Blake Walsh

20 Best Things to Do in Midlothian, VA

  • Published 2023/03/06

Found in Chesterfield County in Virginia, Midlothian is an unincorporated, historic village with a rich coal mining and railroad history.

Midlothian has the first recorded commercial coal mine in the entire country and the first commercial railroad in Virginia.

Most residents living in this city enjoy the typical suburban lifestyle with its relaxing environment and peaceful setting.

This city is also known for its ethnic diversity and historical richness, dating as far back as the 17th century.

Here are the best things to do in Midlothian, VA:

Learn about the First Coal Miners at Midlothian Mines Park

Grove shaft ruins at Midlothian Mines Park

Morgan Riley, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Midlothian Mines Park opened in 2004 and houses ruins of mines, spanning over 44 acres.

This establishment is a primary industrial site in the United States, a park and a preserve.

Its surrounding woodlands make this park an excellent place for a leisurely walk with a refreshing breeze blowing through the trees.

Found just minutes from the city center, this park also contains remnants of the first coal miners in the town.

Join year-round tours, where you explore the entire park and the various exhibits detailing the mining history of Midlothian.

Go Golfing at Windy Hill Golf Course and Sports Complex

Established in 1989, the Windy Hill Golf Course and Sports Complex provides unmatched golfing experiences at the highest point of Chesterfield County.

Though this establishment initially began as a mini-golf course, its success has allowed them to expand over the years.

Found on the western end of Midlothian, this golfing complex has various activities for people of all ages.

Adults can try traditional golfing on their nine-hole golf course, while teenagers and kids can check out their mini-golf course and batting cages.

Go-karting is another activity you can try, but wear the proper safety gear!

First-time golfers can also join lessons where they can get learn the basics before going on the course.

Whether you’re picking up a golf club for the first time or are a seasoned player, you will have a great time at Windy Hill Golf Course and Sports Complex.

Enjoy Outdoor Activities at Canopy Adventure Park

Canopy Adventure Park is an outdoor adventure park featuring outdoor activities!

This park has the best rope courses and zip lines in Virginia.

You can check out several courses with varying levels, from beginner to advanced, that best suit your skill level.

Likewise, you can mix and match, personalize, and conquer the course of your choice within the 2.5-hour time limit.

If you’re looking for adventure, stop by Canopy Adventure Park!

Drink Unique Craft Beers at Steam Bell Beer Works

Steam Bell Beer Works opened in 2016 as the first craft brewery in Chesterfield County.

Specializing in craft beers, this establishment aims to foster a community of beer lovers, giving them a space to wind down and enjoy their beverages.

They have other drinks available on their menu, including wine, ciders, cocktails, and others on tap.

You can even check out their food truck to pair your drink with a tasty meal!

This brewery also only uses the finest ingredients to ensure an excellent quality drink just for you.

Grab a pint or two at ​​Steam Bell Beer Works.

Spend the Day at Robious Landing Park

One of the most popular parks in the city, Robious Landing Park, provides outdoor recreational activities for everyone.

With a 3.4-mile hiking trail, you can get your morning exercise or stroll through the various trees that surround the park.

You can also try kayaking or canoeing from the ramp along the riverbank.

A diverse range of birds also flies overhead, drawing birdwatchers and nature lovers.

Likewise, you can see different types of fish swimming in the river.

Enjoy Indoor Rock Climbing at Peak Experiences

Peak Experiences is the premier indoor rock climbing facility in Midlothian, open to everyone.

With over a hundred different routes, belaying, bouldering, and more, this establishment will keep you entertained for hours!

First-time climbers will undergo briefings to ensure their safety.

Likewise, an experienced climber will guide them.

Children can also try rock climbing on the smaller padded walls suitable for their size and skill level.

You can also try belaying, bouldering, and roped climbing.

Purchase Unique Items at Market Bazaar

The Market Bazaar sells unique and antique items.

Whether you’re looking for giant furniture pieces to small collectibles, this flea market carries a wide range of items.

More than a hundred vendors sell a wide range of products throughout the store.

Browse the selections at your leisure.

You can find gifts, souvenirs, and house decorations at the Market Bazaar in Midlothian.

Go Bowling at King Pin Lanes

King Pin Lanes boasts 32 bowling alleys, an arcade room, pool tables, and more games for the whole family.

This bowling alley caters to all ages, even small children who wish to try bowling for the first time.

Challenge your friends to some bowling, and head to their arcade room for some classic fun.

Otherwise, switch to billiards or beer pong for a different sport.

Their restaurant also serves snacks and meals to keep you full and energized throughout your stay.

Unleash Your Inner Artist at Paint ‘N Play RVA

This small art studio provides tutorials to create your crafts and designs!

Paint ‘N Play teaches woodworking, painting, and crafting resin charcuterie boards, pendants, geodes, coasters, and more.

They provide all the tools and paint you’ll need to create your masterpiece.

You can bring them home once they’re set.

Sign up for different tutorials and sessions depending on your chosen medium.

Book your reservation before they run out of slots.

Put on Your Roller Skates at Skate-A-Way

This family-owned and operated skating rink lets you practice and polish your skating skills.

Both beginners and advanced skaters are welcome.

They also have the option to join skating lessons to learn a new trick or two.

If you don’t have your pair of roller skates, you can easily rent from them for a low price.

Skate-A-Way is also known for hosting big groups.

Whether it’s a birthday party or team-building, the rink is terrific at building rapport and ensuring a great time!

Don’t forget your helmet and kneepads before stepping inside the skating rink.

Watch a Movie at Regal Westchester Commons

There’s nothing like ending the day exploring Midlothian by watching a good movie at the local cinema.

Regal Westchester Commons is a popular movie theater in the area and the go-to theater for everyone looking to watch the latest blockbusters.

The theater prides itself on its many convenient amenities, such as comfortable seating, a high-quality sound system, and state-of-the-art screen technology.

With more than a dozen screens available and a wide selection of movies to choose from, Regal Westchester Commons is the premier destination for locals and travelers looking for a fun night out with friends and family.

It’s also conveniently located 3.5 miles east of downtown Midlothian, giving you access to other establishments like restaurants and shops.

The theater’s concession offers a wide variety of cinema bites and refreshments, including the all-time favorite popcorn, an assortment of candies, and all the soft drinks you can imagine

Frome couple dates to movie nights with friends, Regal Westchester Commons is the perfect place to watch a good flick while indulging in movie snacks.

Sip and Chill at Sidecar Cocktail Lounge

Are you in the mood for a great cocktail?

After spending a day exploring Midlothian and its offerings, there’s a lot of reason to kick back and enjoy a peaceful night downtown while sipping on your favorite concoctions.

If that’s the case, look no further than Sidecar Cocktail Lounge.

This trendy lounge is known for two things: creativity and uniqueness.

These descriptions match the place and its drinks—the menu features an extensive selection of classic mixes and unique blends to go along with a variety of craft beers, spirits, and wines.

The lounge is also very welcoming, offering a cozy and inviting atmosphere that sets the calm and peaceful vibes the moment you enter.

With comfortable seating, perfectly dim lighting, and a great selection of music, there are many reasons to spend some time unwinding at Sidecar Cocktail Lounge.

Watch a Sports Event at XL Sports World

Nothing can beat watching a sporting event to make the most of your trip.

In Midlothian, XL Sports World is the go-to destination for avid sports enthusiasts looking to spectate a local game of any field sport.

XL Sports World is an indoor sports complex that hosts various sporting events, including local soccer tournaments, inter-school football games, and even a casual dodgeball match.

In addition, XL Sports World also offers summer sports camps and clinics for kids to join.

If you bring kids during your trip, you can let them join these programs and even have them participate in little leagues.

There are also leagues and tournaments for adults—you can register your team for the various games held at XL Sports world every year.

Of course, if you’re more of a spectator, you can simply sit back and enjoy the games.

Whatever you choose, XL Sports World will always have something in store for you.

Get Active at Woodlake Swim & Racquet Club

Located 8.7 miles south of downtown Midlothian, Woodlake Swim & Racquet Club is ready to provide various fitness and recreation opportunities.

The club offers a variety of fun outdoor activities such as tennis, swimming, and fitness classes.

The club has a beautiful outdoor pool, tennis courts, and a fully-equipped fitness center.

They even offer a farmers bazaar where you can buy locally-grown produce.

The club offers memberships for individuals and groups, as well as a variety of social gatherings and related events throughout the year.

Woodlake Swim & Racquet Club is the best place to go if you want to break a sweat and stay healthy and fit during your trip.

So, make sure to drop by when you’re in Midlothian.

Let the Kids Learn and Play at the Children’s Museum Chesterfield

Are you bringing the kids with you during your trip?

If so, the Children’s Museum Chesterfield should be at the top of your itinerary.

This museum is filled with opportunities for kids to learn and have fun.

It features a variety of interactive exhibits and activities designed to nurture and stimulate imagination and creativity—all of which are perfect for developing kids.

The exhibits focus on various subjects, including arts, science, history, and language.

The friendly and accommodating staff are ready to provide a fun and educational experience for kids who visit the museum.

Some of the museum’s special events and programs include summer camps, workshops, and even birthday parties.

Other Things to Do Nearby

Visit the Boyhood Home of Thomas Jefferson at Historic Tuckahoe

Exterior of Thomas Jefferson house

James Shelton32, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

In the neighboring city of Richmond, roughly 20 minutes east of Midlothian, sits the iconic boyhood home of Thomas Jefferson, also known as Historic Tuckahoe.

This National Historic Landmark carries so much cultural value, information, and tradition.

Built in the early 1700s, this home has been preserved and opened to the public to give visitors a glimpse into the past.

On the grounds of this facility, you’ll find the well-known gardens of Tuckahoe.

Facade of the Historic Tuckahoe

Harrisonkenneth, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Thanks to the blooming flowers that pop with color, these gardens fill out the “finest early 18th-century plantation homes” in America.

Your tour of Historic Tuckahoe will also cover the history of the enslaved people and Native Americans of the period.

There’s so much to learn and see at Historic Tuckahoe so book your tour now.

Play Pinball at the Richmond Pinball Collective, Inc.

Between Midlothian and Richmond, the Richmond Pinball Collective, Inc. houses the biggest collection of pinball machines in the entire Virginia region.

You can also try playing with the center’s 25-30 pinball machines.

If you’re trying to get better at pinball, sign up for their pinball classes and learn tips and tricks to win.

When you’re confident in your pinball skills, compete in their leagues and tournaments to win the grand prize.

Try Axe Throwing at Stumpy’s Hatchet House

Though a dangerous yet thrilling sport, ax throwing is an exciting experience you should try.

Stumpy’s Hatchet House is found in Richmond, Virginia, 17 minutes away from Midlothian.

They offer hatchet-throwing opportunities for their visitors.

This outdoor entertainment venue is open whether it’s raining or sunny!

If you’re ax throwing for the first time, ask for a professional ax thrower to guide and help you hit the bullseye!

They also have cold beer and snacks to keep you energized and refreshed.

Keep in mind that only adults over 18 can throw axes for safety reasons.

Test Your Bravery at Eerie Nights Ghost Tours

If you love the paranormal and spooky, check out Eerie Nights Ghost Tours in Richmond.

This establishment offers theatrical storytelling performances and walking tours that send shivers down your spine.

Though this company targets mature audiences, children can join the tours, provided they’re with an adult.

On the walking tour, guides will take you to Richmond’s scariest and most haunted sites.

You’ll also learn about its history and how ghosts and spirits have made a home in these places.

Your very own ghoul guide will lead you during this 90-minute tour; wear comfortable walking shoes.

This experience is not for the faint of heart.

Solve Clues and Escape at Breakout Games

Breakout Games is the #1 Escape Room in all of Richmond with their immersive and entertaining breakout rooms.

Unleash your inner Sherlock Holmes as you try to solve puzzles and escape the room within 60 minutes.

Each room has a unique challenge where you can work independently or with a team to solve the mysteries.

You can choose to solve a kidnapping, explore a mysterious island, or solve missing person cases while you try not to crack under pressure.

Do you have what it takes? Drop by Breakout Games!

Final Thoughts

Despite its peaceful setting, Midlothian has so much history packed in a little city.

Its surrounding and neighboring city also make great stops if you’re looking to venture outside the town.

Your visit to the iconic historical sites will fill out your trip.

If you’re traveling alone or with the whole clan, tour the city and its historic sites together.

Book your Midlothian trip today!

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