When the temperatures drop, Richmond families can find plenty of ways to play, explore, and learn together while staying warm and cozy indoors. From sensory-friendly museums to inclusive movie showings and unique spots for family fun, these destinations make sure everyone can join in, no matter the weather. While this list is not exhaustive, it does include many of our favorites – so let us know what we missed at [email protected] or by following SOAR365 on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.
Museums & Educational Centers
When it’s too chilly for outdoor adventures, Richmond’s museums make for a perfect getaway. These welcoming spaces combine learning and fun with thoughtful accessibility features that help every child explore with confidence.
Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA)
At the VMFA, accessibility is built into the experience. Families can check out sensory bags to help children self-regulate while exploring the galleries, and social narratives are available to help visitors prepare for their trip in advance. Large-print materials make exhibits easier to enjoy for guests with low vision, and courtesy wheelchairs are offered at no charge. It’s a peaceful environment where families can take their time and connect through art. It is also a low cost or no cost experience, as the permanent galleries are free to visit. Special exhibits require tickets.
The Science Museum invites visitors to touch, tinker, and explore — and they’ve made sure those opportunities are open to everyone. Their “Minds of All Kinds” events are specifically designed for guests with sensory sensitivities, offering quieter environments, reduced lighting, and extra staff support. The museum’s Curiosity Guide also describes sensory aspects of each exhibit, helping caregivers plan ahead and avoid overstimulation.
The Children’s Museum continues to lead the way in inclusive play. On the third Friday of each month, families of children with disabilities can enjoy Special Nights — free evenings featuring a smaller crowd, sensory supports, and a designated cool-down room. Staff are trained to welcome children with diverse needs, and exhibits are designed to encourage exploration through movement, sound, and texture at each child’s own pace.
Play & Recreation
Need to burn off some energy while staying warm? From bowling to mini golf, these indoor spots offer plenty of laughter, movement, and sensory-friendly fun for the whole family.
River City Roll is a modern bowling alley that welcomes bowlers of all abilities. They offer lightweight balls, bumpers, and adaptive ramps, making it easy for children and adults who use wheelchairs or have limited mobility to participate fully. Staff are friendly and accommodating, and families can call ahead to request lanes during quieter hours for a calmer experience.
For a more whimsical outing, Hotel Greene transforms indoor mini golf into an imaginative adventure. The space features ramp access throughout and flexible seating areas, allowing visitors with mobility aids to enjoy the experience without obstacles. The atmosphere is playful but not overwhelming, especially during weekday afternoons when crowds are light. It’s an inclusive way to spend an afternoon that feels both novel and welcoming.
Nature
You don’t have to wait for spring to enjoy the beauty of nature! Richmond’s botanical and garden spaces bring the outdoors inside, offering warmth, color, and calm on even the coldest days.
Step inside the conservatory to enjoy tropical warmth and colorful blooms, even in the middle of winter. The Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden also hosts its much-beloved Gardenfest of Lights from November 17 through January 4, adding even more magic to the season with dazzling displays and illuminated walkways. The pathways are wide and smooth, designed for wheelchair accessibility, and the garden provides free admission for personal care attendants. Accessible restrooms and clear directional signage make the visit easy for everyone. When the weather allows, the Children’s Garden includes a wheelchair-accessible treehouse and sensory-friendly play areas for outdoor breaks.
Sensory-Friendly Theaters
Sometimes a day at the (movie) theater is just what the season calls for. These local theaters make movie magic accessible to everyone, with sensory-friendly showings that welcome all kinds of moviegoers.
This historic Carytown landmark hosts sensory-friendly showings twice a month, designed especially for guests who may need a gentler experience. The lights stay on, the volume is lowered, and kids are encouraged to move, talk, or make noise as needed. The result is a judgment-free atmosphere that celebrates the joy of moviegoing. In addition, it is a low cost alternative to regular movie theaters.
Cinema Café offers similar sensory-friendly screenings with dim lighting and reduced sound. Families can enjoy the movie without worrying about traditional theater etiquette, creating an environment that’s both relaxed and welcoming.
Altria Theater offers a range of accessibility services, including wheelchair-accessible seating with companion tickets, two public elevators that give access to all levels, and assisted-listening devices available at the Concierge Desk. They also provide GalaPro captioning via a mobile app, ASL interpreters by request (with advance notice), Kulture City sensory bags, and a private nursing room.
Libraries
If your family prefers quiet, calm spaces during the colder months, local libraries are a wonderful option. With sensory-friendly story times and early open hours, they’re a cozy way to learn and connect together.
Richmond & Chesterfield County Libraries
Both systems host sensory-friendly story times with smaller groups and flexible pacing, making them perfect for young listeners who benefit from routine and gentle engagement. The Clover Hill and Bon Air branches of Chesterfield County Public Libraries also open early on certain mornings for “sensory hours,” giving families quiet time to browse or read without crowds or noise. Staff are trained in inclusive practices and always ready to make accommodations.
Many of these venues offer planning tools, from sensory guides to crowd calendars, so families can prepare ahead of time. Schedules for sensory friendly events often shift seasonally, so a quick phone call or website check can make all the difference. Packing a few favorite comfort items, noise-reducing headphones, or snacks to help make each outing even more enjoyable.
Richmond’s commitment to accessibility shines year-round, but these colder months are an especially wonderful time to explore what is indoors. Whether it is a quiet morning at the library, an afternoon at the museum, or a fun night of bowling, families can find spaces that celebrate accessibility and make every season one to remember.