Top Virginia Arts & Design in 2026

Discover Colonial Williamsburg and experience all this renowned historic city has to offer by prebooking your ticket and securing your spot at one of the world's largest living museums. Learn about life in colonial America and the American Revolution. Enjoy historical reenactments and theatrical performances, the vibrant gardens and art museums, plus guided and self-guided tours of the original 18th-century buildings and homes, and personal interaction with the townspeople. Parking fee not included.

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.

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.

Experience the best of Norfolk while avoiding long ticket lines with a Passport to Fun. Enjoy admission to Norfolk’s top attractions, like Nauticus, a maritime-themed science center and museum located on the downtown waterfront, the USS Wisconsin (BB-64), the second ship of the United States Navy to be named in honor of the US state of Wisconsin, and the Virginia Zoo.

Discover the vibrant mural art scene of Richmond, Virginia, on an engaging guided tour through iconic neighborhoods like Jackson Ward, The Fan, & Brookland Park. Experience the city's transformation through the lens of local artists, as personal anecdotes and historical narratives illuminate the meaning behind these stunning murals. This interactive journey encourages participants to share their thoughts and connections to the artwork, fostering a deeper understanding of Richmond's cultural fabric. Enjoy a blend of art appreciation and community storytelling in an intimate group setting. - Explore the rich mural art of Jackson Ward, The Fan, & Brookland Park - Engage in discussions about the meaning and influence of murals - Learn about the difference between graffiti and mural art - Share personal insights and experiences with fellow participants

Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of Virginia's Capitol grounds in Richmond on this leisurely walking tour. Led by an expert historian, the tour explores significant monuments including the Washington Statue and the Edgar Allan Poe tribute, while honoring the native Americans who once inhabited the area. Gain insights into the early history of Richmond and Virginia through engaging storytelling that brings the captivating past to life. - Enjoy a leisurely walking tour of Virginia's Capitol grounds - Led by an expert historian passionate about architecture and storytelling - Visit significant sites like the Washington Statue and Edgar Allan Poe monument - Learn about the native Americans and the early history of Richmond and Virginia

Join us as we discover the History of Christmas in the colony while exploring the handcrafted decorations that adorn the historic buildings. On our 1-hour leisurely stroll thru the city, you will have the opportunity to photograph some of the most iconic decorations that are uniquely Colonial Williamsburg. Handcrafted one-of-a-kind decorations made by employees and residents of the city are beautifully and proudly displayed on each building and we will discover the most beautiful and unique of this year's display. We will discover the religious, humorous, and heartfelt traditions that span the centuries. While learning how the decorations are made, how they became a tradition, and even helpful tips and tricks on how the create your own decorations at home. Christmas in Colonial Williamsburg is truly an experience that you and your family will cherish for years to come.

We will discuss the different philosophies of architectural preservation between Europe and the United States during the late 19th and 20th Century and how it applies to the restoration of Colonial Williamsburg. The restoration materials of Colonial Williamsburg had to appear as if they were constructed in the 18th Century. For example, the roofs of many of the reconstructed buildings were man made fire retardant composites, and the masonry emulated the original bound of the public buildings. When the Main College was rededicated as the Wren building, credit was given to the the famous English Architect, Sir Christopher Wren. However, there is no proof that this is true. The base of this building is a Flemish design as opposed to the English bond. As the Wren building stands today, it is a redesign of the building that existed in 1733. It will be a comprehensive discussion of the vision of Rev. W.A.R. Goodwin and John D. Rockfeller, Jr. that resulted in Colonial Williamsburg.

The Winter Lantern Festival in Williamsburg offers a dazzling evening at Jamestown Settlement, showcasing hundreds of hand-crafted lanterns. With three immersive themes Christmas cheer, Jamestown history, America 250 Visitors can explore stunning displays of vibrant LED lights. Enjoy live shows, delicious food from local vendors, and capture memorable moments under the stars. This family-friendly event runs from November 6 to January 3, making it perfect for date nights or family outings. Don't miss this unique winter experience.

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.

Are you looking for a way to see Old Town Alexandria without joining a tour group? Explore at your own pace with this affordable walking tour. • Find out how a banker’s wife hid a portion of the George Washington family fortune in her underwear drawer during a Union raid • Hear from producer Rick Snider, an award-winning Washington journalist and tour guide • Do it all in an hour or linger at stops along the way with complete control over when you start and finish • Get unlimited use before your booking date and after it • Use the virtual tour option at home Once you’ve booked, you’ll receive a ticket with instructions and a unique code listed under “Before You Go”. Then simply install the VoiceMap app and enter your code. The app displays directions to the starting point, and when you’re in the right place, just pop in your headphones and tap start. VoiceMap has automatic GPS playback, with turn-by-turn directions. It also works offline.

Explore the rich history of Staunton with a guided tour in the guide's vehicle that takes you through all six Historic Districts. Discover the town's unique architecture, beautiful vistas, and historic cemeteries, all while listening to intriguing stories from a professional tour guide. A highlight includes a visit to Trinity Episcopal Church, showcasing stunning stained glass windows by Tiffany and Sons (subject to availability). Perfect for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike, this tour offers a comprehensive experience of Staunton's rich heritage. - Visit all six Historic Districts of Staunton with a knowledgeable guide Augusta County Courthouse, Beverley Mansion, Rail station, American Hotel, Stuart Mansion, several historic churches, more - Discover unique architecture and beautiful vistas throughout the town - Enjoy guided tour of Trinity Episcopal Church and its Tiffany stained glass - Ideal for history lovers and those interested in local culture and architecture

Your private journey from Williamsburg to Nauticus and Battleship Wisconsin is enriched by an exceptional guide whose personal connections bring Norfolk’s naval story vividly to life. Bambi Walters, grew up in the Norfolk area and worked as an engineer for the Naval Sea Support Center supporting the Atlantic Fleet, offering guests rare insight into naval operations, ship systems, and the living ecology of the Chesapeake Bay. Her perspective blends military understanding with local history and coastal science. The Wisconsin guided Command and Control tour takes you through the "nerve center" of the Battleship Wisconsin and is often led by a retired Navy veteran. After the Command and Control tour, Bambi will guide you through several additional decks, explaining shipboard life and the power behind one of America’s greatest battleships. Additional time may be spent with "hands on" activities in the Interactive Science Center, viewing themed exhibits and watching HD films. Max of 7 people

Drive more, walk less with your private certified guide as you discover the best of Colonial Williamsburg on a personalized driving tour with easy walking for up to 6 people. Cover more ground than traditional walking tours while exploring iconic landmarks, scenic gardens, elegant colonial homes, and picturesque streets where colonial America's story unfolds. Consider visiting highlights such as the Governor's Palace, Capitol, Bruton Parish Church, Powder Magazine, and the Sir Christopher Wren Building at the College of William & Mary while learning about colonial life, the American Revolution, and Virginia's role in America's founding. Along the way, discover the remarkable restoration of Colonial Williamsburg through the vision of Rev. Dr. Goodwin and the generosity of John D. Rockefeller Jr., preserving one of America's greatest living history museums. Enjoy engaging storytelling, hidden gems, and customized stops based on your interests for a relaxed, unforgettable experience.