The estate's Italian Garden features a massive carved limestone fountain and original terracotta tiles imported from Italy.
The Japanese Garden was designed in 1911 by M.F. Hida, incorporating a cascading waterfall and an arched bridge over a koi pond.
Sallie Dooley was an avid horticulturist who personally oversaw the design of the formal gardens.
The mansion was constructed with a hidden service tunnel network to allow staff to move discreetly between rooms.
The estate remains home to a population of native wildlife that are non-releasable due to injury or habituation.
The carriage house collection includes a 19th-century brougham used by the Dooley family for travel into Richmond.
The mansion's basement holds a rare, original 1890s-era Otis elevator still in its shaft.
The property contains a historic stone mausoleum where the Dooleys are interred.
The arboretum includes several 'Champion Trees' recognized by the state for their exceptional size.
Maymont is a 100-acre historic estate in Richmond, Virginia, bequeathed by James and Sallie Dooley in 1925. The centerpiece is the Romanesque Revival-style Maymont Mansion, completed in 1893, which retains its original gilded-age furnishings. The grounds feature a diverse collection of themed gardens, including Japanese, Italian, and English styles. A dedicated nature center showcases animals native to Virginia, such as black bears, bobcats, and bald eagles. Visitors can explore the Carriage House, which preserves a collection of antique horse-drawn vehicles. The estate sits on a dramatic bluff overlooking the James River, accessible via an extensive network of walking paths. Over 200 species of trees and shrubs are maintained across the arboretum. The property hosts a children's farm providing educational interactions with domestic farm animals.
The elevated overlook in the Italian Garden provides a wide-angle view of the terraces, fountain, and surrounding landscape.
Wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes as the terrain involves significant hills and gravel paths.
Bring a refillable water bottle, as the estate covers a large area with limited drink vendors.
Check the digital map on the website before arriving to prioritize specific garden sections or animal habitats.
Trying to see the entire 100-acre property on foot in a single hour; the steep hill between the mansion and the river requires significant energy.
The mansion and visitor center are closed on Mondays.
Maintain distance from wildlife, stay on marked paths to protect garden beds, and leash pets if permitted in designated areas.
