Capitol Visitor's Center

Hours: The Capitol Visitor's Center is a historical building and museum that has been in service since 1788. It offers free admission and is open on weekends for extra availability. Visitors must go through security to enter. There are multiple levels to explore, with the bulk of the tour on the second and third floors. Guests can choose a self-guided tour or a guided tour with a knowledgeable guide, which typically lasts about an hour and a half. The guided tour covers areas like the rotunda, which features a detailed marble statue of George Washington made from life measurements and a face mold—the only such statue—and busts of other Virginia-born presidents. It also includes the Jefferson Room, the Old Senate Chamber with its large painting, and the Old Hall of the House of Delegates. As a special treat, guides may sometimes provide access to the normally locked modern House Chambers. The building itself contains many paintings of Virginia figures, significant art, and historical rooms with interesting stories, including a visit from Queen Elizabeth II. Some visitors note that certain items have been recently removed and not replaced, making some areas seem haphazard. The grounds surrounding the Capitol are a nice park in the city, described as clean and safe during the day. They feature lots of grass, trees, flowering plants, benches, and numerous monuments and statues. These include the Washington Equestrian Monument, the Virginia Women's Monument, the Virginia Civil Rights Monument, and trees dedicated to various historical figures. While there is sometimes ongoing construction that can be an eyesore or restrict access to parts of the grounds, the plaza area remains a pleasant place to visit. Many consider it a must-see in Richmond, offering a worthwhile experience for those interested in history, art, and sculpture.

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1. Richmond, Virginia