Richmond’s walking tours pack serious historical punch in bite-sized adventures. The Arts District Food Tour stands out as a perfect 3-hour introduction to local flavors and neighborhood culture.
History buffs will appreciate the Hollywood Cemetery tour, which combines Civil War stories with Victorian-era architecture. After dark, two ghost tours compete for attention: the spirited Shockoe Bottom walk and the equally compelling Court End route – both delivering historically accurate tales with just the right amount of spine-tingling fun.
These are the standout walking tours worth your time in Richmond:
Good To Know
- The Arts District Walking Food Tour offers a 3-hour culinary experience with a full meal, alcoholic beverages, and an English-speaking guide.
- The Hollywood Cemetery Lore and Civil War Walking Tour explores 13 key sites in the picturesque Hollywood Cemetery and uncovers captivating lore.
- The Capitol Hill Ghost Walking Tour provides a unique and spooky glimpse into Richmond’s haunted past, covering the Shockoe Slip and Monumental Church.
- The Court End Walking Ghost Tour explores the historic Court End neighborhood and its haunted history, including the iconic John Marshall House.
- The Phantoms of Franklin Walking Ghost Tour delves into the haunted history of Richmond’s historic Franklin Street, visiting landmarks like the Jefferson Hotel.
Richmond: Arts District Walking Food Tour
The Richmond: Arts District Walking Food Tour offers a delightful exploration of the city’s vibrant arts district. Lasting 3 hours, the tour takes guests on a guided journey to discover great local restaurants, learn about the neighborhood’s history, and meet the chefs and owners behind the establishments.
For $90 per person, travelers can enjoy a full meal, alcoholic beverages, and a live English-speaking guide. The meeting location varies depending on the tour time, so customers must ensure they arrive at the correct spot.
With a focus on the arts district’s diverse culinary scene, this walking tour promises an engaging and flavorful experience in Richmond, Virginia.
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Richmond: Shockoe Bottom Ghost Walking Tour
For those seeking a chilling and captivating glimpse into Richmond’s storied past, the Richmond: Shockoe Bottom Ghost Walking Tour offers a 1.5-hour journey through the city’s oldest and most haunted neighborhood. Participants will hear haunting tales of generations past, visit the Poe Museum and learn about its hauntings, and witness the oldest active Masonic Lodge in the western hemisphere.
The tour also delves into the chilling history of Civil War-era hospitals and the spirits that still haunt the area. With a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour is a must-do for those interested in the supernatural side of Richmond’s history.
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Richmond: Hollywood Cemetery Lore and Civil War Walking Tour
Amidst the picturesque rolling hills and lush greenery of Richmond’s Hollywood Cemetery lies a treasure trove of historical intrigue and captivating lore. This 2-hour walking tour explores 13 key sites, providing a new perspective on Virginia’s past. Visitors will unearth secrets, such as the surprising discovery at the grave of Jefferson Davis, and hear the story of Titanic survivor Robert Williams Daniel.
The knowledgeable, well-researched guide brings these tales to life, making the tour interactive and engaging. Though not recommended for those with mobility issues, the tour navigates the beautifully-landscaped arboretum along the James River, rain or shine. Reviewers rave about the 5-star service and the guide’s consummate professionalism.
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Richmond: Capitol Hill Ghost Walking Tour With a Guide
This immersive ghost walking tour takes visitors on a spine-chilling journey through Richmond’s Capitol Hill, uncovering the dark secrets and lingering spirits that haunt the area’s most recognizable landmarks. Lasting 1.5 hours and priced at $30 per person, the tour explores the cobblestoned Shockoe Slip, where visitors will hear grim stories about Virginia’s capital.
The highlight is a visit to Monumental Church, a memorial to one of Richmond’s greatest tragedies. The tour requires participants to climb about 100 steps and covers a total distance of 0.75 miles, so it may not be suitable for those with mobility issues or heart problems. This ghost tour offers a unique and spooky glimpse into Richmond’s haunted past.
Read our full review: Richmond: Capitol Hill Ghost Walking Tour With a Guide Review
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Richmond: Court End Walking Ghost Tour
The Richmond: Court End Walking Ghost Tour offers visitors a captivating exploration of the city’s historic Court End neighborhood.
The 1.5-hour guided walking tour takes guests through the area, uncovering its haunted history and ghost stories. Highlights include the iconic John Marshall House and its haunted past.
Along the way, you will discover both historic and modern buildings, gaining insight into the neighborhood’s tumultuous history. The tour is wheelchair accessible and allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. However, it’s not suitable for those with heart problems or low fitness levels.
For $30 per person, this ghost tour provides an engaging and informative experience in Richmond.
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Richmond: Monroe Park Campus Walking Ghost Tour
Explore the captivating haunted history of Richmond’s Monroe Park campus on the Richmond: Monroe Park Campus Walking Ghost Tour. Led by a live guide, this 1.5-hour walking tour takes you through the college’s beautiful, gilded age architecture and uncovers the ghostly tales of its notorious past residents.
Discover the haunted landmarks, including the eerie Ginter House, and explore the campus’ dark and mysterious past. Priced from €21 per person, this wheelchair-accessible tour is a must for those interested in the paranormal. Wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather, as the tour operates rain or shine. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.
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Richmond: Phantoms of Franklin Walking Ghost Tour
Although the Monroe Park campus may be filled with ghostly tales, visitors can also uncover the haunted history of Richmond’s historic Franklin Street on the Phantoms of Franklin Walking Ghost Tour. This 1.5-hour guided walking tour explores the turn-of-the-century architecture and dark past of the neighborhood.
Guests can expect to hear chilling ghost stories from the guide, visit the iconic Jefferson Hotel, and discover landmarks with a haunted history. The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues or heart problems, and attendees should wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing.
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, and the tour can be booked with a reserve now, pay later option.
Read our full review: Richmond: Phantoms of Franklin Walking Ghost Tour Review
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The Sum Up
Richmond offers a diverse selection of walking tours that cater to a range of interests. From exploring the arts district and historic neighborhoods to uncovering the city’s ghostly past, these tours provide an engaging and immersive experience for visitors. Whether you’re interested in food, history, or the supernatural, Richmond’s walking tours are a great way to discover the city’s unique character and hidden gems.