Things to do in Petersburg

Activities, attractions and tours

Visit Petersburg

Types of activities

Where to stay

Petersburg travel guide

Historic Row Houses Along the Street in Petersburg Virginia

Richmond_VirginiaStateUniversity_6083687_02

Virginia State University is a public, historically black college located in Petersburg, Virginia. The university is the first fully supported, four year institution for African Americans in the United States and is one of two land-grant colleges in the State of Virginia.

The university was founded on March 6, 1882 as the Virginia Normal and College Institute after the state legislature passed a bill sponsored by Delegate Alfred W. Harris, a black attorney, which chartered the university. The state established the university to serve the needs of a population that was at the time excluded from other public institutions in Virginia. Virginia Normal and College Institute opened as a teacher training college for both male and female black students but it also included a modest liberal arts curriculum. @ Virginia State University

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What to do in Petersburg

Popular places to visit

National Museum of the Civil War Soldier

You can browse the exhibits at National Museum of the Civil War Soldier, a museum with a story of its own, during your trip to Petersburg. While in this family-friendly area, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.

Rogers Stadium

Catch an event at Rogers Stadium during your trip to Petersburg. While you're in the area, stroll along the riverfront.

Pamplin Historical Park

Explore the great outdoors at Pamplin Historical Park, a lovely green space in Petersburg. While in this family-friendly area, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.

Poplar Grove National Cemetery

You can learn about the history of Petersburg with a stop at Poplar Grove National Cemetery. While in this family-friendly area, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.

Dogwood Trace Golf Course

Enjoy a round of golf in Petersburg at Dogwood Trace Golf Course. While in this family-friendly area, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.

Centre Hill Museum

You can study the exhibits at Centre Hill Museum, a museum with a story of its own, during your trip to Petersburg. While you're in the area, find time to visit its shops.

Trapezium House

Learn about the local history of Petersburg with a stop at Trapezium House. While you're in the area, find time to visit its shops.

Old Blandford Church

Old Blandford Church is just one of the places to see in Petersburg, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? While in this family-friendly area, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.

People's Memorial Cemetery

Step back in time and learn more about local history with a stop at People's Memorial Cemetery in Petersburg. While in this family-friendly area, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.

Areas of Petersburg

Ettrick

If you're spending some time in Ettrick, Rogers Stadium and Appomattox River are top sights worth seeing.

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

Frequently asked questions

Is Petersburg worth visiting?

Petersburg has a unique blend of local charm, attractions and culture. Whether you're into nature, history or traditional food, there's a lot to enjoy here.

How do I spend a day in Petersburg?

Start your day with a visit to Siege Museum and Old Blandford Church. Then, tour other parts of Petersburg for local dining and some retail therapy.

What is the top tourist attraction in Petersburg?

Don't leave without exploring Sycamore Rouge Theatre, ranked the top tourist attraction in Petersburg.

Is three days enough to stay in Petersburg?

Three days in Petersburg is enough to visit the city's leading attractions. Many travellers book for two days on average. Sycamore Rouge Theatre, Old Blandford Church and Siege Museum are top-rated sights. Want to see more? Stick around a bit longer to check off nearby hotspots such as Richmond.

What are some activities to do in Petersburg with kids?

Deciding what to do in Petersburg with kids has never been so easy. Whether you're taking a trip with toddlers or teenagers, there are many family-friendly tours and activities to keep everyone busy here.

What to do in Petersburg for adults?

Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food lover or fan of Mother Nature, there's no shortage of things to do in Petersburg for adults including Pamplin Historical Park and Centre Hill Museum.

Are there free things to do in Petersburg?

One of the top ways to find free things to do in Petersburg is to ask a local tour guide. You'll get insider advice on vibrant neighbourhoods, parks and other highlights you can enjoy without getting your cash out. Old Blandford Church is one sight that doesn't have an entrance fee.