by M.R.

Created on: March 04, 2009   Last Updated: August 18, 2009

Fall is just around the corner in Richmond, VA. It's time to make the most of the last days of summer vacation. Whether you're looking to entertain a baby, keep your teenager from being bored during the dog days of August, or filling the days when the grandparents visit, there are almost too many options for both visitors and residents. From parks and playground, rivers and ponds, and museums and monuments, Richmond has something for every family.

Here are three top perennial favorites for Richmond families:

1. The Children's Museum of Richmond: While the baby crawls around in the special area set aside for younger children, the toddler can climb into the tree house while the second grader splashes in the fountain outside. In the winter, real snow carpets the elaborate outdoor play area, even if the rest of the city hasn't seen a flake all year. Special events dot the calendar on the weekends that the whole family can enjoy, from Chinese dance performances to storytelling festivals to holiday celebrations. Even the most active children will be tired out by trying get to everything at the museum, from the mechanic's shop to the theater to the art studio. Look for Magical Member Mondays, held twice a month when members only visit the museum and enjoy free coffee and healthy snacks.

2. Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens : Whether you're a child who loves to run and climb or a gardener intent on studying glorious blooms or a photographer looking for the perfect shot, the lovely grounds of the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden will fast become your favorite place in Richmond. Meandering down the lovely paths, you'll see gorgeous plants, trees, and ponds, all meticulously manicured. The Children's Garden is a dream for both parents and kids, from the fountains to splash in during the summer to the elaborate tree house to the delightful gardener's cottage. Children can climb an enormous hundred year old mulberry tree, rake and plant, play in internationally themed homes, and discover how vegetables and plants grow. Delicious, healthy foods for lunch and dinner are served at several restaurants in lovely settings on the grounds.

3. Maymont Park : Another Richmond family favorite, Maymont Park features the Children's Farm where baby goats, chickens, and other farm animals eagerly await the food they eat our of children's hands. Wander down the hill from the farm to see other animals, from vultures to bison, dotting the rolling, grassy landscape. A highlight for many is the bear enclosure, and just around the bend from there is a lovely Japanese garden. In the spring, the gardens up on the hill explode with color, and don't be surprised to see brides getting their picture taken in the rose garden. Bring your Frisbee and a picnic and hang out with your family on the large grassy areas, push the stroller around, or let the children splash around in the creek on a hot day. Don't miss the nature center near the Children's Farm; it features large tanks with native fish and a stunning waterfall from ceiling to floor.

it would take several visits just to enjoy everything the above attractions have to offer your family. Richmond families are never bored; any season, any age can find a wealth of activities and day trips in the area. These links to area resources can also help you plan your family's Richmond family fun calendar:

RichmondKids.org

Style Weekly

InRich.com

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