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.

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.

*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.

Learn about life after the Civil War and the role of Alexandria in perpetuating the Lost Cause Myth. Attendees will visit sites related to secessionism and examine how the city challenged Reconstruction. You will explore the common misconceptions of the Lost Cause and learn more about Alexandria's dark past, and how historians are reckoning with it today. - Hear the debates about the now-removed Confederate statue - Visit sites of tragic lynchings in Alexandria - Stop by the homes of former Confederates and Lee family members - Ideal for history buffs, Civil War enthusiasts, civil rights advocates, and anyone interested in learning Alexandria's darker history!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.*

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.

Learn all about Leesburg Virginia and the history of the area on this guided, small group walking tour. This is about an hour and a half long excursion, where you’ll amble along and make stops at several places, like Tally Ho Theater, Joseph Norris House, the Loudoun Museum, and St. James’ Episcopan Church, and plenty more stops.

Discover the beauty of Skyline Drive, a stunning 100-mile stretch through Shenandoah National Park. This self-guided audio experience transforms your drive into an engaging journey, revealing the rich history and natural wonders of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Encounter sweeping overlooks, hidden waterfalls, and captivating tales of the land's past as you cruise along. Perfect for both newcomers and seasoned travelers, this tour lets you explore at your own pace—just drive, look, and listen to the stories unfold along the way. — Self-guided audio experience through Shenandoah National Park — Explore over 100 miles of scenic mountain roads at your own pace — Learn about the geology, history, and local lore of the Blue Ridge — Ideal for first-time visitors and seasoned explorers alike

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.

Religion has played a vital role in Staunton's history with over 80 houses of worship for 25,000 residents. On this tour you will visit four of Staunton's most beautiful and prominent churches and temples while learning about the city's rich history and unique architecture from your professional tour guide. At some locations, church and temple members will provide information to add a personal touch.

Come on to our history of black Americans tour presented by Junket! We often learn the history and stories of heroes of the American Revolution and the early history of America. What isn't often covered in history classes and history books is the story of African Americans who were enslaved during this time. On this unique tour, we'll discover the stories of African Americans who lived and worked in Colonial Williamsburg. From the slaves buried in the graveyard of the Historic First Baptist Church, to the woman who left property to her freed black servants, you'll uncover the untold stories of the oppressed, and their path to freedom.

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.

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.

Richmond, Virginia is celebrated for its over-the-top holiday lights displays every year—and this tour makes exploring them simple. In the evening, depart from Williamsburg via climate-controlled vehicle and travel to Richmond. You’ll learn all about the city’s history of tacky lights displays, will admire some of the best examples, and will even see the Christmas tree in front of the Virginia State Capitol.

Explore the boardwalk of Virginia Beach and its history on this tour of the city's historic coastal community. Learn about the growth of the city as a tourist hotspot, the growth of the hotel industry, and the rise of its distinct early 20th-century boardwalk culture. Hosted by a professional historian, this tour will give you unique insight into the city's history. Whether you are a local, visitor, or new arrival, this tour will help you explore the fascinating culture and history of VA Beach

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

Discover Thomas Jefferson’s life at Monticello, his iconic Charlottesville plantation. This neoclassical home reflects his architectural genius, blending classical design with American ideals. Guided experts lead you through preserved rooms, gardens, and stories of the enslaved community, revealing the intersection of politics, culture, and science in Jefferson’s world. - Explore the architectural beauty, designed by Thomas Jefferson - Learn about Jefferson’s diverse interests from knowledgeable guides - Visit the gardens and see Jefferson’s innovative horticultural practices - Understand the lives and contributions of the enslaved community Upon arrival via private transportation, you will have tickets to enter. We recommend to do the following: Highlights Tour of the House (you will have a timed entry ticket) Visit the exhibits at the David M Rubenstein Visitor Center They offer a couple of outdoor programs including "Slavery at Monticello" and "Gardens and grounds Tour"