Virginia City is a town that practically screams history, with its gold rush past and lively streets. It’s a place where you can walk in the footsteps of miners and colorful characters, but it’s also a surprisingly good destination for outdoor adventure and even spooky stories. Among the tours available, we’re particularly fond of ones that blend authentic history with unique experiences — like the Virginia City: Guided Walking Tour with Local Insights, which offers a solid dose of local storytelling, or the Washoe Club Haunted Tour, perfect for those intrigued by ghost stories and paranormal mysteries. If you’re into scenic landscapes, the Lake Tahoe Half-Day Photographic Scenic Tour and the Lake Tahoe and Squaw Valley Full-Day Bus Tour deliver stunning views and lively narratives that make the most of Nevada and California’s natural beauty.
Virginia City’s tours stand out because they cater to different interests — whether you want to walk through history, marvel at scenic lakes, or explore haunted halls. Each offers a chance to learn, see, or experience something memorable, making it easier to pick the right one depending on your mood and time constraints.
1. Lake Tahoe: Half-Day Photographic Scenic Tour
Rated 4.9/5 from 95 reviews, this half-day tour is ideal for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts alike. At around 5 hours and $195 per person, it packs in a lot of stunning scenery without demanding a full day. The tour takes you to waterfalls, glaciers, and other spectacular locations around Lake Tahoe, with plenty of opportunities for memorable photos.
What makes this tour stand out is the focus on learning about local wildlife, geology, and Lake Tahoe’s history, giving you context while you soak in the scenery. The guide will help you capture great shots of you and your group with Lake Tahoe as a backdrop, which is perfect if you want a few professional-quality photos from your trip. During different seasons, you might see bears, salmon runs, wildflowers, or fall foliage, adding an element of surprise to each outing. Their reviews highlight the personalized attention and the guide’s ability to find the best spots.
This tour is best suited for travelers who want a condensed yet comprehensive outdoor experience, especially those keen on photography and wildlife. A potential downside is that it’s a half-day, so if you’re craving a full exploration, you might prefer a longer tour.
Bottom line: If you’re short on time but eager for stunning landscape photography and educational insights, this tour hits the mark.
2. Lake Tahoe and Squaw Valley: Full-Day Narrated Bus Tour
Rated 4.9/5 from 60 reviews, this full-day bus tour offers a comprehensive look at Lake Tahoe and Squaw Valley over approximately 7 hours, costing $80 per person. Starting and ending in South Lake Tahoe, it’s a convenient way to see many highlights without the hassle of driving yourself.
This tour features photo stops at Emerald Bay, Truckee River Dam, Squaw Valley, and Inspiration Point, giving travelers a well-rounded view of the area’s natural beauty and key landmarks. The tour includes a lunch break in Tahoe City, making it a good choice for those wanting a relaxed, narrated experience that doesn’t require strenuous activity. The guide shares stories about the region’s history, geology, and local lore, enriching your understanding of the landscape.
Guests remark that it’s a “great overview” and appreciate the ease of transportation combined with multiple photo opportunities. This tour is perfect if you prefer a comfortable, educational day covering a broad area, especially if you’re on a tight schedule but want to see the best sights.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who want an all-in-one, relaxed tour with plenty of photo stops and storytelling.
3. Virginia City: Guided Walking Tour with Local Insights
Rated 4.5/5 from 2 reviews, this 1-hour walking tour for $35 per person is a focused way to explore Virginia City’s most iconic streets. It’s a compact tour, but one that offers a deep dive into the town’s Gold Rush era and the famous Comstock Lode.
Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll stroll through the historic district, hearing stories about the colorful characters that made Virginia City famous. The tour covers key sites and shares personal anecdotes that bring history to life, making it perfect for history buffs and those wanting a quick but meaningful look at the town’s past.
While the review scores are modest, the detailed stories and personal insights make this tour worthwhile for first-time visitors who want a bite-sized historical experience. Keep in mind that its short duration means it’s best paired with other activities if you want more time exploring.
Bottom line: A solid, affordable introduction to Virginia City’s history for those with limited time or a curiosity for local lore.
4. Virginia City: Washoe Club Museum Haunted Tour
Rated 2/5 from just 1 review, this 40-minute private haunted tour up to 20 people costs $200 per group. It’s a niche experience perfect for those interested in paranormal stories and ghostly mysteries.
This tour takes you through the historic Washoe Club, where stories of spirits and supernatural activity abound. It combines local history with spooky tales, and visitors are encouraged to take videos and photos, testing their ghost-hunting skills. It’s short but offers a fun, spine-chilling experience, especially if you enjoy ghost stories or want an evening thrill.
Because of the small number of reviews, it’s hard to gauge overall satisfaction, but the experience promises a different kind of glimpse into Virginia City’s past—one that’s tinged with mystery. It’s best suited for night owls or those not easily spooked.
Bottom line: If you’re after a quick supernatural adventure, this haunted tour offers a memorable, if slightly eerie, experience.
$200 per group up to 20
How to Choose
When selecting the best tour in Virginia City, consider your interests, budget, and available time. For scenic outdoor photography, the Lake Tahoe Half-Day Photographic Scenic Tour is hard to beat, especially if you want stunning landscapes with a knowledgeable guide. If you prefer a broad overview of the Lake Tahoe area, the Full-Day Bus Tour offers convenience and variety.
History enthusiasts will enjoy the Virginia City Guided Walking Tour, which is ideal for a quick, immersive experience. For those intrigued by the supernatural, the Haunted Tour provides a spooky twist, though it’s best for night owls and ghost fans.
Consider your fitness level, the amount of time you want to spend, and whether you’re traveling solo or with family. Booking early can be especially helpful for popular tours, especially in peak seasons, so plan ahead.
Virginia City offers a range of tour experiences, from scenic landscapes and historic insights to spooky ghost hunts. If you’re pressed for time but want a rich history overview, the walking tour is perfect. For travelers craving outdoor adventure, the Lake Tahoe scenic tours provide breathtaking views and photo ops. And if you’re in the mood for a thrill, the haunted tour adds a fun, spooky element to your visit.
No matter your interests, Virginia City’s tours help you peel back layers of its colorful past and vibrant present. We recommend booking your preferred tours early, especially during busy seasons, to secure your spot and make the most of your trip.