Maymont
A historic Richmond estate featuring stunning Gilded Age mansion, diverse gardens, and native wildlife exhibits.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more magical
Maymont
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more magical
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Richmond estate featuring stunning Gilded Age mansion, diverse gardens, and native wildlife exhibits.
"Maymont is a must-see Richmond landmark with beautiful gardens and a gift to the community."
Book Garden Glow Early
Tickets for Garden Glow sell out quickly! Book online in advance, especially for weekend slots.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Maymont is hilly with many walking paths. Sturdy footwear is a must for exploring. [:athletic_shoe:]
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Garden Glow
Various garden paths
Experience Maymont transformed by enchanting lights and illuminated sculptures after dark. A magical autumn spectacle.
Japanese Garden
Lower gardens
A serene oasis with koi ponds, meticulously sculpted trees, and tranquil water features. A true escape.
Italian Garden
Behind the historic mansion
Formal gardens featuring fountains, statuary, and vibrant floral displays. Perfect for a romantic stroll.
Wildlife Exhibits
Nature Center area
Discover native Virginia wildlife, including bears, bobcats, and river otters. Educational and engaging for all ages.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Garden Glow
Navigating Maymont's Terrain
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Garden Glow Early
Tickets for Garden Glow sell out quickly! Book online in advance, especially for weekend slots.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Maymont is hilly with many walking paths. Sturdy footwear is a must for exploring. [:athletic_shoe:]
Picnic Perfection
Pack a picnic to enjoy under the trees or in designated areas. A romantic and budget-friendly option.
Check for Construction
Some paths may be under construction. Check Maymont's website for the latest updates before your visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Garden Glow Early
Tickets for Garden Glow sell out quickly! Book online in advance, especially for weekend slots.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Maymont is hilly with many walking paths. Sturdy footwear is a must for exploring. [:athletic_shoe:]
Picnic Perfection
Pack a picnic to enjoy under the trees or in designated areas. A romantic and budget-friendly option.
Check for Construction
Some paths may be under construction. Check Maymont's website for the latest updates before your visit.
Don't Miss the Animals
The wildlife exhibits are a hit with families. See native Virginia animals up close! [:paw_prints:]
Consider Weekdays
For a more peaceful experience, especially during Garden Glow, opt for a weekday visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Maymont is widely praised as a beautiful and peaceful estate with stunning gardens, engaging wildlife exhibits, and a historic mansion. Visitors appreciate the free admission to the grounds and farm, making it a valuable community gem. Some note the hilly terrain and occasional construction, and the park's no-pet policy is a drawback for some.
"Me and a friend stopped here to stretch our legs. Beautiful property. The Italian and Japanese gardens were very pretty. It is hilly so it may be challenging for some. Especially since some of the paths are under construction."
AuntDeb165
"It was really nice, quiet garden to walk, hang out place. You can picnic or just lay down and take nap! I went here with my husband. We walk to the down to see Japanese garden and Italian garden. We saw a lot of squirrels and deers. It was amazing. I love nature and i like the way they take care of this place except bamboos. Please, take good care of those bamboos! Bamboos symbolize very good fortune. The park/garden was not dog friendly unfortunately. That is why I gave only 3 stars just because bamboos (one of my favorite plant) and I couldn’t bring my well behave dog. I would still recommend this place, family friendly, stuff were friendly. It is also nice date idea. It is a romantic place. Oh, there is a parking lot."
Nice Acikgoz
"Maymont is a must see Richmond landmark and shouldn't be missed. It has beautiful and unique formal gardens, an animal farm, a historic home, a nature center and so much more. Years ago I attended a wedding at the Italian Gardens and it was a beautiful ceremony. The Italian Gardens are right behind the historic mansion. In front of the mansion is a grouping of the most amazing trees that my children loved having a picnic under. Maymont has benches set up under these trees. The fact that admission is free to all of the grounds and the farm area is amazing and quite the gift to Richmond. I hope people appreciate how unique and special this is. Highly recommend this special gem of a place."
Jenny Borter
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Maymont is located in Richmond, Virginia. It's accessible by car, with a dedicated parking lot available. Public transportation options may also be available; check local transit schedules for routes serving the Maymont area. +1
Yes, Maymont has a parking lot available for visitors. It can get busy, especially during special events like Garden Glow.
Yes, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are a convenient option for reaching Maymont. They can drop you off at the main entrance.
Information on public transport routes to Maymont can be found on the GRTC Transit System website. Check their schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Maymont is located at 1700 Hampton Street, Richmond, VA 23220. Use your preferred GPS navigation for the most direct route from your starting point.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the grounds and the farm area at Maymont is generally free, which is a significant gift to the community. However, special ticketed events like Garden Glow require separate admission.
Ticket prices for Garden Glow vary, but typically range from $12 for children to $16 for adults. It's recommended to check the official Maymont website for current pricing and to purchase tickets in advance.
Garden Glow usually takes place annually from mid-October through early November, typically running Thursday through Sunday evenings. Dates can vary, so check Maymont's official calendar. +1
It is highly recommended to purchase Garden Glow tickets online in advance, as they often sell out. Buying at the gate may not be possible or advisable.
Maymont's grounds are typically open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM, with extended hours for special events like Garden Glow. The historic mansion and nature center may have different hours. Always check their official website for the most accurate information.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Visitors rave about the Japanese Garden, Italian Garden, and the various wildlife exhibits. The historic mansion and the rolling hills also offer beautiful scenery.
Absolutely! Maymont is very family-friendly, with animal exhibits, open spaces for kids to run, and beautiful gardens to explore. +1
Unfortunately, Maymont is not a dog-friendly park. Service animals are permitted, but pets are not allowed on the grounds.
Yes, Maymont features several walking trails that wind through its diverse landscapes, offering opportunities to see wildlife and enjoy nature.
Maymont's Nature Center and exhibits house native Virginia wildlife, including black bears, river otters, bobcats, bald eagles, and various reptiles and amphibians. You might also spot deer and squirrels on the grounds.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
During special events like Garden Glow, there are often food and drink vendors available. Maymont also has picnic areas, making it a great spot to bring your own food.
Yes, picnicking is a popular activity at Maymont. There are many scenic spots, including under large trees, perfect for a relaxing meal.
Food options at Garden Glow can vary but often include snacks, hot beverages, and sometimes heartier fare like Brunswick Stew, which has been noted as delicious but pricey.
Maymont itself does not have a full-service restaurant. However, there are concessions during special events and ample space for picnics. Nearby Richmond offers a wide array of dining options.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages to enjoy in the designated picnic areas.
📸 📸 Photography
The Japanese Garden, Italian Garden, the historic mansion, and the scenic vistas offer stunning backdrops for photography. Garden Glow is particularly photogenic.
Maymont is a very popular and beautiful location for engagement photos, proposals, and even weddings, thanks to its diverse gardens and picturesque settings.
Maymont is a popular spot for photoshoots, including professional ones. It's advisable to check Maymont's policies regarding permits for commercial or extensive professional photography sessions.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for photography. During Garden Glow, the illuminated paths create a unique photographic opportunity. +1
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, for commercial or professional shoots, it's best to inquire with Maymont administration about any specific guidelines or permit requirements.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing a picnic to enjoy on the grounds, which is both budget-friendly and allows for a relaxed meal amidst nature. While the park is hilly, the accessible paths and engaging exhibits make it a rewarding experience for most families. Remember that pets are not allowed, so plan accordingly.
❤️ Couples & Romantic Getaways
For a truly special experience, consider visiting during Garden Glow, where the illuminated pathways create a magical ambiance perfect for a date night. Alternatively, packing a romantic picnic to enjoy under the grand trees near the mansion is a classic and charming option.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
Garden Glow presents a unique opportunity for creative shots with its light installations. The natural landscapes and seasonal foliage also offer dynamic backdrops. While personal photography is generally welcome, professional photographers should inquire about any specific permit requirements.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Garden Glow
+3Visitors often describe Garden Glow as an incredible and beautiful exhibit, even better than previous years. The event involves a fair amount of walking, sometimes with hills, so comfortable shoes are essential. While tickets are required and can sell out quickly, many find the experience well worth the cost and effort.
To make the most of your Garden Glow visit, booking tickets in advance is crucial, especially for weekend evenings. Consider attending on a weekday to avoid the largest crowds. Some attendees have noted that food and drink options are available, including Brunswick Stew, which is praised for its taste but comes with a higher price tag.
Exploring Maymont's Diverse Gardens
Adjacent to the historic mansion, the Italian Garden presents a more formal European aesthetic. With its elegant fountains, statuary, and vibrant floral displays, it evokes a sense of old-world charm and is a popular spot for romantic strolls and picnics. The area in front of the mansion also features magnificent trees perfect for relaxing underneath.
Beyond these iconic gardens, Maymont's grounds are filled with diverse flora, including blooming trees in spring and colorful foliage in the fall. The park's natural beauty, combined with its formal garden designs, makes it a picturesque destination year-round.
Maymont's Wildlife and Nature Center
Visitors can expect to see a range of animals, including black bears, river otters, bobcats, bald eagles, and various reptiles and amphibians. The park's expansive grounds also offer opportunities to spot wild deer and squirrels. This focus on native wildlife makes Maymont a valuable resource for learning about the region's natural heritage.
While the wildlife exhibits are a significant draw, it's important to note that Maymont is not a pet-friendly park. Only service animals are permitted, which is a consideration for visitors planning to bring their pets.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit