Monroe Park

A Piece of Richmond History

Tucked away in the heart of Richmond, Monroe Park stands as the city's oldest municipal park, dating back to 1851. This 7.5-acre green space sits in a pentagonal shape, bordered by Belvidere, Franklin, Laurel, and Main Streets, just a mile northwest of the Virginia State Capitol Building.

The park has worn many hats throughout its colorful history. It began its life as the State Fairgrounds, later transformed into a military camp and hospital during the Civil War, before finally settling into its long-term role as a popular recreational haven for Richmonders.

Pathways and Greenery

Wander through Monroe Park and you'll find yourself navigating a thoughtful network of paved paths that radiate from a beautiful cast iron fountain at its center. These walkways weave between open lawns and deciduous trees that provide shade on hot Virginia days.

Time has left its mark on the park in meaningful ways. The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw the addition of various monuments that now dot the landscape, including memorials to historical figures Williams Carter Wickham and Joseph Bryan.

Keep an eye out for the Checkers House, an octagonal pavilion built in 1939 in Art Deco style. This distinctive structure replaced an earlier bandstand and adds character to the park's architectural landscape. Need a pick-me-up? A coffee shop near the central fountain offers drinks and a unique outdoor seating arrangement - both around and on top of the establishment.

Where Community Happens

Today, Monroe Park is integrated into the Virginia Commonwealth University campus, offering a green space where city life slows down a bit.

On any given day, you'll spot VCU students sprawled on blankets with textbooks, hanging in hammocks strung between trees, tossing frisbees, or simply soaking in the atmosphere. It's a living, breathing part of campus life.

The park comes alive with community events year-round. Food truck festivals bring local flavors, vendor markets showcase Richmond's creative spirit, and occasional performances add cultural texture. Sundays sometimes see volunteer groups sharing free produce and vegan meals with anyone who stops by.

Modern Comforts in a Historic Setting

In 2018, the Monroe Park Conservancy led a significant renovation that balanced modern needs with the park's historic character. The freshly paved walkways now make exploring easier for everyone.

You'll find plenty of tables and chairs scattered throughout, great for an outdoor lunch or impromptu study session. The park offers free Wi-Fi too - a thoughtful touch that makes this historic space practical for today's needs.

Four-legged friends are welcome, but they need to stay on leash. One thing to note if you're planning a longer visit: the park doesn't have public restrooms, so plan accordingly.