Richmond is a city that practically breathes history. With its roots stretching back over 400 years, this city offers a fascinating mix of Civil War landmarks, vibrant neighborhoods, and even some spooky stories. For travelers eager to explore the city’s past in a fun, interactive way, Richmond does not disappoint. We particularly like the Richmond Landmark Segway Tour for its engaging ride past top sights like Monument Avenue and the Virginia State Capitol, combining mobility with storytelling. Meanwhile, the Haunted History Tour offers a spine-tingling look into Richmond’s ghost stories and dark legends. Whether you’re into history, architecture, or ghost stories, Richmond’s tours have something to offer. If you’re unsure which to pick, our detailed breakdown below will help you find the perfect match.
Quick Overview
Our list features a variety of ways to explore Richmond’s history. From high-tech Segway tours that zip you past landmarks like Old City Hall, to a charming trolley ride that takes you through historic neighborhoods, there’s something for every style of explorer. For those intrigued by the city’s spooky side, the Haunted History Tour provides spine-chilling tales from Shockoe Bottom. For a more offbeat, lively experience, the Offbeat History Tour of Richmond on a bus brings out the quirkiest stories of the city. Lastly, lovers of cemeteries can step into the past at the Hollywood Cemetery Hills and History tour, which offers scenic views and stories of notable Virginians. Each has its own charm, and all offer a different perspective on Richmond’s story.
1. Richmond Landmark Segway Tour
On the Richmond Landmark Segway Tour, you’ll gain a fresh perspective on Virginia’s capital city. This experience [] combines a fun, easy-to-learn mode of transportation with storytelling about Richmond’s most significant sights. The tour typically lasts around two hours and includes riding past the Canal Walk, where Richmond’s commercial history began, and the Virginia State Capitol, designed by Thomas Jefferson. The guide shares insights into Richmond’s Civil War history and its evolution from colonial times to today.
What makes this tour stand out is its engaging format. Riding a Segway is surprisingly simple, even for first-timers, and it allows you to cover more ground than walking. The multiple departure times and tour durations mean you can tailor the experience to your schedule. Reviews are glowing, with visitors praising the ease of learning and the depth of historical stories. One commented, “The Segways were fun, easy to drive, and the tour guide was very informative.” The price of $55 offers good value for a memorable two-hour adventure. For those who want a lively, interactive way to learn about Richmond’s landmarks without walking for hours, this might be your best bet.
Bottom Line: A fun, accessible option that combines technology with storytelling to explore Richmond’s top sights in a short time.
2. Historic Trolley Tour
The Historic Trolley Tour transports you back to Richmond’s 19th-century streets, []. For around $42, you get a roughly two-hour ride on a vintage streetcar, passing by landmarks like the James River, the Virginia State Capitol, and the historic Jackson Ward neighborhood. The tour features lively live narration, giving visitors a well-rounded understanding of Richmond’s past from its founding to its role in the Civil War.
This tour offers a relaxed way to see the city without tiring your feet. It’s especially good for first-timers or those who want a broader overview, with the advantage of limited group size—about 20 travelers—to keep things intimate. Highlights include Libby Hill Park, with its stunning views of the river and city skyline, and neighborhoods home to the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts and the Virginia Museum of History and Culture. Visitors frequently note that the tour helps them decide what to explore further, with one reviewer saying, “I highly recommend it at the beginning of your trip.” The combination of historical insight and scenic views makes this a solid choice for anyone wanting to get their bearings in Richmond.
Bottom Line: A comfortable, informative ride that introduces you to Richmond’s key neighborhoods and landmarks, perfect for first visits.
3. Offbeat History Tour of Richmond on a bus
If you’re tired of traditional tours, the Offbeat History Tour of Richmond on a bus [] proves that history can be lively and surprising. For about $45, this 90-minute journey takes you through the city’s quirkiest stories, from Church Hill to Shock Bottom and Carytown. The guide has a knack for sharing bizarre, funny, and sometimes shocking tales that you won’t hear in standard history books.
What makes this tour unique is its focus on the weird side of Richmond—like strange characters and odd moments that give the city its character. The ride is lively and fun, with a light-hearted tone that appeals to those who might find traditional history dull. One reviewer says, “It was fun! The ride was safe and the tour guy was funny.” It’s a shorter tour best suited for those looking for a quick, entertaining dose of local lore. Since it covers many neighborhoods in just an hour and a half, it’s ideal for travelers short on time or those with a sense of humor.
Bottom Line: A lively, humorous way to see Richmond’s lesser-known stories, perfect for those who want a break from serious history.
4. The Haunted History of Richmond tour
For a spooky twist on history, the Haunted History of Richmond tour [] takes you through the city’s eerie sites and ghost stories. This walking tour lasts about 90 minutes and is perfect for those interested in the haunted legends of Shockoe Bottom and beyond. It includes tales of The Devil’s Half Acre, the Church Hill Tunnel curse, and vampire lore, all told by Strange RVA, whose storytelling makes the past come alive with chills.
Highlights include a stop at the Edgar Allan Poe Museum (though you won’t go inside), the African Burial Ground, and Lumpkin’s Slave Jail. The tour offers a mix of colonial curses, Civil War hauntings, and real-life sinister characters. With only 3 reviews, it’s a niche experience, but those who have been say it’s atmospheric and well-told. “Wander the cobblestone streets and hear stories that make the hair stand up,” one reviewer notes. It’s best suited for night owls or anyone intrigued by ghost stories and the darker side of Richmond’s past.
Bottom Line: A compelling mix of history and ghost stories that appeals to fans of the supernatural and eerie tales.
5. Hollywood Cemetery Hills and History
The Hollywood Cemetery Hills and History tour [] offers a peaceful walk through one of Richmond’s most scenic spots. For around $38, you’ll explore the resting places of U.S. Presidents, Virginia governors, and prominent authors. The tour covers about two hours, providing both stories and stunning views of the James River and the city skyline.
What makes Hollywood Cemetery special is its mix of history and landscape. You’ll see the graves of notable figures like James Monroe and John Tyler, and enjoy sweeping vistas while learning about Richmond’s past. The guide highlights the cemetery’s role as an outdoor museum, with the landscape itself telling stories of the city’s evolution. Visitors appreciate the quiet beauty and the chance to walk through history, with one saying, “The views from the overlooks are worth the trip alone.” If you’re interested in American presidents and Virginia’s political history, this tour offers a reflective experience away from the hustle.
Bottom Line: A scenic, historic cemetery walk suited for those interested in presidential history and landscape views.
$38.25 per person
How to Choose Your Richmond Tour
Choosing between these options depends on your interests and how you like to explore. If you want a high-energy, engaging experience with a modern twist, the Richmond Landmark Segway Tour is hard to beat. If you prefer a relaxed, scenic ride with lots of history, the Historic Trolley Tour provides a rundown tailored for first-timers.
For those curious about the quirky and strange stories of Richmond, the Offbeat History Tour offers humor and surprises. Ghost lovers should consider the Haunted History Tour for spooky tales that bring the city’s dark legends to life. And if you’re interested in visiting the resting places of historic figures amid beautiful scenery, the Hollywood Cemetery Hills and History provides a quiet, reflective experience.
When booking, consider your budget, time constraints, and personal interests. Tours like the Segway or trolley are great for first visits, while the ghost and cemetery tours suit travelers wanting a more specific experience. Book early, especially during peak seasons, to ensure your spot.
To sum it up, Richmond offers a diverse range of historical tours, each providing a unique window into its past. Whether you prefer high-tech rides, scenic trolley trips, spooky ghost stories, or peaceful cemetery walks, there’s an option for everyone. For a lively, fun introduction, the Segway Tour is hard to top. If you’re after a deep dive into neighborhood stories, the Trolley Tour won’t disappoint. And for those fascinated by the supernatural or the final resting places of notable Virginians, Richmond’s themed tours are a perfect fit. Whatever you choose, these tours will deepen your appreciation for Richmond’s remarkable history—and make your visit memorable. Be sure to reserve your spot early, especially in busy seasons.