10 Best Tours & Things To Do In Richmond Virginia

Richmond, Virginia, is a city full of surprises. It offers a mix of history, culture, and outdoor fun that makes it a perfect destination for any traveler eager to explore on foot, bike, or by bus. Among the highlights are the Arts District Food Tour, which lets you sample the city’s most delicious bites while learning about its vibrant neighborhood.

Or maybe you’re drawn to the James River Park Guided Hike, where you can enjoy nature’s serenity in an unexpected urban setting.

For those who love a good story, the Offbeat History Tour on a bus offers fascinating tales that challenge what you think you know about Richmond. No matter your interests, Richmond’s diverse tours ensure you’ll find a memorable way to experience the city.

If you’re a foodie, the Carytown Food Tour and Scott’s Addition Neighborhood Tour with Tastings highlight Richmond’s eclectic culinary scene and its transformation from industrial hub to trendy hotspot. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Bike Tours along the river and through downtown reveal the city’s scenic beauty and vibrant street art.

History lovers will appreciate the Church Hill Food Tour, exploring the oldest neighborhood’s stories and architecture. And for a little spooky fun, the Haunted Pub Crawl combines ghost stories with local brews.

All these experiences are designed to bring Richmond’s character to life, providing authentic, engaging ways to explore.

Below, I’ll walk you through each of these top-rated tours to help you choose the best fit for your trip. Whether you’re after food, history, outdoor adventures, or a mix of everything, Richmond has something special waiting for you.

1. Richmond: Arts District Walking Food Tour

At number 1, this Richmond: Arts District Walking Food Tour earns a perfect 5/5 rating from nine reviews for good reason. For $99 per person, you’ll spend about three hours wandering through one of Richmond’s most diverse neighborhoods, tasting food from 5-6 carefully chosen restaurants.

The tour isn’t just about the food; it’s an immersive experience that combines culinary delights with rich local history.

You’ll meet the chefs and owners behind these establishments, gaining insights into the city’s lively arts scene and cultural mix.

What makes this tour stand out is the balance of food, history, and personal stories. The tour guide provides a window into the neighborhood’s evolution, highlighting how the Arts District became Richmond’s creative hub. Guests often rave about the variety of food, from small bites to full plates, and the engaging storytelling.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, social experience, and who enjoy discovering a city through its flavors and faces.

Bottom Line: If you love good food paired with local stories, this tour offers an in-depth taste of Richmond’s vibrant arts and culinary scene. It’s a top-rated choice for foodies and culture seekers alike.

2. Richmond: Guided Hike in James River Park

At number 2, the Guided Hike in James River Park provides an active way to experience Richmond’s natural beauty. Priced at just $35 per person, this 2.5-hour tour takes you into the heart of downtown, revealing hidden outdoor gems. You’ll explore 150-year-old ruins, cross the Pipeline Walk—an elevated trail offering unique views—and enjoy the rushing rapids of the James River.

The tour shines for its combination of history and nature. You’ll visit sites like Belle Isle and Brown’s Island, both offering a glimpse into Richmond’s industrial past while enjoying modern recreation. The Manchester Climbing Wall Park, rebuilt from old train bridge ruins, adds an adventurous twist.

The guide is knowledgeable about the area’s flora, fauna, and history, making the hike both educational and invigorating.

One commenter called it “an unexpected peaceful escape in the middle of downtown,” which captures its appeal. This tour fits travelers looking for outdoor activity with a mix of history and scenic views, suitable for most fitness levels.

Bottom Line: For those wanting to combine history, nature, and active fun, this guided hike is an affordable and memorable way to see Richmond from an entirely different perspective.

3. Richmond: Trendy Carytown Food Tour

Number 3 on our list is the Carytown Food Tour, rated 4.8/5 from four reviews. For $89 per person, this 2.5-hour exploration takes you through Richmond’s quirky “Mile of Style.” It’s perfect for those who enjoy discovering local flavor and unique neighborhoods.

You’ll visit 5-6 different restaurants, cafes, and shops, sampling an eclectic array of dishes that span from comfort foods to international cuisines.

What sets this tour apart is its focus on local color and small-business stories. You’ll talk with owners and learn about Carytown’s transformation into a trendy hub. You’ll also get insider tips on shopping at the boutique stores and discovering a vintage movie theater that takes you back in time. Food highlights may include anything from pizza and hot dogs to Ethiopian and Italian offerings.

Reviewers mention the “delicious bites and friendly guides,” making this a fun, relaxed way to see a lively part of Richmond. It’s best suited for travelers who want a taste of the city’s culinary diversity combined with local insights.

Bottom Line: If you love food and exploring neighborhoods with personality, this tour offers a perfect blend of eats, culture, and local stories in Richmond’s vibrant Carytown.

4. Richmond: Scott’s Addition Neighborhood Tour with Tastings

Number 4 features the Scott’s Addition Neighborhood Tour with Tastings, which earns a perfect 5/5 from one reviewer. At $105 per person, it provides a 2.5-hour walk through one of Richmond’s fastest-changing areas, known for its craft beer and food scene.

The guide will introduce you to the neighborhood’s history as an industrial powerhouse and how it has reinvented itself with trendy breweries and eateries.

The tour includes tastings from local food and beverage makers, including at least one craft brewery or cidery, offering a tangible sense of the neighborhood’s creative energy. It’s especially great for those who want to combine history with a taste of current Richmond culinary trends. Guests appreciated the chance to meet owner-operators and learn about local brewing and dining innovations firsthand.

Since it’s a walking tour, a reasonable level of fitness is recommended, but it’s not strenuous. If you’re curious about Richmond’s evolving food scene, this tour is a compact, engaging way to see the city’s latest hot spot.

Bottom Line: For travelers keen to explore Richmond’s industrial roots and its vibrant modern food scene, this tour offers both history and tastings in a lively neighborhood.

5. Richmond: Church Hill Food Tour

Rated 4.4/5 from eight reviews, the Church Hill Food Tour is a three-hour walk through Richmond’s oldest neighborhood, costing $89 per person. This tour focuses on the local cuisine of historic Church Hill, visiting five key establishments.

Highlights include a James Beard-nominated wood-fired bakery, a 1930s theater-turned-restaurant serving Virginia comfort foods, and international delights like Turkish, Ethiopian, and New Zealand cuisine.

The tour offers a rich historical context alongside culinary treats, including stories of St. John’s Church, the site of the Revolutionary War’s first shots. The neighborhood’s architecture and stories add depth to the food stops, making it both a taste and cultural experience. Reviewers note that the guide is knowledgeable and passionate about the area’s history and food.

Ideal for history buffs who love international flavors, this tour balances storytelling with tasting. It’s well-suited for those with moderate walking ability and an appetite for learning and diverse cuisines.

Bottom Line: A flavorful journey into Richmond’s oldest neighborhood, perfect for travelers who want history, architecture, and international bites all in one.

6. Richmond Ghosts Boo and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl

Number 6 is the Haunted Pub Crawl, rated 4.1/5 from 12 reviews. For just $30, you’ll spend two hours exploring Shockoe Bottom’s haunted sites while sipping local beer or wine. It’s a lively, spooky experience combining Richmond’s darker stories with its craft beverage scene.

The tour covers haunted locations linked to murder-suicides, Civil War soldiers, and ghostly legends. You’ll hear tales of war, murder, and spirits—real stories that make the drinks taste better.

The stops often include historic pubs and bars, with some tales involving Edgar Allan Poe’s connection to the city. This tour is great for those who enjoy a bit of history mixed with supernatural stories and a social atmosphere.

While not for the faint-hearted, the mix of storytelling and drinks makes this a fun, casual evening out. It’s perfect for travelers looking for something different and a little spooky.

Bottom Line: For a fun, spirited night with stories of ghosts and local brews, this pub crawl offers a memorable, slightly eerie experience.

7. Discover Downtown Richmond Bike Tour

The Downtown Richmond Bike Tour is an active way to explore city landmarks and scenic river views. Though the rating isn’t listed, the $165 price covers 2.5 hours of cycling through historic districts, street art, and lush landscapes. The tour includes stories of the city’s founders, plus stops at colorful murals and the James River.

This tour provides a comfortable pace, making it accessible to most fitness levels. Travelers can enjoy the refreshing outdoors while experiencing the city’s blend of history, art, and natural beauty. The guide shares stories behind the street art and past residents, giving a richer understanding of Richmond’s creative spirit.

If you enjoy biking and want a comprehensive outdoor overview of downtown, this tour can serve as a great introduction. It’s especially suited for active travelers who like to see a city from the seat of a bike.

Bottom Line: An engaging way to combine exercise with sightseeing, perfect for those who want to see downtown Richmond’s art, history, and scenic views from a bike.

8. Richmond: Guided Tour of Local Breweries with Tastings

Number 8 features Local Brewery Tour with Tastings, costing $89 per person. Over 2.5 hours, you’ll visit three breweries, sampling flagship and seasonal beers. The guide discusses brewing techniques and Richmond’s brewing growth, making this a must for craft beer lovers.

One highlight is the food pairing included at one brewery, which enhances the tasting experience. The tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at how local beers are made, with opportunities to chat with brewers. Reviewers appreciate the relaxed atmosphere and the chance to learn about Richmond’s craft beer scene firsthand.

This tour is best suited for beer enthusiasts or those curious about brewing. It combines education, tasting, and local flavor in a compact package, offering good value for the price.

Bottom Line: Beer lovers will enjoy this engaging tour of Richmond’s craft breweries, with the bonus of food pairings and expert insights.

9. Richmond: Offbeat History Tour on a bus

Number 9 offers the Offbeat History Tour for $48 per person. This 1.5-hour bus tour explores stories that challenge conventional narratives, focusing on bold ideas and big personalities that shaped Richmond.

Instead of typical landmarks, the tour reveals lesser-known stories and amusing tales that make you think differently about the city. The small-group experience on a 14-passenger bus allows for a personalized feel, and the tour often starts and ends at a local brewery, blending history with local flavor.

The stories include intriguing details about Richmond’s past, providing a fresh perspective on the city’s development.

Ideal for those who enjoy humor and quirky stories, this tour offers a fun, engaging alternative to traditional sightseeing. It’s a great way to learn about Richmond’s lesser-known yet significant moments.

Bottom Line: A perfect choice for curious travelers interested in surprising stories and a relaxed, personable tour format.

10. Richmond Street Art Bike Tour

The Street Art Bike Tour is an exciting 2.5-hour ride through Richmond’s vibrant murals, sculpture gardens, and public art spaces. Though the rating isn’t provided, the $135 cost includes cycling through city views and learning the stories behind the art, especially in Jackson Ward and the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts area.

This tour is ideal for travelers interested in contemporary art and urban culture. The guide shares behind-the-scenes insights into the city’s art scene and how it ties into Richmond’s history. Riding through beautiful neighborhoods, you’ll observe both well-known murals and hidden pocket parks.

It’s suitable for active travelers who want to combine sightseeing with a focus on Richmond’s artistic side. The tour’s pace and route make it accessible for most fitness levels.

Bottom Line: For art lovers and urban explorers, this bike tour offers a lively, colorful perspective on Richmond’s creative identity.

How to Choose the Best Tour in Richmond

Choosing the right tour depends on your interests, fitness level, and budget. If you want a deep dive into Richmond’s culinary scene, the Arts District Food Tour or Carytown Food Tour deliver delicious stories and bites. For outdoor lovers, the James River Park Hike or Downtown Bike Tour offer scenic and active ways to see the city.

History buffs might prefer the Offbeat History Tour or the Church Hill Food Tour, which blend storytelling with local flavor. Those seeking a fun, social night can’t miss the Haunted Pub Crawl.

Consider your time constraints: most tours range from 1.5 to 3 hours, fitting easily into a day’s schedule. Book early during peak travel seasons to ensure availability. Also, check if the tour’s focus matches your interests—whether it’s food, art, history, or outdoor adventure.

Final Thoughts

Richmond offers a wide array of tours that bring its streets, stories, and flavors to life. For a comprehensive taste of the city’s arts and food scene, the Richmond Arts District Food Tour and Carytown Food Tour stand out. If outdoor exploration or active sightseeing appeals, the James River Park Guided Hike and Bike Tours provide scenic, engaging experiences.

History enthusiasts will appreciate the quirky stories of the Offbeat History Tour, while lovers of craft beer should consider the Local Brewery Tour.

No matter which tour you pick, booking ahead is recommended, especially during busy months. Richmond’s diverse experiences make it a city worth exploring from multiple angles—through its food, art, history, or nature. Pick the one that excites you most, and get ready to enjoy all that Richmond has to offer.