The home for 400 years of Richmond’s history. Permanent and changing exhibitions illustrate the city’s many historic people, places and events. The 1812 Wickham House, a neoclassical masterpiece, is its largest artifact. The History Center also provides history on location through its Historic Richmond Tours program, including scheduled public tours, school and group tours, and step-on guide service.

Is this the same place as the Valentine Museum?

Yes. The Valentine Museum was renamed the Valentine Richmond History Center in 2000, to better convey the institution’s mission and scope to visitors.

Where are you located?

Easily accessible from any direction, the History Center is located in historic downtown Richmond. Its several buildings occupy a block of Clay Street in the area known as "Court End," for its proximity to the State Capitol and the many lawyers and judges who built homes in the area. Get directions and map it here!

Where do I park?

The History Center has a small valet parking lot for museum visitors on 10th St. just past Clay St; handicap accessible. Parking is validated for up to two hours for visitors. Ample bus parking is also available on Clay St. between 11th and 10th Streets.

What time is your daily bus tour of Richmond? What tours do you offer?

We do not provide daily tours; check with the Richmond Convention and Visitor’s Bureau at 804-783-7450.

We do provide a wide variety of guided tours; take a look at our walking tours of Hollywood Cemetery, Sunday walking tours of historic areas, and specialty themed bus tours. We also provide school tours, group tours, and step-on guide service.

Are there places to eat and shop near your museum? Are there other places to visit nearby?

Wickham’s Garden Café is on premises and serves breakfast and lunch, Monday through Friday. The Valentine Gift Shop is open daily and offers a wide variety of unique Richmond gifts.

A number of other historic attractions are nearby. The Virginia State Capitol, Museum and White House of the Confederacy, Library of Virginia, and John Marshall House are within easy walking distance of the History Center. Nearby, visit St. John’s Church, Tredegar Iron Works, Poe Museum and the Holocaust Museum.