Top Virginia Art & Culture

Enjoy a day of family fun at the Virginia Living Museum during your visit to Williamsburg. Explore indoor and outdoor animal exhibits and see more than 250 species of wildlife native to Virginia, including bald eagles and endangered red wolves. Kid-friendly highlights include discovery centers, interactive hands-on exhibits, and an outdoor Dinosaur Discovery Trail with life-like dinosaurs, dig pits, and fossils.

Discover Richmond’s 400-year history during a ride on board one of its 19th century streetcars by its iconic neighborhoods and landmarks. Pass by James River, where Richmond’s story began, Virginia State Capitol, and Jackson Ward, the “Harlem of the South. Discover how Richmond became the city it is today with fascinating and engaging live narration throughout the ride.

With this tour, you can expand your knowledge of the colonial history of Williamsburg—dating back to the 18th century. Instead of reading a guidebook, enjoy a much more immersive way of learning about the city—by following a costumed guide around key landmarks. Along the way, hear stories about famous historical figures linked to the city—such as Thomas Jefferson and George Washington—as well as fun facts about the monuments you pass.

Learn all about the storied past of this historic area of Alexandria from an engaging guide who’s passionate about making your trip to the city a memorable one—from Gadsby's Tavern Museum to the cobblestone streets of Captain’s Row. You’ll hear well-researched stories, explore local landmarks like Historic Christ Episcopal Church, and get familiar with Old Town as a local leads the way.

The only tour in Williamsburg that gives the history of slavery in one presentation. We discuss what is and is not slavery. We debunk the myths that have been associated with slavery for generations. We are also the only tour that explores the impact on our modern society.

Explore the haunted history of Richmond on this captivating walking tour led by Strange RVA. Wander through the eerie cobblestone streets of Shockoe Bottom, where you’ll hear chilling tales of real hauntings, true crime, and colonial curses. This tour includes insights into the legends surrounding The Devil’s Half Acre, the Church Hill Tunnel curse, and the Richmond Vampire lore. You'll also learn about infamous characters like the ‘Ghoul of Richmond’ and end your journey with stories of Edgar Allan Poe, who spent significant time in Richmond. - 1.5 to 2-hour walking tour through Richmond’s haunted landmarks - Discover true ghost stories and urban legends from a knowledgeable guide - Nightly tours at 8 PM, perfect for adults aged 16 and older - Uncover the chilling past of Richmond, including haunted cemeteries and more.

This private self-guided tour offers independent travelers the freedom to set their own pace and start time while driving through Shenandoah National Park. After downloading an app, listen to audio that reveals secrets about Shenandoah’s history and its most impressive landmarks. Enjoy the flexibility to stop for photos or hikes in your own car without group constraints.

This exceptional tour takes us to two of Thomas Jefferson's most iconic masterpieces, the University of Virginia and Monticello, both honored as UNESCO World Heritage sites in 1987 for their outstanding cultural significance. Our journey begins with a detailed guided tour of the picturesque University Lawn and the distinguished Rotunda at the University of Virginia, where history and architecture blend beautifully. Next, we head to Monticello's David M. Rubenstein Visitor Center, a thoughtfully designed space featuring an excellent gift shop and numerous engaging exhibitions dedicated to Thomas Jefferson and the rich history of Monticello. For a convenient and pleasant break, you can enjoy a quick bite and refreshing drink at the Monticello Farm Table Cafe before proceeding to your in-depth guided tour of the historic estate.

Explore Richmond with the aid of a professional historian guide, learning about the crucial role the city played in the foundation of American politics, culture, education, architecture, and more. Explore the city's historic businesses, government buildings, schools, and churches.

Delve into the eerie history of Williamsburg on the Forgotten Spirits of the Past ghost tour. This one-hour walking experience reveals the chilling tales of those forgotten by history—ordinary souls and overlooked tavern keepers who still linger in the shadows. Venture off the beaten path into hidden courtyards and narrow lanes, uncovering stories that reveal the haunted heart of the city. Ideal for history buffs and ghost enthusiasts alike, this tour offers a unique perspective on Williamsburg's past. Join us and meet the spirits that history left behind. - One-hour walking tour exploring the haunted corners of Williamsburg - Discover the stories of forgotten souls and lost spirits - Suitable for all ages; children 6 and under are free - Check for varying times and availability on our website

Discover Williamsburg's famous ghosts and spirits walking the streets at your own pace, anytime. This is one of the most haunted and historic places, don't miss it's spooky story. This tour is built on those records. Newspaper clippings folded into court archives. Letters never meant for strangers. Names scratched into margins and ledgers. What follows tonight does not rely on imagination. Everything you will hear was once written down by someone who saw it happen, or by someone who tried to explain why it should be forgotten. Go at your own pace, anytime.

Peer beyond the veil with this spooky self-guided tour of Fredericksburg’s supernatural side. Guided by GPS and narrated by Mark Nesbitt, creator of the original Ghosts of Fredericksburg candlelight walking tours, it’s a ghost tour which operates completely on YOUR schedule! Hear chilling true tales of colonial specters, poltergeists in the Rising Sun Tavern, the infamous White Lady of Chatham, and more as you weave your way through this gorgeous, haunted city. After booking, check your email to download the separate Audio Tour Guide App by Action, enter your unique password, and access your tour. These steps require good internet/Wi-Fi access. From there, follow the audio instructions and the route. This is not an entrance ticket. Check opening hours before your visit. New, Lifetime access, no expiry. Use it anytime, on any trip, as many times as you want.

Cover more Richmond sights in less time with a Richmond Segway tour. This tour lets you glide around Virginia’s capital city with ease, taking you to top sights like the Canal Walk, Old City Hall, and St. Paul’s Church, all while filling you in facts and stories from Richmond history. Choose from multiple tour durations and departure times to find a tour that fits your schedule.

*FOR MATURE AUDIENCES ONLY-AGES 17 +* During this one-hour walking tour, hear the darker side of 18th-Century Williamsburg. Stories of murder, mayhem, and scandal--those things talked about in taverns, back alleys, and the courts--straight from the town's citizens. Each tour will be different, and the stories are a-plenty. Due to the sensitive nature of the subjects and the salty language of the time, this tour is recommended for mature audiences 17 and older. Please note that since every tour is different, the routes advertised may also differ. Please note: Due to staff participation in other events, tours may be unavailable on some days. Please see our website for information. Shades of Our Past is not affiliated with Colonial Williamsburg; therefore, this tour does not include entrance or admission into Colonial Williamsburg-owned buildings. Since the tour is through the streets of Colonial Williamsburg it is weather contingent. Please be prepared for all weather conditions.

You'll hear an entertaining story about each street mural we see and then have to guess if what you just heard is true or a fanciful lie. Once everyone has guessed, the truth will be revealed.

Learn all about Alexandria’s African-American history and cultural heritage on this guided walking tour of the city. As you explore the streets of Old Town, your guide will share stories of the individuals who lived there, from enslaved tavern workers to the abolitionists who led the fight for freedom.

Watch the sun set over Chesapeake Bay on a 2-hour, small-group dolphin tour by kayak from Virginia Beach. Paddle along the coast as you spot Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, and see the Cape Henry Lighthouses and Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel from the water.

The Wagsters are proud to present their newest production, “MAGIC HAPPENS”. Sit back and relax for 90 action packed minutes of spectacular grand illusions, breathtaking sleight of hand, incredible mind reading, heartfelt stories, and daring escapes all combined with state-of-the-art lighting, sound, and video form a unique one of a kind experience that will leave you spellbound from the second the curtain opens to the final jaw dropping moment. This show was created to help you realize that magic is around us every day, but only happens when you have the courage to pursue your dreams!

Paddle alongside the wild dolphins of Virginia Beach on a small-group kayak tour from North End Beach. Watch for sea birds and other wildlife as you steer an easy to use, sit-on-top kayak along the coast to the Cape Henry Lighthouses. Learn about the Atlantic bottlenose dolphins that swim past the Virginia coast each summer, and explore the shore with an experienced guide.

Capture your holiday memories in Virginia Beach with a private photo shoot led by a local professional photographer. Enjoy a unique photo experience at scenic beach and hidden spots, and receive 45 fully edited photos within days of the shoot.

Charlottesville has experienced its fair share of turmoil and tragedy, alongside its charming streets and delectable cuisine. From the legend of the enigmatic Moon Ghost who terrorized a local family to the brooding figure of James Madison reported at his beloved Montpelier, the Charlottesville area has been haunted by the shadow of death and destruction for centuries. A bone-chilling stroll at night exposes the enduring existence of the city’s distressing past. This spine-tingling ghost tour will take you to some of the most haunted spots in the city. From the former home of a murdering husband to chilling experiences at a local park, you will delve into the shadows of Charlottesville's murky history. This is a walking tour. We do not ever the private homes or businesses. The duration of the tour is outside and the total tour time is account for us walking from spot to spot.

Spend an entertaining and educational hour with a local guide who’s more than happy to share what they know about this historic town. Learn all about how events in the 1770s shaped America as it’s known today, and gain fresh insight into the attitudes of the founding fathers. Your friendly tour leader would love for you to pick their brain.

Join Preserve Tours for a walk through historic Old Town Alexandria where your local guide provides insight on historic preservation initiatives and policy that are responsible for the protection of the historic district to this day. Experience the preservation of Alexandria's downtown shopping district, the Carlyle House, George Washington’s Townhouse, the Basilica of St. Mary’s, an authentic apothecary, and more while getting some great photos along the way. Photos are emailed after the tour. Mel Serravalle worked a decade in an urban planning career before she founded Preserve Tours, curated walking and photo tours that would provide an opportunity to learn about historic neighborhoods and their role in the past and present. As a fourth generation Washingtonian herself, she strives to provide a quality educational experience with a local, fun feel. A portion of the proceeds of each tour goes to the Rosedale Conservancy, a community funded park in Upper Northwest DC.