Capitol Square
Explore the historic Virginia State Capitol and its significant monuments, a cornerstone of American history and governance in Richmond.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Capitol Square
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the historic Virginia State Capitol and its significant monuments, a cornerstone of American history and governance in Richmond.
"A place of profound historical significance, Capitol Square offers a glimpse into Virginia's past and its role in shaping America."
🚶♀️ Enjoy the Green Spaces
Capitol Square offers beautiful grounds for a leisurely stroll. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like squirrels and bunnies!
🏛️ Explore the Capitol Interior
The Virginia State Capitol is fully renovated with modern amenities, offering a cool and updated experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Virginia State Capitol
Center of Capitol Square
An architectural marvel designed by Thomas Jefferson, offering a glimpse into American history and governance.

Virginia Women's Monument
South side of Capitol Square
A powerful tribute celebrating the contributions of Virginia women throughout history with intricate sculptures.
General Lee Monument
South side of Capitol Square
A prominent equestrian statue that has been a focal point of historical and social discussions.

General Jackson Monument
South side of Capitol Square
Another significant equestrian statue on the grounds, contributing to the historical narrative.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
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Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Enjoy the Green Spaces
Capitol Square offers beautiful grounds for a leisurely stroll. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like squirrels and bunnies!
🏛️ Explore the Capitol Interior
The Virginia State Capitol is fully renovated with modern amenities, offering a cool and updated experience.
📸 Capture the Architecture
The Capitol building's design, inspired by Thomas Jefferson, is a photographer's dream, especially during golden hour.
📜 Understand the History
Research the historical significance of the monuments beforehand to enrich your visit and appreciate the context.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Enjoy the Green Spaces
Capitol Square offers beautiful grounds for a leisurely stroll. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like squirrels and bunnies!
🏛️ Explore the Capitol Interior
The Virginia State Capitol is fully renovated with modern amenities, offering a cool and updated experience.
📸 Capture the Architecture
The Capitol building's design, inspired by Thomas Jefferson, is a photographer's dream, especially during golden hour.
📜 Understand the History
Research the historical significance of the monuments beforehand to enrich your visit and appreciate the context.
🗣️ Be Aware of Events
Capitol Square can be a site for demonstrations and rallies, so be mindful of any scheduled events during your visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Capitol Square is appreciated for its historical significance and the impressive architecture of the Virginia State Capitol. Visitors enjoy the open green spaces and the opportunity to reflect on the various monuments. However, some find the historical narratives presented by certain statues to be complex or controversial, and parking can be a minor inconvenience.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Capitol Square is located in downtown Richmond, Virginia. It's accessible by car, with several parking garages nearby. Public transportation options, including bus routes, also serve the area. Many visitors find it convenient to walk or bike to the square if staying in nearby downtown hotels.
While there isn't direct parking within Capitol Square itself, there are numerous public parking garages and street parking options in the surrounding downtown Richmond area. It's advisable to check parking rates and availability in advance.
Absolutely! Capitol Square is a beautiful public space designed for walking and exploring. The grounds are well-maintained, offering pleasant pathways to admire the monuments and architecture.
Yes, Capitol Square is served by various GRTC bus routes that run through downtown Richmond. Check the GRTC website for specific route information and schedules to plan your public transit journey.
Many visitors enjoy exploring Capitol Square on foot to fully appreciate the historical monuments and the architecture of the Virginia State Capitol. Consider wearing comfortable shoes for walking.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Capitol Square itself is a public park and grounds, so there are no tickets required to enter and explore the outdoor areas.
The monuments and the grounds of Capitol Square are free to access. You can admire them at your leisure without any admission fees.
Capitol Square is generally open to the public during daylight hours. The Virginia State Capitol building itself has specific tour hours, which are usually posted on its official website.
Yes, guided tours of the Virginia State Capitol building are often available. It's recommended to check the official Virginia Capitol website for the most up-to-date tour schedules, reservation requirements, and any potential closures.
Tours of the Virginia State Capitol are typically free of charge. However, it's always a good idea to confirm this on the official website, as policies can sometimes change.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Capitol Square features several significant monuments, including the Virginia State Capitol building itself, the Virginia Women's Monument, and equestrian statues of Confederate figures like General Lee and General Jackson.
The Virginia Women's Monument, 'Voices from the Garden,' honors the diverse contributions of women in Virginia's history. It's noted for its historically accurate and empowering sculptures.
Yes, photography is generally permitted at Capitol Square. It's a popular spot for photographers, especially during sunrise and sunset, to capture the architecture and monuments.
Capitol Square can host various events, including protests, rallies, and public gatherings. It's advisable to check local news or event listings if you're planning a visit.
Visitors have spotted local wildlife such as squirrels and bunnies on the grounds of Capitol Square, adding a touch of nature to the urban setting.
📸 📸 Photography
The Virginia State Capitol building offers stunning architectural shots, especially from the front lawn. The Virginia Women's Monument provides unique sculptural perspectives. Golden hour light on the square is particularly beautiful.
Regulations regarding drone usage can vary. It's best to check with local authorities or the Virginia Capitol Police for specific rules and restrictions on flying drones over Capitol Square.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photography at Capitol Square. Midday can be harsh, but the architecture still holds its own.
While general photography is allowed, be mindful of any specific signage or instructions from Capitol Police, especially if there are ongoing events or security concerns.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the grandeur of the Capitol building and the expanse of the square. A telephoto lens can be useful for details on the monuments. A tripod can help with low-light photography during golden hour.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏛️ History Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of Capitol Square
The square is also home to several significant monuments that reflect different eras and perspectives of American history. The General Lee Monument and General Jackson Monument are prominent equestrian statues that have been focal points of historical interpretation and public discourse. The Virginia Women's Monument, 'Voices from the Garden,' offers a more contemporary and inclusive narrative, celebrating the vital roles women have played throughout Virginia's past with its powerful sculptures.
Beyond its historical monuments, Capitol Square has also been a site for civic engagement and public expression, hosting demonstrations and rallies. Its role as a central public space in Richmond underscores its ongoing importance in the city's cultural and political landscape.
Exploring the Architecture and Artistry
Artistry abounds at Capitol Square, most notably in the Virginia Women's Monument. This monument features a collection of sculptures that are not only aesthetically striking but also historically accurate, depicting women who have made significant contributions to Virginia. The detail and craftsmanship involved in these sculptures offer a rich visual experience for visitors. The surrounding grounds also feature various artistic elements and landscaping, making it a pleasant place to wander and appreciate the blend of history, art, and nature.
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