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Petersburg, Virginia: Where Fun is Always on Point – Best Things to Do and Places to Visit

Petersburg gives you two ways into the same Civil War and they work quite differently. Pamplin Historical Park is the living history version with a battlefield you can walk. The Petersburg National Battlefield Park covers over 2,700 acres of that same fight. The Siege Museum handles the story indoors from the Exchange Building instead. And Blandford Church has stood through the whole of it since 1735.

Welcome to Petersburg, Virginia, a small city that covers a lot of ground. History buff, someone who eats well, art lover, or just after a good weekend away, Petersburg has you covered. From its deep history to its working arts and culture scene, this city is full of surprises.

History enthusiasts will take to the many historic sites and landmarks in Petersburg. From the Blandford Church, the oldest structure in the city, to the Pamplin Historical Park, which opens up the Civil War era, there are plenty of places to visit. But Petersburg is not only about the past, because it is also a city full of life and energy, with plenty to do.

Outdoor adventures, art and culture, or strong cooking, Petersburg has you covered. From hiking and biking on the Appomattox River Trail to working through the many art galleries and museums in the city, this place covers a lot of ground. And when it comes to food, Petersburg will not let you down, because the city runs a working culinary scene that will please even a hard palate. So pack the bags and get ready to work through everything Petersburg has.

Key Takeaways

• Petersburg offers a rich history and many historic sites to explore.
• The city has a vibrant arts and culture scene, with plenty of galleries and museums to visit.
• From outdoor adventures to culinary delights, there’s something for everyone in Petersburg.

Historical Petersburg

History buffs will get on with Petersburg, Virginia. The city sits deep in history, and there are plenty of museums, historic sites, and landmarks to work through. Here are the places to see in the city:

Pamplin Historical Park

You cannot visit Petersburg without stopping by Pamplin Historical Park. The park is a living history museum that tells the story of the Civil War and life during that time. You can work through the battlefield, visit the National Museum of the Civil War Soldier, and tour the Tudor Hall Plantation house. And do not forget the gift shop for some unusual souvenirs.

Petersburg National Battlefield Park

The Petersburg National Battlefield Park is one to see for anyone interested in the Civil War. The park covers over 2,700 acres and holds several historic sites, Fort Henry, the Eastern Front Visitor Center, and the Five Forks Battlefield among them. You can take a guided tour or work through it on your own.

Siege of Petersburg

The Siege of Petersburg was a turning point in the Civil War, and you can pick up the whole story at the Siege Museum. The museum sits in the Exchange Building, a National Historic Landmark. You can see artifacts from the siege, pick up the daily life of a Civil War soldier, and even try on a replica uniform.

Blandford Church and Cemetery

Blandford Church is one of the oldest buildings in Petersburg, dating back to 1735. The church is a clear example of Georgian architecture and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The adjacent cemetery is the last resting place of many Revolutionary War and Civil War soldiers.

Centre Hill Mansion

Anyone who takes to Greek Revival architecture will not want to miss Centre Hill Mansion. The mansion was built in 1823 and is now a museum that shows the history of the city. You can take a guided tour of the mansion and see the gardens.

Pocahontas Island Black History Museum

Pocahontas Island is a significant neighborhood in Petersburg that was once a working hub of African American culture. The Black History Museum tells the story of the neighborhood and its residents, including the part it played in the Civil Rights Movement.

In conclusion, Petersburg, Virginia is a city deep in American history. The Civil War, the Revolutionary War, or just American history in general, there are plenty of museums, historic sites, and landmarks to work through. So put on the walking shoes and get ready to step back in time.

Fun Activities in Petersburg

Looking for things to do in Petersburg? You are in luck. This small city runs plenty of options for all ages. Here are the activities in Petersburg that you will not want to miss:

Escape Room Fun

Put your problem-solving to the test at one of the escape rooms in Petersburg. With themes running from spy missions to haunted houses, these interactive rooms suit groups of friends or families. Can you solve the puzzles and escape before the time runs out?

Walking Trails

Take a walk along the scenic Appomattox River and work through the natural country around Petersburg. With miles of walking trails to choose from, you can take a slow hike or a brisk walk while taking the sights and sounds of the outdoors.

Interactive Displays

Get hands-on with history at one of the interactive displays in Petersburg. From Civil War reenactments to living history museums, these attractions run an immersive day that carries you back in time.

Driving Tour

Take a self-guided driving tour of Petersburg and work through the deep history and culture of the city. With an audio tour to guide you, you can go at your own pace and pick up the key landmarks and attractions of the city.

Something with pace or something slower, Petersburg has a version of each. So why not plan a visit and take all the activities this small city runs?

Art and Culture Scene

The art and culture scene in Petersburg is working and varied, with a range of activities and events to suit all tastes. Here are the highlights:

Old Towne Petersburg

Anyone who takes to historic architecture will get on with Old Towne Petersburg. This small district is full of well-preserved buildings, many of which date back to the 18th and 19th centuries. Take a walk down the cobblestone streets and take the ornate facades and the detailing. You will feel like you have stepped back in time.

Sycamore Street

Sycamore Street is the place to be for a lively arts and culture scene. This busy thoroughfare is home to a spread of galleries, studios, and performance spaces. Take the latest exhibitions at the Petersburg Area Art League, or catch a show at the Sycamore Rouge Theatre. And do not forget to stop by the Farmers’ Market, where you will find a range of handmade crafts and artisanal goods.

Community Artists

Petersburg is home to a working community of artists, many of whom are based in the Old Towne and Sycamore Street areas. From painters and sculptors to photographers and musicians, there is plenty of creative talent here. And take the First Friday events, where local artists show their work and talk with visitors. And if you are feeling inspired, why not take a class or workshop at the Petersburg Area Art League? You might turn up an artistic talent you did not know about.

Seasoned art lover or just after a cultural day out, Petersburg has plenty. So grab the walking shoes and get ready to work through it.

The dates in Petersburg go back a good deal further than most of Virginia does. Blandford Church dates from 1735 and is one of the oldest buildings standing here. Centre Hill Mansion was built in 1823 in the Greek Revival style of the day. The buildings of Old Towne run back through the 18th and the 19th centuries. And the National Battlefield Park covers over 2,700 acres of ground.

Culinary Delights

When it comes to food, Petersburg, Virginia covers a lot of ground. From classic Southern cuisine to international flavors, you will find it all in this small town. Here are the places to take your taste buds:

Eat, Drink, and Be Merry

For a night out with friends, head to Eat, Drink, and Be Merry. This small gastropub runs a broad selection of craft beers, cocktails, and strong pub fare. Try the loaded fries, stuffed with bacon, cheese, and sour cream, or the BBQ pulled pork sliders. And do not forget to wash it all down with a cold beer or a cocktail.

Karaoke Nights

For a meal out of the ordinary, take Karaoke Nights. This Korean restaurant runs a broad range of traditional dishes, bibimbap through to bulgogi. But the karaoke is the real draw. Rent a private room with your friends and sing your heart out while eating well. And if you are feeling bold, try the soju, a traditional Korean spirit that lands hard.

Whatever your taste buds are after, Petersburg, Virginia has something for it. So come hungry and get ready to sit down to some strong cooking.

Where to Stay

You have spent the day working through everything Petersburg runs, and now you need a place to rest your head. Petersburg runs a spread of accommodation options to suit any budget and preference.

If you’re looking for a luxurious stay, the Lowe Hotel is a historic landmark that has been restored to its former glory. This elegant hotel offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a bar. The hotel is located in the heart of downtown Petersburg, so you’ll be close to all the action.

For those on a budget, there are plenty of affordable options in Petersburg. The Petersburg Inn is a great choice for those looking for a clean and comfortable room without breaking the bank. This motel is conveniently located near many of Petersburg’s top attractions.

If you’re looking for a unique experience, why not stay in a yurt or a treehouse in nearby West Virginia? These one-of-a-kind accommodations are perfect for those who want to get away from it all and reconnect with nature.

Wherever you choose to stay in Petersburg, the trip will hold up while you work through everything this small town has.

When to Visit

Petersburg, Virginia is a city that runs something all year round. A winter trip or a summer one, there is a season for everyone. Here are the times to visit Petersburg, Virginia:

February Fun

History buffs should visit Petersburg in February. This is the month when the city celebrates its deep history with a number of events and activities. You can attend lectures, workshops, and tours, or even take part in a reenactment of the Siege of Petersburg. And if the day goes your way, you might catch the Annual Old Towne Chocolate Festival. Who does not take to chocolate?

March Madness

March is the time to visit Petersburg for sports fans. The city hosts the CIAA Basketball Tournament, which brings together some of the stronger college basketball teams from around the region. But even if basketball is not your thing, there is still plenty to do. You can attend the Annual Irish Festival and take live music, food, and drinks. Or you can join the Annual Easter Egg Hunt, which works for the whole family.

May Merriment

May is a strong time to visit Petersburg for outdoor activities. The weather is mild, and the city is in full bloom. You can take a walk through the historic Old Towne district and take the architecture. Or you can visit one of the many parks in the city and have a picnic or a game of frisbee. And music people will not want to miss the Annual Appomattox Blues and Brews Festival.

December Delights

December is the time of year when Petersburg is at its warmest. The city is decorated with lights and ornaments, and there are plenty of festive events to take. You can attend the Annual Christmas Parade and see Santa Claus himself. Or you can visit the Farmers’ Market and pick up some homemade gifts for the people at home. And if you are feeling bold, you can take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the city.

Whenever you decide to visit Petersburg, Virginia, the trip will hold up. So pack the bags, grab the camera, and get ready for a run that stays with you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the deal with Petersburg, VA? Is it really that poor?

Listen, we are not going to sugarcoat it for you. Petersburg has had its share of tough times, but it is not all gloom and doom. The city holds a deep history and a character you will not find anywhere else. And the people here are some of the friendliest you will ever meet. So do not let the bad rap keep you away.

Are there any cool museums in Petersburg, VA?

Absolutely. History buffs will take to the Siege Museum, which tells the story of the longest siege in American history. And art people cannot miss the Petersburg Area Art League, which runs works from local artists.

Where can I find the best eats in Petersburg, VA?

Oh, we have you covered, friend. For some down-home cooking, head to Dixie Restaurant for fried chicken and collard greens. And if you are feeling fancy, try Saucy’s Walk-Up for gourmet hot dogs and craft beer.

What’s there to do in Colonial Heights, VA besides visit the outlet mall?

Well, we are glad you asked. Colonial Heights is home to the Swift Creek Mill Theatre, which puts on strong shows throughout the year. And nature people cannot miss the Dutch Gap Conservation Area, which runs some fine hiking trails.

I’m planning a family trip to Petersburg, VA. Any suggestions for kid-friendly activities?

For sure. Take the kids to Swaders Sports Park for some go-kart racing and laser tag. And if they take to animals, they will get on with the Maymont Nature Center, which runs everything from snakes to otters.

If I visit Petersburg, VA, what are some must-see sights?

You cannot visit Petersburg without taking the Petersburg National Battlefield Park, which was a major site during the Civil War. And anyone who takes to architecture will get on with the Blandford Church and Cemetery, which runs some of the finer tombstones you will ever see.

Frequently asked questions about Petersburg, Virginia

Which Petersburg park is worth a whole day out there?

Pamplin Historical Park, comfortably. It is a living history museum covering the Civil War, and you get the battlefield, the National Museum of the Civil War Soldier and the Tudor Hall Plantation house on one ticket. Petersburg National Battlefield Park is the bigger option instead of that. That one covers over 2,700 acres and you can walk it all yourself. Walking the battlefield costs a good deal less than the tours.

Which Petersburg museum should you take on first of all?

The Siege Museum, without much argument. It sits in the Exchange Building, which is a National Historic Landmark, and it holds artifacts from the longest siege in American history along with a replica uniform to try on. The Pocahontas Island Black History Museum is the other one instead. That one tells the story of a neighborhood and its part in the Civil Rights Movement. Neither of them will cost you very much.

Which Petersburg trail suits a slow walk on foot?

The Appomattox River Trail, easily. It runs miles of walking alongside the river through the natural country around the city, and it takes a leisurely hike or a brisk walk equally well. The self-guided driving tour is the option for tired legs instead. That one comes with audio and you go at your own pace. Both of them are free from the start to the finish.

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