Petersburg VirginiaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Petersburg, Virginia.
1. Petersburg National Battlefield Park
CIVIL WAR BATTLEFIELD PARK
Petersburg National Battlefield Park commemorates the critical Siege of Petersburg, which lasted nearly ten months during the Civil War. The park features visitor centers with compelling exhibits, scenic driving and walking tours of historic sites, and dramatic locations like The Crater. It offers a powerful look at the events that led to the Confederacy's fall and Lee's surrender.
2. Pamplin Historical Park
CIVIL WAR HISTORY MUSEUM
Pamplin Historical Park is a 424-acre campus featuring the National Museum of the Civil War Soldier and authentically restored historic sites. Visitors can explore Tudor Hall Plantation, preserved military encampments, and some of the best-preserved earthworks from the era. Guided tours, living history demonstrations, and interactive exhibits make this a top destination for history enthusiasts.
3. Blandford Church and Cemetery
STAINED-GLASS MEMORIAL CHURCH
Blandford Church and Cemetery is renowned for its unique Tiffany stained-glass windows, each dedicated to a former Confederate state. The church is a rare American treasure, and the sprawling cemetery holds thousands of Confederate soldiers' graves. Guided tours share the site's architectural, artistic, and historical significance.
4. Centre Hill Mansion
HISTORIC HOUSE MUSEUM
Centre Hill Mansion is a beautifully restored nineteenth-century mansion that has seen notable guests, including multiple U.S. presidents. Its guided tours showcase exquisite period furnishings and tell stories of the home's role during the Civil War. The house's stately architecture and impressive grounds make it a Petersburg landmark.
5. Old Towne Petersburg
SHOPPING AND ARTS DISTRICT
Old Towne Petersburg is a vibrant downtown district known for its preserved architecture, local shops, galleries, and dining establishments. Visitors can stroll cobblestone streets lined with boutiques, antiques, and art studios. Frequent events, live music, and farmers' markets make it a hub for both shopping and entertainment.
6. Trapezium Brewing Co.
CRAFT BREWERY EXPERIENCE
Trapezium Brewing Co. is a popular craft brewery offering a diverse selection of house-brewed beers and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Patrons can enjoy pizza, specialty snacks, and seasonal events in the spacious taproom or outdoor beer garden. It is a favorite for both locals and visitors seeking a social, laid-back setting.
7. Farmer's Bank Museum
HISTORIC BANKING LANDMARK
Farmer's Bank Museum is housed in an 1817 Federal-style building, which served as one of the first commercial banks in Virginia. The museum features exhibits on early American banking, period furnishings, and the building's architectural history. Guided tours share stories of Petersburg's early commerce and community development.
8. Battersea Plantation
18TH-CENTURY ESTATE AND GROUNDS
Battersea Plantation is a grand 1768 Georgian villa set on picturesque grounds along the Appomattox River. The estate represents one of the finest examples of Palladian architecture in Virginia and hosts public tours and cultural events throughout the year. Its gardens and history make it a compelling stop for architecture and history buffs alike.
9. The Brickhouse Run
BRITISH-STYLE GASTROPUB
The Brickhouse Run is a beloved British-American gastropub situated in the heart of Old Towne Petersburg. Patrons enjoy classic pub fare, craft beers, and a cozy ambiance in a historic building dating to the mid-1800s. The pub is celebrated for its warm hospitality and inviting atmosphere.
10. Poplar Lawn Park
HISTORIC URBAN PARK
Poplar Lawn Park is a beautifully landscaped urban green space known for its historic significance as a Civil War encampment site. The park features walking paths, mature shade trees, and hosts seasonal festivals and community events. It offers a tranquil respite within the bustling city center.
11. The 606 (Restaurant & Bar)
MODERN AMERICAN DINING
The 606 is a contemporary restaurant and bar renowned for its creative American cuisine and stylish, urban ambiance. Guests can savor innovative dishes, handcrafted cocktails, and live music in an industrial-chic setting. The restaurant is a highlight in Petersburg's growing culinary scene.
12. Petersburg Area Art League
COMMUNITY ART GALLERY
The Petersburg Area Art League is a vibrant center for arts, hosting rotating exhibitions by local and regional artists. The gallery also offers art classes, workshops, and special cultural events throughout the year. Its location in Old Towne Petersburg makes it a cornerstone of the district's creative community.
13. Wabi Sabi
SUSHI AND FUSION DINING
Wabi Sabi is a trendy eatery in downtown Petersburg, famous for its sushi, global fusion menu, and live entertainment. The restaurant features a chic, eclectic décor and attracts both locals and visitors with its innovative fare. Regular live music nights add to its lively atmosphere.
14. Southpark Mall
REGIONAL SHOPPING DESTINATION
Southpark Mall, located minutes from downtown Petersburg in Colonial Heights, is the main regional shopping center. The mall offers a variety of national retailers, specialty shops, and dining options for all ages. Its convenient location makes it a popular destination for visitors seeking retail therapy.
15. The Beacon Theatre
HISTORIC PERFORMING ARTS VENUE
The Beacon Theatre in nearby Hopewell is a beautifully restored 1920s performance venue hosting concerts, plays, and community events. The theater blends historic charm with modern amenities and draws well-known acts to its stage. Its vibrant programming makes it a cultural landmark in the greater Petersburg area.