Updated as of 6/3/13
The schedule below includes all public tours in 2013. Unless otherwise stated, walking tours are $10 ($5 for History Center members) and bus tours are $25 ($20 for History Center members). Starting points vary. For your convenience, you may purchase walking and bus tour tickets online with your credit card (processing fees apply). Our tour guides only accept cash or check if paying on-site.
Same-day online ticket sales are not permitted. Same-day walk-ups (cash only) are welcome on most walking tours and on some bus tours, space permitting. Cancellations: If you would like to cancel your reservation, call (804) 649-0711 x301 no later than 48 hours before the start of the tour in order to receive a refund. No-shows will not be refunded. If a tour is cancelled due to inclement weather, you will be contacted directly by phone and issued a full refund.
*2-hour Hollywood Cemetery Specialty Tours are $15 per person and $10 for History Center Members.
Price includes a $5 donation to Friends of Hollywood Cemetery for the restoration of monuments and iron fences on the cemetery grounds.
Any tour may be cancelled due to weather related issues including but not limited to heavy rain, high winds or excessive heat and humidity. In case of inclement weather, please check back here for updates or call (804) 649-0711 option 4 to verify the status of the scheduled tour.
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Don’t forget about our Highlights of Hollywood Cemetery (Mon.-Sat.) and City Center (Tues.-Sat.) walking tours.
Highlights of Hollywood Cemetery Walking Tour (10-11:30am)
Offered daily Monday-Saturday through October 31
Learn about the cemetery’s history, artwork, symbolism and famous residents, including two U.S. Presidents, writer Ellen Glasgow, Confederate President Jefferson Davis and Generals George Pickett and J.E.B. Stuart. Meet at the rear of the stone structure on the left at the cemetery entrance, Cherry and Albemarle streets.
NEW TIME! City Center Walks (9:30-11:30am)
Offered daily Tuesday-Saturday through October 31
The History Center is pleased to partner with Richmond Metropolitan Convention & Visitors Bureau to present a walking tour of E. Broad and Grace streets in downtown Richmond, including the CenterStage complex, the National, the Virginia State Capitol with a nod to Jefferson and Spielberg, and the former Miller & Rhoads building, now converted into a hotel and condominiums. Meet at the Richmond Visitor Center, 405 N. 3rd Street.
June 15
History Hounds Explore Bellevue Walking Tour (10am-12 pm)
Dogs are invited to join their owners for this walking tour of Bellevue in partnership with the Richmond SPCA. Dogs must have current shots, mix well with others and remain on a leash. Owners are responsible for water and cleaning up after their dogs. Space is limited. Reservations: (804) 649-0711 x301. Meet at the corner of Bellevue and MacArthur avenues.
June 16
Monroe Ward Walking Tour (2-4pm)
From the early 1880’s through Reconstruction, Monroe Ward was considered one of Richmond’s most elegant neighborhoods. Stroll past these historic buildings that have been lovingly preserved and “recycled” for the 21st century. Meet outside the Commonwealth Club at 401 W. Franklin Street.
June 20
Monument Avenue Walking Tour (6-7:30pm)
The first street in the U.S. to be designated as a National Landmark by the National Park Service, Monument Avenue is one of America’s most beautiful boulevards. Learn about the diverse architectural styles of its grand homes, its famous residents and renowned architects. Meet at the Lee Monument at Allen and Monument avenues.
June 23
Canal Boats and Cobblestones Walking Tour (2-4pm)
Explore architectural treasures and preservation efforts along the James River and the Canals, which were developed in the 1840’s to bypass river rapids. Includes Shockoe Slip, the Turning Basin and the warehouse district. Meet at the James Center Clock Tower at 10th and Cary streets.
June 30
Capitol Square: Jefferson, Washington and Spielberg Walking Tour (2-4pm)
Designed by John Notman in 1850, Capitol Square is home to the Virginia State Capitol, the Executive Mansion, the Bell Tower, the Civil Rights Memorial and a number of monuments dedicated to Virginians who helped shape our nation’s history, including George Mason, Thomas Jefferson and Harry F. Byrd. Includes a tour of the State Capitol. Meet at Capitol Square’s 9th and Grace Street gate.
Don’t forget about our Highlights of Hollywood Cemetery (Mon.-Sat.) and City Center (Tues.-Sat.) walking tours.
Highlights of Hollywood Cemetery Walking Tour (10-11:30am)
Monday - Saturday, April 1-October 31
Learn about the cemetery’s history, artwork, symbolism and famous residents, including two U.S. Presidents, writer Ellen Glasgow, Confederate President Jefferson Davis and Generals George Pickett and J.E.B. Stuart. Meet at the rear of the stone structure on the left at the cemetery entrance, Cherry and Albemarle streets.
NEW TIME! City Center Walks (9:30-11:30am)
Tuesday-Saturday, May 7-October 31
The History Center is pleased to partner with Richmond Metropolitan Convention & Visitors Bureau to present a walking tour of E. Broad and Grace streets in downtown Richmond, including the CenterStage complex, the National, the Virginia State Capitol with a nod to Jefferson and Spielberg, and the former Miller & Rhoads building, now converted into a hotel and condominiums. Meet at the Richmond Visitor Center, 405 N. 3rd Street.
July 4
I Know Richmond: The Bus Tour (10am-1pm)
An overview of the history of Richmond, including Court End, the James River and the Fall Line, Church Hill, Jackson Ward, the Fan and Monument Avenue. Tour drives by St. John's Church, Hollywood Cemetery, Main Street Station, the Jefferson Hotel and the Museum and White House of the Confederacy. Tour the State Capitol, walk Capitol Square and see the Civil Rights Memorial. Reservations: (804) 649-0711 x301. Meet at the History Center.
July 7
Jackson Ward Walking Tour (2-4pm)
Known as the “birthplace of Black Capitalism,” Jackson Ward is rich in African American history and culture and boasts the largest collection of pre-Civil War homes in the city. Tour includes the Maggie L. Walker Historic Site, the A.D. Price Funeral Home and the Dill House. Meet at the Black History Museum and Cultural Center, 00 Clay Street, between 1st and Adams.
July 14
Hollywood Cemetery Specialty Walking Tour* (2-4pm)
An extension of the daily “Highlights” tour, this version covers in more detail the cemetery’s unique history, landscape design, architecture, symbols and residents. Meet at the cemetery entrance at Cherry and Albemarle streets.
July 20
NEW! Richmond’s Historic Theaters Walking Tour (10am-12pm)
Join us as we explore Richmond’s historic theaters, north of Broad. Home to live theatre, vaudeville, movies and musical performances, these theaters continue to be part of Richmond’s Cultural District. The tour will include a “behind the scenes” tour of the November Theatre. Meet at the Virginia Rep Center, 114 W. Broad St.
July 21
Richmond’s Recycled Neighborhood Walking Tour (2-4pm)
In the early 1900’s as the German population of Jackson Ward moved westward, they settled in an area that was once home to Richmond College. Over the years this residential neighborhood expanded to include the commercial district on Broad St., now home for many VCU students. Meet at the corner of Grace and Lombardy streets.
July 28
Main St. Recycled Walking Tour (2-4pm)
This historic business district long known for its 19th and 20th century ironfronts and high rises is now being viewed by developers as an opportunity for urban residential growth. The tour focuses on the history of the area, the architectural styles and ornamentation of these buildings and their adaptive reuse for the 21st century. Meet at the corner of 14th and Main streets.
Don’t forget about our Highlights of Hollywood Cemetery (Mon.-Sat.) and City Center (Tues.-Sat.) walking tours.
Highlights of Hollywood Cemetery Walking Tour (10-11:30am)
Monday - Saturday, April 1-October 31
Learn about the cemetery’s history, artwork, symbolism and famous residents, including two U.S. Presidents, writer Ellen Glasgow, Confederate President Jefferson Davis and Generals George Pickett and J.E.B. Stuart. Meet at the rear of the stone structure on the left at the cemetery entrance, Cherry and Albemarle streets.
NEW TIME! City Center Walks (9:30-11:30am)
Tuesday-Saturday, May 7-October 31
The History Center is pleased to partner with Richmond Metropolitan Convention & Visitors Bureau to present a walking tour of E. Broad and Grace streets in downtown Richmond, including the CenterStage complex, the National, the Virginia State Capitol with a nod to Jefferson and Spielberg, and the former Miller & Rhoads building, now converted into a hotel and condominiums. Meet at the Richmond Visitor Center, 405 N. 3rd Street.
Aug. 3
NEW! Director’s Tour: Barton Heights Walking Tour (10am-12pm)
Led by History Center Director Bill Martin, this tour focuses on historic commercial and retail activity along North Avenue and Brookland Park Boulevard. Established in 1889 as an early streetcar suburb, Barton Heights originally was part of Henrico County and is now part of the City of Richmond. Meet at the North Avenue Branch of the Richmond Public Library, 2901 North Ave.
Aug. 4
Shockoe Bottom Walking Tour (2-4pm)
Now an entertainment and residential district, Shockoe Bottom once served as Richmond’s commercial and transportation hub, as well as one of the country’s busiest slave markets. Explore Main Street Station, the Farmer’s Market, Tobacco Row and current revitalization efforts. Meet at Main and 17th streets.
Aug. 11
Hollywood Cemetery Specialty Walking Tour* (2-4pm)
An extension of the daily “Highlights” tour, this version covers in more detail the cemetery’s unique history, landscape design, architecture, symbols and residents. Meet at the cemetery entrance at Cherry and Albemarle streets.
Aug. 17
Hollywood Cemetery: Symbolism and Monument Styles Specialty Walking Tour* (2-4pm)
If cemeteries could talk, what could they tell you about those buried there? Learn to interpret the spiritual, occupational, vegetal and fraternal signs and symbols found on Hollywood’s headstones and ironworks. Discover the historical origins of the many monument styles including cradle stones, pyramids, pier stones, mausoleums and reliquaries. Meet at the entrance at Cherry and Albemarle streets.
Aug. 18
Ginter Park Walking Tour (2-4pm)
Walk through Ginter Park, a stately north Richmond neighborhood planned by Lewis Ginter and over the years, home to many of the city’s political and social elite. Meet on the southwest corner of Brook Road and Westwood Avenue.
Aug. 25
Canal Boats and Cobblestones Walking Tour (2-4pm)
Explore architectural treasures and preservation efforts along the James River and the Canals, which were developed in the 1840’s to bypass river rapids. Includes Shockoe Slip, the Turning Basin and the warehouse district. Meet at the James Center Clock Tower at 10th and Cary streets.
Don’t forget about our Highlights of Hollywood Cemetery (Mon.-Sat.) and City Center (Tues.-Sat.) walking tours.
Highlights of Hollywood Cemetery Walking Tour (10-11:30am)
Monday - Saturday, April 1-October 31
Learn about the cemetery’s history, artwork, symbolism and famous residents, including two U.S. Presidents, writer Ellen Glasgow, Confederate President Jefferson Davis and Generals George Pickett and J.E.B. Stuart. Meet at the rear of the stone structure on the left at the cemetery entrance, Cherry and Albemarle streets.
NEW TIME! City Center Walks (9:30-11:30am)
Tuesday-Saturday, May 7-October 31
The History Center is pleased to partner with Richmond Metropolitan Convention & Visitors Bureau to present a walking tour of E. Broad and Grace streets in downtown Richmond, including the CenterStage complex, the National, the Virginia State Capitol with a nod to Jefferson and Spielberg, and the former Miller & Rhoads building, now converted into a hotel and condominiums. Meet at the Richmond Visitor Center, 405 N. 3rd Street.
Sept. 1
Capitol Square: Jefferson, Washington and Spielberg (2-4pm)
Designed by John Notman in 1850, Capitol Square is home to the Virginia State Capitol, the Executive Mansion, the Bell Tower, the Civil Rights Memorial and a number of monuments dedicated to Virginians who helped shape our nation’s history, including George Mason, Thomas Jefferson and Harry F. Byrd. Includes a tour of the State Capitol. Meet at Capitol Square’s 9th and Grace Street gate.
Sept. 8
Hollywood Cemetery Specialty Walking Tour* (2-4pm)
An extension of the daily “Highlights” tour, this version covers in more detail the cemetery’s unique history, landscape design, architecture, symbols and residents. Meet at the cemetery entrance at Cherry and Albemarle streets.
Sept. 14
Hollywood Cemetery: The Women of Hollywood Specialty Walking Tour* (2-4pm)
Explore the significant role that women’s groups played in Hollywood Cemetery’s history from the Civil War to the present. Stops include gravesites of female residents who led independent lives as educators, authors, preservationists, suffragists, humanitarians or as the power behind the scenes of famous men. Meet at the cemetery entrance at Cherry and Albemarle streets.
Sept. 15
The Museum District Walking Tour (2-4pm)
The founding of the Confederate soldiers home initiated the residential development of the area known today as the Museum District. Home to the Virginia Historical Society, the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, schools, businesses, churches and residences, this area played an important role in the westward expansion of the city. Meet at the northeast corner of Grove Avenue and Sheppard Street.
Sept. 19
Church Hill Walking Tour (6-7:30pm)
Examine 19th century architecture and modern revitalization efforts in Richmond’s oldest intact neighborhood. Developed by Major William Mayo, Church Hill is home to St. John’s Church, where Patrick Henry made his famous speech, and the city’s largest number of antebellum structures. Meet at Patrick Henry Park across from St. John’s Church, E. Broad and 24th streets.
Sept. 21
History Hounds Explore The Fan Walking Tour (10am-12pm)
Dogs are invited to join their owners for this walking tour of The Fan, in partnership with the Richmond SPCA. Dogs must have current shots, mix well with others and remain on a leash. Owners are responsible for water and cleaning up after their dogs. Space is limited. Reservations: (804) 649-0711 x301. Meet at 700 W. Franklin Street.
Sept. 22
Scott’s Addition Walking Tour (2-4pm)
Named for General Winfield Scott, this early 20th century commercial and industrial area contains what is perhaps Richmond’s best selection of Art Deco and Moderne commercial architecture. The area was once the home of the Richmond City Stables and the Mooers Field baseball stadium. The area today is renewing itself as a business, residential and entertainment district. Meet at the Southwest corner of Boulevard and Norfolk Street, across Boulevard from Movieland.
Sept. 28
Hollywood Cemetery: A Rural Garden on a Grand Scale Specialty Walking Tour* (2-4pm)
Discover the park like setting and the natural tranquility of this rural-style cemetery and see why some call it “A garden of people, their loves, their faith, their dreams”. This tour will explore the cemetery from a historical and horticultural perspective with an emphasis on the beauty of Nature and the impact the Romantic Movement had on 19th century culture. Meet at the cemetery entrance at Cherry and Albemarle streets.
Sept. 29
Carytown and the Byrd Theatre, Revisited Walking Tour (2-4pm)
From the buffalo trail to streetcar suburb, Carytown’s fascinating story is the focus of this tour as you explore this “mile of style”. Includes Cary Court Shopping Center, restored to its 1930’s art deco splendor, and a “behind the scenes” tour of the Byrd Theatre (1928), one of the few active movie palaces in the country. Meet at Premiere Costumes, 3339 W. Cary Street.
Don’t forget about our Highlights of Hollywood Cemetery (Mon.-Sat.) and City Center (Tues.-Sat.) walking tours.
Highlights of Hollywood Cemetery Walking Tour (10-11:30am)
Monday - Saturday, April 1-October 31
Learn about the cemetery’s history, artwork, symbolism and famous residents, including two U.S. Presidents, writer Ellen Glasgow, Confederate President Jefferson Davis and Generals George Pickett and J.E.B. Stuart. Meet at the rear of the stone structure on the left at the cemetery entrance, Cherry and Albemarle streets.
NEW TIME! City Center Walks (9:30-11:30am)
Tuesday-Saturday, May 7-October 31
The History Center is pleased to partner with Richmond Metropolitan Convention & Visitors Bureau to present a walking tour of E. Broad and Grace streets in downtown Richmond, including the CenterStage complex, the National, the Virginia State Capitol with a nod to Jefferson and Spielberg, and the former Miller & Rhoads building, now converted into a hotel and condominiums. Meet at the Richmond Visitor Center, 405 N. 3rd Street.
Oct. 5
Hollywood Cemetery: Symbolism and Monument Styles Specialty Walking Tour* (2-4pm)
If cemeteries could talk, what could they tell you about those buried there? Learn to interpret the spiritual, occupational, vegetal and fraternal signs and symbols found on Hollywood’s headstones and ironworks. Discover the historical origins of the many monument styles including cradle stones, pyramids, pier stones, mausoleums and reliquaries. Meet at the entrance at Cherry and Albemarle streets.
Oct. 6
The Alleys and Parks of the Fan Walking Tour (2-4pm)
The branching avenues that give the Fan its characteristic fan shape form several triangular green spaces, including Harrison Street Park, Lombardy Park and Monroe Park. Stroll through these, as well as some of the landscaped alleys and hidden gardens of the Fan. Meet at Meadow Park, at the intersection of Meadow, Park and Stuart avenues.
Oct. 13
Hollywood Cemetery Specialty Walking Tour* (2-4pm)
An extension of the daily “Highlights” tour, this version covers in more detail the cemetery’s unique history, landscape design, architecture, symbols and residents. Meet at the cemetery entrance at Cherry and Albemarle streets.
Oct. 19
History Hounds Explore Monument Avenue Walking Tour (10am-12pm)
Dogs are invited to join their owners for this walking tour of Monument Ave., in partnership with the Richmond SPCA. Dogs must have current shots, mix well with others and remain on a leash. Owners are responsible for water and cleaning up after their dogs. Space is limited. Reservations: (804) 649-0711 x301. Meet at the Lee Monument at Allen and Monument avenues.
Oct. 20
Oregon Hill Walking Tour (2-4pm)
Settled by Irish and Welsh ironworkers in the 1840’s, Oregon Hill is one of the oldest intact neighborhoods in Richmond and continues to thrive as a tight-knit, working class neighborhood. Includes a visit to St. Andrew’s Church and School. Meet at Laurel and Idlewood streets.
Oct. 26
Hollywood Cemetery: The Civil War Specialty Walking Tour* (2-4pm)
From the Pyramid to the gravesite of Jefferson Davis, high above the James River, Hollywood Cemetery is the final resting place for thousands of Confederates. Come visit the graves of such notables as J.E.B. Stuart, George Pickett, Fitzhugh Lee, Jefferson Davis and many others whose stories continue to capture our imagination 150 years after the Civil War began. Meet at the cemetery entrance at Cherry and Albemarle streets.
Oct. 27
Carver Walking Tour (2-4pm)
First settled by Jewish and German tradespeople, Carver became a vibrant African American neighborhood in the early 1900's and today is a mix of students, singles, young families and elderly residents. The walk passes schools, churches, businesses and examples of Greek Revival, Italianate and Queen Anne style architecture. Meet near the flagpole at Maggie Walker Governor's School, 1000 N. Lombardy Street (at W. Leigh).
Nov. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
Highlights of Hollywood Cemetery Walking Tour (10-11:30am)
Learn about the cemetery’s history, artwork, symbolism and famous residents, including two U.S. Presidents, writer Ellen Glasgow, Confederate President Jefferson Davis and Generals George Pickett and J.E.B. Stuart. Meet at the rear of the stone structure on the left at the cemetery entrance, Cherry and Albemarle streets.
Nov. 3, 10, 17
Hollywood Cemetery Specialty Walking Tour* (2-4pm)
An extension of the daily “Highlights” tour, this version covers in more detail the cemetery’s unique history, landscape design, architecture, symbols and residents. Meet at the cemetery entrance at Cherry and Albemarle streets.
Nov. 30
I Know Richmond: The Bus Tour (1-4pm)
An overview of the history of Richmond, including Court End, the James River and the Fall Line, Church Hill, Jackson Ward, the Fan and Monument Avenue. Tour drives by St. John's Church, Hollywood Cemetery, Main Street Station, the Jefferson Hotel and the Museum and White House of the Confederacy. Tour the State Capitol, walk Capitol Square and see the Civil Rights Memorial. Reservations: (804) 649-0711 x301. Meet at the History Center.
Dec. 26 & 27
Holiday Glitter: Monument Avenue After Dark Evening Walking Tours (6-7:30pm)
Our most popular walking tour! Enjoy the lights and glitter of Monument Avenue while it's decked out for the holidays. This early evening stroll combines history with a touch of glitz! Dress for the weather, and bring a flashlight. Reservations required: (804) 649-0711 x301. Meet at the Lee Monument at Allen and Monument avenues.
The 2013 Richmond History Tours Season is generously supported by:
Hollywood Cemetery
For more information on any tour, call (804) 649-0711 x301 or purchase tickets online.
Printed copies of the 2013 tour brochure, as well as images relevant to each tour’s content (free to media), are available by contacting (804) 649-0711 x322, pr@richmondhistorycenter.com.
The Valentine Richmond History Center is accredited by the American Association of Museums.
