200 N. Boulevard
340-1400
vmfa.state.va.us

Second Place: Science Museum of Virginia

Third Place: Children's Museum of Richmond

Readers overwhelmingly select VMFA as best museum. And why not? It's one of the top 10 cultural institutions of its kind in the country, still in the flush of a kazillion-dollar renovation and makeover and last year's successful Picasso exhibition. It continues to prove its mettle with challenging and enriching exhibits such as "Maharajah: the Splendor of India's Great Kings" and "Making History: 20th Century African-American Art," which ends June 10. Having a great restaurant, Amuse, within its sleek, windowed enclaves doesn't hurt either. The Science Museum is a destination for residents who love the interactive and educational displays, such as "Gravity Alley" and "The Watt Wall," and thought-provoking features such as the recent "Race" exhibit. Next door to it is the Children's Museum, taking third place — and that means that there are throngs of angry little ones out there demanding a recount.