No, there is plenty of free parking onsite.

I didn't see any designated picnic locations per se outside, e.g., picnic tables. Being in the middle of the city, the land surrounding the building is mostly concrete and parking lot - but there is a lawn and some greenery and there are some benches here and there where you could sit and eat. A previous poster mentioned a small cafe - but I will add that it was small, and when I was there in June 2018, there were signs posted everywhere stating that the tables and chairs were for patrons of the cafe only.

There are a variety of prices depending on age, etc. Their webpage smv . org will give you all the info

No ice skating rink, unfortunately.

You can just go to the dome.

Hi, Jack! The Science Museum of Virginia has our Periodic Table Cafe, which is a full cafe with sandwiches, pizza, snacks and delicious Blanchard's coffee and espresso. To learn more information about the Cafe's specific offerings, please call 804.864.1400. We look forward to seeing you! Have a great day!

Yes, my 15 year old daughter and 13 year old both enjoyed it. This natures center can be enjoyed by nature lovers of all ages.

No, the entrance to the cafe is before you get to the ticket counter.