Best For
A quick, interactive photo op and science curiosity.
US
Tourist Attraction·Interactive, Educational, Awe Inspiring
The Grand Kugel is a record-breaking marvel situated outside the Science Museum of Virginia in Richmond. Carved from South African black granite, this 29-ton sphere floats on a thin film of water, allowing even a child to change its spin direction with a steady push. The attraction is housed at the site of a historic former rail terminal, adding a layer of architectural interest to the visit. It is completely free to access and remains a popular quick stop for locals and tourists alike. Whether visiting during the day to appreciate the physics or at night to see it illuminated, it offers a unique blend of art and science.
The Grand Kugel is a record-breaking marvel situated outside the Science Museum of Virginia in Richmond. Carved from South African black granite, this 29-ton sphere floats on a thin film of water, allowing even a child to change its spin direction with a steady push. The attraction is housed at the site of a historic former rail terminal, adding a layer of architectural interest to the visit. It is completely free to access and remains a popular quick stop for locals and tourists alike. Whether visiting during the day to appreciate the physics or at night to see it illuminated, it offers a unique blend of art and science.
You might want to ask
Address
2500 W Broad St,Richmond, VA 23220, USA
Websiteatlasobscura.com
Phone(804) 864-1400
Hours
Open nowOpen 24 hours
Highlights
The world's largest kugel ball weighing 29 tons.
Interactive design allowing visitors to change the sphere's rotation.
Located at the historic former passenger rail terminal.
Free to visit with nearby parking available.
Beautifully illuminated for nighttime viewing.
Time of Day
Lunch, Dinner
Occasion Tags
Tourists, Family, Locals, Solo
Reviews
4.6
Excellent77 reviews
The Grand Kugel in Richmond is highly regarded by visitors as a fascinating and free interactive landmark. Reviewers frequently mention the impressive scale of the 29-ton granite sphere, noting its status as the largest of its kind in the world. Many guests enjoy the hands-on experience of pushing the massive ball to change its spin, though some note it takes a bit of effort to shift. The location at the Science Museum of Virginia, a former rail terminal, is often highlighted as a point of interest. Visitors appreciate that the attraction is accessible even when the museum is closed and find it particularly beautiful when illuminated at night. Overall, it is described as a quick, awe-inspiring stop that is perfect for families and science fans.
Add dates for experiences
Location
Richmond, Virginia, United States
