Top Virginia Cultural Tours

This leisurely stroll takes you through downtown Richmond with a guide who will tell you about the layers of history all around you. Talk about the town’s role in the Revolution, Civil War, and more. This is a small group tour, so you’ll keep costs down by sharing your guide, but still have an intimate tour group. You’ll also be wearing a headset on tour to encourage safe distancing.

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.

*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.

Don’t just visit Colonial Williamsburg’s most important historic landmarks—bring the complexities and drama of the colonial period to life with this immersive, insider history tour. Meet your guide at a convenient start point in Williamsburg, and set off on foot to really soak up the scenery. As you spot landmarks like the Governor’s Palace, Market Square, and more, your historian guide will share stories about the city’s former residents and political tensions.

If you think history is boring, this tour is here to prove you wrong. Offbeat History takes you on a lively, 90-minute journey through the city’s most offbeat and entertaining stories—the kind that surprise you, make you laugh, and leave you saying, “Wait… that really happened?” With a guide who knows how to bring the fun, this tour dives into the odd characters, strange moments, and head-scratching facts that make Richmond anything but ordinary. You won’t hear about battlefield strategies or memorized dates—just unforgettable stories, unexpected twists, and a whole lot of laughs.

Travel back in time more than 300 years—and learn all about Williamsburg’s wealth of history—on this flexible, self-led smartphone tour. Upon booking, download the app; after arriving at Colonial Williamsburg (tickets own expense) set off at your own pace. Thanks to the app’s offline capabilities and GPS maps, you can navigate with ease as you discover the park’s top landmarks and hear the stories behind the sights.

Explore Old Town Alexandria at your pace, anytime. See the sites George Washington frequented, including his house. Walk along the cobblestone streets. Learn about the history, civil war, and people. Walk down picturesque alleys. And all in an hour! From museums and libraries to historic landmarks, alleyways, cobblestones streets and a very famous restaurant, we’re about to take a stroll through the days of yore! Why choose this tour? This is a smart phone guided tour that uses GPS to play as you walk. It's like a person, but better. Go anytime at your own pace The tour is professionally produced with narration and music See the main sites and hear their stories, just like other tours, only at your pace.

Explore historic Abingdon on a vintage-style trolley ride timed for the best light of the day. This 90-minute tour combines local history with stunning views as you roll past key landmarks like the Tavern, the Barter Theatre, and the charming brick-lined historic district. With two photo stops, you’ll capture the essence of this Appalachian gem. Ideal for families, couples, or anyone visiting the Creeper Trail or a show at the Barter, this tour offers a unique glimpse into Abingdon's local culture. - 90-minute vintage trolley tour through historic Abingdon - Two short photo stops including the historic Muster Grounds - Local driver-host shares engaging stories and historical insights - Comfortable seating for up to 13, ensuring a cozy group experience

Get to know the history of Roanoke – a bustling, charming, and fascinating center of industry, progress, and beauty. Learn the stories of its important role in building modern America through its railroad history, its important status as the urban hub of the Blue Ridge region, and see its most stunning architectural sites. This walking tour is hosted by a professional historian guide.

Discover the rich history of Staunton on a guided 90+ minute, 12 block walking tour through the charming Beverley and Newtown Districts. Marvel at the stunning Victorian architecture while hearing captivating stories about early settlers, the Civil War, and the city’s renaissance. Visit iconic sites such as the Smith Center for History and Art, the National Valley Bank, and Trinity Church with its exquisite Tiffany windows. Along the way, explore local art galleries, antique shops, and the vibrant Farmers Market. Perfect for history buffs and families alike, this tour offers a unique glimpse into Staunton’s past. - Enjoy a 90-minute guided walking tour through historic districts - Explore architectural gems and hear tales from Staunton’s history - Visit notable landmarks including Trinity Church and the Farmers Market - Tours available Friday and Saturday at 11:00 AM, or by appointment - This tour may also be conducted on Staunton Downtown Trolley depending on availability

Gordonsville, Virginia has been a crossroads of American life for more than two centuries. On this self-guided walking tour, you'll trace how every shift in transportation – from stagecoach to steam engine to automobile – left its mark on this small town. You'll also discover how the women excluded from its formal economy turned that exclusion into one of the most remarkable entrepreneurial stories in American history. The tour starts at the Gordonsville Visitor Center on Main Street, where you'll walk north past sixty years of railroad-era architecture – merchant homes with elaborate porches, four historic churches built within thirty years of each other, and a street whose survival owes everything to the town's gradual decline. Along the way, you'll visit the site of Gordon's Tavern, where a historical marker lists Washington, Jefferson, Madison, Monroe, and Lafayette among those who stopped here.

Explore the eerie side of Colonial Yorktown on the Yorktown Ghost Tour. This guided stroll takes you through the town's haunted history, revealing stories of spirits from the Revolutionary and Civil War eras. As you walk the historic streets, discover the explosive tales behind the ghosts that still linger, offering a glimpse into the past. This tour ensures a unique blend of history and mystery that will captivate both children and adults alike. Join in on an unforgettable journey through time and the supernatural.

Explore the northernmost section of the Blue Ridge Parkway to discover scenic overlooks, hiking trails for all levels, and even a historic resort. Here are just a few of the fun things you can do on the tour! • Serene lakes and picturesque trails await at Peaks of Otter, a tranquil haven along the Parkway. • Conquer the challenging trail to Humpback Rocks for breathtaking Shenandoah Valley views that reward your journey. • Immerse yourself in the Parkway's history and nature at the James River Visitor Center, a gateway to understanding the region. • Step into the past at Explore Park, where living history and interactive exhibits revive Virginia's heritage. • Find relaxation and recreation at Sherando Lake, a serene escape perfect for swimming and picnicking. • Witness nature's grandeur at Thunder Ridge Overlook, where sweeping vistas showcase the Parkway's beauty. *Download the Shaka Guide app to access your purchased tours.*

Led by a retired FBI historian and surveillance expert, this small-group tour uncovers hidden Black heritage sites across Northern Virginia, blending powerful storytelling with real history. Guests explore authentic landmarks such as Freedom Hill, Tinner Hill, and a historic courthouse while hearing untold stories of resilience, community, and freedom. This tour is more than sightseeing, it’s a moving journey through America’s Black past that travelers won’t forget.

Embark on an unforgettable journey along the Blue Ridge Parkway with Shaka Guide's Ultimate Bundle! Explore three incredible regions: Virginia, South Carolina (Asheville to Cherokee), and Blowing Rock to Asheville. Our GPS audio tour brings this iconic roadway to life, sharing captivating stories, hidden secrets, and breathtaking vistas. Experience the perfect blend of history, culture, and nature as you explore this iconic route like never before. *Download the Shaka Guide app to access your purchased tours.*

Embark on an awe-inspiring journey from Roanoke to Waynesboro with Shaka Guide's Shenandoah National Park tour in Virginia. This adventure promises an exhilarating blend of natural splendor and cultural richness. With real-time audio narration, you'll discover hidden waterfalls, wildlife hotspots, and scenic overlooks at your own pace. Here are just a few of the awesome spots you can explore on the tour: - Stony Man Overlook: Marvel at the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains from the vantage point of Stony Man Overlook - Hawksbill Gap: Reach new heights at Hawksbill Gap, Shenandoah's highest peak! - Big Meadows: Immerse yourself in the tranquility of Big Meadows, a sprawling grassland where wildlife roams freely Book your tour today and let Shaka Guide be your trusted companion on this remarkable journey through the heart of Virginia's natural wonders and cultural treasures. *Download the Shaka Guide app to access your purchased tours.*

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.

Colonial Williamsburg offers the chance to step back in time to the 18th century—and this private walking tour will give you an even richer understanding of this early American destination. Explore the city’s key historical landmarks, including the Colonial Williamsburg Capitol, learn about colonial–era life, and hear behind-the-scenes stories about Williamsburg’s history.

This is the only tour in Old Town Alexandria that focuses on the Revolutionary War. We will show some of the most important (yet not well known) locations that led to the American Revolution. On this tour you will discover Alexandria's connection to the the Declaration of Independence and U.S. Bill of Rights. We will visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier of the American Revolution. Get ready to walk in the churchyard where George Washington publicly declared he would take up arms to fight for the American colonies. We will explore the historic homes and businesses of famous Revolutionary War veterans. Plus we will show you where the Marquis de Lafayette addressed the citizens of Alexandria! Along the way, we will point out places of interest and show you Alexandria's hidden gems. Ask questions and experience Old Town Alexandria through one of the most fun tours in the D.C. area!

Engage in a relaxed evening at Speak Easy at The Colonies of Williamsburg, where good vibes and meaningful conversations flow freely. This event invites you to connect with others in an informal setting, making it perfect for sharing stories and enjoying delightful company. Whether you’re looking to unwind or meet new friends, this gathering offers an approachable atmosphere to explore and enjoy. Don’t miss this chance to participate in a unique social experience at a historic location.

Step into the heart of Colonial Williamsburg on this self-guided walking tour that goes beyond the costumes and reenactments. This tour invites you to explore not just what happened, but how it's remembered. Along the way, you'll uncover stories of power, protest, labor, and legacy. Each stop reveals how colonial life was lived, contested, and reimagined. As you walk, you'll hear about the celebrated and the overlooked: from revolutionaries and craftsmen to the enslaved and the displaced. Rather than simply retelling history, this tour asks deeper questions about memory, identity, and what it means to inherit the past. Designed to be thoughtful and accessible, this tour is perfect for curious travelers, history buffs, and anyone who wants to see Williamsburg in a new light. Please note this tour is independently produced and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation and does not include admission to any ticketed exhibits.

Commune with the spirits of Georgetown’s past during this spooky guided ghost tour. Relive the stories of romance, tragedy, mystery, and horror that have taken place in this historic Washington neighborhood, visiting some of the area’s spookiest houses, cemeteries, churches, and gardens.

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.