About the Executive Mansion
Designed by architect Alexander Parris in the Federal style, the mansion sits close to the site of a modest frame structure that served as the home to Virginia's governors after the capital moved from Williamsburg to Richmond in 1780.
The mansion's original grounds included a separate cook house, smokehouse, stable, ice house, carriage and cannon houses. Three of these original buildings remain today including the main house, cook house and the carriage house. The mansion also includes private living quarters for the First Family.
This executive residence is both a Virginia and a National Historic Landmark, and has had a number of renovations and expansions during the 20th century.
The mansion has hosted a wide range of dignitaries including His Royal Highness Prince Albert Edward, Prince of Wales, who later became King Edward VII; Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II; President Rutherford B. Hayes, President Theodore Roosevelt, Prime Minister Winston Churchill, aviator Charles Lindbergh and Senator Barack Obama, who later became President.
The executive residence is located within the historic gates of Capitol Square, a park area that includes the State Capitol, the Bell Tower, Patrick Henry Building, Old City Hall, and several monuments to Virginia history.
Virginia's First Family
Citizens' Advisory Council
The Citizens' Advisory Council on Furnishing and Interpreting the Executive Mansion (CAC) was formed during the administration of the 61st Governor of the Commonwealth, Linwood Holton. Since its founding, members of the CAC have worked with the First Ladies of Virginia to promote a greater understanding and awareness of the history and significance of the Executive Mansion.
Plan your visit
The Executive Mansion has suspended all tours until further notice. Your health and safety is our top priority. A resume date is not yet available. We look forward to welcoming visitors again in the future.
Join Us
Free tours of the Executive Mansion are available for individuals and groups throughout the year on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday between 10:00am - 12:00 noon and 2:00pm - 4:00pm by appointment only. An experienced docent will guide your tour and teach you about the Executive Mansion's history. Many of our docents have volunteered here under several Governors and hold a wealth of information about the grounds. We look forward to your visit.
Tours last approximately 30 minutes
Reservations
Tour reservations must be made a minimum of two weeks in advance. To maximize the tour experience, large groups (over 25) will be given separate tour times. School groups are welcome.
Tours are subject to change and may be canceled without notice due to unexpected events.
Accessibility
The Executive Mansion is fully accessible to visitors with special needs. Please contact us at executivemansion@governor.virginia.gov to make appropriate accommodations.
Additional Information
- Conversation should be kept to whisper level and please set cell phones to vibrate.
- Food, drinks, and chewing gum are not allowed in the Executive Mansion.
- Video recorders, over-sized book bags, aerosol containers, guns, ammunition, fireworks, electric stun guns, mace, martial arts weapons/devices, or knives of any size are prohibited from the Executive Mansion.
- Small personal items such as purses and camera bags are allowed.
Location and Parking
The Executive Mansion is located in Capitol Square, the entrance of which is at 9th and Grace Streets. There is no public parking available within the grounds. Parking can be found nearby at the following:
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Lots and Decks
Paid parking lots and garages are located nearby on 8th and Grace Street and 7th and Marshall Streets. Maps of nearby parking lots and decks are available, as well as rates for these areas.
