Richmond Downtown Walking Tour: Explore the City's Rich History
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Discover the rich history of Richmond on a captivating 100-minute walking tour that takes you from its humble beginnings as a tobacco town to its status as the state capital. Walk through historic neighborhoods and hear stories that bring the city’s past to life.
Learn about Richmond's pivotal role in the Civil War, the Civil Rights movement, and the city’s influence on American history. Each guest will leave with a deeper understanding of Richmond’s story and suggestions for what to explore next in RVA.
This tour is perfect for history buffs, curious travelers, or anyone wanting to see Richmond through the eyes of a local. It’s a friendly, engaging experience suitable for most ages and fitness levels.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Richmond Downtown Walking Tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes to 2 hours.
What languages are available for the tour?
The tour is conducted in English.
What is the group size?
Groups are limited to up to 14 people.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 1-12 and adults up to 90 years old can participate. Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller, and the tour is suitable for all fitness levels.
What is included in the tour?
Guests receive headsets to ensure safe distancing and clear communication throughout the tour.
How do I meet the tour guide?
Meet at the designated start point on N 3rd Street between Marshall and Clay Streets. The tour begins promptly at the scheduled time.
Free cancellation
Cancel at least 24 hours before your scheduled tour for a full refund.
Reserve now
Check a date here, then finish booking with our partner. Payment options are confirmed at checkout.
Duration 1 hour 40 min – 2 hours
Check availability to see start times.
Live tour guide
English
Key facts
What's included
Included
- Headsets that promote safe distancing
Itinerary
Explore Richmond’s historic sites and stories on a guided walking tour, with stops at key landmarks and neighborhoods.
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Stop 1
Begin in Jackson Ward, known as The Harlem of the South and Black Wall Street of the South.
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Stop 2
Hear about John Marshall, a Richmond native who shaped U.S. legal history.
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Stop 3
Visit Court End, learn about the Wickham and Davis houses, and Richmond’s role in the Burr treason trial and Beef Juice.
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Stop 4
Discover how Richmond became the CSA capital, Lincoln’s visit after surrender, and the Great Evacuation Fire.
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Stop 5
See the original Medical College of Virginia and hear about Richmond's Civil War medical prominence.
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Stop 6
Visit the only church designed by Jefferson’s apprentice and learn about Poe’s ties to Richmond.
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Stop 7
View the second oldest governor’s mansion and explore Capitol Square, including the Civil Rights Memorial and Brown v. Board story.
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Stop 8
Hear about Richmond’s role as the third state capital, Jefferson’s plans, and the 1870 tragedy.
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Stop 9
Visit the newest Capitol Square monument and learn about early European women, African Americans, and slavery in Richmond.
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Stop 10
Tour the Church of the Confederacy and its Tiffany windows, ending the tour here.
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Stop 11
Hear the story behind the proposed mausoleum for the first U.S. president and key founding figures.
Meeting point & pickup
Meet at the starting point on N 3rd Street between Marshall and Clay Streets.
We gather at the turn-in on N 3rd Street between Marshall and Clay Streets. The tour starts promptly at the scheduled time.
Open in Google MapsCancellation & confirmation
Free cancellation
Cancel at least 24 hours before your scheduled tour for a full refund.
- 100% refund if canceled at least 1 day in advance
- No refund if canceled within 24 hours
- Tour may be canceled due to bad weather or insufficient bookings
Instant confirmation
Your booking is confirmed immediately after checkout.
From $37.50 per person
- Free cancellation
- Secure checkout with our booking partner
