Richmond, Virginia, lives up to its nickname of "the River City," as it sits on the banks of the mighty 340-mile long James River. The city boasts numerous parks and interactive museums. Rest assured that rain or shine, indoors or out, your child's birthday party will be a success and give her time to burn some energy.
Museums
Just because the party will begin indoors is no reason the children won't be active. There are several museums in the Richmond area that will design a safe and educational birthday for your child. Many parties will begin with a birthday celebration in a reserved room and continue with interactive exploration of the museum area. Museum personnel will also organize games and activities.
Swimming
Although there are no public pools in the city, many athletic clubs offer their amenities for birthday parties. Some facilities will host birthday parties during business hours and include a "party host" to organize a range of aquatic activities. It will also prove to be a safe and controlled environment because a lifeguard must be present. If you prefer an outdoor swimming experience, there are several locations along the James River that permit swimming. Heed caution with large groups of young children because there are no lifeguards.
Parks
Richmond abounds with history, such Maymont Park, which is on the National Register of Historic Places. You can celebrate a birthday in the nature center, feed the animals at the children's farm or enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride in the 100 acres the park offers. Explore the trails that connect the various themed gardens, such as the Japanese gardens and koi ponds.
There are several other parks, such as Deep Run Park, that play host to kids' birthdays. Many offer amenities such as recreational center rentals, catch-and-release fishing or barbecue areas to cook up burgers while the kids play on the playground.
Ice Skating
Although the warmer temperatures of Richmond do not immediately call ice skating to mind, there are local indoor ice skating rinks. The rinks offer year-round ice skating opportunities and rental facilities for parties. Play ice hockey or free-skate around the rink. At some locations, such as SkateNation, you can take off your skates and continue the party by playing laser tag or climbing one of the indoor rock-climbing walls.
River Activities
Although you'll need to monitor children carefully, the James River has a lot to offer for birthday activities. Several organizations will put together a day on the river. Older children many enjoy rafting or kayaking the rapids. You can also take a slower pace in exploring the James by tubing or touring the smoother waters.
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