After being closed for more than two years due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Executive Mansion, located in Capitol Square in Downtown, will reopen to the public Sept. 2.

An exhibit featuring the work of several Virginia artists will be on display, and Gov. Glenn Youngkin and First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin will greet visitors at various points of the day. Reservations are not required on the day of the event.

The Executive Mansion is a Virginia and National Historic Landmark, and has housed governors and their families since 1813. Designed by architect Alexander Parris, the mansion sits within the gates of Capitol Square where a park area also houses the State Capitol, the Bell Tower, Patrick Henry Building, Old City Hall and several historic Virginia monuments.

Gov. Youngkin and First Lady Youngkin worked with the mansion’s staff and the Citizen Advisory Council on Interpreting and Furnishing the Executive Mansion (CAC) to prepare for the opening. The CAC was formed during the Linwood Holton administration, and members work with the First Ladies of Virginia to “promote greater understanding and awareness of the history and significance” of the building.

“We continue to view the mansion as one of the most revered historic spaces in the Commonwealth,” CAC Chairman Betsy Beamer said in a news release announcing the reopening.

Museums contributing to the exhibit include the Library of Virginia, Virginia Museum of History and Culture, Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, The Valentine Museum and other museums in Norfolk, Abingndon and Charlottesville. The museum features work of independent Virginia artists as well. Additional art will be shared online each month.

A new website with more details about the opening day schedule launched this week. Visit www.executivemansion.virginia.gov/