Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site
Explore the grand Victorian home of Maggie L. Walker, the first African American woman to charter a bank and lead it. A free, inspiring historical exp...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal tours
Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal tours
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the grand Victorian home of Maggie L. Walker, the first African American woman to charter a bank and lead it. A free, inspiring historical experience.
"The tour guides are awesome! The house is huge and you can take pictures. The history was nothing short of amazing."
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy a rich historical experience without any cost.
⏰ Check Tour Hours
Tours are the main way to see the house; verify operating times before your visit.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Maggie L. Walker's Grand Home
The historic house itself
Explore the beautifully preserved Victorian home of Maggie Lena Walker, a true trailblazer.
Inspiring Legacy Tour
Guided tours
Gain deep insights into Maggie Walker's life as the first Black woman to charter a bank.
Economic Empowerment Stories
Exhibits and interpretation
Learn about her groundbreaking achievements in banking, business, and community leadership.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Admission, Plan Your Visit
Immerse Yourself in History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy a rich historical experience without any cost.
⏰ Check Tour Hours
Tours are the main way to see the house; verify operating times before your visit.
📸 Photography Allowed
Capture memories inside the historic home.
👩🏫 Knowledgeable Guides
Rangers offer passionate and informative tours.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy a rich historical experience without any cost.
⏰ Check Tour Hours
Tours are the main way to see the house; verify operating times before your visit.
📸 Photography Allowed
Capture memories inside the historic home.
👩🏫 Knowledgeable Guides
Rangers offer passionate and informative tours.
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly History
Engaging for all ages, even younger visitors.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site for its free admission, engaging and knowledgeable tour guides, and the inspiring story of a pioneering African American businesswoman. The well-preserved home offers a fascinating glimpse into the past, making it a highly recommended stop for all ages. Some visitors note that tour hours can be limited, so checking in advance is advised.
"The tour was great! It's free for everyone. My 9 year old, 16y/o, and 18y/o learned a lot and weren't bored for a second! The house is huge and you can take pictures. The tour guides are awesome!"
Hi Hello
"The tour was great! The guides are very knowledgeable, really enjoyed our time here. They do have limited hours for tours now."
Sreyashi Banerjee
"My husband and I really enjoyed this tour. The history of the late Madame CJ Walker's life was nothing short of amazing. Her home is well preserved and beautiful.
Sincere thanks to our tour guide, Mark Wilcox. He was kind, hospitalable and told a very knowledgeable and a passionate narration of Walker's life and legacy. We left inspired and feeling as if we got to know the Walker family personally. Thank you. 😊"
Bohemian Soul
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site is located in Richmond, Virginia. It's accessible by car, and public transportation options are available within the city. Parking information can be found on the National Park Service website.
Yes, there is typically parking available for visitors. It's advisable to check the official National Park Service website for the most current parking details and any potential restrictions.
While a car offers the most flexibility, Richmond has public transportation options. Check local bus routes and schedules to see if they can get you close to the site.
The address is 110 1/2 East Leigh Street, Richmond, VA 23219. Confirming this with the NPS website is always a good idea.
The National Park Service strives for accessibility. It's recommended to contact the site directly or check their official website for specific accessibility information regarding the house and grounds.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to the Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site is completely free for all visitors.
The site has limited hours for tours. It's crucial to check the official National Park Service website for the most up-to-date operating hours and tour schedules before planning your visit.
While admission is free, tours may have limited capacity. It's a good idea to check if advance reservations are recommended or required, especially during peak seasons.
Tours are the primary way to experience the interior of the home. While you might be able to see the exterior, guided tours offer the most comprehensive understanding of the site.
Yes, the site often hosts special events, particularly around Black History Month and other significant dates. Check their official calendar for upcoming programs.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can take a guided tour of Maggie L. Walker's beautifully preserved Victorian home, learn about her incredible life and legacy as a pioneering African American businesswoman, and explore exhibits detailing her impact.
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the historic home, allowing you to capture the details of this significant landmark.
A typical guided tour lasts about 45-60 minutes, providing a thorough overview of Maggie Walker's life and the home.
Visitors consistently praise the tour guides for their passion, knowledge, and engaging storytelling, making the experience inspiring and informative.
Absolutely! Many visitors report that children, even younger ones, find the tours engaging and educational, learning about an inspiring historical figure.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior of the grand Victorian home offers beautiful photo opportunities. Inside, the preserved rooms provide a glimpse into the past, and many visitors capture details of the architecture and furnishings.
While personal photography is generally permitted, it's always best to check with the site staff regarding any specific policies on professional photography or commercial shoots.
Visitors often focus on architectural details, historical interiors, and capturing the essence of the home's preservation. It's a great spot for historical and architectural photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧👦 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
You get a rich historical experience, a guided tour of a significant home, and inspiring stories of a pioneering African American entrepreneur, all without spending a dime. It's an excellent way to immerse yourself in local history and culture while keeping your travel expenses low. 🏛️ History Buffs & Culture Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Maggie L. Walker: A Pioneer of Economic Empowerment
This initiative was part of her broader vision for economic self-sufficiency and empowerment within the Black community. Beyond banking, Walker was a shrewd entrepreneur and a dedicated civic leader. She also owned a department store that allowed Black customers to shop with dignity, a significant act of defiance against segregationist practices. Her involvement in various organizations, including the Independent Order of St. Luke, further demonstrated her commitment to community upliftment and social justice. Her home, now preserved as the Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site, stands as a testament to her enduring legacy and her profound impact on American history.
Visiting the Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and connect with the life and achievements of this extraordinary woman. The guided tours provide a personal glimpse into her world, highlighting her resilience, vision, and dedication to her community. It’s an inspiring experience that underscores the importance of her contributions to civil rights and economic justice.
Experiencing the Historic Home
Guided tours are the heart of the visitor experience. Park Rangers, like Ranger Mark Wilcox, are frequently lauded for their passionate and knowledgeable narration, bringing Maggie Walker's story to life. They share details about her family, her daily routines, and the historical context of her groundbreaking achievements. Visitors often express feeling inspired and as if they've personally connected with the Walker family after these tours.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit