Richmond’s top tours focus on three main themes: food, ghosts, and history. This Virginia capital offers well-organized walking experiences that bring the city’s stories to life.
The Arts District Food Tour stands out as the most satisfying way to taste local specialties while learning about downtown’s creative scene. For history buffs, the Civil War-focused walking tours of Church Hill provide meaningful context at a comfortable pace. Ghost tour enthusiasts will especially appreciate the Shockoe Bottom night walks, which combine fascinating historical facts with spine-tingling tales of the paranormal.
Let’s explore the best Richmond tours worth your time and money.
Key Points
- Richmond offers a diverse range of culinary tours, from southern cuisine to Mediterranean fare, pizza, and craft beer experiences.
- Guided ghost tours in Richmond provide chilling insights into the city’s haunted history, visiting iconic landmarks like the Poe Museum and Civil War sites.
- Historical and cultural tours in Richmond explore the city’s rich past, from its role in the American Revolution and Civil War to its architectural heritage.
- Tour logistics in Richmond cater to different accessibility needs, with comfortable attire and cancellation policies, while video recording is prohibited to enhance the experience.
- Richmond’s tour operators receive high ratings for their delicious food, engaging storytelling, and knowledgeable local guides, offering unique and interactive experiences.
Richmond: Arts District Walking Food Tour
The Richmond: Arts District Walking Food Tour offers visitors an immersive experience exploring the city’s vibrant culinary and cultural scene. Priced at $90 per person, this 3-hour tour covers approximately 1.25 miles, showcasing the city’s renowned Arts District, including Jackson Ward and Monroe Ward.
Guests can expect to sample delicious southern cuisine, Mediterranean fare, and unique ice cream from 5-6 diverse restaurants, cafes, and shops. The tour also provides the opportunity to meet chefs and business owners, learning about their passion for their craft.
Complementing the food experience are historical stories about the Arts District, enhancing the cultural element. With an overall 5-star rating based on 8 reviews, the tour has been praised for its delicious food and enthusiastic guide.
Flexible booking and a 24-hour cancellation policy further add to the appeal of this offering. Comfortable shoes are recommended for the walking tour, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience.
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Richmond: Shockoe Bottom Ghost Walking Tour
Offering a chilling exploration of Richmond’s oldest and most haunted neighborhood, the Shockoe Bottom Ghost Walking Tour immerses visitors in the city’s rich history and paranormal lore.
Priced from Kč 717 per person, this 1.5-hour English-language tour departs from outside the Richbrau Brewing Company, with guides dressed in Haunts of Richmond attire.
Wheelchair-accessible, the tour highlights include haunted tales from the Poe Museum, eerie Civil War-era hospital stories, and a visit to the oldest active Masonic Lodge in the western hemisphere.
Guests can expect to hear captivating ghost stories and learn about the area’s compelling past.
The tour operates rain or shine, though it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues or heart problems.
Afterward, participants can explore the local bars and restaurants.
With flexible reservations and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the Shockoe Bottom Ghost Walking Tour offers a chilling yet engaging way to experience Richmond’s haunted history.
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Richmond: Church Hill Food Tour
Priced at Kč 1,913 per person, the Richmond: Church Hill Food Tour offers a 3-hour immersive exploration of the city’s oldest neighborhood.
Visitors will sample a diverse array of cuisines, including Turkish, Italian, Ethiopian, and classic Virginia comfort food, from 5 local establishments. The tour also highlights the historical significance of St. John’s Church and its role in the American Revolution.
With a walking distance of approximately 1.5 miles, the tour provides ample food for a full meal and includes a knowledgeable guide.
Though some past customers have critiqued the food quality and historical content, the tour boasts an overall rating of 4.5/5 based on 6 reviews, with positive feedback on the generous portions and engaging guide.
Comfortable shoes and water are recommended for this tour, which offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Richmond: Church Hill Food Tour Review
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Richmond: Pizza & Ice Cream Tour
What better way to indulge in Richmond’s culinary delights than the Richmond: Pizza & Ice Cream Tour? This tasty tour takes you on a delectable journey through some of the city’s finest pizza and ice cream establishments.
Guests will start by savoring slices from two of Richmond’s top pizza joints, learning about the history and techniques behind crafting the perfect pie.
After satisfying their pizza cravings, the tour moves on to sampling artisanal ice cream flavors at a local creamery. Visitors will delight in the creamy goodness and have the opportunity to chat with the ice cream makers about their passion for the frozen treat.
Throughout the tour, you will also gain insights into Richmond’s vibrant food scene and the stories behind the businesses they visit.
Whether you’re a pizza enthusiast, an ice cream connoisseur, or simply someone in search of a delicious adventure, the Richmond: Pizza & Ice Cream Tour is sure to leave you satisfied and craving more of Richmond’s culinary wonders.
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Richmond: Private City Tour by Tuk Tuk
Visitors to Richmond can explore the city’s highlights aboard a private Tuk Tuk tour. For $200 per group, up to 6 people can enjoy a 1.5-hour guided tour in English.
The tour hits popular sights like Monument Avenue, Hollywood Cemetery, and the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, providing insights into Richmond’s history and neighborhoods. Travelers can conveniently hop on and off the Tuk Tuk as they visit the bohemian Carytown district, Brown’s Island, the State Capitol, and the Church Hill overlook.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour offers flexibility. Verified reviews highlight the tour’s satisfaction and the helpfulness of the experienced guide.
Whether visiting as a couple, with friends, solo, or as a family, this private Tuk Tuk tour provides an engaging and efficient way to discover the best of Richmond.
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Richmond: Trendy Carytown Food Tour
Designed for foodies, the Richmond: Trendy Carytown Food Tour invites visitors to explore the eclectic culinary scene of the city’s vibrant Carytown district.
Priced at €7617 per person, the 2.5-hour tour limits its group size to just 10 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.
Over the course of the tour, guests will visit 5-6 local restaurants, cafes, and shops, savoring a diverse array of flavors, from authentic French fare to world-renowned tacos and handcrafted cupcakes.
Along the way, the knowledgeable local guide will provide insights into the neighborhood’s history and culture, engaging participants in conversations with business owners and residents.
The tour also includes a visit to an antique movie theater and the East Coast’s oldest outdoor shopping center.
With an overall rating of 4.7/5 from past customers, the Richmond: Trendy Carytown Food Tour offers a delightful and immersive culinary adventure in the heart of Virginia’s capital city.
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Richmond: Guided Tour of Local Breweries With Tastings
Offering a unique glimpse into Richmond’s thriving craft beer scene, the Richmond: Guided Tour of Local Breweries With Tastings invites visitors to embark on a 2.5-hour journey through the city’s most renowned breweries.
Priced at Kč1,913 per person, the tour provides an immersive experience, including visits to three distinct craft breweries, where guests can savor flagship and seasonal beers. The tour also features a brewing 101 discussion and a unique food pairing at one of the breweries.
Accessible to wheelchair users and with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, the tour includes a knowledgeable guide, bus transportation, beer samples, snacks, water, and tips.
Participants must be 21 years or older and should bring a valid ID. Operating rain or shine, the tour departs from The Veil – Scotts Addition, with water and restrooms available at each brewery.
This experience offers a comprehensive exploration of Richmond’s vibrant craft beer landscape, catering to both beer enthusiasts and those seeking a unique culture.
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Richmond: Church Hill Guided Ghost Tour
Dubbed the Richmond: Church Hill Guided Ghost Tour, this 1.5-hour walking experience invites participants to uncover the haunted history of Church Hill, Richmond’s oldest neighborhood.
Priced at $30 per person, the tour explores notable sites like St. John’s Church and its graveyard, while uncovering tales of Richmond’s past. Guests will meet their guide, dressed in the Haunts of Richmond logo, outside Patrick Henry’s Pub & Grille and embark on a journey through the area’s spooky past.
The tour includes a professional guide and a walking exploration of Church Hill, but isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues or heart problems.
Travelers are advised to wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, as video recording isn’t allowed.
With a perfect 5-star rating from two recent reviews, the Richmond: Church Hill Guided Ghost Tour promises an immersive and eerie experience for those seeking a glimpse into the city’s haunted legacy.
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Richmond: Hollywood Cemetery Lore and Civil War Walking Tour
The Richmond: Hollywood Cemetery Lore and Civil War Walking Tour provides visitors with a captivating exploration of the city’s storied past.
Strolling through the picturesque 19th-century cemetery, participants uncover the rich history and legends surrounding this hallowed ground. Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour delves into the cemetery’s Civil War connections, highlighting the final resting places of prominent Confederate figures, including President Jefferson Davis and General J.E.B. Stuart.
Guests also learn about the cemetery’s unique architecture, Victorian-era funerary symbolism, and the stories of notable individuals interred there.
Beyond the cemetery, the tour ventures into the surrounding neighborhood, tracing the impact of the Civil War on Richmond’s historic streets and landmarks.
This experience offers a unique blend of history, architecture, and local lore, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of Richmond’s pivotal role in the conflict and its enduring legacy.
The Richmond: Hollywood Cemetery Lore and Civil War Walking Tour is a must-do for history enthusiasts and those seeking an immersive glimpse into the city’s past.
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Richmond: Downtown & Capitol Square Tour & Scavenger Hunt
Richmond’s Downtown & Capitol Square Tour & Scavenger Hunt takes visitors on an engaging exploration of the city’s historic center. Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour delves into the rich history and architecture of landmarks like the stately Virginia State Capitol building, designed by Thomas Jefferson.
Participants will discover hidden gems, uncover fascinating stories, and test their observational skills through a lively scavenger hunt.
The tour winds through the charming streets of downtown Richmond, allowing guests to soak in the vibrant atmosphere and admire the mix of 19th-century buildings and modern structures. Along the way, they’ll learn about the city’s role in the American Revolution and Civil War, as well as its present-day significance as the state capital.
The scavenger hunt adds an interactive element, challenging visitors to find specific details and solve clues that reveal Richmond’s unique character.
This comprehensive tour offers an excellent introduction to the heart of the city, blending historical insights with interactive exploration for an unforgettable experience.
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Richmond: Monroe Park Campus Walking Ghost Tour
What better way to explore the spooky side of Richmond than on the Monroe Park Campus Walking Ghost Tour? This 1.5-hour tour takes you through the haunted grounds of the Virginia Commonwealth University campus, where you’ll learn about the dark history and paranormal activity that lurks in the shadows.
Your guide, a local expert on the city’s ghostly tales, will regale you with chilling stories of student suicides, unexplained phenomena, and eerie encounters that have been reported over the years.
As you wander the dimly lit paths, you’ll feel the hair on the back of your neck stand up, wondering if you’ll spot a spectral figure or hear the disembodied voices that haunt the area.
Whether you’re a believer in the supernatural or simply curious about Richmond’s ghostly past, this tour offers a thrilling and spine-tingling experience that will leave you questioning the nature of the unknown.
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Richmond Ghosts: Sinister Scares of Shockoe Bottom Tour
Though Richmond’s haunted past is well-documented, the Sinister Scares of Shockoe Bottom Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the city’s most chilling ghost stories.
At $32 per person, this 1-hour guided walking tour explores iconic haunted locations like the Poe Museum and Church Hill Tunnel, where guests can hear tales of ghostly encounters and tragic histories.
Departing at 8 PM, the tour covers a mile-long route, ensuring a memorable experience regardless of weather. Guests are advised to arrive 15 minutes early and wear comfortable shoes, as the tour involves walking.
With an overall rating of 4.4/5 based on 22 reviews, the tour has received high praise for its animated and informative guides, such as Bryce T. and Isabella. Participants must present a valid ID, and smoking, intoxication, and video recording are prohibited.
Despite the sinister nature of the tour, it’s suitable for all ages, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a spooky yet family-friendly activity in Richmond.
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Richmond: Capitol Hill Ghost Walking Tour With a Guide
Eager to explore the dark history of Virginia’s capital? The Capitol Hill Ghost Walking Tour in Richmond offers a chilling 1.5-hour experience led by knowledgeable guides. Priced at $30 per person, this tour takes you on a haunting journey through the city’s recognizable landmarks, uncovering grim stories and spirits that linger.
The tour starts in the historic Shockoe Slip district, where you’ll ascend Capitol Hill, admiring the captivating architecture along the way. Covering approximately 0.75 miles, you’ll climb about 100 steps to reach Capitol Square, learning about the area’s haunting past.
Highlights include visiting the Monumental Church, a memorial to the tragic Richmond Theater fire.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a “reserve now, pay later” option, this ghost tour is a convenient and flexible way to experience Richmond’s dark side. Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, as the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues or heart problems.
Capture the experience with your eyes, not your camera, as video recording isn’t allowed.
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Discover Downtown Richmond Bike Tour
Discover the vibrant heart of Richmond on the Discover Downtown Richmond Bike Tour, an exhilarating 2.5-hour journey through the city’s historic and trendy districts.
At £13216 per person, this 9-mile guided cycle tour is limited to 10 participants and offers a chance to explore the area’s significant figures and untold stories.
Admire the scenic James River, including canals and rapids, and discover vibrant street art along the way.
The tour includes a priority-brand classic bicycle, a stylish helmet, cold water, and a beverage voucher for Quirk Hotel.
A portion of the proceeds is donated to local conservation and community organizations.
However, the tour isn’t suitable for children under 14, individuals with mobility issues, or those with low fitness levels.
Participants are encouraged to bring their own water, and the tour will proceed in light rain.
With the option to reserve now and pay later, the Discover Downtown Richmond Bike Tour provides a flexible and eco-friendly way to experience the best of the city.
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Richmond: Phantoms of Franklin Walking Ghost Tour
Explore the dark side of Virginia’s capital city on the Richmond: Phantoms of Franklin Walking Ghost Tour.
This 1.5-hour guided walking tour takes visitors through the historic Franklin Street, known for its turn-of-the-century architecture. Along the way, you’ll hear chilling ghost stories and haunted tales from a live guide.
Visit notable landmarks like the Jefferson Hotel, which has a history of celebration and tragedy. Learn about famous authors and entrepreneurs who’ve left their mark on the city.
The tour is wheelchair accessible and operates rain or shine, though it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues or heart problems. Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.
After the tour, explore the local bars and restaurants in the neighborhood.
Tickets are priced from Kč 717 per person, with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
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Richmond: Court End Walking Ghost Tour
Though the Richmond Court End Walking Ghost Tour shares a similar theme to the Phantoms of Franklin Walking Ghost Tour, it offers a distinct experience for visitors.
Running for 1.5 to 2 hours, this guided walking tour explores the historic and modern areas of Richmond. Led by a professional guide, you will uncover haunted landmarks, learn about notorious residents, and discover the contrast between the city’s regal past and present.
Costing €2856 per person, the tour can accommodate wheelchair users and is conducted in English. Reservations can be made with no upfront payment, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance.
With a 5/5 rating based on 2 reviews, the tour has received praise for the guide’s knowledge, enthusiasm, and storytelling abilities.
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, as alcohol, drugs, and recordings are prohibited during the experience.
Read our full review: Richmond: Court End Walking Ghost Tour Review
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Richmond: Scott’S Addition Neighborhood Tour With Tastings
Visitors exploring Richmond’s vibrant Scott’s Addition neighborhood can embark on a 2.5-hour culinary adventure with the Richmond: Scott’s Addition Neighborhood Tour with Tastings. Priced at Kč 2,391 per person, this guided walking tour allows participants to savor the local culinary scene and craft beverages.
The tour is conducted in English and is wheelchair accessible, with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
Highlights of the experience include tasting specialties from various restaurants, markets, and eateries, as well as meeting the owners of these local culinary hotspots. Participants will also learn about the neighborhood’s industrial past and discover the booming craft beverage industry in Richmond.
The tour begins with a food and beer pairing at the first stop, followed by visits to multiple establishments. Guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes and bring a valid ID.
With an impressive 5/5 rating based on a single review, this tour promises a delicious and informative exploration of Scott’s Addition.
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Sum Up
Richmond offers a variety of engaging tours that showcase the city’s rich history, vibrant arts scene, and delectable cuisine. From walking tours of the Arts District and Shockoe Bottom to ghost tours and neighborhood explorations, there’s something to suit every interest. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll or a more active bike tour, you’ll find plenty of ways to discover the best of what Richmond has to offer.