James A. Buzzard River Education Center
Modern Waterfront Venue in Richmond’s Historic Shockoe Bottom
Located in Richmond’s historic East End, the James A. Buzzard River Education Center (2825 Dock St, Richmond, VA 23223) is a premier waterfront event venue in Shockoe Bottom. Situated directly on the James River, our facility offers a central RVA location for corporate meetings, private parties, and weddings. Just steps from the Virginia Capital Trail and nestled between Great Shiplock Park and Dock Street Park, the Center provides the most elevated river views in Downtown Richmond.
Beyond its striking design, the Center is a hub for JRA’s educational programming and a living example of sustainable, flood-resilient architecture. Guests will be captivated by the unique interior, which includes engaging aquatic exhibits and fish tanks, depending on the time of year. Conveniently situated in Downtown Richmond between Great Shiplock Park and Dock Street Park, the Jim Buzzard Center is available on select dates and times to host your next unforgettable event in RVA.
Find information below about renting the James A. Buzzard River Education Center for a private event.
Perfect for Events:
- Board meetings
- Staff retreats
- Community programming
- Luncheons
- Seminars
- Anniversary parties
- Baby showers
- Reunions
- And more!
Available Amenities:
- 5’ round seating tables, 6’ rectangular banquet tables and black ergonomic chairs
- Flexible classroom set-up of lab tables and stools
- Outdoor classroom space, including picnic tables
- A/V equipment
- Free wifi
- Freezer and refrigerator
Sustainable Infrastructure
- Living green roof
- Dark sky lighting
- Greenscreen walls
- Conservation landscaping
- TRUEGRID parking lot
Capacity
The 1700 square foot interior can seat 80 people and be divided into two separate areas. Additional space is available on the exterior deck with panoramic views of the James River.
Parking
On-site parking includes three spaces for personal vehicles and space for up to two commercial buses. Additional street parking and public parking can be found within walking distance of the center.
Resilient Design
The James A. Buzzard River Education Center was designed with sustainability at the forefront. This state-of-the-art facility includes elements that limit its impact on the environment and ensure its resiliency – especially in an area prone to flooding.
You’re Supporting our Work
Our rental program helps to support our operations and educational programming while increasing awareness of our mission in the community.
Protect
JRA’s restoration teams work across the watershed to improve water quality, restore shorelines, plant trees, and manage stormwater runoff and other pollutants. In addition, our advocacy team fights for policies and funding for clean water programs that protect and restore the James.
Connect
Our education programs provide more than 20,000 student interactions a year and deliver life-changing opportunities for students to experience the river. Across our three regional river centers, including the James A. Buzzard River Education Center, we’re building the next generation of conservationists and river stewards.
