Top Virginia Cultural Tours

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.

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.

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.

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.

*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.

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.

Experience Colonial Williamsburg on a private 2-hour walking tour that highlights the city’s most historic streets, landmarks, and stories. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, this experience blends must-see sites with hidden corners and authentic insights into 18th-century Virginia. Walk through charming avenues, scenic squares, and beautifully preserved buildings that shaped early American history. Learn about daily life, politics, traditions, and the people who influenced Williamsburg’s role in the nation’s beginnings. Hear engaging stories, discover local culture, and enjoy time for photos and questions as you explore the city’s top highlights. This private tour is perfect for first-time visitors, history lovers, families, and travelers looking to experience Williamsburg in a deeper and more meaningful way.

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.

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.

Discover the highlights of Washington D.C. during this four-hour private tour. Follow a customizable itinerary with a seasoned guide and long-time local resident. Understand the history and significance of iconic landmarks like the White House, Supreme Court, Lincoln Memorial, and more—with plenty of get-down photo stops along the way. Enjoy complimentary bottled water and door-to-door transfers from the airport or your DC Metro Area hotel.

Journey into the heart of 18th-century America with our immersive Three-Hour Colonial Williamsburg History Walking Tour. Explore the buildings that capture the spirit of a young nation on the brink of independence. Enter the elegant halls of the Governor’s Palace, seat of British authority—and later, revolutionary resistance. Walk the creaking floors of the Capitol Building, where debates that shaped the birth of democracy echoed through its chambers. Along the way, you’ll visit blacksmiths, printers, apothecaries, and wigmakers—living history tradespeople who carry on colonial craftsmanship. Each stop unveils another layer of the complex, fascinating world of 1700s Virginia. Perfect for history lovers, families, or curious travelers, this tour offers a vivid, interactive experience. *MUST HAVE COLONIAL WILLIAMSBURG TICKET VALID FOR THE DATE OF YOUR TOUR*

This private tour picks you up from your Williamsburg hotel to visit Berkeley, Westover and Sherwood Forest Plantations. Berkeley’s 1726 Georgian mansion is the birthplace of Benjamin Harrison V, signer of the Declaration of Independence, and also the birthplace of William Henry Harrison, 9th U.S. President, and his grandson, Benjamin Harrison, 23rd U.S. President. During the Civil War, Berkeley was occupied by General McClellan’s troops. While at Berkeley, General Butterfield composed the familiar tune “Taps”, played by his bugler. We will explore the Native American, Colonial and Civil War artifacts, along with historical paintings and exhibits in the 18th century basement museum. At Westover, we tour the grounds of this beautiful Georgian mansion, its amazing gardens and secondary buildings. At Sherwood Forest, we tour the grounds of our 10th U.S. President, John Tyler's home, the longest frame house in America. If scheduling in advance, we can request an interior tour.

On our historic solo walking tour you’ll discover Fredericksburg Revolutionary past and the people that fought for and won our independence. The tour is a smart phone guided tour on our walking tour app. Go at your own pace, anytime. The tour never expires. After the tour, listen again, anytime. You’ll see sites linked to George Washington, Mary Washington, James Monroe, the man who came up with the now infamous plan of crossing the Delaware to catch the Hessians unaware and thus win the battle, The Rising Sun Tavern, Cemeteries and hear and uncover the stories linked to these historic building bringing them to life.

Once you book that tour you will be amazed with the different vibes in Alexandria with its amazing weather and landmarks. you will join a group of people with different ideas, experiences and perspectives. So your tour with us will be extremely different than any other tours in Egypt. we do that group tour only on Fridays and Saturdays. Hopefully to see you soon warm regards and have a great days always with us

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!

Our certified tour guide will greet you in front of illy's cafe and share background information as you walk over to the historic College of William & Mary (est. 1693), our "Alma Mater of the Nation." You'll tour the oldest academic building in the United States, the Sir Christopher Wren building, and learn about the second-oldest college in America, alma mater to four United States Presidents. If the Wren building is open, there may be an opportunity for a free organ recital on Saturdays at 10am in the Chapel, and our morning tour time on Saturday is longer for the recital. All tours include touring the Colonial classroom, the Chapel, the Blue Room, the Hall of Leadership, the Great Room and academic classrooms that are still used for religious studies. We'll also visit the Brafferton, former school for Native Americans, the Hearth: Memorial to the Enslaved, and the Sunken Garden, visiting James Monroe, James Blair, the Tyler Family Garden (aka "Echo Wall") and Thomas Jefferson.

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.

Private guided tour of the Jamestown Settlement. This exclusive tour (only your family/group) includes an in-depth learning experience about the beginning of our oldest, permanent English colony that begins with exploring replicas of the ships that arrived in 1607, the re-created Paspahegh town, the James Fort reflecting the outpost in 1610-1614 and the museum with spectacular artifacts, replicas of 17th Century homes and more. There is an option (for a fee) to tour Historic Jamestowne, actual site of the Jamestown Fort, including the NPS Visitor Center, views of the Fort, James River and Tercentennial Monument that stands 104 feet tall. The monument was installed in 1907 commemorating the 300th anniversary of the Jamestown Colony. This trip may be customized for handicapped patrons as the state park has scooter rental for $15/scooter. For NPS option, wheelchairs are available with notice to guide. Estimated time 3.5-4 hours for Jamestown and Glasshouse and 4.5-5 hours to include NPS.

Explore America’s most historic cemetery complex with the public historian who helps care for it. Led by David Heiby, cemetery superintendent and creator of Gravestone Stories, this small-group walking tour takes you inside Alexandria’s remarkable 13-cemetery landscape, where George Washington’s pallbearers, Revolutionary War patriots, Civil War soldiers, a Cold War Soviet spy, and the highest-ranking Confederate general buried in Alexandria all rest within a single historic district. Mentioned in national and local press, cited by respected history sources, and backed by a perfect 5.0 guest rating, this tour goes far beyond a typical historic walk. Every stop is grounded in original research, cemetery records, and on-site discoveries, including graves rediscovered after nearly 200 years. Walk quiet lanes, pass through gates most visitors never enter, and hear stories you will not find anywhere else. Group size is limited for comfort, safety, and a better experience.

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.