Alexandria African-American History Walking Tour – Virginia

Step into the pages of history with the Alexandria African-American History Walking Tour 2024 in Virginia. This tour offers a unique opportunity to uncover the often overlooked stories and contributions of the African American community in Alexandria.

Led by knowledgeable guides, visitors will be transported back in time as they walk through the streets of Old Town, seeing the rich cultural heritage that shaped this vibrant city.

From the iconic Barrett Library, the meeting point of the tour, to the significant landmarks along the way, you will gain a deeper understanding of the African American community’s impact on Alexandria.

But that’s just the beginning. There’s so much more to discover, so many untold stories waiting to be unearthed.

So, come, join the tour, and uncover the hidden gems of Alexandria’s African American history.

This experience made our list of the 10 Best Walking Tours In Virginia.

Good To Know

• The Alexandria African-American History Walking Tour in Virginia offers a guided exploration of significant landmarks in Old Town, uncovering overlooked stories and contributions of the African American community.
• The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours and provides an immersive experience in African-American heritage, allowing visitors to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the contributions made by African Americans in Alexandria.
• The tour has received positive reviews, with an overall rating of 5.0. Traveler photos and testimonials highlight the captivating and informative nature of the tour, with specific tour guides like John earning high praise.
• The tour is an affordable option for discovering Alexandria’s heritage, with pricing starting from R$83.89. It is operated by Viator, and offers flexible cancellation policies, including a full refund for cancellations made 24 hours in advance.

Tour Overview and Highlights

The Alexandria African-American History Walking Tour offers a captivating and informative exploration of Old Town’s rich cultural heritage and landmarks, providing visitors with a unique and immersive experience. This tour holds great significance in shedding light on the often overlooked contributions and struggles of the African-American community in Alexandria.

By delving into the stories of individuals who lived in Old Town, the tour brings history to life and highlights the impact of African-Americans on the local community. Through visits to landmarks that played a pivotal role in African-American history, such as the Barrett Library, participants gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced and the triumphs achieved.

This tour not only educates and enlightens, but it also fosters a sense of appreciation and respect for the African-American heritage and its lasting influence on Alexandria.

Tour Details and Meeting Point

Located in the heart of Old Town, the meeting point for the Alexandria African-American History Walking Tour is the historically notable Barrett Library. This iconic landmark serves as the starting point for an engaging journey through the rich African-American heritage of Alexandria.

The tour, which lasts approximately 1.5 hours, takes participants on a guided walking exploration of the city’s significant landmarks and shares captivating stories of the individuals who lived in Old Town. As participants gather at the Barrett Library, they’ll be immersed in the vibrant history of the area and gain a deeper understanding of the contributions made by African Americans to the community.

The tour duration allows for a comprehensive and informative experience, ensuring that visitors leave with a newfound appreciation for Alexandria’s African-American history.

Duration and Cancellation Policy

As participants gather at the historically notable Barrett Library, they can also familiarize themselves with the duration and cancellation policy of the Alexandria African-American History Walking Tour. The tour has a duration of approximately 1.5 hours, during which knowledgeable guides share stories about individuals who lived in Old Town and explore the landmarks of Alexandria’s African American history. To ensure a smooth experience, it’s important to understand the cancellation policy. For cancellations made 24 hours in advance, a full refund is available. However, if cancellations are made less than 24 hours before the start time or changes are made within that timeframe, no refund will be provided. It’s worth noting that weather-related cancellations offer an alternative date or a full refund. The table below summarizes the duration policy and refund options:

Duration Policy	Refund Options
1.5 hours	Full refund for cancellations made 24 hours in advance
	No refund for cancellations made less than 24 hours before start time
	Changes made less than 24 hours before start time not accepted
	Weather-related cancellations offered alternative date or full refund

Understanding these policies ensures that participants are well-informed and can make decisions accordingly.

Traveler Photos and Reviews

Visitors to the Alexandria African-American History Walking Tour can gain further insight into the experience by exploring traveler photos and reading reviews from previous participants.

These traveler photos offer a glimpse into the rich history and cultural significance of the tour. From images of historic landmarks to portraits of individuals who lived in Old Town, these photos capture the essence of the tour and showcase the historical significance of Alexandria’s African American community.

Plus, the reviews from previous participants provide valuable insights into the tour’s quality and impact. With an overall rating of 5.0, it’s clear that participants have had exceptional traveler experiences. Reviewers have praised the captivating and informative nature of the tour, with specific tour guides like John earning high praise for their knowledge and storytelling abilities.

These photos and reviews are a testament to the tour’s value and the meaningful exploration of African American history in Alexandria.

Pricing and Operator Information

The tour operator for the Alexandria African-American History Walking Tour is Viator They offer a captivating exploration of the city’s African American history and cultural heritage. The tour pricing starts from R$83.89, providing an affordable option for those interested in discovering the rich heritage of Alexandria.

As the operator, Viator ensures a high-quality experience, with knowledgeable guides sharing stories of individuals who lived in Old Town and exploring landmarks of Alexandria’s African American history. With a tour duration of approximately 1.5 hours, participants can explore the fascinating past of this vibrant city.

Viator also offers a flexible cancellation policy, allowing full refunds for cancellations made 24 hours in advance. Travelers can book this enlightening tour through Viator’s website, where they can find more information about the tour operator and the terms and conditions that apply.

Landmarks Explored on the Tour

Participants on the Alexandria African-American History Walking Tour will have the opportunity to explore and learn about the significant landmarks that played a vital role in the city’s rich African American history. These landmarks hold immense historical and cultural significance, offering a glimpse into the struggles, triumphs, and contributions of the African American community in Alexandria.

Here are four of the landmarks that will be explored on the tour:

1. The Barrett Library: As the meeting point of the tour, the Barrett Library holds a special place in Alexandria’s African American history. It was one of the few public libraries that welcomed African Americans during the time of segregation, providing them with access to knowledge and education.

2. Franklin and Armfield Office: This historic building served as the headquarters for one of the largest and most successful slave trading firms in the country. It represents the painful legacy of slavery and the significant role Alexandria played in the domestic slave trade.

3. The Contrabands and Freedmen Cemetery: This cemetery is a powerful reminder of the thousands of enslaved individuals who sought refuge and freedom during the Civil War. It serves as a testament to their resilience and the sacrifices they made in their pursuit of liberty.

4. Gadsby’s Tavern Museum: This iconic hotel was once a hub for social and political gatherings in Alexandria. It hosted many notable figures, including prominent African American leaders such as Frederick Douglass and William Still. Exploring this landmark provides insight into the vibrant social and intellectual life of the African American community during the 19th century.

Directions and How to Get There

As you continue your exploration of Alexandria’s African-American history, it’s essential to know how to reach the various landmarks that showcase the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Whether you prefer public transportation or driving, there are convenient options available to reach the tour starting point at the Barrett Library.

For those using public transportation, the library is easily accessible by bus. The closest bus stop is located just a few steps away, making it a convenient option for travelers. Plus, the library is within walking distance of the King Street-Old Town Metro station, providing another transportation option.

If you prefer to drive, there are parking options available near the Barrett Library. Street parking is available on nearby streets, but availability may vary depending on the time of day. Alternatively, there are several parking garages in the area that offer hourly and daily rates.

Whichever mode of transportation you choose, rest assured that reaching the landmarks on the Alexandria African-American History Walking Tour is convenient and hassle-free.

Common Questions

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Alexandria African-American History Walking Tour?

Yes, there are no age restrictions for the Alexandria African-American History Walking Tour. The tour is accessible for all ages and provides an engaging and informative experience for everyone interested in learning about the city’s rich African-American heritage.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour is wheelchair accessible, ensuring that all participants can fully enjoy the experience. There are no tour restrictions based on physical mobility, allowing everyone to explore Alexandria’s African-American history and cultural heritage.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

Yes, pets are allowed on the tour. The tour has a pet-friendly policy that welcomes furry companions. However, if you prefer not to bring your pet, there are alternative transportation options available for your convenience.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Available Along the Tour Route?

Yes, restroom facilities are available along the tour route. Visitors can easily access these facilities during the Alexandria African-American History Walking Tour.

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

Photography is allowed during the tour. However, it is important to adhere to the tour regulations and guidelines regarding photography, ensuring respect for the sites and individuals being discussed.

The Sum Up

To sum it up, the Alexandria African-American History Walking Tour 2024 in Virginia offers an immersive and enlightening experience into the vibrant history and cultural heritage of Alexandria’s African American community.

Led by knowledgeable guides, you will explore significant landmarks and hear captivating stories about the individuals who shaped the area’s rich history.

With rave reviews, a convenient meeting point, and a flexible cancellation policy, this top-quality excursion promises to leave visitors with a deeper understanding and appreciation of Alexandria’s African American heritage.