10 Fun Things To Do In and Around Petersburg, Virginia
If you’re looking for a small-city getaway packed with history, good food, and easy day trips,
Petersburg, Virginia is a great pick. Just about 25 miles south of Richmond, this former tobacco and railroad hub offers a surprisingly rich mix of Civil War history, arts, and outdoor fun.
Whether you’re planning a weekend trip from somewhere in the Mid-Atlantic or passing through on I‑95, here are
10 things to do in and near Petersburg, VA that are worth your time.
1. Walk the Battlefields at Petersburg National Battlefield
If you only do one thing in Petersburg, make it this.
The
Petersburg National Battlefield tells the story of the long, grinding siege that helped end the Civil War. It’s spread out over several units around the city, so you can easily spend a half day (or more) exploring.
- Start at the Eastern Front Visitor Center for maps and exhibits.
- Drive the auto tour route with short walks to overlooks and trenches.
- Check out the famous Crater, where Union troops exploded a mine under Confederate lines.
The earthworks, cannon, and open fields make history feel very real here. Walking the quiet trails on a misty morning, it’s hard to imagine the noise and chaos that once filled these hills.
Travel tip: Wear comfy shoes and bring water, especially in summer. The driving tour is great if you’re traveling with kids or older relatives who can’t walk long distances.
2. Explore Old Towne Petersburg’s Historic Streets
Downtown
Old Towne Petersburg is compact, walkable, and full of character. Many buildings date back to the 1800s, and you’ll see a mix of restored warehouses, brick storefronts, and old churches.
Stroll along:
- Sycamore Street – lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes.
- Old Market Street – once the city’s commercial heart.
- The side streets and alleys – where you’ll spot old signs and faded murals.
You might recognize parts of Old Towne from movies and TV shows. Petersburg has been a stand‑in for historic cities in several productions, and it’s easy to see why once you’re there.
Travel tip: Park once and explore on foot. Grab a coffee, wander a bit, then come back later in the evening for dinner and drinks.
3. Visit Pamplin Historical Park & The National Museum of the Civil War Soldier
Just a few miles southwest of Petersburg sits one of the most impressive Civil War sites in the country:
Pamplin Historical Park.
This isn’t your typical “read a plaque and move on” museum. It feels more like a living history campus, with:
- The National Museum of the Civil War Soldier – interactive exhibits told through the eyes of real soldiers.
- Reconstructed winter huts and fortifications.
- Costumed interpreters who demonstrate tools, weapons, and daily life.
- Peaceful walking trails along original earthworks.
Even if you’re not a huge history buff, the storytelling here is engaging and personal. The audio guides and hands‑on displays do a good job of explaining complex events in a simple way.
Good for: Families, history lovers, and anyone who likes museums that feel immersive instead of stuffy.
4. Eat and Drink Your Way Through Old Towne
After all that history, you’ll want something good to eat.
Old Towne Petersburg has a growing food and drink scene with plenty of local flavor.
You’ll find:
- Casual Southern spots serving fried chicken, shrimp and grits, and barbecue.
- Cozy cafes with fresh‑baked pastries and strong coffee.
- Craft beer and cocktail bars perfect for a relaxed evening.
One of the nicest things about eating in Petersburg is the pace. It doesn’t feel rushed or overly touristy. You can linger over a drink, chat with the staff, and get tips on other things to do nearby.
Travel tip: Ask locals where they go for lunch. In small cities like this, the best finds are often the places that don’t show up on big “top 10” lists.
5. Tour Centre Hill Museum and Historic Homes
If you like old houses and period details, Petersburg delivers.
The
Centre Hill Museum is one of the city’s most striking historic mansions. Built in the early 1800s, it has hosted U.S. presidents and seen Petersburg through war and peace. Inside, you’ll find:
- Elegant staircases and high ceilings.
- Antique furniture and decorative arts.
- Stories of the families who lived there and the people who worked behind the scenes.
Around the city, you’ll spot other historic homes and churches, many with markers that explain their place in Petersburg’s story. It’s an easy way to add some culture to your trip without feeling overwhelmed.
Travel tip: Check hours in advance. Smaller museums sometimes have limited days or seasonal schedules.
6. Relax by the Water at the Appomattox River
The
Appomattox River runs right by Petersburg, and it’s a nice break from the brick and battlefield scenery.
Head to nearby spots like:
- Appomattox Riverside Park and other river access points for short walks.
- Scenic overlooks where you can watch the water and slow things down a bit.
You can bring a picnic, take photos, or just sit and listen to the river. On a warm day, the breeze off the water feels amazing after walking around town.
If you’re willing to drive a little farther, the river corridor toward Hopewell and Colonial Heights offers even more views and walking areas.
7. Take a Day Trip to Richmond, Virginia’s Capital
One of the best things about staying in Petersburg is how close you are to other great spots.
Richmond, the capital of Virginia, is only about a 30‑minute drive north on I‑95.
In Richmond, you can:
- Walk along the James River and its trails.
- Visit the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA), which is free and excellent.
- Check out neighborhoods like Carytown for shopping and dining.
You get the best of both worlds: Petersburg’s slower pace and Richmond’s bigger‑city energy. It makes a great combo weekend—history and small‑town feel one day, urban exploring the next.
Travel tip: If you’re driving up for the day, leave Petersburg after morning rush hour and plan to be back before late‑night fatigue hits. The drive is short, but it’s nice to keep it easy.
8. Step Back in Time at City Point and Hopewell
Just northeast of Petersburg, along the James and Appomattox Rivers, you’ll find
City Point (now part of Hopewell). During the Civil War, this quiet area became a major Union supply base and headquarters.
Today, you can:
- Visit the grounds around the General Grant’s Headquarters at City Point unit of Petersburg National Battlefield.
- Enjoy water views where two rivers meet.
- Drive through historic streets with old houses and churches.
The contrast is striking: what was once one of the busiest places in the country during the war is now peaceful and calm.
Good to know: This is an easy half‑day outing from Petersburg, especially if you enjoy scenic drives and don’t mind a slower pace.
9. Discover Local Art and Murals
Petersburg isn’t just about the 1800s. There’s a growing creative side as well.
In and around
Old Towne, look for:
- Colorful murals on brick walls and alleyways.
- Small galleries showcasing local artists.
- Occasional art walks or events (check local calendars before your trip).
Even if you’re not an “art person,” seeing how locals express their stories and history in paint and sculpture adds another layer to the city. It’s like reading a modern chapter in a very old book.
Travel tip: Murals make great photo backdrops. If you’re traveling with friends or family, this is a fun, low‑key way to capture memories of your trip.
10. Follow the Civil War Trails Beyond the City
If the Civil War side of things really grabs you, don’t stop at the main battlefield. The
Virginia Civil War Trails program connects sites all around the region with brown and red signs.
From Petersburg you can follow trails to:
- Smaller skirmish sites and fortifications.
- Historic churches and cemeteries.
- Nearby towns that played a role in the siege and final campaigns.
These stops are usually less crowded than the main battlefield areas. They’re perfect if you enjoy quiet back‑roads drives and discovering places most visitors miss.
Travel tip: Pick up a Civil War Trails map at visitor centers or download one before your trip. It helps turn a simple drive into a themed road adventure.
Planning Your Trip to Petersburg, Virginia
Here are a few quick pointers to make your visit easier:
- Getting there: Petersburg sits right off I‑95 and I‑85, about 25 miles south of Richmond and roughly 125 miles south of Washington, D.C.
- How long to stay: A weekend is enough to see the highlights, but history fans could easily fill 3–4 days.
- Best seasons: Spring and fall bring milder temperatures for walking battlefields and downtown streets.
- Where to stay: Options range from chain hotels near the interstate to more character‑filled spots closer to Old Towne.
If you love American history, small‑city charm, and easy day trips,
Petersburg, VA deserves a spot on your travel list.
What Would You Do First in Petersburg?
Would you head straight for the
Petersburg National Battlefield? Wander the brick streets of
Old Towne? Or use the city as a base to explore Richmond and the James River?
I’d love to hear how you’d plan your trip.
- Drop a comment below and share your favorite Petersburg spot or what you’re most excited to see.
- If you found this guide helpful, share it with a friend or family member planning a Virginia getaway.
Petersburg may not be the first name you hear when people talk about Virginia travel, but that’s part of its charm. With fewer crowds and plenty to explore, it just might surprise you.
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