations of $5 to access the Maymont Mansion, children's farm and wildlife exhibits. For entry to the nature and visitor center exhibits, the fee is $3, or $2 for children aged 4-12 and free for seniors, children under 4, and Maymont members. There is no fee or suggested donation for access to the Maymont grounds and gardens, Carriage House, or the Mansion Shop and Robin's Nest Snacks and Souvenirs.
Parking and Public Transportation to Maymont
Maymont has three entrances, each with available on site parking. For new visitors, it is recommended to park at the Nature and Visitor Center. For easy access to the Maymont Mansion, Herb Garden, Italian Garden, Garden Hall, and Maymont Foundation Offices, use the entrance on Hampton Street. Visitors to the Children's Farm and Wildlife Exhibits will find the easiest access from the Spottswood entrance. Public transportation is not recommended as a means of accessing the Maymont grounds.
Food at Maymont
Many visitors to Maymont pack a picnic lunch, but light refreshments are available at Robin's Nest Snacks and Souvenirs during its hours of operation. Nearby dining options outside of Maymont include Buz and Ned's Real Barbeque, a recognizable Richmond original, and the Strawberry Street Cafe, a long standing favorite.
Other Places to Visit Near Maymont
Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens and the Edgar Allen Poe Museum are some of the other stops along Richmond's Garden Trail, which highlights some of the best urban gardens in the city. Belle Isle and the rest of the James River Park System are popular nearby destinations for locals, and every trip to Richmond should include a visit to the quaint boutique neighborhood of Carytown.
Insider Tip for Visitors to Maymont
Maymont is a popular destination for local elementary school field trips. It's a great place to bring children, but if you'd prefer a quiet, more adult friendly stroll through the gardens, go during the middle of the week just after the grounds open to the public.
Author's bio: Kitty Lusby is an author and self proclaimed adventurer from the Richmond, Virginia area. She believes that travel is a necessity and does it as often as possible.