McKenney VirginiaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near McKenney, Virginia.
1. Lake Phoenix SCUBA Park and Family Campgrounds
UNDERWATER ADVENTURE ZONE
Lake Phoenix SCUBA Park offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore an underwater environment with various submerged attractions. The facility includes family-friendly campgrounds for overnight stays, making it ideal for weekend getaways. Visitors can enjoy swimming, diving, and various water-based recreational activities in a controlled environment.
2. Lucky Lake Gem Mine
TREASURE HUNTING EXPERIENCE
Lucky Lake Gem Mine provides an entertaining gem mining experience where visitors can sift through material to find various gemstones and minerals. The family-friendly attraction offers educational opportunities about geology and mineral identification. Guests can keep their discoveries as souvenirs of their mining adventure.
3. Robert Thomas Carriage Museum and Schwartz Tavern
HISTORICAL TRANSPORTATION COLLECTION
The Robert Thomas Carriage Museum showcases a collection of historic carriages and transportation vehicles from different eras. Adjacent to the museum is the historic Schwartz Tavern, offering visitors a glimpse into early American hospitality establishments. Both attractions provide insight into the region's transportation and social history.
4. Virginia Motorsports Park
RACING AND MOTORSPORTS VENUE
Virginia Motorsports Park offers high-octane entertainment with drag racing and motorsports events throughout the year. The venue features a quarter-mile dragstrip that hosts national competitions and local racing events. Spectators can enjoy the thrill of racing while experiencing the sights, sounds, and excitement of motorsports culture.
5. Smyrna Baptist Church
HISTORIC RELIGIOUS LANDMARK
Smyrna Baptist Church stands as a historic religious landmark in the McKenney area with significant architectural and cultural value. The church building showcases traditional design elements that reflect its historical importance in the community. Visitors can appreciate both the spiritual significance and the historical context of this enduring structure.
6. Montrose Historic Site
PRESERVED SOUTHERN ESTATE
Montrose is a historically significant property listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The well-preserved estate offers visitors insight into the architectural styles and living conditions of its era. Guided tours provide information about the property's role in local history and its cultural significance to the region.
7. Sappony Church
COLONIAL RELIGIOUS HERITAGE
Sappony Church represents an important piece of colonial religious heritage in the McKenney area. The historic church building is recognized on the National Register of Historic Places for its architectural and cultural significance. Visitors can explore the grounds and learn about the role this institution played in the development of the community.
8. Zehmer Farm
AGRICULTURAL HISTORY SHOWCASE
Zehmer Farm is a historically significant agricultural property listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The farm complex illustrates rural life and farming practices from its historical period. Visitors can gain insight into agricultural traditions that shaped the economic and social development of the region.
9. Metro Richmond Zoo
WILDLIFE CONSERVATION CENTER
The Metro Richmond Zoo houses a diverse collection of animals from around the world in naturalistic habitats. Visitors can observe numerous species of mammals, birds, reptiles, and other wildlife while learning about conservation efforts. The zoo offers interactive experiences including feeding opportunities and educational programs for all ages.
10. Pamplin Historical Park
CIVIL WAR LEARNING CENTER
Pamplin Historical Park encompasses a 422-acre campus featuring museums, historic homes, and battlefield sites related to the American Civil War. The National Museum of the Civil War Soldier located within the park provides an immersive experience through historically accurate exhibits and multimedia presentations. Visitors can walk the grounds where significant historical events occurred and gain deeper understanding of this pivotal period in American history.
11. Petersburg National Battlefield
CIVIL WAR HISTORIC SITE
Petersburg National Battlefield preserves the site of a crucial 9.5-month campaign during the American Civil War. The battlefield includes multiple units with fortifications, earthworks, and historical structures related to the siege operations. Visitors can explore the grounds through driving tours, hiking trails, and educational programs offered by park rangers.
12. Virginia State University
HISTORIC EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION
Virginia State University is a historically Black public land-grant university with a campus featuring notable historic architecture. Founded in 1882, the institution has played a significant role in higher education and cultural development in the region. Visitors can tour the campus to appreciate its historical significance, educational facilities, and cultural contributions.
13. Centre Hill Mansion
ELEGANT HISTORIC HOME
Centre Hill Mansion is a beautifully preserved historic home dating back to 1823 that showcases Federal and Greek Revival architectural styles. The mansion has hosted several presidents including Abraham Lincoln and William Howard Taft during its long history. Tours of the elegantly furnished interior provide visitors with insight into upper-class life in 19th century Virginia.
14. The Dixie Restaurant
CLASSIC SOUTHERN DINING
The Dixie Restaurant serves as both a dining establishment and a cultural landmark in the Petersburg area. The restaurant offers traditional Southern cuisine in a nostalgic atmosphere that has attracted locals and visitors for generations. Diners can enjoy classic comfort foods while experiencing a slice of authentic regional culture.
15. Sycamore Rouge Theater
COMMUNITY ARTS VENUE
Sycamore Rouge Theater provides a vibrant cultural venue for performing arts in the Petersburg area. The theater hosts a variety of productions including plays, musical performances, and community events throughout the year. Visitors can experience the local arts scene while enjoying performances in an intimate and engaging setting.