Kate & Kate + 8’s First Free Richmond Adventure: VA Historical Society
Summer 2010 is gonna be a fun one, with the help of Kate & Kate plus eight. That’s right: Two moms (with the same one-syllable name) and eight offspring. Some of these adventures we’ll have together, some apart. Our goal is to bring you at least one weekly FREE or LOW-COST way to have fun in Richmond.
Trip One: VA Historical Society.
428 North Boulevard, Richmond, Virginia 23220
Mail: P.O. Box 7311, 23221-0311 | Phone: 804.358.4901
Tuesday–Saturday 10–5 | Sunday 1–5 (galleries & shop only)
Cost: FREE
Recommended Ages: 5+
How We Did It: One mom, three kids ages 3-8
It was a sultry-hot morning, the first day of summer vacation in fact, and a trip down to the Boulevard, into the VA Historical Society was a great escape from the blazing rays of the sun.
We entered into a marbled hall, guards standing at the sides, and I admit I was a bit worried at how my hooligans—aged three, five, and eight, would behave in this beautiful, historic venue. Unfortunately, this hall ECHOES. Luckily our host greeted us and quickly ushered us into an area that was exquisite and less, how shall we say, echo-ey.
I was amazed at the sheer number of VA Historical Society Exhibits. It’s pretty fascinating to see this much history packed into one building. The first room was an amazing array of odd and interesting stuff that’s been donated to the museum: it’s called Bizarre Bits. And it lives up to it’s name. A wreath made of hair, the bullet that killed the first confederate war soldier, and a funky contraption that looked like an apple-slicer-peeler that alleviated headaches. Yikes. This area was much more interesting for my eight-year-old and I; the little kids are too young to really appreciate this—but it’s really worth relishing if you have the time.
The Silver in Virginia exhibit, a long-term exhibit, was truly sparkling, but not a great venue for my crazy kids. So I had to admire it out of the corner of my eye as they raced onto the next exhibit.
Being a lover of people stories, I particularly enjoyed Head and Tales
This is a discover of the tales of the lives of five who led incredible lives. A must-see.
Heading downstairs (and I’m skipping a lot, because, let’s face it, the kids would not let me linger!) We found the place the kiddos just loved: The Story of Virginia, complete with old-time cabin, Indian spearheads, and other cool stuff that they were actually allowed to touch (gently). They loved dressing up in the colonial wear—the hats were awesome. They especially loved the touch-screen computers that allowed them to quiz themselves on what they learned.
Being digital-addicts, they love anything touch-screen, but as we tested (and re-tested!) on many of the questions they found they really were learning a bit about Virginia history. And still having fun. They started getting pretty rowdy, and their patience was wearing thin, so we had to move on after about an hour. But it was a great hour, and I want to return with my five-and-eight-year-olds, who will have a bit more patience and can explore on their own.
We also thought the Child Labor in Virginia photos were interesting. Heck, maybe we should reinstitute? KIDDING. Kind of.
My three-year-old WAS able to sit down for a few seconds to be fascinated with the street-car we actually were able to climb on and take a seat in. We learned that Richmond had the first electric streetcar in the nation! Had no idea. Wish we still had ‘em-cool way to see the city, I bet. But I think next time we’ll come when she’s napping; it’s hard to appreciate all that beauty when you’re just a little tike.
Can’t get there to visit? There are lots of free cool online exhibits, too.
Week 2: Kate and Kate Plus Our Eight Get into Some Paint at Whole Foods
by Kate Semp, mom of 5
With all the incredibly hot days we have already had this summer many of us are looking for cool activities to do with our families. And there’s the added bonus if it is free!
One great activity is the Half Pints Kids Club at Whole Foods – Short Pump. Every Tuesday afternoon join Adrian for fun craft and cooking activities in the cafe. I am a regular Whole Food shopper but have not taken them up on their numerous events so last week Kate Hall and her 3 plus my 5 and I gave this event a shot. It was great!
The craft – paint your own t-shirt for Independence Day. Whole Foods provided all the materials including the shirts for about 30 kids. My kids had a great time. Some assistance was needed even by my 8yo so it got a bit challenging trying to help my 4 and keep an eye on the tiresome 2yo (note recommended ages). Then add paint and my need for clean I have to admit I got a bit stressed. But the kids were dressed appropriately, Adrianna was so incredibly pleasant, calm and helpful and most importantly my kids had fun.
While their shirts dried the kids had a snack, also provided by Whole Foods, and while they ate they listened to some stories.
Rating: I give this event 5 kids (out of my 5) and some deep mommy breaths!
Half Pint Kids Club, Whole Foods Short Pump
Every Tuesday
Snack is included. Recommended for children ages 3-8. Registration is required. Stop by customer service or call 364-4050 to sign up your child. Since art and cooking projects can be messy, please remember to dress for a mess!
-3:30pm - 4:30pm | Details
-July 6th: Weavings
-July 13th: Hosted by HappyFamily. Making worms & dirt!
-July 20th: Pet Rocks (painting, so dress for a mess)
-July 27th Self Portraits
Week 3: Yorktown Beach
by Kate Semp, Richmond mom of 5 
I like taking a vacation. If I plan it just right I can do most the work before I get there and then have a good time. And sometimes it does not take much just a simple change of pace.
One easy and fun day trip is down to Yorktown Beach. Without the hassle of packing for a week, little traffic and next to no costs it’s the perfect day trip for Richmond moms. This is also a great trip to do alone or add some of your favorite friends. A great thing about having other moms and kids along is that between us all we probably have remembered everything from extra diapers to a change of clothes to a first aid kit!
I try to leave around 10:00AM so I have missed the morning traffic. I fill up a cooler so I have snacks and drinks for the day and pack lunch on top. I throw in a few favorite beach toys, a beach chair and my already stocked pool bag and we are set for a great day! When we get there we can picnic at the Beach Picnic Area and then hit the water. There are also restrooms and showers.
If you plan on avoiding any evening traffic leaving by 3pm enables your kids to get a not too late nap and gets you home in time for dinner. But I also like to stay until sunset because I love the amazing views and colors as the sun sets on the Colonial Parkway.
There are also shops and restaurants at Riverwalk Landing. And, of course if you are done with the beach and want to check out some history hop of the free trolley!
Add ons that will cost you a bit more.
I love this trip for friends that I don’t see all that often. Usually we don’t live close by so we gather at a coffee shop. We get a mid-morning boost and it’s an opportunity for one last bathroom reminder. We also let the kids move around and ride with their friends.
Another splurge, as a William and Mary graduate, I just have to stop in Williamsburg and get a hot Holly at one of the delis.
Rating: 5 out 5! This really is one of my favorite summer things to do because it’s water, sand and spontaneity (with a little mom planning for organization) which I think are the best parts of summer!
Directions
From Richmond - Take I-64 East to 242B (Yorktown/Colonial Parkway). Continue on Route 199 East and turn right onto the Colonial Parkway to Yorktown. Follow the Parkway approximately 10 miles until it ends at the Battlefield. Turn left on Ballard Street and follow down to the waterfront. Riverwalk Landing will be on your left.
Week 4: A Visit to the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA)
by Kate Semp, Richmond mom of 5
This event took some planning which I botched. I planned to be at VMFA when they opened which is at 10am (daily). My kids were to have had breakfast and a heavy snack before we arrived. That way we had a couple of hours before they were “dying of hunger” Unfortunately I could not find anything appropriate to wear in the crazy heat to wear so we got there about an hour later than I planned.
On the car ride we took the time to discuss museum ettiquette. No running, stay together, no touching, no pointing and we use our inside voices at all times*. You look with your eyes and hands by your side. (I do not tell my kids to keep their hands in their pocket. Do you know what happens when you trip and fall and your hands in your pocket? You fall on your face. Take my, “I have 5 kids”, word for it.
I opted to pay $3 for parking in the covered garage. I knew it would be easy and close and with this crazy heat I’ll take the shade. If you are museum member the parking is free. I had my double stroller and my 2yo WAS NOT ALLOWED OUT! But he did whine, “let me OUUUUUUUUUUUUUUT!” the whole time*.
As you enter VMFA you are handed a museum guide. My son took charge of that which upset his sisters so we had to get a couple more. Unfortunately the collection my son was most eager to see is not yet installed (Ancient Collection - Greek, Roman and Egyptian). I took a moment to get my bearings and figure out the most family-friendly route. There is a family guide in the main hall which I grabbed for next time. My kids were so excited by the large sculpture in the hall, Splotch #22 by Sol Lewitt, and it was a great time to do a quick “do not touch” reminder. They also loved looking through the large glass windows out to the sculpture garden.
Our first exploration was into the Focus Gallery where the exhibit “Matisse, Picasso and Modern Art in Paris: The T. Catesby Jones Collections at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts and the University of Virginia Art Museum” is temporarily visiting. I showed them how to read the information by each piece. My son tried to read everything but the girls were moving at a much faster pace. What I found most interesting is that the kids were very keen to know what media was used for various pieces. On the other side of the Focus Gallery is the art classrooms and an incredible Lego mosaic by Richmonder Brian Korte (@brickworkz). According to Brian the mosaic is made up of 50,000 LEGO parts, 1,320 signatures, 6 colors! 
After backtracking through the Focus Gallery we headed up to the 2nd Floor where my kids were enthralled by the Native American collection and the Late 20th Century-Early 21st Collections. From the concrete uses of the Native American items to the more abstract of the modern pieces they were intrigued by the idea of things that seemed so common yet foreign. My kids were confused by the furniture currently in the Marble Hall but it was a great opportunity to discuss what is art and why we all have different thoughts and reactions to what we see. The only time Little Dude was calm was pointing out the various animals when we wandered through the English Hunting Animals exhibit.
We made it through the First and Second Levels in an hour and a half. They were hungry and Little Dude was about to lose his mind. There was no way I was going to take on more. But they are eager to go back and see the rest especially as the other collections are in place.
When I was at the VMFA I checked-in on Foursquare and posted to Twitter. By doing so you can discover tips that others have left and also get great suggestions from frequent VMFA visitors. @iknowtiffany sent me a message about the Education Resource Room in the Pauly Center which across form the Museum through the Sculpture Garden. Not only is this where many classes are held but there are toys, puppets, books and free posters. My kids loved it and it seems like the perfect rainy day hideaway.
The VMFA has an incredible number of classes for all ages, my kids wanted to sign up immediately, which are discounted for members. If you include the savings in parking a membership to the VMFA is a great deal!
Rating: 3 1/2 kids. My 2 yo really was tough. My 3yo did OK but a couple of hours was pushing it. For my 3 older kids, ages 6-8, this is a great outing. It was wonderful to enjoy each other’s perspectives and opened up the opportunity for some great conversations. And for me, that’s what art and time with my kids is all about.
Rating system is based on how much each child enjoyed it and how well I managed to hold up during the experience.
Still time to take advantage of
Educational Resource Room
Exploration Station
Tiffany Color and Light
Explore the art of Louis Comfort Tiffany. Join us before or after you tour the galleries to make an original craft inspired by Tiffany works.
Jun 7 – Aug 13
Fridays, 11 am – 4 pm | Free
All ages (children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult).
No registration required | Walk-ins welcome
Located in the Pauley Center Educational Resource Room
Capacity: 35 (If the class is full, please wait in the lobby or return at another time.)
Week 5: For low-cost fun, Richmond kids dig Maymont
by Kate Willoughby Hall
Last week’s “Kate & Kate + 8” Adventure with our eight kiddos ages 9-and-under landed us at Maymont.
Specifically, we opted for the coolness of the Maymont Nature Center for most of the morning. At just $16 entry fee for all of us (adults are $3, kids $2 and children under 4 are FREE) this was a fabulous investment. 
As our eight raced inside to see the wonders that awaited them, we breathed a sigh of relief that they’d all be contained (and entertained) for a bit. 
From one year to age nine, they loved the fish, turtles, eels, and especially the sea otters. 
We probably spent the most time in the back of the nature center watching those cute little critters bounce in and out of the water, sending bubbles behind them in their quest to entertain us (or so it seemed). 
We were lucky enough to have a guide who explained the fascinating box turtle and allowed us to touch it’s hard shell. 
I was surprised this place wasn’t packed full of people, although if you could have heard our eight you’re probably glad you weren’t there when we were. They were bubbling over with excitement, and I’m pretty sure they didn’t even realize they were learning while they were having fun. 
When I looked at the map of Maymont and the expanse that we could’ve covered, it was pretty amazing that we spent two hours in just one of Maymont’s corners. We did venture outside for a shady spot to enjoy a fine picnic lunch provide by Ukrops Homestyle Foods. We had all the favorites: chicken salad, macaroni salad, white house rolls, chicken tenders, and of course bananas and cookies to top it off. (Thanks Ukrops! You saved us some serious time, allowing us to play more.)
The kids were braver than the two Kate’s as they hurled themselves down the massive mountain outside the Nature Center, nestling themselves on a rock and finding a muddy stream along the way. 
After running in circles in the hot sun, they tired and slugged up the hill. (Note: this makes for good napping later.)
Long after our six friends left my kiddos talked me into ice cream at the Maymont Cafe, and we stole a few moments of summer together before heading home.
Summer Fun - Did You Get it All In? There is Still Time!
For some in the Richmond area summer has come to an end. But for many there are still many warm days of vacation ahead. Have you taken advantage of all the great opportunities we have in the area? Here is our list of fun things to do. Have a suggestion - share it with us!
Historical Society - August Afternoons, Tuesday - Sunday 2:00pm - 5:00pm
VMFA - Free Admission
Yorktown Beach
Maymont
Rompy’s Summer Concert to Benefit CJSTUF
Movies
•Regal Cinemas Free Family Film Festival, Tuesdays and Wednesday
•Bow Tie Cinemas Kids Club - Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 10:00am (Doors open at (9:30am)
•Community Movie Night presented by Bon Secours
•Ellwood’s & Tricycle Garden’s Movie in the Garden
Richmond Flying Squirrels Kids Club - Free Tickets to Kids Club Games
Challenge Discovery Fearless Fridays
Kids Clubs at Richmond area malls/stores (clubs may have small costs or age restrictions)
•Whole Foods Half Pints Kids Club every Tuesday 3:30pm-4:30pm n
•Chesterfield Towne Center Club Mom, First Tuesday on the month in the Food Court, 9-11am and Free Breakfast
•Short Pump Town Center Short Pump Pals, Second Tuesdays of month in the Food Court, 11:00am
•Virginia Center Common Kidgits Club,
•The Shops at Willow Lawn, Mommy and Me and Daddies Too, Second Wednesday of the month (aptil-Oct) 10-1130
•Home Depot Kids Workshops, first Saturday of month, 9:00am to noon
•Lowes Build and Grow Program, 2nd and 4th Saturday of month, 10:00am - 11:00am
Kids Bowl Free Summer Programs AMF Shrader Lanes and Sunset Lanes
Fruit Picking
•Swift Creek Berry Farm
•Chiles Peach Orchard
•Carter Mountain Orchard
•Hill Top Berry Farm and Winery
•Spring Valley Orchard
•Chesterfield Berry Farm
•Gallmeyer Farms
Belle Isle/Pony Pasture/Texas Beach - pack a picnic and find your favorite spot along the river.
Farmer’s Markets - this is a great list of local markets. Take your kids and let them try something new, ask questions about farming, get to know the neighbors/families behind our local foods.
Please confirms hours and costs with individual business as these may change without notice.
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