Richmond History Tour: From Tobacco Town to Civil Rights

Embark on a captivating 2-hour walking tour of Richmond Downtown and uncover the city’s fascinating history, from its humble beginnings as a tobacco town to its pivotal role in the Revolution, Civil War, and Civil Rights movement. Gain a comprehensive understanding of Richmond and discover the must-see attractions for your next visit to RVA.

Duration: 2 hours
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • Jackson Ward - Start your journey in the historic Jackson Ward, celebrated as The Harlem of the South and the Black Wall Street of the South.
  • The John Marshall House - Visit and discover the life and contributions of Richmond native John Marshall to the city’s and nation’s history.
  • The Valentine - Explore the beautiful Court End, learn…
What's Included
  • Safe distancing with provided headsets
Additional Information

Embark on a captivating 100-minute walking tour that traces Richmond’s transformation from a modest tobacco town to the capital of the Commonwealth. Discover Richmond’s significant involvement in the Civil War and its pivotal role in the Civil Rights movement. Every participant will gain a thorough understanding of the city, along with recommendations on what to explore and experience next in RVA.

Location
403 N 3rd St
North 3rd Street
We meet at the turn-in on N 3rd Street between Marshall and Clay Streets
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.8
(213 Ratings)
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Lynnedd5722we
Nov 23, 2025
Interesting and fact-filled tour! - We had a wonderful walking tour with Kathy yesterday. Despite pouring rain and some wind, Kathy was upbeat, knowledgeable and gave us lots of interesting history about Richmond - especially downtown - and its development. Things we never would have known! And it was fun to hear it from a local. Thanks! B&L from Annapolis.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Anamariacq4185xi
Nov 21, 2025
Excelent tour - Doug was wonderful. He gave us a great explanation about the history. We enjoyed it a lot. Next time we come to Richmond we would like to get another tour with Doug.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Mary_m
Nov 15, 2025
Great guide-learned a lot... - Great guide-learned a lot about Richmond past and present. Easy walking-definitely recommend for any visitor!
Review provided by Viator
S6080dzcarolineg
Nov 9, 2025
Good time walking downtown Richmond - We really enjoyed our Richmond downtown walking tour with Kathy. We learned a lot and received great tips on what to do after the tour. Definitely recommend!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Becky_h
Nov 8, 2025
We recommend this tour! - We had a great time on this tour. Jason shared so much interesting historical information! He’s a fun, informative, personable guide. The tour included sites we wouldn’t have known to go to on our own.
Review provided by Viator
I180ohcarols
Nov 7, 2025
Historic tour - Ray was very knowledgeable and considerate. When we stopped to speak he made sure we were in the sun so we stayed warm . He was more than willing to help us take pictures and capture our trip.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Angela_s
Nov 3, 2025
A Walking Your of Fowntown Richmond. - Very interesting and a good history lesson of Richmond. The tour guide was very knowledgeable and loved the city.
Review provided by Viator
Companion820604
Nov 2, 2025
Walking Tour of Historic Richmond - Our guide is one of the best guides I've had in 25 years of traveling in the US and overseas. I learned so much! He was enthusiastic and a true historian.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Camper519300
Oct 26, 2025
Jim, John, Janet, and Jan - We took a private tour by car and were MOST fortunate to have Ray Kaufman as our guide. With his rich, clear voice he delivered a history lesson we will never forget. My family members and I would HIGHLY recommend this fascinating look into the history of beautiful, historic Richmond
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Tama_m
Oct 21, 2025
My first time touring... - My first time touring Richmond went great with tour guide Jason! I learned so much about the city from the first settlers to the civil war and the rich industrial history too. Jason is truly passionate about history and engaging with tidbits that tap into the stories of the leaders who made an impact in Richmond and Virginia as a whole.
Review provided by Viator
From $38
up to 14 guests
1 - Adult
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience (local time).