Top Virginia Cultural Tours - page 3

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. Pick from multiple tour times, meet your guide outside the Colonial Williamsburg Visitor Center, and set off. Explore the city’s key historical landmarks, learn about what colonial–era life was like, and hear behind-the-scenes stories about Williamsburg’s history.

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.

During this one-hour walking tour, discover how a sleepy southern town was restored to its former colonial splendor through the dream of Dr. W.A.R. Goodwin and the backing of Mr. John D. Rockefeller, Jr. We will discuss the restoration of Colonial Williamsburg from its conception through to the continuing restoration efforts. We encourage questions and conversation so all guests can better understand why Williamsburg was, and is, so important not only to Dr. Goodwin and Mr. Rockefeller but also to future generations. 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.

Not all women were high-born ladies… many worked long and hard to survive. This walking tour will open your eyes to pieces of the past. Women were fully one half of the story, and you will learn about their roles as business owners and consumers. Over more than 325 years, the buildings in Williamsburg have had many lives and multiple uses, as social and political history was made both inside and out, shaping the community we know today.

Alexandria has a history that is inextricably linked to the founding of the United States of America. George Washington was a Virginian, having been born at Pope Creek Plantation in Westmoreland County, within a mile from the Potomac River. Throughout the years, the family alternated between Ferry Farms near Fredericksburg and Little Hunting Creek Plantation, or Mount Vernon. Our nation's founding father began his career as a surveyor, and Alexandria was one of the first communities he surveyed and planned. On this walking tour of Alexandria, follow in the footsteps of George Washington.

This exclusive, private tour (only your group) highlights Colonial Williamsburg's Christmas traditions and picturesque holiday decorations of our historical area. This tour provides insight about the materials, crafts people, construction and design of the wreaths and garlands adorning the exterior of most 18th Century buildings, exhibits and private homes and different judging categories. We meet at The Williamsburg Inn to admire the decorations and begin our journey to the Duke of Gloucester. We'll discuss how holidays were celebrated in 17th and 18th Centuries here in Virginia including plantations, our Capital cities and during the Revolutionary War (e.g., Continental Army). Holiday biscuits by African descendants or traditional gingerbread cookies are offered. If before 7PM, we offer hot beverages. Note: Grand Illuminations are the 1st, 2nd and 3rd Saturdays of December (7pm fireworks). The Yule Log lightings are the first, second and third Fridays of December.

Join us as we explore the fascinating stories of women from all walks of life—each of whom played her part in the community’s development. From the beloved midwife whose knowledge and care were instrumental to the town’s health, to the famous schoolmistress who taught future leaders, these women were pillars of the community. Discover the Governor’s Lady, who maintained the standards of society, and the Councillor’s wife, who helped shape political circles from behind the scenes. Learn about the enslaved cook who worked closely with the Founders, displaying incredible skill and resilience, and even hear the tales of actresses who broke societal norms to entertain and inspire. .

Enjoy panoramic views of Washington D.C.'s most important monuments during this attraction-packed, small-group boat cruise from the D.C. Wharf to Alexandria Old Town and back. Highlights covered include the Lincolm Memorial, Washington Monument, and Arlington National Cemetery. Food and beverages are available for purchase onboard.

Embark on a private excursion from Alexandria to Rosetta, a city steeped in Islamic heritage. Delve into the Rosetta Museum, meander through 18th-century streets lined with historic homes, and explore the Citadel of Qaitbay, the site where the famed Rosetta Stone was found. Witness the meeting of the Nile River and the sea, before heading back to Alexandria.

giving you the history, hidden details, and insider perspectives you won’t get on a standard tour. Every stop is interactive, personalized, and designed to make you feel like you’re experiencing the city, not just looking at it.

Join us on an immersive walking tour through historic Fredericksburg, where Colonial-era history comes to life beyond the textbooks. Led by passionate local historians, our tour uncovers hidden stories, little-known facts, and fascinating figures who shaped the city. What Makes Our Tour Unique? Engaging Storytelling: More than just dates, we bring history to life with captivating tales, surprising facts, and interactive discussions. Exclusive Insights & Hidden Gems: Explore preserved 18th-century buildings and lesser-known landmarks beyond the usual tourist spots. A Thoughtful Blend of History & Fun Whether you're a history buff or just curious, we balance deep knowledge with entertaining anecdotes and humor. Small Groups for a Personal Experience: Our intimate tours allow for interactive discussions and time to ask questions. Perfect for visitors and locals alike, this tour offers a unique, engaging journey through Fredericksburg’s past.

Be amazed, entertained, and scared (in a good way) on this ghost tour of Williamsburg. The tour is based around a photo study of ghosts and paranormal activity, 'Haunted Historic Colonial Williamsburg'. You'll be shown the amazing photos while visiting the places they were taken. Each tour is slightly different and you'll visit various locations, including what is considered to be Williamsburg's most haunted house, Peyton Randolph House.

Our very unique, immersive adventures are the only ones of their kind. We, unlike other companies, provide your very own remote, interactive, live host to assist and encourage you along through your phone. We are an Austin, TX-based global custom event design company offering scavenger hunts and other events in 300+ cities in North America and beyond. Our specially hand-crafted adventures are equal parts tour, creative challenge, detective hunt, and social experiment! Guests get to discover in an alternate reality our favorite hidden gems off the beaten trail and creatively interpret fun art, history, and culture clues - for points! They get to enjoy fame and glory while appearing on our website’s international leaderboard, no matter what their score. They get to essentially race other teams in other cities, even if they don’t have competitors who have signed up in their city that day. Get ready to discover unusual oddities, laugh out loud, and make the experience your own!

Explore the pivotal moments of Abraham Lincoln's life on this 6-hour tour through Washington, DC. An expert guide will lead you to significant sites connected to Lincoln’s presidency and the Civil War. You'll visit Lincoln’s Cottage, Howard University, and memorials honoring Civil War African American soldiers, Ford's Theater, culminating at the National Portrait Gallery, where the last photograph of Lincoln is displayed. This private tour combines luxury transportation with insightful storytelling, providing a deeper understanding of Lincoln’s legacy and its impact on the nation. - 6-hour guided tour focused on Lincoln’s life and legacy - Visit key historical sites including Ford’s Theatre and Petersen House - Luxury transportation provided throughout the journey - Ideal for history enthusiasts and those interested in American culture

Dare to experience the #1 ultimate ghost hunt tour in Williamsburg, where real history meets real hauntings every night, year-round! Led by expert guides—this USMC Disabled Combat-Veteran-Owned, experience takes you deep into the eerie past of one of America’s most haunted cities. Feel the chilling presence of spirits as you visit Bruton Parish Church, the Governor’s Palace, Peyton Randolph House and Burial Grounds, and Market Square & Magazine. From witch trials to scandalous murders, hear the twisted tales that still haunt Williamsburg today. Equipped with ghost-hunting gear, track paranormal activity as you wander through the historic district. Every shadow and whisper could be an unseen visitor making their presence known! While we don’t enter buildings, this ensures you visit as many haunted locations as possible. This unforgettable ghost hunt is packed with mystery, history, and spine-tingling encounters. Ready to uncover Williamsburg’s darkest secrets? Join us—if you dare!

`This private tour explores the historic and cultural heritage of Williamsburg through a refined journey across one of America’s most significant academic and colonial centers. Walk through an environment shaped by centuries of intellectual and architectural influence, reflecting a history older than the United States. Begin near Williamsburg United Methodist Church, where classical design reflects enduring community and cultural traditions. Continue to the Crim Dell Bridge, set within a landscape that represents the evolving story of local heritage and identity. Please note: The program and attractions may vary based on booking date/time and crowd conditions, ensuring each visit is a unique experience.

What sets this tour apart Unlike generic walking tours that stay on the main streets of Old Town, this experience takes you inside Alexandria’s most elegant Victorian cemetery. Guided by Catherine Weinraub, historian of the Ivy Hill Cemetery Historical Preservation Society, you’ll hear stories drawn from decades of preservation work and original research. You won’t just walk past gravestones — you’ll explore the historic receiving vault, learn about Victorian funeral customs, and uncover the lives of apothecary owners, financiers, treaty writers, hotel proprietors, and veterans who shaped Alexandria’s story. With its blend of history, atmosphere, and expert insight, this tour offers an authentic encounter with the city’s past that you won’t find anywhere else.

Discover Richmond’s historic Church Hill neighborhood with ease on a Segway tour. See St. John’s Episcopal Church, Libby Hill, and more as you glide through the city streets with ease, covering more ground than is possible on a walking tour. Throughout the tour, your guide shares fun facts and stories about the neighborhood’s vibrant history.

Get a taste of Alexandria's Mediterranean coast and diverse history without having to sort out transportation with this tour, available with or without guide services. Visit the Citadel of Qaitbay, built where Alexandria's ancient lighthouse stood, then explore the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a reimagining of the city's ancient library. Finish with a drive along the Corniche.

During this 1-hour walking tour, learn the complexities of Virginia's decision to seek independence from England. Discover the challenges faced by the men of the House of Burgesses as they ultimately chose to declare Virginia's independence and learn how this pivotal decision influenced the Continental Congress in Philadelphia. 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 at your own pace with a fully private guided tour! “Shadows of the Past: Tracing Slavery’s Legacy in Williamsburg” invites you to delve into the history of slavery in colonial America, beginning in the historic area of Colonial Williamsburg. This tour provides insights into how slavery shaped the community and the lives of those who lived during that era. After exploring Colonial Williamsburg, the journey continues to the Colonial Williamsburg Courthouse, reflecting the legal aspects of slavery. Next, visit the Capitol Building, where significant legislative decisions about slavery were made. Conclude the tour at the James Geddy House, offering a perspective on the daily lives of both free and enslaved people of the time.

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.

Be transported back to Williamsburg in 1943 in this 1-hour character tour. Learn how the citizens of the town are dealing with rationing, blackout drills, and all the new servicemen in town during the Holiday season. Please note that each tour is unique, so the advertised routes may vary. You will be guided through town by either a USO Hostess or an Air Raid Warden. However, for evening tours, the guide will solely be an Air Raid Warden. Routes may also be changed to accommodate activities in Colonial Williamsburg. 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. Please be aware that due to staff participation in other events, tours may be unavailable on certain days. For details about these programs, please visit our website.

Richmond's role as the Capitol of the Confederacy during the Civil War brought more than just legislators to the city's doorstep. The many battles that occurred across the state and beyond resulted in a vast number of prisoners and wounded soldiers that needed a place to go. Many of these individuals found themselves in Richmond, particularly the Shockoe Bottom neighborhood where this tour takes place. This tour will take you to some of the notable sites in the neighborhood, and will also share with you the stories of some of the people with connections to these buildings.