Traveling parents will lov that admission is free to what is considered a stunning world-class museum. The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts has a large collection of modern art, Asian art, ancient Egyptian art, Fabergé eggs, French impressionist, African and Asian art, a large Tiffany lamp collection, a blown glass piece by Chihuly (crazy beautiful) and the VMFA’s impressive list rolls on. They also have a children’s area where kids can touch and create. Check the VMFA website for their Jazz Thursday events and traveling exhibits. Also look into their audio tours.

If you have the time, don’t miss their lovely restaurant — called Amuse — on the top floor. It’s a little pricey, but serves excellent plates. Also the gift shop is your one-stop-shop for unusual and stunning December holiday gifts.

Open 365 days a year from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursday and Friday until 9 p.m. While admission is free, there is a fee for specialty exhibits.