Exchange Building Market House
Explore Petersburg's Civil War history at the Exchange Building Market House, a former exchange building with exhibits and a short film.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Potentially more open businesses
Exchange Building Market House
Best Time
Potentially more open businesses
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Petersburg's Civil War history at the Exchange Building Market House, a former exchange building with exhibits and a short film.
"The old buildings are beautiful, and the exhibits provide great knowledge about Petersburg's history."
🚶♀️ Self-Guided Exploration
Take your time with the self-guided tour; maps might be faded but exhibits are informative.
🍽️ Delicious Dining Nearby
Enjoy excellent meals at nearby restaurants like Longstreet or The Croaker Spot.
Quick Facts
Rating
4.2 · 52 reviews
Type
Visitor Center
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Civil War Exhibits
Immerse yourself in the pivotal role Petersburg played during the Civil War through engaging displays.
Historic Architecture
Admire the timeless beauty of the former exchange building and surrounding historic district.
Short Informative Film
Gain a concise overview of the area's significance before or after your self-guided tour.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Revitalization
Embrace the Self-Guided Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Self-Guided Exploration
Take your time with the self-guided tour; maps might be faded but exhibits are informative.
🍽️ Delicious Dining Nearby
Enjoy excellent meals at nearby restaurants like Longstreet or The Croaker Spot. +1
Visit St. Petersburg
Hi, since I was young I have always had a soft spot for Eastern European cities and Russia. The city I would most like to visit is St. Petersburg, even though I don't know the artistic or cultural history of this city well, I was always fascinated when I saw some documentary…
Visiting St Petersburg - Where to stay?
Hi SPb redditors! I am an Australian visiting Russia/St Petersburg for the first time in August this year (very excited!) and was wondering where is a good area in St Petersburg to stay? Is there an area in the city with good local coffee shops/cafes? I will be staying for 4…
🧐 Check for Updates
The area is under revitalization; check for new openings or events before visiting.
💰 Be Aware of Vagrants
Some visitors report feeling uncomfortable with people begging for money.
What to visit in St. Petersburg?
This trip was very impromptu and I have no idea what to watch. I have zoo, Эрмитаж, Петергоф, Ивановский и Казанский собор in mind and that's all. I'm pretty sure it won't be an unique experience with these visits tbh( I'm staying for 2 more days. (You might see a similar…
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Self-Guided Exploration
Take your time with the self-guided tour; maps might be faded but exhibits are informative.
🍽️ Delicious Dining Nearby
Enjoy excellent meals at nearby restaurants like Longstreet or The Croaker Spot. +1
🧐 Check for Updates
The area is under revitalization; check for new openings or events before visiting.
💰 Be Aware of Vagrants
Some visitors report feeling uncomfortable with people begging for money.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate the historical significance of the Exchange Building Market House and the surrounding Old Town Historic District, particularly its Civil War exhibits and beautiful architecture. However, many note that the area appears to be in disrepair, with many businesses closed and a lack of funding impacting its operational capacity. Some also express discomfort with vagrants begging for money.
"Neat to see the old buildings but not much open. Good food & nice people but there were many seemingly abandoned businesses. Not happy about vagrants begging for money. Made me uncomfortable. Seems like not much goes on here. It's a shame because the old buildings are beautiful. I bet it was wonderful back in its prime. Longstreet restaurant was delicious. Would love to go back for another lunch!"
Cristal Bass
"Old Town Historic District is a wonderful place to visit. Many old buildings with tremendous architectural flavor allows one to imagine history during those years. As the economic development continues to churn in many cities in Virginia, it is wonderful this part of Petersburg is being revitalized. The Croaker Spot is a high end restaurant serving scrumptious seafood. This restaurant was well worth the trip."
Cynthia Harvey
"This tour provided us with a great deal of knowledge about what Virginia and moreover, Petersburg history. Places like this needs to remind open to educate our youths. The tour is self guided and it allowed us to take our time and read. I would recommend this place to people that I know"
L.A. Williams
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Exchange Building Market House is located in Petersburg, Virginia. Driving is the most common way to access the historic district. Parking availability can vary, so it's advisable to look for designated parking areas upon arrival.
Public transportation options directly to the historic district might be limited. It's recommended to check local transit schedules for Petersburg if you are relying on public transport.
Once in the historic district, walking is the best way to explore. The Exchange Building Market House is part of a larger area with many historic buildings to discover on foot.
The Exchange Building Market House is a central point within the Old Town Historic District of Petersburg. Using a GPS or mapping app with 'Exchange Building Market House, Petersburg, VA' should guide you directly.
Driving conditions are generally good, but be mindful of potentially narrower streets within the historic district. Allow extra time for parking, especially on weekends.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary, and some visitors have noted that the building may not always be open for tours. It's best to check the official website or call ahead to confirm current operating hours.
Admission fees can vary, and some reviews suggest that the building may not be fully operational or accessible. It's recommended to inquire about ticket prices and tour availability in advance.
Booking in advance is generally not required, as tours are often self-guided. However, if there are special events or guided tours, it might be advisable to check for reservation needs.
Accessibility information can be limited. Given the historic nature of the building, some areas might present challenges. It's best to contact the venue directly for specific accessibility details.
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions or rules regarding photography inside the exhibits.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can expect to find Civil War exhibits and a short film detailing the history of Petersburg and its significance during that era. The building itself is a historic former exchange.
The tour is primarily self-guided, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace and read the exhibits.
A visit can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how much time you spend with the exhibits and watching the film.
Restroom availability can be inconsistent due to the building's condition. It's advisable to use facilities before your visit or at nearby establishments.
Some visitors have noted that the building is in disrepair and could benefit from more funding for restoration and operation.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants directly inside the Exchange Building Market House itself. However, the surrounding historic district offers several dining options. +1
Highly recommended dining spots include Longstreet Restaurant for delicious food and The Croaker Spot, known for its scrumptious seafood. +1
You can find a variety of cuisines, with seafood being a popular choice. Many restaurants offer a taste of local Southern flavors.
While some establishments are considered high-end, there are likely more casual options available. Exploring the historic district will reveal various eateries.
Most visitors find the dining experiences positive. However, be aware of your surroundings, as some areas might have vagrants.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior architecture of the Exchange Building and the cobblestone streets of the historic district offer great photographic opportunities.
Photography for personal use is generally allowed, but it's always wise to confirm any specific restrictions with staff on-site.
Drone usage is typically regulated in historic districts and urban areas. Check local ordinances and regulations before flying a drone.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset can provide beautiful lighting for the historic buildings. Mid-day light can be harsh.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is useful for capturing both architectural details and wider shots. A wide-angle lens can be great for the streetscapes.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit