richmond history walking tour

PUBLIC SIGNATURE TOURS

Downtown tour.

Description:

On this 2 hour tour, we begin in historic Jackson Ward, the “Harlem of the South,” and continue along Broad Street, the city’s original thoroughfare and downtown’s cultural center.  We then stop in the Court End section, home to the largest extant antebellum collection of houses, the Valentine museum, and  the White House of the Confederacy. We visit Richmond’s first medical school, Monumental Church, the site of one of Richmond’s greatest tragedies, and end at  St. Paul’s Episcopal Church.

HIGHLIGHTS:

– Theatre Row – John Marshall House – Valentine Museum –  White House of the Confederacy – The Egyptian Building

– Monumental Church – Capitol Square – Capitol of Virginia – St. Paul’s Episcopal Church

NOTE : We will not tour the interior of any buildings.

Public Tour Information

– Cost : Adults $ 37.50 , Child under 10 $15 – Tickets : Required – Duration : 2 hours – Parking : Free Parking is available in the Visitor’s Center “20 Minute” spaces north, up 3rd St. past entrance

Departs : From Downtown Visitor Center on 3rd St. between Marshall and Clay Streets Concludes : At St. Paul’s Church, Grace St at 9th  When : Thursday thru Sunday, at 10:30 am

The Details & Finer Print

Our tours are limited to 14 guests including children

Personal Listening Devises for Guests

We provide a “new-to-Richmond” method of delivering walking tours, using small  “Listening Packs,” worn with a neck lanyard. These receivers, together with sealed personal single-use earphones enable listening to the tour guides’ narration throughout the tour. This allows for social distancing among families and others.

Downtown Tour Policies:

Tickets are required. A minimum of 2 Adults is necessary to conduct the tour. Please arrive no later than15 minutes prior to the tour to check in, receive your listening pack and personal earphones and gather your group (if this applies.)

We use a ticketless reservation system and all you’ll need is your name and confirmation at check in. If guests are late to the beginning of the tour, their place may be released and given to another party at time of departure.

SPECIAL NOTE: Concealed weapons, with or without a permit, are NOT permitted on Capitol Square. Please leave weapons behind.

Refund Policy:

You MUST cancel at least 24 hours before the tour to receive a full refund. NO REFUNDS are available on the day of the tour.

Cancellation Policies:

If we have fewer than 2 adults registered for a tour, we may cancel. We try to make this decision at least 2 hours before departure time. All guests will be notified of any cancellations via text and/or phone. For this reason, please make sure that you have provided us with a phone number to reach you on the day of your tour.

Weather: Our tours happen rain or shine. Please dress accordingly, wearing comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen and other sun protection during the dog days of summer. If we encounter extreme conditions and are forced to cancel the tour, you may reschedule for a later tour or receive a full refund.

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Richmond History Tours Return for 2023

RICHMOND- The Valentine is excited to announce the 2023 Richmond History Tour season! Attendees will explore neighborhoods and historic sites across Richmond, learning little-known stories that have shaped our community. For 23 years, the Valentine’s expert guides have helped residents and visitors learn about important historic sites, discover off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods, and engage with diverse stories that define Richmond.

“The Valentine is offering a great lineup of tours this season,” says Director, Bill Martin, “New walking tours and the return of our well-known bus tours provide great opportunities to learn new stories. There is no better way to experience Richmond’s history.”

The public season kicks off on Saturday, April 8th from 10:00 – 11:30 am, with our Court End Walking Tour. Attendees will learn about one of Richmond’s oldest neighborhoods, Court End, and explore the incredible story of the 1811 Richmond Theater Fire which is brought to life in local author Rachel Beanland’s new work of historical fiction, “The House is on Fire.”

Walking tours are scheduled for Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays between April and October.

The walking tours offered in 2023 include: • Origin Stories: Court End • Murals of Jackson Ward • Highlights of Hollywood Cemetery • History of Church Hill • Figures of Freedom (Shockoe Bottom & Downtown) • Ballot Battle: Richmond Suffrage (Downtown) • Barton Heights: Northside • Shockoe Hill Cemeteries • Manchester (starting in Summer) • Scotts Addition (starting in Summer) • Carytown (starting in Summer) • Monument Avenue: Origins and Reverberations Augmented Reality (starting in Summer)

This year, we are thrilled about the return of the program’s popular Richmond city bus tours, expanding both the stories we can tell and the accessibility of tours. The season’s first bus tour will explore historic cemeteries of Richmond on Memorial Day.

Valentine Members also receive access to Director’s Tours, the first of which will feature the Scott’s Addition neighborhood, led by Valentine Director Bill Martin. The full tour schedule can be found at  https://thevalentine.org/events/ .

Walking tours are $20 for adults, $10 for Valentine Members and free for children under 18. Bus tours are $50 for non-members, $40 for Valentine Members. Private groups and self-guided tours are also available through The Valentine’s website.

About the Valentine

The Valentine has been collecting, preserving and interpreting Richmond’s 400-year history for over a century. Located in the heart of historic downtown, the Valentine is a place for residents and tourists to discover the diverse stories that tell the broader history of this important region. Located in Shockoe Slip at the site where the Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom was signed in 1786, the Valentine First Freedom Center is dedicated to exploring the past, present and future of religious freedom in America.

The Valentine - Richmond History Tours

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Highlights of Hollywood Cemetery Walking Tour

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The Valentine - Richmond History Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

The Original & Longest Running

Richmond ghost tours, locally owned and operated since 2004, buy online and save, advance purchase recommended, gift a spooky experience, the best of richmond's haunted history.

Explore the dark side of Virginia's capital city on a Haunts of Richmond Ghost Tour. After the museums close and the sun goes down, Richmond's spirits rise, and we can't wait to share their ghastly tales with you. Specializing in haunted history since 2004, we feature the most experienced and knowledgeable ghost guides in Richmond. Get your tickets for a public tour or event now, or contact us to schedule a private tour for your group.

Our Tours & Events

A fascinating nighttime exploration of Shockoe Bottom, the oldest and most haunted neighborhood in Richmond. This outdoor walking tour will lead you about 3/4 miles in 90 minutes through the historic streets.

General Admission: $21.95 online, $25 walk-up or by phone.

Tour meets in front of Richbrau Brewing Company, 5 S. 20th Street

Birthplace of the American Revolution, and home to a notorious Civil War spy, Church Hill's colorful past has produced a cadre of restless spirits. This outdoor walking tour will lead you about 3/4 miles in 90 minutes through the historic neighborhood.

Tour meets at Patrick Henry's Pub & Grille, 2300 E. Broad Street

Richmond's Capitol Hill hosts more than just elected officials and security guards amidst its hallowed halls, but also many spirits from beyond the veil. This outdoor walking tour will lead you about 1 mile in 90 minutes as you ascend the seat of Virginia's political power.

Tour meets in front of The Berkeley Hotel, 1200 E. Cary Street

Come discover the eerie beauty of Richmond's turn of the century Franklin Street. Home to many beautiful landmarks, it's easy to see why spirits of days past would still linger here today. This outdoor walking tour will lead you about 1 mile in 75 to 90 minutes through the historic neighborhood.

Tour meets in front of The Jefferson Hotel, 101 W. Franklin Street

The thin veneer of higher education hides a macabre history that has left us with tales of ghastly hauntings and shocking murders. Join us for creepy tales of the time before Richmond's largest university called Monroe Park home. This outdoor walking tour will lead you about 1 mile in 75 to 90 minutes across campus.

Tour meets in front of Catherdal of the Sacred Heart, 823 Cathedral Place

Richmond's Court End hosts some of the city's most notable landmarks, along with some of its most macabre tales. Join us as we take a glimpse back at the haunting tales that linger in the shadows of this neighborhood's past. This outdoor walking tour will lead you about 1.5 miles in 90 minutes through the historic neighborhood.

Tour meets in front of the Richmond Marriott, 500 E. Broad Street

On select nights throughout the year, we offer guests the opportunity to choose which one of our six traditional walking tours we will offer on a first come-first served basis. Note that this is not a private tour. For more information on these opportunities, please check our FAQ Page.

General Admission: $21.95 per person.

Visit the historic, beautiful and haunted John Marshall House for an indoor 30-minute tour and then embark on a fascinating exploration of historic Court End's spirited tales with a outdoor 60-minute tour.

Check back for future availability of this special event.

General Admission: $30.95 per person. Advance purchase is required.

Spooky stories on wheels! Join our friends at RVATukTuk as they drive you to some of Richmond's most haunted sites and share the tales of spirits that still linger there. As an added bonus, you can BYOB and partake in some liquid spirits along the way!

Pricing: $275 plus tax for up to six guests. Visit the RVATukTuk website to check for availability and to make reservations.

Want a delicious meal with some spooky stories on the side? Join us for a Haunted Dinner at Patrick Henry's Pub & Grille! Tickets include an entree, dessert, non-alcoholic beverages, applicable taxes, and gratuities for the wait staff at Patrick Henry's Pub.

Stay tuned for the next public offering of this event! Private Haunted Dinners are available, pending availability. Minimums do apply for private dinner events. Please contact us for details.

Pricing: $50 per person. Alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase at an additional cost.

Want your ghost stories with a spirited beverage? Contact us to arrange a Haunted Pub Hop or Pub Crawl! Perfect for wedding parties, company outings, family reunions, birthday parties, or just a spooky (and tasty) night out with your friends!

Pricing: Varies by event. Contact us for details.

Maybe you're looking for something a little different by daylight? Check out our sister company, RVA Hidden History Storytellers, where you can find specially curated tours that feature some of the offbeat and overshadowed chapters of Richmond's past. Led by many of the same talented and experienced guides from Haunts of Richmond, you'll be sure to walk away with a greater appreciation for the city's remarkable and complex history.

Check Out Our Friends & Partners!

Over the years, Haunts of Richmond has been fortunate to find friends and partners from near and far. Take a moment to check out these amazing companies and organizations , give them your support, and let them know that we sent you their way!

Site contents copyright 2024 Haunts of Richmond unless noted otherwise. All rights reserved. Website by Richmond Historic Haunts, LLC.

Downtown Map

Essential Tours to Take in Downtown Richmond

The best ways to see downtown richmond, take in the sights and hear the stories of the area's history by bike, trolley, tuk tuk, canal boat, kayak and more when you join any of these tours of richmond.

Basket & Bike

Basket & Bike offers three types of downtown Richmond tours:

• Downtown Sunset Bike Tour : This Richmond bike tour takes you along downtown streets and the Virginia Capital Trail .
• Discover Downtown Bike Tour : Features a leisure tour of downtown RVA.
• Richmond Art & Secret Garden Tour : In partnership with Quirk Hotel , this tour provides a co-branded custom route that showcases some of RVA’s artsy must-sees. This tour includes the history of art in the region, like murals in Jackson Ward , street art by international artists, the grounds of the Institute for Contemporary Art , Quirk Gallery and hidden pocket parks.

Every tour ends with a voucher for a free coffee, tea, wine or beer at Urban Farmhouse and Cafe .

Elegba Folklore Society

Elegba Folklore Society’s interactive experience along the Trail of Enslaved Africans gives attendees the chance to ponder the impact of enslavement on the enslaved as shared in their own words and from their own point of view. Tour participants will walk in the footsteps of their ancestors from their arrival point at river’s edge into Shockoe Bottom , the area of Richmond that housed the holding pens, jails, blocks and burial ground. The interpreters will interweave the narratives of enslaved Africans with the historical record, characterizations of the day and music.

Haunts of Richmond Ghost Tours

Richmond has its share of ghostly and ghastly tales, and Haunts of Richmond can't wait to share them with you on one of their downtown-focused ghost tours: Shadows of Shockoe , Haunted Capitol Hill , or Phantoms of Franklin .

Shadows of Shockoe is a fascinating nighttime exploration of Shockoe Bottom , the oldest and most haunted neighborhood in Richmond. Haunted Capitol Hill finds what elected officials and security guards walk the hallowed halls of Virginia's seat of power. Phantoms of Franklin discovers the eerie beauty of Richmond's turn of the century Franklin Street.

Historic Riverfront Canal Cruises

Riverfront Canal Cruises in downtown Richmond feature historically-narrated tours of the James River and Kanawha Canal designed by George Washington. Hear about centuries of Richmond’s history, from Powhatan’s Chiefdom to the first commercially successful electric streetcar in the world, while traveling in authentic, flat-bottomed boats. See the unique railroad Triple Crossing, tobacco warehouses that have been converted into trendy lofts, the Virginia Capital Trail, the Low Line gardens and James River wildlife.

Tours depart from the canal’s Turning Basin at 139 Virginia Street. Canal Cruise historic tours run annually from April-November. All boats are handicap accessible and covered.

The JXN's Project Vanguard Route

We all stand on the shoulders of many notable Jackson Wardians and while the list of giants who helped future generations to see further is vast, The JXN Project hopes that the set of honorary designees for "Unveiling The Vanguard" is a representative sample of the shoulders whose stories are often overlooked and under-told. While only a few could be chosen to receive honorary street designations, the project endeavors to curate an installation to pay homage to the many others who were called to leave a mark on Jackson Ward.

Community members are invited to engage in a self-guided tour of the honorary street signs either via personal vehicle, bicycle or on foot. You'll find directional "JXN Ward" stamps installed on the sidewalks to guide tourists along the route, which starts at the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia located at 122 W Leigh Street and ends at Maggie Walker Plaza located at N Adams and W Broad Street.

Richmond Food Tours

Richmond’s revitalized Arts District , spanning parts of Jackson Ward and Monroe Ward , will capture your imagination with a mix of historically-significant architecture, renowned restaurants and inspiring art galleries.

Discover Richmond Food Tours means exploring the Arts District as an insider. You will sample delicious food and snacks from 6 different restaurants like: Wong Gonzalez , Lift Coffee Shop , Mama J's , Chez Foushee , Lillie Pearl , Bar Solita , and more. You’ll meet chefs and business owners and discover their passion for their craft. You’ll hear the stories that make this one of Richmond’s most defining and vibrant neighborhoods. But most of all, Richmond Food Tours will make sure you're full and have had fun by the end of it!

Richmond Tour Guys

Walk in the footsteps of 400 years of history with the Richmond Tour Guys while being captivated by the colorful stories of Richmond’s past and what it’s become. The Richmond Tour Guys offer walking tours of Richmond that are the perfect way to discover why Frommers said “While you weren’t looking, Richmond got cool.” Their downtown tours are acclaimed by locals and visitors who discover fun stories and ways to experience the city like they never have before; exploring and seeing Richmond through new eyes.

Riverside Outfitters

For the past 19 years, Riverside Outfitters has offered first-class outdoor adventures. Whether you’re after a thrill ride in Class III to IV whitewater or interested in a more relaxing whitewater rafting experience, the James River has what you’re looking for! Riverside Outfitters offers rafting trips on smaller rapids for ages 5+, and trips on the bigger rapids for ages 10+. They’ve got rides through the big rapids that last about 1 hour for folks with only a little free time, and adventures that last 3-4 hours with lunch out on an island for folks with more time to unplug.

• Whitewater rafting on the James
• Group rafting tours

Located downtown at 325 S. 14th St. Richmond, VA 23219. Google Maps . Find a "Reserved for Riverside" parking spot in their customer parking lot and check in at the front desk.

RVA First Fridays Art Walk

The RVA First Fridays Art Walk happens on the first Friday of every month in multiple locations along and around Broad Street and commemorate's each month's newest exhibitions, collections and showcases into a night of special programming and celebration of RVA's arts and culture. Explore the Arts District and all of its shops, galleries and restaurants through this self-guided walk. RVA First Friday's activities extend from Gallery5 and Art180 in Jackson Ward all the way to the ICA at VCU .

RVA Historic Trolley Tours

Whether you were raised in Richmond, visiting or just passing through, you can travel by trolley through a rich narrative of 400 years of history in one of the most fascinating and oldest cities in America. See the sights and learn about Richmond’s landmarks, riverfront, architecture and history.

RVA On Wheels offers tours aboard their classic, air-conditioned trolley with cushioned seats, intricate seat frameworks and social bus seating. Their comfortable trolley will take you to many of the most historic and popular landmarks in the city, with both a driver and guide who combine the rich history of Richmond with great stories, humor and wit.

RVA Paddlesports

RVA Paddlesports offers whitewater kayak and rafting instruction for all levels of paddlers. Whether it's your first time in a boat, or you want to paddle a multi-day trip overseas, RVA Paddlesports offers excursions and adventure programs for every step of the way. Take part in their Raft Guide Training , Sierra Rescue River Rescue Certification , and Kayaking classes !

RVATukTuk offers a variety of tours and rides throughout the city of Richmond on their fleet of electric-powered, three-wheeled open-air vehicles.

RVATukTuk tour options include:

• City Tours : You will discover the River city by way of the Virginia State Capitol, St. John’s Church, site of the famous “Give Me Liberty or Give Me Death” speech and Hollywood Cemetery, the final resting place of many famous people including Presidents James Monroe and John Tyler.
• City Lights Tours : See what Richmond is all about at night! This 1.5 hour private tour hits all the highlights of Richmond including great city and river views. They'll take you through Shockoe Slip , Shockoe Bottom , and other Richmond hot spots under the lights.
• Civil War, Slavery & Emancipation : Experience history on a tour through the most historic parts of Richmond. Your expert guide will give you insight into the events of the Civil War and the fall and burning of the city.
• Scavenger Hunts : The Family Fun Quest is a family-friendly, private scavenger hunt that's appropriate for all ages. Explore the city on a quest that will put a smile on everyone’s face. Designed for families or groups with children 12 and younger.

Segway of Richmond

Segways are a perfect—and fun—way to tour Richmond and are super easy to use! Cover more ground than walking, but still get up close to all the amazing things Richmond has to offer - history, street art, and more!

Segway of Richmond tour options include:

• Views of Richmond Segway Tour : From Libby Hill to the Potterfield Bridge, guides will show you some gorgeous spots, talk about other fun things to do and point out great restaurants along the way!
• Richmond Landmark Tour : Cruise to sites like Brown’s Island featuring rich Civil War history and beautiful views of the mighty James River, the Virginia State Capitol, and more!
• Jackson Ward Tour : Trace the centuries long fight for racial equality in Virginia, from resistance and revolt against slavery to landmark US Supreme Court cases against segregation.
• Women in Richmond Tour : Richmond's history abounds with amazing women who defied the repression of their times through incredible skill and indelible determination, including Elizabeth Van Lew, Maggie Lena Walker, and more.
• Street Art Tour : Richmond has quickly grown into one of the premier destinations for street art anywhere in the US, rivaling cities like Philadelphia for murals per capita. Explore Richmond’s street art on a Segway, seeing the best murals the city has to offer.
• Shockoe Bottom Tour : Take a tour around Richmond’s oldest neighborhood, Shockoe Bottom! See the most important landmarks and sights in Shockoe, including Richmond’s Triple Crossing, the Henry “Box” Brown monument, and the oldest house in Richmond.

The Valentine Tours

The Valentine's newest tour offering is Monument Avenue: Origins and Reverberations , a walking and augmented reality tour from ARtGlass that will lead you through the infamous sites that sparked a national discussion.

Their other tour options include:

• Figures of Freedom Downtown Walking Tour : This tour invites attendees to tour Shockoe Bottom , one of Richmond’s oldest historic districts, while exploring the struggles for freedom that helped shape America.
• Murals of Jackson Ward Walking Tour : Explore the diversity of one of city’s most vibrant neighborhoods. Visit murals, revitalized buildings and historic homes and learn the neighborhood’s rich history. As the Valentine traces its evolution from immigrant working-class neighborhood, to the “Harlem of the South” and a modern community today, you'll explore how art is telling the story of Jackson Ward .
• Origin Stories: Court End Walking Tour : On this downtown walking tour, you’ll visit the Valentine museum’s Court End neighborhood, uncovering surprising examples of architecture and Richmond history along the way. Join the most experienced guides in Richmond to discover architectural gems and stories of the city’s early beginnings as the Capitol of Virginia.

Walking the Ward with Gary Flowers

Gary L. Flowers provides walking tours of Historic Jackson Ward featuring 20 stops in the downtown neighborhood of his hometown of Richmond, Virginia. Tours include historic, educational, economic, religious and social institutions that inspired the name "Black Wall Street" and "The Harlem of the South."

Two tiers of tours are offered:

• Basic : 20-stop, 75 minute tour.
• Enhanced : 20-stop, 120 minute tour with historic videos provided by the Black History Museum and Cultural Center and the Maggie Walker National Historic Site.

Would I Lie To You? Mural Walks

Go on four walks to discover RVA's hidden street murals with storytelling fun. On each of the four fun walks around Richmond, you'll see over 25 murals and hear the captivating stories behind them. Ah, but is your host a reliable narrator? Sometimes, yes. Other times, no. Listen closely! Because everyone has to guess before the truth is revealed. By walk's end, you'll know who's a true believer – and who can be won over by a tall tale well told. Which are you? Join a tour and find out.

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About the business.

Richmond Ghosts offers authentic and historic, walking ghost tours through the haunted streets of Richmond. Uncover stories of murder, mayhem, and tragedy while experiencing the secret histories that hide in the shadows. From the Powhatan Confederacy to today's grisly murders, hear honest accounts from authoritative guides of the events that shaped this beloved River City and led to the very real Richmond Ghosts. …

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So i went to rva on a whim. I booked the ghost tour not expecting much. I got sooo much out of it. My guide was lexi. She dressed in full historical costume. I was like yeahhhh. Ok so we go on the tour we learned so many things. Richmond is full of historical gems. Also filled with history we are not proud of like the hanging gardens or the Craig house. We got alot of knowledge from lexi. The cobble stone in road was also explained. I would do the extended tour if you can. And the tour ends right by the bar area. You can grab a drink after. I loved my ghost tour.

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Dec 21, 2023

Cindy, thank you for this great review of our tour. We're glad you joined us!

Took the walking tour with 3 adults and 3 teens. Love the history and unique insight into Richmond's past. Wendy was awesome, would recommend!

We're so glad you enjoyed your tour. Thanks for your recommendation!

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Pre-Juneteenth walking tour highlights Haddonfield's Black history

HADDONFIELD – The borough has a rich Black history that some may not know about, but if a local group has its way, that heritage will be well known.

The Preserving Black Haddonfield Historic Project’s goal is to celebrate “once overlooked residents” and a once thriving African American community that existed there and educate others about that history.

It will have its second Pre-Juneteenth Walking Tour on June 14 to highlight a dozen important sites in the borough that were significant in Black history. These include two churches, sites that were once segregated schools, a former grocery store, a barber shop, baseball fields and more.

They were key locations in what was a predominately Black neighborhood called The Point.

C. Adrienne Rhodes, co-founder of The Preserving Black Haddonfield History Project, grew up in Haddonfield, and says her family has been in the borough for six generations. She still has a family home there.

“One of the things that really has come across in the anthologies that we have, the oral history collections that we have put together, that was our first foray into this area, a lot of the people who grew up there have a strong sense of social responsibility,” said Rhodes, a former vice president and director of communications/media relations at the New York Daily News and former communications director for the United Negro College Fund.

“I feel an obligation to give back to the community from which I come and one of the important things to do at this time... is to do what I can to bring people together across racial lines to create a better understanding and to hopefully create more harmony. So, it was important for people to understand that this Black community existed and what the contributions of the people from that community have been. You are less likely to treat someone without dignity if you understand their humanity.”

Historic Black history markers coming to Haddonfield

The PBHHP’s four-pronged education program includes: An anthology of oral histories from 10 elders from Haddonfield’s African American community; a docuseries; a walking tour, digital map and website; and an historic markers program.

The borough’s Historic Preservation Commission approved applications for marker installations at the former Lincoln School, which is now Tarditi Commons, as well as Mount Olivet Baptist Church.

The PBHHP, which has about a dozen members and is a subcommittee of the Haddonfield Alumni Society, hopes to have a groundbreaking ceremony for those marker installations in conjunction with the walking tour.

“It’s the first time it’s ever happening in Haddonfield that there will be markers commemorating the Black experience here,” Rhodes said.

Additionally, the PBHHP submitted an application for The Point to be part of the first wave of the New Jersey Black Heritage Trail and it was among 11 South Jersey sites and 32 overall sites in New Jersey selected. The sites on that trail will all get official historic markers.

Historic trail These 11 South Jersey sites are part of the New Jersey Black Heritage Trail

The Point has two meanings in the borough.

It is the intersection of Ellis and Potter, and was also the neighborhood where African Americans had homes and businesses, shopped, worked and attended schoool.

It was a thriving and bustling area that included portions of Lincoln Avenue, Ellis Street, Potter Street, Douglass Avenue and East Park Avenue, Rhodes said. The marker for the historic heritage trail will go at the intersection of Ellis and Potter.

“I was very happy when Gov. Murphy created the legislation last year that will create the trail,” Rhodes said.

“When the opportunity was presented to apply for and be included in the inaugural round, we went for it. It was a very difficult, challenging application process. But history is very often told by the victors. Here’s our chance to tell our own history, so we rolled up our sleeves and did the work.”

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The Best Walking Tours in Berlin

Berlin is a moveable feast. The sprawling German capital has remarkable restaurants (serving cuisines from all over the world), amazing bars, some of the best clubs in the world, cool third-wave coffee spots, world-class museums, an eclectic mix of architectural styles, one of the most diverse populations in Europe , and a real mix of quirky subcultures.

To help you explore this complex history, there is a legion of guided tours you can take to get an up-close and personal view of this Central European metropolis — from walking tours to eating to drinking tours to biking to driving around in a Trabant, the kitschy Communist-era cars. Walking tours are my favorite way to see cities because you have a local guide you around who can answer your questions and share their insider tips.

Here’s my list of the best walking tours in Berlin to help you make the most out of your time in this cool capital!

Best Overall Tour

Insider’s Third Reich and Cold War Tour

If you want to see Berlin’s main highlights and learn about the turbulent past of Germany’s capital, take this Third Reich and Cold War tour . Run by expert local guides, it’s the best-paid tour for budget travelers looking to learn more about Berlin, its violent and complicated past, and how the city came to be. I can’t recommend it enough!

Best Free Tour

This free two-hour walking tour starts at the iconic Brandenburg Gate and slowly makes its way around the main sites of the city, including the striking Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, Hitler’s former bunker, a swath of the Berlin Wall, and Checkpoint Charlie, giving you a nice introduction on the 20th-century history of Berlin. Just remember to tip at the end!

Here are a few more walking tour options to help you make the most of your time in Berlin:  

1. Original Berlin Tours

Meet at the fountain near the Park Inn on Alexanderplatz and get ready for a fun, free tour of Berlin. With groups of 10 people or fewer, these walking tours will ensure you have access to the guide as you make stops at Reichstag, the Berliner Dom, Checkpoint Charlie, and various World War II places of battle. The itinerary is up to each guide, so you never know where she or he might take you. But you’ll learn a lot no matter what!

Book here!  

2. Secret Tours

Berlin has a lot of secrets — and Secret Tours wants to share them. Choose to head out to Teufelsberg , a Cold War-era base for US Army wiretapping programs on the edge of the former West Berlin; or explore Charité, the city’s weird and wonderful centuries-old hospital. You can also go on a walking tour through the backyards and courtyards of Mitte apartment buildings , an opportunity you would not get if you were trying to do it on your own. If you want something unique and niche, this is the company for you.

Tours from 20 EUR.

3. Trabi Safari

Tired of trudging through the city? Then hop in a Trabant, or Trabi, as they’re called in Germany. These diminutive automobiles were a Communist-era automobile staple in Germany. The body of the cars were made from plastic. Today they are a nostalgic symbol of the erstwhile East Berlin. And this tour company offers a drive around Berlin in a Trabi while you see the sights and learn about the history of the city. Best of all, you get your very own Trabi to drive during the tour.

Tours from 59 EUR.

4. Alternative Berlin Tours

If you’ve heard everything there is to know about Hitler and Bismarck and you want to skip the typical highlights and see a different side of Berlin, this free walking tour is for you. The informative guides regale tour-takers with stories about the squatting culture of the ‘80s and ‘90s, the legendary techno club scene, the fall of the Berlin Wall, and punk rock culture. Tours last around three hours and they end at a riverside “beach bar” where you can have a beer with the guide.

5. Fork and Walk

If you’re a foodie like me, this tour company does guided tours that combine food, street art, and history as well as tours for vegans (Berlin is one of the most vegan-friendly cities in the world). But if you take the “Trends & Classics” tour you’ll get to sample the iconic currywurst, sip some schnapps, drink some local brews, and eat German pastries, among other delectable things. Just make sure to bring an appetite!

Tours from 69 EUR.

6. Berliner Unterwelten

These fascinating walking tours take you underground. And I’m not just talking in metaphors. You literally stroll under the streets of Berlin, exploring various Cold War and World War II-era bunkers; gawking at the few remnants of Germania, the utopian metropolis that Hitler wanted to build; and walking through sub-terrestrial tunnels that were used for secret and nefarious purposes — including the tunnels that were dug under the Berlin Wall.

Tours from 16 EUR.

Book here!   ***

Get Your In-Depth Budget Guide to Europe!

My detailed 200+ page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guides and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel while in Europe. It has suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on and off the beaten path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, safety tips, and much more! Click here to learn more and get your copy today.

Book Your Trip to Berlin: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. Two of my favorite places to stay are:

• Meininger Berlin Tiergarten .
• Heart of Gold Hostel

If you’re looking for more places to stay, here’s a longer list of my favorite hostels in Berlin .

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on Berlin? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Berlin for even more planning tips!

Hi, I’m Nomadic Matt, the New York Times best-selling author of How to Travel the World on $50 a Day and Ten Years a Nomad, as well as the founder of this website! And I’m here to help you save money on your next trip.

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Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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Press Release

For Immediate Release : June 4, 2024

Contact : [email protected], (212) 788-2958

Ahead of Juneteenth, Mayor Adams Announces Creation of Interactive Audio Tour Exploring City's Abolitionist History

‘More Than a Brook: Brooklyn Abolitionist Heritage Walk’ Explores Brooklyn’s Role in National Abolitionist Movement and Underground Railroad Across City Landmarks   Announcements Build on Adams Administration’s Investment Towards Racial Equity and Justice

NEW YORK – Ahead of Juneteenth, New York City Mayor Eric Adams today announced the creation of " More Than a Brook: Brooklyn Abolitionist Heritage Walk ," an interactive audio tour that explores Brooklyn’s history as a critical neighborhood for the National Abolitionist Movement and the Underground Railroad. The audio tour can be accessed on a smartphone, tablet, or other device through the Landmark Preservation Commission’s (LPC) website . The interactive audio tour was commissioned by LPC and created by Kamau Studios and Black Gotham Experience . This project was supported by a grant from the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation and financed in part with federal funds from the National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior.

"New Yorkers walk through Brooklyn every day, unaware of the history right under their feet and surrounding them," said Mayor Adams . "This interactive audio tour allows all of us to celebrate the heroes who stood up against injustice, risked their lives, and fought for the freedom they deserved. To build a better future, we must first examine and understand our past. This Juneteenth, our city recommits to reckoning and recognizing our role in the historic fight for racial equity and justice."

"I congratulate the Landmarks Preservation Commission’s collaboration with Kamau Ware Studios and the Black Gotham Experience for shining a light on Brooklyn’s abolitionist heritage, and the city’s role in fighting against slavery," said  Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce Maria Torres-Springer . "I also thank New York State’s Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation for funding this worthy project."

"New York City’s designated landmark sites and historic districts tell our shared story, and Brooklyn is home to an incredible collection of historic landmark buildings that connect us to our past and highlight the central role New Yorkers played in the fight against slavery," said  LPC Chair Sarah Carroll . "This immersive audio tour lifts up their stories, honoring the memory of those who suffered and fought for justice and freedom. This Juneteenth is a reminder that the fight for equity is part of our collective heritage as New Yorkers and we must work to create a more just and fairer city for future generations to come." 

"Juneteenth provides us the opportunity to reflect on the wrongs of the past while honoring the resiliency of those that came before us and sacrificed so much," said  New York City Chief Equity Officer and New York City Mayor's Office of Equity & Racial Justice Commissioner Sideya Sherman . "We commend the Landmarks Preservation Commission and partners Kamau Ware Studio and the Black Gotham Experience for reconciling our past with our present and showcasing our city’s pivotal role in the national abolitionist movement. Through this interactive heritage walk, New Yorkers can learn from and examine our past while fully immersed in the city we all know and love."

"Our public spaces are where New Yorkers connect — not just with their neighbors and with the great outdoors, but also with our history," said  New York City Department of Parks and Recreation Commissioner Sue Donoghue . "Thanks to this creative collaboration, New Yorkers will discover Brooklyn’s rich abolitionist heritage while experiencing our historic buildings and treasured greenspaces in a brand-new way. With Juneteenth around the corner, this audio tour is an important contribution to our ongoing efforts to uplift Black history and ensure our city is equitable and just for all New Yorkers."

New York City played an important role in the effort to abolish slavery nationwide and assist those seeking to escape it. The neighborhoods of Brooklyn Heights, Fulton Ferry, Downtown Brooklyn, and Fort Greene contain a walkable concentration of important historic landmark sites associated with New York City’s abolitionist history, the Underground Railroad, and the larger anti-slavery movement before the Civil War through political and religious activism.

The three-part audio experience guides participants through Brooklyn's rich abolitionist history, incorporating 19 stops and highlighting the many landmark sites along a 4.5-mile walkable path, including the residences of abolitionist Lewis Tappan and Harriet and Thomas Truesdell, and religious spaces, including Plymouth Church, Lafayette Avenue Presbyterian Church, and the Friends Meeting House. The audio tour also introduces important local historic figures in the abolition movement, including businesswoman Elizabeth Gloucester, pioneering sisters Dr. Susan Smith McKinney-Steward and educator Sarah J. Tompkins Garnet, and Plymouth Church preacher Henry Ward Beecher, highlighting all their stories to illuminate the multiple ways people and institutions engaged with the anti-slavery movement before the Civil War and the continued fight for freedom afterward.

The "More Than a Brook: Brooklyn Abolitionist Heritage Walk" reflects LPC’s ongoing commitment to equity and inclusion in all their work as part of the agency’s Equity Framework ; its efforts to preserve places that tell the story of all New Yorkers and reflect their collective heritage, making the significant history embodied in landmarks more accessible; and expanding educational outreach efforts to reach new and diverse audiences. Additional resources can be found on LPC’s website, including LPC’s interactive story maps, " New York City and the Path to Freedom ," which explores New York City’s abolitionist history across all five boroughs through designated landmarks that embody it and " Preserving Significant Places of Black History ," which highlights and explores buildings, sites, and historic districts significant to Black history throughout New York City.

Mayor Adams announced new economic data showing that the  unemployment rate for Black New Yorkers has significantly decreased  since the start of the administration. Between January 1, 2022, and April 1, 2024, the Black unemployment rate in the five boroughs decreased from 10.7 percent to 7.9 percent — a 26 percent decrease. This marks the first time since 2019 that the Black unemployment rate in New York City has been below 8 percent.

"With Juneteenth upon us, I am proud that we are launching this Heritage Walk to tell the world about New York City’s abolitionist history," said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar . "This interactive walking tour will bring to life the integral role Brooklyn played in the Underground Railroad and the abolitionist movement. People from all over the world will learn what New Yorkers did to stamp out the moral blight of slavery, and Brooklynites will take pride in their neighborhood knowing this rich history. This exemplifies our goal to uplift all communities and share everyone’s history in our Gorgeous Mosaic."

"As we approach Juneteenth, it's essential to remember and honor New York City's pivotal role in the fight against slavery," said  New York State Senator James Sanders Jr . "This interactive audio tour highlights the courageous efforts of those who fought for freedom in our nation and is crucial to understanding our past and inspiring our future!"

"Brooklyn has a rich abolitionist history, and the echoes of that fight for freedom and justice can be felt at historic sites around the borough, including at many in the neighborhoods I have the honor to represent," said  New York   State Senator Andrew Gounardes .   "This audio tour is a way to uplift and celebrate this history, and to help New Yorkers learn about the many people and institutions engaged in the fight against the evils of slavery. As we approach Juneteenth, this audio tour is an opportunity to learn from the past while charting a course toward a future of true freedom, liberty and justice for all."

"The abolitionists’ fight for freedom in New York cannot become forgotten history as we continue to tackle discrimination to this day," said  New York State Assemblymember Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn . "I applaud Mayor Eric Adams for launching an innovative program highlighting and teaching Brooklyn's history as a crucial launchpad for the National Abolitionist Movement and the Underground Railroad as we keep advancing equality."

"I want to thank Mayor Adams for shedding light on the history of the Abolitionist Movement and the Underground Railroad here in New York City," said  Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson . "With this initiative, he is ensuring residents and visitors alike can immerse themselves in our city`s past and our contributions to the fight for racial justice and equity."

"‘More Than a Brook’ brings Brooklyn's rich abolitionist history to broad audiences and offers a glimpse into who we are as a borough and a people," said  Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso . "Oral history is the perfect tradition and vehicle to reckon with the past and honor the ongoing fight for a more equitable future based in racial and social justice. Thank you to Mayor Adams for expanding access to the stories that helped build our city and free our ancestors from slavery."

"I'm thrilled to see the launch of the 'More Than a Brook: Brooklyn Abolitionist Heritage Walk' just in time for Juneteenth," said  New York City Councilmember Kamilah Hanks . "This interactive audio tour is a powerful tool that will bring to life Brooklyn's rich history in the National Abolitionist Movement and the Underground Railroad. By making this history accessible on smartphones and tablets, we are ensuring that the stories of those who fought for freedom and justice are preserved and shared with future generations. I commend Mayor Adams, the Landmark Preservation Commission, Kamau Studios, and Black Gotham Experience for their incredible work on this project."

"Brooklyn Bridge Park is thrilled to be a stop on the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission’s Brooklyn Abolitionist Heritage Walk and audio tour," said Brooklyn Bridge Park President Eric Landau . "By retracing the steps of abolitionists and amplifying their stories, we not only honor their legacy, but also reaffirm Brooklyn’s commitment to justice and equality. This tour sheds light on Brooklyn Bridge Park's role in a crucial piece of this city’s history and will bring us towards a more compassionate and equitable future."

"More Than A Brook is a walk through Brooklyn that connects historic locations to illustrate a portrait of 19th century communities resisting the institution of slavery. The concentration of characters that walked the docks onto city streets is significant to the history of New York State and the United States," said Black Gotham Experience, founder, Kamau Ware . "It is commendable that the Landmarks Preservation Commission is opening up the layers behind these historic buildings and the liminal spaces between. It has been an honor to work in the community, inspired by the disparate Brooklyn abolitionists that created a rising tide, challenging the presence of slavery in America."

"Congratulations on the launch of this remarkable project," said New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation Deputy Commissioner for Historic Preservation Daniel Mackay . "More Than a Brook showcases Brooklyn’s abolitionist history through an immersive exploration of local historic landmarks. Bringing this history to life takes creativity, collaboration, and resources — the very ingredients that New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission used to make this audio tour possible. This project is a great example of how certified local government grants through the New York State Historic Preservation Office bring federal funds back into communities each year to support preservation programs and explore history in dynamic and engaging ways."

"For nearly 200 years, New York University has been inextricably tied to New York and its history, said New York University Vice President of Government Relations and Community Engagement Kyle Kimball . "We are proud that Wunsch Hall, formerly the Bridge Street Methodist Church, the first independent Black church in Brooklyn and a stop on the Underground Railroad, is a part of the exciting, new abolitionist heritage walk that the Landmarks Preservation Commission is launching. We congratulate them on this important effort to remind New Yorkers of the vital role our city has played in our nation's history."

Guided Historic Walking Tour

Information

• 1697 Terrell Dr.
• Richmond, VA 23229
• (804) 639-4591
• Presented By: Pet Memorial Parks
• Dates: 6/16/2024, 7/27/2024, 8/17/2024, 9/28/2024
• Location: Pet Memorial Parks Pet Cemetery
• Address: 1697 Terrell Dr.
• Phone: (804) 639-4591
• Time: 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM
• Price: $6 per person

Come visit our cemetery for a pictorial walk through our history. We are Richmond's best kept historical secret, come find out what most don't know.

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401 N. 3rd Street   |   Richmond, VA 23219   |   (804) 782-2777

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