Virginia War Memorial
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Location
Richmond, Virginia
Address
621 S. Belvidere Street, Richmond
Admission
Free; confirm current details before visiting
Hours
Typically Monday–Saturday, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.; Sunday, noon–4 p.m.
Overlooking the James River and downtown skyline, the Virginia War Memorial is both a solemn place to remember Virginia’s fallen and an active museum and education center. Its open-air Shrine of Memory, glass walls engraved with names, and eternal flame give the grounds a quiet, reflective character; exhibits and programs add personal stories and historical context.[1]
Plan time for both the outdoor memorial and the indoor exhibits. The site includes the Shrine of Memory, a museum, a veterans’ art gallery, a theater, and education spaces. The memorial is at 621 S. Belvidere Street in Richmond, Virginia; hours and access can change, so check the official visit information before setting out.[2][3]
Plan a trip to Virginia War Memorial
Why visit the Virginia War Memorial?
This is a place to encounter Virginia’s military history through names and individual stories, rather than through monuments alone. The Shrine invites a quiet walk and reflection; museum displays, documentary films, artifacts, photographs, and oral histories broaden the visit with accounts of service and sacrifice.[4]
The grounds also offer a striking view across the James River toward the city. Visitors can take in the architecture and landscape at their own pace, or look for a scheduled ceremony, tour, or educational program. The experience is contemplative, and the subject matter may be emotional for some visitors.
Start here
Begin at the Shrine of Memory, where the names are engraved on stone and glass. Then visit the museum exhibits to explore the stories and historical context behind the memorial. If time allows, pause at the grounds’ overlooks and walk through the landscaped outdoor spaces.
What to see and do
Use the memorial as one stop in a wider look at Virginia’s museums and exhibits, then check which other collections in Richmond fit your interests.
The memorial honors Virginians who served across multiple conflicts. For a broader exploration of the Commonwealth’s military past, consider the state’s historic sites and battlefields.
Explore more of the capital city’s museums, historic districts, and riverfront after your visit to the memorial.
Explore another Richmond museum devoted to the history and varied experiences of the Civil War.
History and significance
During World War II, nearly 10,000 Virginians serving in the U.S. Armed Forces died. In 1950, the Virginia General Assembly authorized a memorial to honor them. By its dedication on February 29, 1956, the design also commemorated Virginians killed in the Korean War.[5]
Architects Samuel J. Collins and his nephew Richard E. Collins designed the Shrine of Memory as an open pavilion combining modern design with classical influences. Its glass walls set the engraved names against views of Richmond and the James River. The sculpture Memory, by Leo F. Friedlander, stands beside the eternal flame.[6]
The Shrine has expanded over time to include Virginians killed in later conflicts. The memorial’s official site describes close to 12,000 names honored there, arranged by county or city and then alphabetically. The grounds have also grown into a museum and education center, with spaces for exhibits, archives, veterans’ art, recorded stories, classes, and public programs.[7][8]
Planning a visit
The memorial is located at 621 S. Belvidere Street in Richmond. The Virginia Department of Veterans Services lists typical hours as Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m.–4 p.m., and Sunday, noon–4 p.m.; it also lists holiday closures. Because hours, building access, and events can change, confirm current details with the official site before visiting.[9]
The Shrine and interior exhibits offer different experiences, so allow time for both if they are open during your visit. Check the official calendar for ceremonies, tours, educational programs, and other events. The memorial’s official website is the best source for current visitor information and any changes to access.[10]
Nearby attractions
American Civil War Museum
A Richmond museum exploring the Civil War and its history.
Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia
Continue exploring Virginia history and culture at this Richmond museum.
Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site
Visit the home and learn about the life and legacy of Richmond businesswoman and civil rights leader Maggie L. Walker.
Virginia Museum of History & Culture
Explore exhibitions and collections focused on Virginia’s history and culture.
Travel books and maps: Browse related Virginia travel books and maps on Amazon
References
- ↑ Welcome to the Virginia War Memorial, Virginia War Memorial, Virginia War Memorial Foundation. Retrieved October 24, 2026.
- ↑ Virginia War Memorial, Virginia Department of Veterans Services, Commonwealth of Virginia. Retrieved October 24, 2026.
- ↑ Special Spaces at the Memorial, Virginia War Memorial, Virginia War Memorial Foundation. Retrieved October 24, 2026.
- ↑ Welcome to the Virginia War Memorial, Virginia War Memorial, Virginia War Memorial Foundation. Retrieved October 24, 2026.
- ↑ History and Architecture, Virginia War Memorial, Virginia War Memorial Foundation. Retrieved October 24, 2026.
- ↑ History and Architecture, Virginia War Memorial, Virginia War Memorial Foundation. Retrieved October 24, 2026.
- ↑ Shrine of Memory, Virginia War Memorial, Virginia War Memorial Foundation. Retrieved October 24, 2026.
- ↑ History and Architecture, Virginia War Memorial, Virginia War Memorial Foundation. Retrieved October 24, 2026.
- ↑ Virginia War Memorial, Virginia Department of Veterans Services, Commonwealth of Virginia. Retrieved October 24, 2026.
- ↑ Welcome to the Virginia War Memorial, Virginia War Memorial, Virginia War Memorial Foundation. Retrieved October 24, 2026.