White House of the Confederacy
Explore the former home of Confederate President Jefferson Davis and discover the largest collection of Confederate artifacts.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate tours.
White House of the Confederacy
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate tours.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the former home of Confederate President Jefferson Davis and discover the largest collection of Confederate artifacts.
"The tour was pretty straightforward. No Confederate flags or anything."
🚗 Parking Pointers
Use the hospital parking deck; get validation. Walk a few blocks to the entrance.
🎟️ Tour Tickets
Book tours in advance, they fill up! Tours are guided and limited in size.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Jefferson Davis's Residence
Main House
Step into the former home of the Confederate president, Jefferson Davis. Explore rooms furnished with period pieces.
Confederate Collection
Museum Exhibits
Discover the largest collection of Confederate artifacts, offering a deep dive into the Civil War era.
Stories of Escape
Interpretive Exhibits
Learn about the complex history, including stories of enslaved individuals who escaped and aided the Union.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Navigating the Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Pointers
Use the hospital parking deck; get validation. Walk a few blocks to the entrance.
🎟️ Tour Tickets
Book tours in advance, they fill up! Tours are guided and limited in size.
🚶♀️ Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking around the grounds and inside the house.
📱 Capture the History
Take photos and videos, but be mindful of where you stand.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Pointers
Use the hospital parking deck; get validation. Walk a few blocks to the entrance.
🎟️ Tour Tickets
Book tours in advance, they fill up! Tours are guided and limited in size.
🚶♀️ Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking around the grounds and inside the house.
📱 Capture the History
Take photos and videos, but be mindful of where you stand.
🧐 Straightforward History
Expect a factual account, not glorification. Learn about the complexities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the White House of the Confederacy to be a historically significant site, offering a straightforward account of the Civil War era and the life of Jefferson Davis. While some appreciate the factual presentation and the collection of artifacts, others have noted issues with parking, tour capacity, and staff communication, which can detract from the overall experience.
"This was literally the worst stop on our entire trip in 2025, and we went to 50 different locations during our vacation. First off, parking was horrid! It did state on the website that you can park in the parking deck of the hospital. Once we found the entrance to the parking garage, we then had to walk down two blocks to the museum. Fortunately, we walked around the back to find where you go in to buy a ticket.
We were told the first tour was canceled and we had to wait an hour for the next one. At that time, there were two people at the counter (please remember this detail). The staff at the counter informed us that we could walk a few blocks to visit the capital if we wanted, and then return for the tour.
We chose to just wait around since my wife is still recovering from her chemo treatments, I am not in the greatest of health, and it was almost 95 degrees outside, and we just drove in from Williamsburg and didn't even check into our hotel yet. We were not sure if we could keep up the pace walking and be back in time for the next tour.
We paid for the tour and walked around the grounds a little bit, taking some B-roll video and pictures, and just sat in the courtyard waiting for the tour. At first we were the only ones there.
As it got closer to tour time, more and more people showed up. When the tour started, there were literally 21 people on our tour, and the tour guide (one of the people that was hanging at the counter, by the way) said they normally limit the tours to 15-18 people. Needless to say, we were cramped.
As the tour went on, the guide was mostly focused on people not touching anything, staying on the carpets, and not leaning on the wally. It was so cramped we could hardly see anything or even hear the guide.
It was a truly dreadful experience. We were there once; that was enough.
Oh... we did obtain a stamped paper from the museum to use as parking validation. I presented it to the attendant at the parking garage, and he basically yelled at us and said we were supposed to go into the hospital to take care of the parking cost. Nice of the museum to mention that little bit of information, as I am sure that happens to everyone.
We had a much better time walking around the old Hollywood Cemetery."
Our Haunted Travels - PANICd
"I was concerned they would be sympathetic to the Confederates, but I found the tour pretty straightforward. No Confederate flags or anything. I particularly enjoyed hearing about the slaves who escaped and sold out the Davises. I understand some won't feel comfortable here, but ultimately, they lost. So why not learn some more about why the U.S. is the way it is? (Or gloat, which is also fair.)"
Anya
"The place where Jefferson Davis, the only president of the confederation dwelt during the war of secession.
The guide was excellent.
And we could have a more intimate understanding of the life of the leader of the confederation."
Bernard DRAI
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The White House of the Confederacy is located in downtown Richmond, Virginia. It's accessible by car and public transport. Parking is available in the nearby hospital parking deck, and validation is often provided.
Yes, parking is available in the hospital parking deck adjacent to the museum. It's recommended to check with the museum for current validation policies as one visitor found the process confusing.
If you are in downtown Richmond, it is walkable. Many visitors combine a trip to the White House of the Confederacy with other nearby historical sites like the Virginia State Capitol.
Driving is a common method, with parking available. Public transportation options in Richmond can also be utilized, though specific routes would need to be checked based on your starting point.
It's located in downtown Richmond, often mentioned alongside other historical landmarks. Following GPS or looking for signage for the American Civil War Museum (ACWM) sites can help.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission typically involves a fee for guided tours, which are the primary way to experience the house. Prices can vary, with student discounts often available.
It is highly recommended to book your tour tickets in advance, as tours can sell out and have limited capacity.
Operating hours can vary, and tours are scheduled at specific intervals. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information on tour times and operating hours.
Yes, guided tours are the main way to explore the White House of the Confederacy. These tours provide historical context and insights from knowledgeable guides.
While you can explore the grounds, the interior of the White House of the Confederacy is typically accessed via guided tours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see the historic residence of Jefferson Davis, explore interpretive exhibits with Confederate artifacts, and learn about Civil War history. 
Tours typically last between 30 to 45 minutes, offering a focused look at the history and significance of the site.
The site offers historical education that can be engaging for older children interested in the Civil War. However, the content is historical and may require parental guidance for younger visitors.
It served as the executive residence of Confederate President Jefferson Davis during the Civil War, making it a key site in understanding the Confederacy's history.
Photography policies can vary, but generally, visitors are allowed to take photos, though flash photography might be restricted. It's always best to confirm onsite.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior of the house offers classic architectural shots. Inside, focus on the period furnishings and exhibits, being mindful of any photography restrictions.
Drone usage is typically restricted in historical and urban areas due to safety and privacy regulations. It's advisable to check local ordinances and museum policies.
Focus on architectural details, historical artifacts, and the overall ambiance of the preserved home. Capturing the context of the Civil War era is key.
The facade of the building and the interior rooms, when permitted, offer unique photographic opportunities to document this historical landmark.
Morning light can be soft and flattering for exterior shots. Midday can be harsh, but interior lighting is usually managed for exhibits.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider combining this visit with other historical sites in Richmond that might offer more interactive elements for younger children, if available. The key is to frame the visit as a historical exploration, emphasizing the lessons learned from the past.
🏛️ History Enthusiasts
This site is a crucial piece of the puzzle for understanding the Confederacy's structure and its eventual downfall. Visitors can gain an intimate understanding of the challenges faced by Jefferson Davis and his administration.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Confederate White House: A Historical Perspective
Today, the White House of the Confederacy is managed by the American Civil War Museum and offers guided tours that delve into the lives of the Davis family and the political machinations of the Confederacy. Visitors can explore the period furnishings and learn about the daily routines and challenges faced by the Confederate leadership. The interpretive exhibits aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of the era, including the complex social dynamics and the eventual defeat of the Confederacy.
It's important to note that visiting the White House of the Confederacy is an experience rooted in historical education. As one visitor noted, the tour is 'pretty straightforward. No Confederate flags or anything.' The focus is on understanding the historical context and the outcomes of the war, including the stories of those who were enslaved and sought freedom.
Navigating Your Visit: Practical Tips from Travelers
Once inside, expect a guided tour that typically lasts 30-45 minutes. Guides focus on historical accuracy and visitor conduct, emphasizing not touching artifacts or leaning on walls.
Comfort is key, so wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking around the grounds and the house.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit