The essential Richmond tours cover the city’s prime attractions efficiently. The RVATukTuk Sightseeing Tour stands out as a practical choice, offering comfortable open-air transport past major landmarks. I’m especially fond of the Richmond Landmark Segway Tour – it’s a refreshing way to cover significant ground while enjoying expert commentary. Food lovers shouldn’t miss the Carytown Food Tour, which I consider the best introduction to local flavors and neighborhood culture. The Hollywood Cemetery Electric Car Tour delivers fascinating Civil War stories in an accessible format. These well-organized options represent the smartest ways to experience Richmond’s highlights. Let’s look at our favorite Richmond tours in detail.
Key Points
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The RVATukTuk Sightseeing Tour offers a highly recommended 96% from over 600 travelers, covering notable sites like the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts and Hollywood Cemetery.
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The Richmond Landmark Segway Tour provides a professionally guided experience with a 98% traveler approval rating and includes major landmarks such as the Canal Walk and Monument Avenue.
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The Richmond Downtown Walking Tour, with a 4.8 out of 5 rating, offers a 2-hour historical exploration of the city’s role in the American Revolution and Civil War.
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The Carytown Food Tour is a highly rated walking tour that immerses visitors in Richmond’s diverse culinary scene, featuring local restaurants, cafes, and shops.
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The Hollywood Cemetery Electric Car Tour offers a unique 1-hour tour through the historic cemetery, showcasing the resting places of U.S. Presidents and renowned figures.
RVATukTuk Sightseeing Tour of Richmond
The RVATukTuk Sightseeing Tour of Richmond offers visitors a unique and engaging way to explore the city’s top attractions. With a 96% recommendation rate from over 600 travelers, this open-air tuk-tuk tour provides unobstructed views and a badge of excellence.
The tour includes stops at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Hollywood Cemetery, Virginia State Capitol, and four additional popular sites. Travelers can expect a knowledgeable guide, air-conditioning, and the option for an amplifier.
While the tuk-tuk may not be wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly and allows service animals. The tour meets at a convenient public parking location near the Jefferson Hotel, with the option to reserve private transportation for your group.
At $187 per group of up to 6 people, the RVATukTuk Sightseeing Tour offers a rundown of Richmond and is well-suited for families and visitors seeking a memorable sightseeing experience.
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The Carytown Food Tour in Richmond
Carytown Food Tour in Richmond, Virginia treats visitors to a delightful exploration of the city’s vibrant food scene and rich cultural heritage. Highly recommended by travelers, this walking tour takes guests on a culinary adventure through the famous Mile of Style, showcasing 5-6 local restaurants, cafes, and shops.
Visitors can expect to savor local seafood, world-famous tacos, and popular Virginia peanuts, all while learning about the area’s history and culture from a knowledgeable local guide. The tour covers a small amount of walking, making it suitable for most guests.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour offers vegetarian options for those with dietary restrictions. With consistently high ratings and positive feedback, the Carytown Food Tour provides an immersive and enjoyable experience for anyone seeking to discover the flavors and stories of Richmond.
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Richmond Landmark Segway Tour
Offering a unique and engaging way to explore the historic city of Richmond, the Richmond Landmark Segway Tour provides visitors with an unforgettable sightseeing experience.
Recommended by 98% of travelers and holding a Badge of Excellence, this tour covers the city’s major landmarks, including the Canal Walk, Old City Hall, St. Paul’s Church, and Monument Avenue. With multiple tour durations and departure times available, the tour is a popular choice for those looking to see the best of Richmond.
The tour is professionally guided and includes hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a seamless experience. Priced from $55 per person, the tour includes all taxes, fees, and handling charges.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for travelers aged 14 and above. Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, enjoyable Segway experience, and engaging historical insights provided during the tour, making it a must-do activity for visitors to Richmond.
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Hollywood Cemetery Electric Car Tour in Richmond
Nestled in the heart of Richmond, the historic Hollywood Cemetery offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore its grounds in an electric Gem Car.
The Hollywood Cemetery Electric Car Tour provides a captivating way to discover the cemetery’s rich history and notable interments, including U.S. Presidents and renowned figures.
The tour, lasting approximately an hour, commences at 11:00 am and showcases the cemetery’s iconic monuments and final resting places. Knowledgeable guides, such as Bob and Kathleen, lead the way, sharing engaging stories and answering questions with expertise.
With a maximum of five travelers per tour and limited availability, this experience is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and photographers alike.
Boasting a 100% recommendation rate from 79 reviews, the tour is an educational and visually stunning adventure. Visitors praise the guides’ deep understanding of the cemetery’s history and their ability to craft captivating narratives.
The Hollywood Cemetery Electric Car Tour is a remarkable way to take in Richmond’s rich heritage.
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Church Hill Food Tour in Richmond, VA
After exploring the historic Hollywood Cemetery by electric car, visitors can embark on another unique Richmond experience – the Church Hill Food Tour.
This highly-rated walking tour takes guests on a culinary and historical journey through the charming Church Hill neighborhood. With a 96% recommendation rate from 164 reviews, the tour offers a chance to sample Southern classics and Ethiopian fare at up to five different restaurants, cafes, and bakeries.
Accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide, you will also learn about the area’s rich history and landmarks. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with a maximum group size of 12 and stroller accessibility, though it isn’t wheelchair-friendly.
While some guests found certain items mediocre or the pricing high, the overall consensus praises the tour’s combination of food and local insights.
Booking directly with Discover Richmond Tours is recommended to avoid commission fees from third-party sellers.
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Richmond Downtown Walking Tour
The Richmond Downtown Walking Tour provides visitors with an enriching exploration of the city’s storied past, guiding them through its historic landmarks and captivating architecture.
This 2-hour tour, limited to a maximum of 14 travelers, takes participants on a journey through Richmond’s pivotal role in the Revolution, Civil War, and broader American history. Knowledgeable guides share insights into the lives of historical figures and the city’s remarkable architecture.
The tour meets at a convenient location near public transportation and ends back at the starting point. Travelers can expect a personalized experience, with headsets provided to encourage safe distancing.
While not suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions, most participants can comfortably join the tour. With an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 153 reviews, the Richmond Downtown Walking Tour is a popular choice for those seeking an immersive and informative exploration of this vibrant city.
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Arts District Food Tour in Richmond
Travelers seeking an immersive culinary experience in Richmond’s vibrant Arts District can embark on the 2-hour 30-minute Arts District Food Tour.
This highly-rated tour, with a 96% recommendation rate, takes guests on a guided walking journey through the historic Jackson Ward neighborhood and Broad Street Commercial Historic District. Along the way, they’ll sample diverse cuisine from local restaurants and cafes, including coal-fired pizzas, Korean street eats, Southern soul food, and unique ice creams – enough for a full meal.
The knowledgeable local guide provides insights into the area’s history and culture as visitors explore the neighborhood. For those interested, Thursday evening tours even include alcohol pairings at select stops.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly. Guests with dietary restrictions should contact the supplier in advance.
With an average 4.8-star rating, the Arts District Food Tour promises an enjoyable and immersive culinary adventure in Richmond.
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Blue Bee Cider 1-Hour Tour and Tasting
Blue Bee Cider, Virginia’s first urban cider distillery, invites visitors to embark on a 1-hour guided tour and tasting experience in their revitalized stables complex in Richmond.
The tour provides insights into the property’s history and Richmond’s culture, culminating in a sampling of the cidery’s various offerings. Guests can expect a maximum of 60 travelers per tour, with free admission for children aged 5 and under and certified service dogs.
The meeting point is at 1320 Summit Ave, and the tour starts at 12:30 pm, ending back at the same location. Moderate physical fitness is required, and the tour includes both indoor and outdoor areas, some of which are temperature-controlled.
Blue Bee Cider welcomes visitors to notify them of any accessibility needs. Based on 31 reviews, the tour is highly recommended, with an overall rating of 4.8, praised for its informative and friendly tour guides, unique cider flavors, and casual, conversational atmosphere.
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Guided Walking Tour of Richmond
Though located in the heart of Virginia’s capital city, the Guided Walking Tour of Richmond offers visitors an immersive exploration of the original site of the city.
Led by knowledgeable local guides, the tour takes guests through scenic overlooks and historic blocks, including a visit to St. John’s cemetery. With a maximum of 14 travelers, the experience provides an intimate and personalized experience, as evidenced by the tour’s 4.8-star rating from 49 reviews.
Participants can expect engaging commentary and unique stories about Richmond’s history, architecture, and notable figures like Edgar Allan Poe. To enhance the experience, the tour provides audio receivers for better hearing.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly and allows service animals. Conveniently located near public transportation, the Guided Walking Tour of Richmond is highly recommended by 94% of travelers as a great way to explore the city’s rich heritage.
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Phantoms of Franklin Ghost Tour
For those seeking a ghostly exploration of Richmond’s past, the Phantoms of Franklin Ghost Tour offers a spooky journey through the city’s haunted history.
This 3.9-star rated tour takes visitors on a guided walking adventure along Franklin Street, where they’ll uncover the paranormal activity that’s said to haunt local landmarks like the Jefferson Hotel, Linden Row Inn, and Main Street Library.
Throughout the tour, guests can expect to hear tales of spooky encounters and learn about Richmond’s rich, and sometimes chilling, history.
With a maximum group size of 20 travelers, the experience give you an intimate setting for participants.
Though a moderate fitness level is recommended, the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it suitable for a wide range of guests.
Priced at $30 per person, the Phantoms of Franklin Ghost Tour is a unique way to discover Richmond’s ethereal side.
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Hollywood Cemetery Tour Richmond Lore and Civil War
Nestled within the rolling hills of Richmond, the Hollywood Cemetery Tour offers visitors a captivating journey through the city’s rich history and the stories etched into its hallowed grounds.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the 3-hour tour delves into the cemetery’s iconic gravesites, from the resting place of two U.S. presidents to the unique flora and fauna that thrive in this picturesque setting.
Travelers are treated to scenic views of the James River and the Richmond cityscape, all while learning about the cemetery’s role during the Civil War and its significance in the city’s development.
With a maximum group size of 15, the tour ensures an intimate and personalized experience, catering to visitors of all fitness levels.
Consistently praised for its informative and engaging storytelling, the Hollywood Cemetery Tour is a must-do for anyone seeking to enjoy Richmond’s rich history and natural beauty.
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Haunted Capitol Hill Ghost Tour
Step into the shadowy streets of Richmond’s historic Capitol Hill district as the Haunted Capitol Hill Ghost Tour takes you on a chilling journey through the city’s paranormal past.
For $30 per person, this 3.8-rated tour explores some of Richmond’s most haunted landmarks, including the Berkeley Hotel, Virginia State Capitol Building, Virginia Executive Mansion, and Monumental Church.
Led by professional storytellers, the tour operates at night, heightening the spooky atmosphere. Though not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and allows service animals.
Guests should be prepared for moderate physical activity, as the tour involves walking. While some visitors hoped for more haunted house-style experiences, the majority praised the guide’s engaging storytelling and humor.
With a maximum of 20 travelers, the Haunted Capitol Hill Ghost Tour offers an intimate, informative exploration of Richmond’s ghostly history.
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Historic Trolley Tour
The Historic Trolley Tour in Richmond provides visitors with a comprehensive exploration of the city’s rich history and cultural landmarks.
With an impressive 4.4-star rating from 43 reviews and a Badge of Excellence, this tour offers an engaging and informative experience. The tour lasts up to 20 travelers and is priced at $42.00 per person, departing from the convenient location of 1301 E Cary St, Richmond, VA 23219.
Onboard the air-conditioned trolley, guests can expect a comfortable journey, though some reviews note limited comfort due to ceiling fans and wooden seats.
The knowledgeable and engaging guides, such as Melissa, Andrew, and Steve, share insightful information about Richmond’s development, history, and cultural nuances.
While some guests found the pace of the narration and volume of historical details overwhelming, the overall tour experience is praised as informative and enjoyable, making it an excellent choice for first-time visitors to Richmond.
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Church Hill Chillers Ghost Tour
As visitors stroll through the historic Church Hill neighborhood, they can embark on the captivating Church Hill Chillers Ghost Tour.
Over 1.5 hours, groups of up to 20 travelers will explore landmarks like Patrick Henry’s Pub & Grille and an old tobacco warehouse, all while hearing spooky ghost stories intertwined with historical anecdotes.
Rated 4.4 out of 5 based on 26 reviews, the tour is led by knowledgeable guides who bring the past to life through their engaging storytelling.
The small group setting fosters social interaction and the opportunity to make new friends.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly and operates in all weather conditions.
Guests must have moderate physical fitness and children must be accompanied by an adult.
Priced from $30 per person, the Church Hill Chillers Ghost Tour provides a unique way to explore Richmond’s haunted history.
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Signature Shockoe, Canal 2-Hour Walking Tour
Visitors to Richmond can enjoy the city’s rich history by embarking on the Signature Shockoe, Canal 2-Hour Walking Tour. This small-group walking tour focuses on the Canal District and Shockoe Bottom, offering an ideal experience for first-time visitors and history enthusiasts.
Highlights include the Poe Museum, Main Street Station, Canal Walk, Libby Prison, and Mason’s Hall, with insightful narratives from the guide enhancing the experience.
The tour is limited to a maximum of 14 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience. Audio receivers are provided for improved listening, though the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and requires moderate physical fitness.
The meeting point is the Valentine First Freedom Center, and the tour ends at the iconic Main Street Station.
While not suitable for individuals with serious medical conditions, the tour has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, with guests praising the enjoyable stroll and informative insights, particularly regarding Richmond’s Civil War history.
Read our full review: Signature Shockoe, Canal 2-Hour Walking Tour Review
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Sum Up
Richmond offers a diverse array of tours that showcase the city’s rich history, lively neighborhoods, and haunting legends. From sightseeing on a TukTuk to exploring the city’s spooky past, there’s a tour to suit every interest. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local, these tours provide an engaging and immersive way to experience the best of Richmond.