Visit & Explore

Plan Your Visit

Step inside and explore artifacts, photographs, and stories that reflect the heart of Mathews County. Find our location, hours, parking, and accessibility details to help plan a comfortable and enjoyable visit.

Hours

The Mathews Museum is open to the public Tuesday - Friday from 10AM - 4PM and Saturday 10AM - 2PM

We occasionally open for special programs and community events. Any additional open days and times will be listed on our Event Calendar and shared on our social media channels.

Admission is always free, with a suggested donation of $5 to support our exhibits and programs. We encourage you to take your time and enjoy your visit.

Please note that hours may be adjusted for special events or inclement weather. For the most up-to-date information, check our website or social media before your visit.

Location

The museum is located in the heart of historic Mathews Court House at:

Mathews Museum
200 Main Street
Mathews, VA 23109

We’re right along Main Street, a short walk from local shops, restaurants, and the historic courthouse green.

If you’re visiting from out of town, consider making a day of it—explore the nearby waterfront, browse local galleries, or enjoy lunch at a café before or after your museum visit.

For directions or accessibility information, visit our Accessibility section or Contact Us.

Parking & Transportation

Free street parking is available directly in front of the museum and along Main Street. Please observe any posted signs when choosing a parking space.

While spaces are not formally designated as accessible, many are level and located very close to the museum entrance, making access easier for visitors with mobility needs.

Mathews County does not have a formal public transit system, but local ride services may be available by appointment. Bicycles are welcome, and visitors are welcome to secure bikes near the building where appropriate.

Traveling with a group? Visit our Group Visits section for information on scheduling your visit.

Accessibility

The Mathews Museum welcomes all visitors and is committed to creating a comfortable, inclusive environment. Below is an overview of our accessibility features to help you prepare for your visit.

Service Animals

Service animals are welcome in all public spaces in accordance with ADA guidelines. Service animals must be trained to perform specific tasks related to a person’s disability. Emotional support animals are permitted.

Mobility Access

The museum is on a single level and is wheelchair accessible. Public entrances, galleries, and restrooms are accessible to visitors using mobility devices.

Rest Areas

Seating is available in the museum, including in the Media Room, which can offer a quieter space to rest during your visit.

Visitors with Sensory, Hearing, or Vision Needs

We are a small, volunteer-led museum and do not yet offer assistive listening devices, ASL interpretation, Braille or large-print guides, or formal sensory guides. We hope to add more accessibility resources in the future.

If you have specific questions or needs, please contact us in advance so we can do our best to support your visit.

Food & Beverage

Covered drinks are welcome in the museum. We kindly ask that food not be eaten inside the exhibit areas in order to help protect our collections.

Additional Support

For questions or accommodation requests, contact us at info@mathewsmuseum.org or call (804) 505-1277. Advance notice is appreciated for any specialized assistance.

Group Visits

We are excited to welcome school groups, clubs, and other organizations to the Mathews Museum. Group visits are available by appointment only.

To schedule a group visit, please email info@mathewsmuseum.org with:

  • Group name
  • Group size
  • Preferred visit date
  • Preferred arrival time

Guided tours may be available depending on staff and volunteer availability. We will confirm details with you by email.

Things to Do

During your visit, groups can explore:

  • Historic General Store Exhibit – Step into a recreated local general store filled with artifacts from Mathews’ past.
  • Rotating Exhibits – Discover changing displays that highlight different aspects of Mathews County history and culture.
  • Guided Tours – When available, volunteers can provide a more in-depth look at the collections.

Chaperone Policy

All children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. For school or youth groups, we recommend at least one adult chaperone for every 8–10 children.

Museum Guidelines

  • Please do not touch artifacts unless a staff member indicates otherwise.
  • Covered drinks are permitted; we ask that food be enjoyed outside exhibit areas.
  • Photography is welcome, but please do not use flash.
  • No running or rough play inside the museum. Chaperones should stay with their groups at all times.

Stay Connected

For updates on exhibits, events, and programs, follow us on social media or join our email list.

Questions about planning a visit? Email us at info@mathewsmuseum.org or call (804) 505-1277.