Capturing the Spirit of 1776
Virginia takes center stage with patriotic events as America prepares for its big birthday bash in 2026
Fredericksburg’s Civil Rights Trail Virginia’s Scenic Railway
The Virginia Tourism Corporation and our statewide tourism partners invite you and your groups to tour Virginia! We are excited to share with you, in this guide, a few of the many reasons your groups will love touring in Virginia. Like fun opportunities to get off the motorcoach and tour via train or by foot on a walking tour. One tour you’ll want to include in your itinerary is the Fredericksburg Civil Rights Trail, which was recently added to the U.S. Civil Rights Trail. Virginia is the epicenter for American Revolution 250th Commemoration tours with not-to-miss special events in 2025, 2026 and beyond.
Virginia is easily accessible, no matter your chosen mode of transportation. Travel along major highway systems or scenic byways. Tour via the passenger rail services of Amtrak or perhaps a fly-drive combination utilizing one of our nine commercial airports with major and low-cost carrier service.
Once you arrive, your groups will discover our unparalleled history and heritage, cultural and performing arts, outdoor adventures and scenic vistas, music and artesian trails, culinary and craft beverages to customize an unforgettable tour experience! Customer service, quality tours and partners with years of experience are why groups come back year after year.
We look forward to welcoming your groups to Virginia. For personal assistance, contact me at jjohnson@virginia.org or visit Virginia.org/ groups for information and resources for planning exciting group tour experiences.
Joni Johnson Director of Domestic Sales & Marketing Virginia Tourism Corporation
Happy travels, Learn
Communities throughout the nation are gearing up to celebrate America250, a series of special events and exhibitions heralding the 250th anniversary, or semiquincentennial, of our country’s birth in 1776.
It’s no surprise that Virginia, the first, largest and most prosperous of the British colonies in America, is playing a key role in the observation of this milestone. The Virginia American Revolution 250 Commission (VA250) has been busy coordinating plans since 2020. Its national honorary chairperson is prominent Virginian and renowned business leader Carly Fiorina.
“Virginia has played this incredibly central, pivotal role in the founding of our nation and everything that’s
happened since,” said Fiorina, board chair of the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation. “It makes sense for Virginia to take the lead on this commemoration. After all, Virginia’s history is America’s story.”
The commission has released an extensive calendar of events leading up to July 4, 2026, the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
Multiple towns and historical attractions this fall will observe the Lafayette Grand Tour 200th Anniversary, which commemorates the 1824-1825 U.S. tour made by France’s Major General Marquis de Lafayette on his return to the country for which he helped gain independence. He was feted in 24 states with parades, balls and other festivities. Lafayette bicentennial
events will take place in Fredericksburg, Yorktown, Loudoun County, Charlottesville (Monticello), Fairfax County (Mount Vernon) and other locations. The Fredericksburg Area Museum just unveiled the exhibition Lafayette’s World: Revolutionary Ideals and the Limits of Freedom.
From November 7-10, 2024 in Yorktown, historical reenactments, ship tours, a maritime market, concerts and other events will commemorate the Yorktown Tea Party, a less famous cousin of the Boston Tea Party but equally “steeped” in history. On November 7, 1774, rebellious colonists stormed the waterfront, climbed aboard the ship Virginia and emptied two half chests of tea into the York River. Similar protests against British taxation
Colonial Williamsburg Photo courtesy of Colonial Williamsburg Foundationand lack of colonial representation in Parliament occurred in other colonies.
“It’s crucial to remember that the Boston Tea Party was not an isolated incident,” said Michael Steen, director of education of the Watermen’s Museum and chair of the Yorktown Tea Party 250th Anniversary Planning Committee.
As one of the three points in Virginia’s Historic Triangle, Yorktown—along with Williamsburg and Jamestown— promises to be a focus of VA250 celebrations for the next two years. Perennially popular with group tours, it is home to the highly regarded American Revolution Museum at Yorktown. Colonial Williamsburg and Jamestown Settlement, two other premier living history museums, also will appear in many Virginia itineraries, as will Historic Jamestowne museum
and archaeological excavation site and Yorktown Battlefield, a National Park Service unit.
With Norfolk as host city, a national signature event will be Sail250. For seven days in mid-June 2026, communities in the Hampton Roads and Chesapeake Bay region will welcome 4,000 officers, cadets and crew from an international fleet of 55 tall ships and military vessels.
Another national signature event in Norfolk will be the Virginia International Tattoo at Scope Arena in April of 2025 and 2026. The 2025 spectacle, featuring military and civilian bands, bagpipers, fife and drum corps and drill teams from seven nations, will salute the 250th anniversary of the Army, Navy and Marine Corps. The Tattoo in 2026 will be a rousing,
emotion-filled celebration of freedom in tribute to America’s 250th anniversary.
A signature VA250 exhibition will run from March 22, 2025 to January 4, 2026 at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture in Richmond, the state capital. Titled Give Me Liberty: Virginia and the Forging of a Nation, it intends to inspire appreciation for the actions of iconic and ordinary individuals who brought about a model of democratic government that would change the world. The opening coincides with the 250th anniversary of Patrick Henry’s “Give Me Liberty or Give Me Death” speech.
For more information on VA250 programs, visit www.va250.org
Suggested group itineraries can be found at www.virginia.org/grouptours/va250 . 1
Exploring the contributions of Black residents is now included in the U.S. Civil Rights Trail
By Dave BodleThe Thirteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution was passed in 1865 forever abolishing slavery. If the former Confederate states like Virginia were to regain federal representation, they needed to ratify the Thirteenth Amendment. The timeline for the Fredericksburg Civil Rights Trail begins in 1865 and continues to the present. As is the history of our country, freedom is a work in progress.
Enough cannot be said about the partnership between the City of Fredericksburg and University of Mary Washington. The authors of the trail’s narrative are Victoria Matthews (City of Fredericksburg Economic Development and Tourism) and Chris Williams (University of Mary Washington’s James Farmer Multicultural Center). The University Geography Department and Historic Preservation Department students and faculty made significant contributions developing the story maps, collecting oral histories and archival information.
There are two parts to the Fredericksburg Civil Rights Trail, which was recently added to the national collection of landmarks that make up the U.S. Civil Rights Trail. Part 1 is a 2.5-mile walking tour through Fredericksburg’s historic downtown. Begin at the Fredericksburg Visitor Center where you can pick up a walking tour map and The Negro Motorist Green Book, used during segregation from 1936 through 1968. There are 12 stops on Part 1 of the Civil Rights Trail. Part 2 also begins at the Visitor Center and continues with four stops on the campus of University of Mary Washington with .5 miles of walking and the remaining two stops accessed by 1.9 miles driving.
Large groups preferring to walk Part 1 can be divided making the experience more manageable. The Civil Rights Trail is not chronological. If a
windshield tour is preferred, a guide can be provided and the route adjusted.
Shiloh Baptist Church pastors and numerous Black citizens of the congregation were critical in the struggle for social justice. Reverend George Dixon was highly respected and one of 24 Blacks attending the Virginia Constitutional Convention in 1868, enfranchising freedmen, reform local government and establish a statewide system of free, public education. Reverend B.H. Hester was a strong
advocate of education. The church dedicated money for the region’s only school for Black students where he served as teacher and coach.
Dr. Philip Y. Wyatt, Sr. was a dentist and member of Reverend Hester’s congregation. His commitment to the fight for civil rights in Virginia got him elected president of the NCAAP’s Virginia State Conference in 1953. He co-chaired the Fredericksburg Biracial Commission and was a member of the Virginia State Advisory Committee to the U.S, Commission on Civil Rights. You’ll find more of his story on Part 2 of the tour. In July of 1960, the church served as a training site for students preparing for the segregated lunch counter and movie theater sit-ins
that would take place in downtown Fredericksburg. Dealing with physical and verbal abuse by white residents was the focus of their training.
This was the site enslaved and free Black people were laid to rest from the 1800s and early 1900s. It was not unusual for Black cemeteries to be moved to make room for development. The Fredericksburg cemetery was no exception.
The cemetery became the site for a new high school. In 1920 the all-white Murray School was built. It served as Fredericksburg’s white high school until 1952 and as an elementary and middle school through 1979.
Removing the bodies from their resting place and building a segregated school on that space is tragic. However, the story of one student’s experience during desegregation is captivating. Robert Christian, still a resident of Fredericksburg, remembers the hostility he encountered as a Black student when the Murray School was first desegregated. Entering the classroom, he recalls the kids whispering and the teacher directing him to sit in the back of the class. One thing Robert says he’ll never forget is the lunch room. Sitting at the lunch table everyone got up and moved when he arrived. An uncle had talked to young Robert explaining he’d be called names, but not to talk back.
The bus station was located on the site where the fire department building now stands. The bus station segregated the establishment with “White” and “Colored” facilities. On the site is a Virginia State Historical Marker
dedicated to the Freedom Riders. The Freedom Riders were orchestrated by civil rights activists, Dr. James Farmer.
The purpose was to challenge segregation of interstate travel. The Fredericksburg bus station was the first stop. On May 4, 1961 a group of 13 Freedom Riders arrived and entered the bus station without incident.
Accompanying Farmer were James Peck, Genevieve Hughes, Joe Perkins, Walter Bergman, Frances Bergman, Albert Bigelow, Jimmy McDonald, Ed Blankenheim, Hank Thomas, Charles Person, Reverend Benjamin Elton Cox and John Lewis.
Although the group encountered no hostility in Fredericksburg as their journey south continued, they faced huge resistance and shameful atrocities from white people and the Ku Klux Klan.
Much of this story deals with the desegregation of Mary Washington College. In 1954 the U.S Supreme Court ruled unanimously in Brown v. Board of Education that statesanctioned segregation of public schools was a violation of the 14th amendment. By extension this applied to colleges and universities, but it was not until ten years later that the college’s Board of Visitors formally approved a desegregation policy.
After being rejected from the University of Virginia’s pre-med program, Venus Jones was accepted at Mary Washington College (now University of Mary Washington) as the second Black residential student.
During her time at the college she was one of five Black female students.
In 1968, she graduated with a Chemistry degree and four years later graduated from the University of Virginia medical school. The only Black woman to graduate she did her medical internship with the Native American population in Phoenix, Arizona. Joining the United States Air Force, she later became a consultant for the United States Surgeon General.
The year was 1950 and the WalkerGrant High School graduating class wanted to use the Community Center that was customarily used by whites. Advised by Dr. Philip Wyatt, Sr, senior class president James Walker accompanied by R.C. Ellison, the school’s PTA president, approached the city. Permission was initially refused, but later allowed with the condition that students and attendees enter and exit through a side door near the rear of the building.
James Walker declared he would rather receive his diploma on the sidewalk and with Dr. Wyatt and Mrs. Ellison a protest plan was organized. The 27 students in their caps and gowns were joined by almost 300 additional protesters on commencement day. They held large signs saying, “These doors are closed to us,” sang and heard Dr. Wyatt deliver a speech that the students were “learning at the outset that life is filled with problems.”
For additional information and group scheduling call Victoria Matthews at 540-372-1216, or email vamatthews@ fredericksburgva.gov. Additional information can be found online at fxbg.com/civil-rights-trail 1
Explore the rich tapestry of Fredericksburg, Virginia, where history whispers from charming streets and echoes through battlefields. This 3-day itinerary immerses you in the life of George Washington, the devastation of the Civil War, and the ongoing pursuit of social justice.
Get to know George Washington by visiting the homes of his mother, Mary Washington, and his sister, Betty Washington Lewis, both of whom called Fredericksburg home.
Visit the Mary Washington House ; Purchased by Washington for his mother in 1772, this home is a simple frame house where she spent her last 17 years. Her English-style garden has been restored and the house contains some of her prized personal possessions as well as many fine period pieces. Next, explore Historic Kenmore , the elegant historic Georgian-style brick mansion of George Washington’s sister, Betty, and her patriot husband, Colonel Fielding Lewis.
Victoria A. Matthews
540-372-1216
vamatthews@fredericksburgva.gov www.FXBG.com
At midday, enjoy lunch in Downtown Fredericksburg . Visit the 40-block historic district with brick lined sidewalks, boutiques, specialty and antiques shops, art galleries and chef owned/independent restaurants. Visit A. Smith Bowman Distillery , Virginia’s oldest distillery. Winner of multiple awards for their spirits, groups to the area can experience a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the production of hand-crafted spirits.
The Fredericksburg region was the scene of four of the most devastating battles of the Civil War. Nearly 110,000 casualties occurred in the Battles of Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Wilderness and Spotsylvania Court House.
During the war, possession of the city changed hands seven times.
Visit the Fredericksburg Battlefield Visitor Center and take a guided walking tour along Sunken Road. The walk includes dwellings standing during the battle, a monument to the humanitarian acts of a Confederate soldier, and the National Cemetery where 15,000 Union soldiers are buried. Next, stop at Chatham Manor . Chatham was an important Federal headquarters and communication center during the Battle of Fredericksburg. It was also a hospital where Walt Whitman and Clara Barton assisted the surgeons.
Today, delve into Fredericksburg’s diverse history of activism and the ongoing journey toward social justice.
Begin your day with a guided tour of the Fredericksburg Civil Rights Trail , now a part of the United States Civil Rights Trail. This trail tells the stories of the local Civil Rights movement and highlights the role of Black residents in the city’s history. Created through a partnership between the City of Fredericksburg and the University of Mary Washington’s James Farmer Multicultural Center, this trail includes sites where Black people created educational, housing, and business opportunities in the midst of Jim Crow era segregation, as well as buildings where people protested racial segregation in the 1950s and 1960s.
With the addition of two historic, elegant passenger cars, Virginia Scenic Railway accommodates groups of up to 78 passengers.
By Dave BodleOn the legendary Virginia Scenic Railway, groups can enjoy the modernized ambiance of beautifully renovated passenger cars and enjoy a delicious meal as they glide through some of Virginia’s amazing scenery, including the legendary Shenandoah Valley and the Blue Ridge Mountains.
“During our first full year of operation, we experienced tremendous interest in these Shenandoah Valley sightseeing excursions. We responded by growing our operations, and have now doubled our capacity for 2024. With our larger trains, we’re excited to partner with group tour operators for the first time and to share our love of Virginia’s railroad heritage.” - Steve Powell, President Virginia Scenic Railway
This original 1950s Budd stainlesssteel passenger car features custombuilt tables made of cherry wood paneling. Ample windows line the sides of the car, ensuring that no matter where you choose to sit, the scenic landscape unfolds before your eyes. This passenger car offers a total of 34 seats, in a mix
of two top and four top configurations. The Arvonia includes a unisex restroom and is climate controlled. This car once served as the pub lounge on the Montrealer, an overnight passenger train between Washington, D.C. and Montreal.
This carriage was built by the Budd Company in 1948 and welcomes passengers with an inviting atmosphere
and a nostalgic ambiance including vintage luggage racks. Large windows line the walls, allowing panoramic views of the picturesque landscapes outside. The Augusta offers a seating capacity of 44 seats in a mix of two-top and fourtop configurations. The Augusta includes two private restrooms and is climatecontrolled. This car was once in service on the California Zephyr, which connects Chicago to San Francisco.
Departing from Staunton, Virginia, the Alleghany Special is a three-hour round-trip excursion that takes you through the Shenandoah Valley. Once known as the “Breadbasket of the Confederacy” you’ll pass beautiful working farms and rural landscapes that are perfect photo opportunities. Departs Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 10:30 a.m.
Running east from Staunton, the Blue Ridge Flyer features stunning mountain views and the nearly one-mile long Blue Ridge Tunnel. You’ll be awed by the turns that were created around rock cut-outs. Great photo opportunities are there at every turn. The three-hour excursion departs Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 3:30 p.m.
Dining onboard is a special experience. Sit back and enjoy the ride on either the Alleghany Special or Blue Ridge Flyer while dining on a memorable meal. Your excursion ticket includes an entrée, dessert and a non-alcoholic beverage served in a complimentary souvenir glass. Main courses for the lunch train and dinner train are available online. You’ll need to place your order when making your reservation. For an additional cost, guests can now enjoy Staunton’s Ox-Eye Vineyard 2021 Lemberger dry red, or 2021 Chardonnay dry white. For the craft beer enthusiast Charlottesville’s Starr Hill Brewery offer Ramble on Juicy IPA. Begin planning online at virginiascenicrailway.com, email virginiascenicrailway@buckinghambranch. com, or call 434-391-9772. For all there is to see and do in charming Staunton check out visitstaunton.com, call Jessica Williams at 540-332-3865, or email williamsjb@ci.staunton.va.us 1
“Sightseeing by train attracts visitors seeking new experiences and also adds a bit of nostalgic adventure. The Railway’s blend of history, natural beauty, and leisure has quickly become a notable draw for Staunton tourism, and we look forward to opening up this experience to the group tour market in 2024 and beyond.”
— Jessica Williams, sales & marketing manager, Visit Staunton
Exciting events and openings are happening statewide
There are always big happenings in Virginia and this year is no different. From museum expansions to hotel openings, the Old Dominion State has an exciting 2024 on tap. Here are some of the top events and openings this year.
The Crooked Road Music Heritage Trail is celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2024 with special concerts, programs, and square dances across Southwest Virginia throughout the year. The Crooked Road is also joining in the celebration of the Carter Family Fold’s 50th Anniversary. (thecrookedroadva.com)
Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden kicks off its 40th anniversary in 2024 with a year-long celebration featuring exquisite horticultural displays, art exhibits, community events, live music and more, including: Contemporary American multi-disciplinary artist Kyle Epps as an artist-in-residence from April-September 2024. Epps’ work will explore the landscape and history of the Garden. (lewisginter.org)
Caesars Virginia, a $650 million premier destination resort casino, is coming to Danville in late 2024. Property plans include a 320-room hotel and a world-class casino gaming floor with more than 1,300 slots, 85 live table games, 24 electronic table games, a WSOP poker room and a Caesars
Sportsbook. In addition, the resort will feature a full-service spa, pool, highquality bars and restaurants, a 2,500seat state-of-the-art live entertainment theater and more than 50,000 square feet of meeting and convention space. (caesars.com/caesars-virginia)
With a projected opening in Summer 2024, the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol will feature a 300room hotel, five restaurants, four bars and lounges, new entertainment options, wedding and convention facilities, top-notch retailers, and an indoor and outdoor concert venue. The casino will feature 1,500 slots, 55 tables, and a sportsbook. (hardrockhotelcasinobristol.com)
In 2023, the Norfolk Botanical Garden began construction on The Garden of Tomorrow –the largest expansion in the Garden’s history. The Garden of Tomorrow includes the Brock Parking Garden, Brock Entry Pavilion and the two-story 26,000 ft. Perry Conservatory featuring a second-story Skywalk. The Perry Conservatory will house and protect the most threatened plants around the world. It is expected to be ready in 2025. (norfolkbotanicalgarden.org)
The Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA) Professional Disc Golf World Championships are coming to Lynchburg, August 21-25, 2024. (pdga.com)
Opened in September 2023, Sweet Run State Park is Virginia’s newest state park, an 844-acre greenspace nestled between the Blue Ridge and Short Hill mountains in far western Loudoun County. The park features 11 miles of hiking trails, nine miles of equestrian trails, two streams, dense forest and a rugged stretch of the worldfamous Appalachian Trail. (dcr.virginia. gov/state-parks/sweet-run)
The Rose Gaming Resort, a $400 million gaming and entertainment complex destination, will be located alongside I-95 in Dumfries. Along with exciting gaming action, The Rose Gaming Resort will include a luxury hotel, eight bars and restaurants, a cultural venue, a space for meetings and events, and over 80 acres of green space. (therosegamingresort.com)
Fun times await visitors to Virginia as new attractions are arriving daily.
The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center’s newly renovated and expanded facility offers a variety of immersive experiences with interactive exhibits, kids’ play areas, touch pools, an observable veterinary care center, interactive water quality lab and more. After a $28.9 million renovation and expansion, the South Building features more than a dozen new species of animals. (virginiaaquarium.com)
2024 marks the 50th anniversary
for the Virginia Beach Neptune Festival. Celebrate the 50th Annual Boardwalk Weekend, September 27-29, with concerts scattered along 30+ blocks of the boardwalk, an Art & Craft Show with 200+ vendors, magnificent sand sculptures created by world-renowned international sculptors, an 8k race, a grand parade, and more. (neptunefestival.com)
The Virginia American Revolution 250 Commission (VA250) will commemorate the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, the Revolutionary War, and the independence of the United States in the Commonwealth of Virginia, one of the former colonies and future states,
where much of this history took place. The celebrations run through 2024 and the 250th anniversary of American Independence in 2026. (va250.org)
After recently breaking ground on a $4.3 million expansion to its 23-acre campus, the Virginia Living Museum is constructing a 5,000-square-foot Wild Care Center along the museum’s outdoor boardwalk trail. The Care Center will create a literal window into the world of veterinary and preventative animal care, nutrition, and the connection between humans and the environment. It is expected to open during the summer of 2024. (thevlm.org) 1
The Military Aviation Museum is home to one of the world’s largest collections of flying vintage military aircraft.
From exploring the skies to delving into the depths of the Atlantic Ocean and Chesapeake Bay, discover a destination that combines adventure and knowledge in an unforgettable way. Our immersive experiences provide a perfect blend of education and excitement for students and educators alike.
Norfolk’s cruise port is gearing up to welcome more passengers than ever before.
Starting in February 2025, Carnival Cruise Line’s 3,875-passenger Carnival Sunshine will begin sailing out of Virginia’s fourth-largest city yearround, offering a departure each week from the downtown waterfront next to Nauticus maritime museum. She will offer trips to the Bahamas, Bermuda and the Eastern Caribbean.
In preparation for the influx, Half Moone Cruise Center, Virginia’s only cruise ship terminal, is closed this year to Carnival ships while it undergoes $12 million in enhancements. Upgrades will include an inclined walkway for debarking passengers, additional seating for guests waiting to board and an improved ground transportation design. (Even while the terminal is being upgraded, ships of other lines doing East Coast itineraries will be docking there this year.)
Carnival Cruise Line has been sailing from Norfolk since 2002, and in 2023 the Carnival Magic operated a six-
month cruise schedule from May to October. A total of 250,000 cruise passenger visits last year made it the busiest cruise season in the city’s history.
Structural improvements made at the cruise terminal in 2020 paved the way for larger ships coming to Norfolk’s sparkling waterfront, a lively area filled with green parks, shopping malls and restaurants.
The Carnival expansion “is a game-changer for our community and positions Norfolk as a major destination for visitors from across the country,” says Stephen E. Kirkland, president and CEO of Nauticus, which operates the cruise terminal. “We will see visitors flying in and out of town for these sailings, further expanding the economic benefits these cruises provide to Norfolk and the Hampton Roads region.”
Nauticus, one of the East Coast’s leading maritime museums, features live science demonstrations, 3-D movies, and hands-on exhibits that
explore the naval, economic and natural power of the sea. Berthed next door is the historic Battleship Wisconsin, where guests can walk the decks of the mighty vessel used in World War II, the Korean War and Operation Desert Storm.
Narrated harbor cruises on the Victory Rover, another visitor favorite, afford views of Naval Station Norfolk and its aircraft carriers, nuclear submarines and guided missile carriers. Also from the downtown waterfront, lovers of colonial history can take a ferry to the Old Towne Historic District in Portsmouth.
The area known as Virginia’s Historic
Triangle, home to Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown Settlement and the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown, will be a magnet for Carnival Sunshine passengers arranging pre- and post-cruise stays in Norfolk. It’s always been a favorite for shore excursions offered by cruise ships in town for the day.
For example, passengers on Princess Cruises’ “American Heritage” itinerary, a 10- or 11-day spring or fall roundtrip from New York, may opt for an all-day excursion to Colonial Williamsburg or one to Jamestown Settlement and the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown. Other tour choices for guests of the 2,200-passenger
Island Princess include a Norfolk city highlights tour and one that combines Norfolk Botanical Garden with the boardwalk and Old Cape Henry Lighthouse in Virginia Beach.
Princess Cruises’ 14-day “Canada and Colonial America,” operating in spring and fall between Quebec City and Fort Lauderdale, also makes a stop in Norfolk, which is centrally located on the mid-Atlantic Coast.
Not all cruise guests in Virginia are sailing on mega-ships, though. American Cruise Lines, the largest small ship and river cruise operator in the U.S., has an 11-day “American Revolution Cruise” that devotes
two days to Norfolk. The new series operates roundtrip from Washington, D.C. in spring and fall on the 170-passenger American Constitution or 100-passenger American Glory. Among the many excursion options are a Victory Rover harbor cruise, Norfolk Botanical Garden, Chrysler Museum of Art & Douglas MacArthur Memorial, and the Military Aviation Museum in Virginia Beach. The cruise also visits Yorktown for tours of Colonial Williamsburg and Jamestown.
Other cruise lines that visit Norfolk from time to time include Viking, Holland America, Norwegian, Regent and Oceania. 1
Learn all about Virginia’s art, history and culinary offerings on these fabulous tours
Listening to authentic, entertaining stories told by a local guide expands your group’s knowledge of many Virginia communities you visit. There are so many advantages to a walking tour. Your group can venture through narrow streets, they don’t need to fight for the best seat on the bus and they’ll get some exercise while seeing the sights. Here are just four examples.
Once the best kept secret on I-95, Richmond has morphed into a great destination for packaged group travel. The city’s museums tell the story of the Commonwealth and nation’s history. There’s always something blooming in its wonderful gardens and the culinary scene is nothing short of fabulous. Then there’s world-class art, both indoors and outside.
Mending Walls is a collaboration of 32 talented artists creating 16 communityengaged murals aimed at advancing social justice. They’re connecting community members and visitors from different backgrounds to engage in conversations of understanding. The best route for a group is the downtown walking tour led by an artist with intimate knowledge of the murals. Groups should allow two hours for the tour that covers 1.5 miles and requires a minimum of 10 guests. One artist can accommodate up to 25 people. Larger groups will need to be split. There is a fee that covers the artist and small administrative costs. Learn more about Mending Walls RVA at mendingwallsrva.com, or reach out to schedule your group experience at mendingwallsrva@gmail.com.
Just across the Potomac River from our nation’s capital sits Alexandria. With
its rich history and unspoiled 18th and 19th century architecture, it’s perfect for walkable tours. Manumission Tour Company is bringing the legacy of Africans and African Americans in Alexandria through guided cultural and heritage tours. Manumission is defined as the act of freeing or the state of being freed from slavery, servitude, etc. Led by their local guide, groups travel the streets of Old Town Alexandria to hear little known stories of people and events.
The 90-minute “Freedom’s Fight in Alexandria” walking tour takes visitors through the streets of Old Town. Participants gain insight into Alexandria’s pre-Civil War history of urban slavery and highlights the stories of runaway slaves, free African Americans and a pharmacist who questioned the “peculiar institution” of slavery. Another 90-minute guided tour is “Duke Street Black History” that follows the Duke Street corridor in Old Town Alexandria. Sites will connect you with the early Alexandria slave trade. You’ll visit the site of the Franklin & Armfield Office, the largest and most powerful slave traders. Entry into the Freedom House Museum is separate from the tour. The tour continues at the former Bruin Slave Jail site and connects your group to the early African American faith at Shiloh Baptist Church and the Alexandria National Cemetery. A third option is the “Stills Underground Railroad” Walking Tour. Another 90-minute guided tour following the King Street corridor and based on an 1872 non-fiction by abolitionist William Still, “The Underground Railroad.” The stories of escaped slaves and the sites they are associated with are highlighted. Manumission Tour Company fits groups of 25-30 quite nicely, but are no stranger to larger groups. Having handled student groups of up to 300, they are adapting at breaking up into smaller groups and
Mending Walls is a collaboration of 32 talented artists creating 16 community-engaged murals aimed at advancing social justice.
staggering their tour with each its own guide. Learn more at manumissiontours. com, or call 703-719-2150.
There are so many ways to fill your days when visiting Williamsburg. Enjoy rides, amusements and entertainment, or zipline high above the treetops. Delve into our nation’s history spanning more than four centuries, including archeological digs, historical reenactments and gallery exhibits from art to history. Treat your palate with a tasty craft beer, or enjoy a tasting at one of the storied Virginia vineyards. It’s only natural that with all the history surrounding the Williamsburg area that the 2nd oldest ghost tour in the United States would be a popular evening choice.
Established in 1892, “The Ghost Tour” offers a variety of experiences, each led by a knowledgeable guide. “The Original Ghost of Williamsburg Candlelight Walking Tour” is a journey through the city’s history and folklore. It’s 90 minutes of narrative connecting the listener to the past along with some ghostly entertainment. This is an unforgettable experience that seamlessly blends the
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supernatural with history. If you’re serious about your ghost experience, join a seasoned paranormal investigator on a two-hour walk, “The Extreme Ghosts of Williamsburg Candlelight Walking Tour.” You’ll work with paranormal investigation equipment, while learning about different techniques and experiments. This walk is best suited for smaller groups.
history and heritage to an exciting art and culture scene. Performance venues keep an annual calendar full of entertainment. Local artisan centers share the Bluegrass roots of the region, while there are amazing wineries and breweries to enjoy. If outdoor adventure is your group’s thing, you’ll be delighted to know that Blue Ridge Outdoors was awarded 2023 Top Adventure Towns winner. Before departing the region do make time for a visit to the Roanoke Star & Overlook. It’s a photo opportunity your group will remember.
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Join the Ghost Tour for “The Yorktown Hallowed Ground Candlelight Walking Tour,” a guided 90-minute journey through the dark streets of historic Yorktown. More than 230 years after the siege that effectively ended the American Revolution, locals still report hearing musket and cannon fire. “The Murder Tour and Pub Crawl” is popular with adult groups taking you through the dark streets and Williamsburg’s infamous crimes. Your ticket does include one drink. “The Lingering Spirits of the Williamsburg Winery Tour” is offered on select Mondays to limited size groups. The two-hour tour is a wine tasting along with a blend of ghost and paranormal stories that include the on-site Wedmore Hotel and Wine Cellar. October features the “Boos and Booz Haunted Pub Crawl,” while December brings “The Williamsburg Christmas Spirits Candlelight Walking Tour” and “The Williamsburg Winery Spirits of Christmas: A Journey through the Ages.”
Begin planning at theghosttour.com, or send a message from the website. Groups can call or text 757-707-7144, or 757-936-1201. Ideal group size is 33 with a guide. Larger groups can be staggered.
Roanoke and Virginia’s Blue Ridge have so many group-friendly things to see and do, from its railroad
Led by a passionate local tour guide the “Roanoke Downtown Food, History & Culture Tour” is a wonderful blend of food, local history, landmarks, culture and fun. Your journey will visit local eateries that feature delicious tastings. Along the way and backalleys you’ll discover some hidden gems and landmarks that are part of the city’s lively history. Enjoy six food tasting locations in the downtown historic district. These locally owned restaurants will serve delicious samplings that together are enough for a generous meal. The food is the primary feature of the tour, but architectural information, historical facts and local culture combine for a special tour experience.
The tour lasts about three hours with walking at a moderate pace. Aside from regular tour dates listed in the online calendar, private tours can be arranged for a maximum of 14 participants.
Tours begin at 11 a.m. at the Hotel Roanoke lobby. Although limited in the number of participants, the tour is an ideal option when combined with other tour alternatives, i.e. outdoor, railroad history or, art experiences.
Visit online at roanokefoodtours. com, or reach out via e-mail at info@ TourRoanoke.com, or 540-309-1781. 1
Centrally located in Coastal Virginia, Newport News is the ideal location for your group to drop anchor. The name “Newportes Newes” dates back to 1619. The most widely accepted folktale is that the city is the namesake of Capt. Christopher Newport, commander of the Susan Constant, part of the fleet that landed on Jamestown Island in 1607.
Desiree McDaniel Tourism Manager
Department of Communications –Tourism Division
757-926-1425 (o) 757-936-0957 (c) mcdanieldc@nnva.gov www.newport-news.org
Day 1 actually begins about 18 miles northwest of Newport News at Jamestown Settlement, where it all began! Historical interpreters interact with visitors at outdoor re-creations of a Powhatan Indian village, replicas of the three ships that sailed from England to Virginia in 1607, and a circa 1610 colonial fort. Inside the main building, the Jamestown Settlement galleries provide a setting for one of the most varied collections of objects relating to the nation’s beginnings in 17th-century Virginia. After checking into your hotel at the Newport News Marriott at City Center, take a short walk to Saté, where southern American roots meet Asian sizzle! It’s one of the newest restaurants in trendy City Center at Oyster Point. Afterward, enjoy an evening stroll around City Center’s beautiful 5-acre fountain, and don’t forget to grab some dessert from City Center Ice Cream!
Constructed in 1769 for the Harwood family, Historic Endview is one of the last remaining colonial buildings in Newport News. The Georgianstyle house is located close to the route taken by the Continental Army and Virginia militia on their advance to the 1781 battle that ended the Revolutionary War. Lee Hall Mansion is an Italianate residence built in 1859 by prominent planter, Richard Decatur Lee, for his family. Only three years after the house’s completion, the Lees fled their home as the Peninsula became one of the
first battlegrounds of the Civil War. At Lee Hall Depot you will learn the story of one of Newport News’ founding fathers, Collis P. Huntington. In the late 1850s, Huntington was part of the Big Four who formed the Central Pacific Railroad company to create the western link of America’s First Transcontinental Railroad. Afterward, sit back and relax on your motorcoach as we continue with a driving tour of Newport News’ Southeast Community, also known as “The Yard” district. Newport News has been focusing on the revitalization of its downtown area, branding it as “The Yard District” in a nod to Newport News Shipyard.
Check out of the Newport News Marriott at City Center after having a bite to eat in nearby Cure coffee shop, known for its craft coffee and made-from-scratch baked goods. Now it’s time to tour The Mariners’ Museum and Park, along with the USS Monitor Center!
The Mariners’ Museum is one of the largest and most prestigious maritime museums in the world, with more than 35,000 maritime artifacts, including ship models and historic paintings. A must-see while inside are the miniature ships of August F. Crabtree.
Depart for a safe trip home with the knowledge that Newport News Tourism will walk you through all the steps of planning and booking a successful trip to our city! We’ll provide marketing materials, coordinate guest speakers, assist in tour itineraries, provide welcome bags, plus more.
Immerse yourself in the history of Charlottesville and Albemarle County, including homes of three Founding Fathers and a colonial era tavern, a wide variety of cuisine and top wineries. Add stops at amazing museums, cultural centers and art exhibitions for a memorable visit.
CHARLOTTESVILLE ALBEMARLE CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
Teresa Lamb
sales@visitcharlottesville.org (434) 972-4138
www.visitcharlottesville.org
Charlottesville and Albemarle County are home to world-renowned historic sites, including the homes of three of the country’s Founding Fathers. Visit Monticello, Thomas Jefferson’s home, and the University of Virginia, both of which are a single UNESCO World Heritage site. Jefferson was the third president of the United States, author of the Declaration of Independence and the founder of the University of Virginia. Hundreds of thousands of visitors tour Monticello each year and learn about Jefferson’s legacy and complicated history.
Michie Tavern is a great spot to enjoy lunch and a tour on your way to or from Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello. Located just half a mile from Monticello, this historic tavern dates to 1784, giving visitors a glimpse into the past and the chance to enjoy an 18th Century, Southern dining experience. Michie Tavern’s popular lunch buffet features southern fried chicken, hickory-smoked pork barbecue, mashed potatoes, black-eyed peas, buttermilk biscuits, cornbread and more. Lunch is served daily from 11:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. If you save room for dessert, don’t miss out on the delicious peach cobbler.
Not far from Monticello and Michie Tavern is James Monroe’s Highland, the home of another U.S. President and Founding Father. Highland was purchased by Monroe in 1793 and home to the Monroe family for nearly 25 years. This historical site was acquired by the College of William and Mary (Monroe’s alma mater) in 1974 and today they host events, offer daily tours, and have a great museum shop.
Enjoy dinner at the Dairy Market, a new group food destination located in the historic Monticello Dairy Building. Located in Downtown Charlottesville, not far from the University of Virginia, the space is home to 18 merchant stalls of varying cuisines, a brewery, restaurant, bar, and several retail shops.
Your group will start the day with a walking tour of the historic Grounds of the University of Virginia See and learn more about the Lawn, the Rotunda and UVA’s Memorial to Enslaved Laborers. This memorial honors the 4,000 to 5,000 enslaved people who lived and worked at UVA between 1817 and 1865.
The Jefferson School African American Heritage Center is an important place where your group can explore a permanent art exhibit, a rotating contemporary art gallery, and a robust calendar of events. These exhibitions and events highlight Charlottesville and Albemarle County’s African American history and culture of the African diaspora.
The nearby Downtown Mall is a historic, pedestrian mall that is a great spot to enjoy lunch, shop and stroll. Many restaurants offer outdoor dining and groups will be able to choose from a variety of cuisines and price points.
The Charlottesville area was recently named Wine Enthusiast’s Wine Region of the Year and features 40+ wineries on the Monticello Wine Trail. Experts at one of our regional wine tour companies will plan a customized route suited to your group’s interests and safely transport you from winery to winery.
With scenic views, serene gardens, live entertainment, an outback adventure, and American history Wytheville, Virginia offers everything a traveler is searching for.
Begin your journey by traveling along the National Scenic Byway through J efferson National Forest to the top of the mountain. At an elevation of 3,045 feet, you’ll find Big Walker Lookout , “Where only the birds see more.” This is the oldest and highest privately owned attraction in Virginia. With a 100-foot observation tower and swinging bridge, the Lookout offers captivating views.
Mary Jo Babbitt
276-223-3447
mjbabbitt@wytheville.org
www.visitwytheville.com
At your next stop, discover the legacy of First Lady Mrs. Wilson. As one of only eight historic sites across the country dedicated to the interpretation of a First Lady, the Edith Bolling Wilson Birthplace is a must-see museum while in Wytheville. This museum tells the story of the important role Edith Bolling Wilson played in the White House at a pivotal moment during World War I.
End your first day with an evening at Wohlfahrt Haus Dinner Theatre , Virginia’s only all-musical theater. Serving American and German style cuisine, enjoy a four-course meal followed by a Broadway-caliber musical.
Spend the morning at the Thomas J. Boyd Museum . Named after the “Father of Wytheville,” Thomas Jefferson Boyd was an attorney, town mayor, hotel builder, and Virginia Legislator. The museum features exhibits and artifacts of the area including early mining, military history, and communications. The
exhibit, “A Summer Without Children,” tells the story of the 1950 polio epidemic and how Wytheville had the highest number of cases per capita in the country.
An exotic adventure awaits your afternoon. Take a ride on the wild side as you safari through the “outback” at Fort Chiswell Animal Park. Home to over 200 animals, get up close and personal with species from six different continents.
Enjoy dinner before the night’s entertainment at Graze On Main. Located inside the Bolling Wilson Hotel, this award-winning restaurant offers a casual yet elegant environment while you savor delicious southern fare with a twist.
Wrap up your evening attending a performance at the Millwald Theatre . The theater originally opened in 1928 as a vaudeville and “moving picture” house.
On your final day, make a stop at Beagle Ridge Herb Farm . Nestled in a valley of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this beautiful lavender farm sits on a 210-acre retreat. Spend the day enjoying the outdoors while viewing a variety of plants and formal display gardens, take an herbal craft class, or simply enjoy a cup of herbal tea. Southwest Virginia’s only walk-through butterfly house, Flying Flowers , is located at the retreat and will delight the senses of all ages.
Before heading home, stop for lunch at the coziest spot in town. Both a bottle shop and wine bar, Petals Wine Bar offers quality wines and craft beers from around the world.
Teeming with art galleries, live performance venues, and a not-to-bemissed dining scene, this creative community is a feast for the senses.
Staunton’s celebrated Main Street appears to have sprung to life from a Norman Rockwell painting with its striking variety of architectural styles.
Staunton is one of the oldest cities west of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Step back in time at the living-history Frontier Culture Museum to learn about the daily life of the region’s earliest settlers.
Next, discover the life and legacy of the country’s 28th president in the city where he was born at the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and Museum . An exclusive ‘Behind-theScenes” guide tour provides a fuller picture of his complex life and legacy.
Love nostalgic rail journeys? Set aside three hours to relax and sightsee aboard the Virginia Scenic Railway , round-trip excursions depart twice daily (Thursday-Sunday).
Jessica B. Williams
Sales & Marketing Manager
540-332-3865
williamsjb@ci.staunton.va.us www.visitstaunton.com
Shakespeare is serious fun at the American Shakespeare Center . So is the Blackfriars Playhouse Tour , where you’ll go on-stage, behind the stage, and even under the stage as guides tell the story of England’s first indoor theater and describe how the staging conditions of 17th-century London shaped the works of Shakespeare and his fellow playwrights.
Art enthusiasts are invited to step inside Gothic-Revival Trinity Episcopal Church and marvel at 12 Tiffany stained glass windows, which date from 1898-1936. Contemporary artworks are produced daily via live glassblowing demonstrations at Sunspots Studios Interested in acquiring original works from regional artists? The CoArt Gallery and the
R.R. Smith Center for History & Art display some of the best. The Depot Grille is a popular restaurant housed in a historic train station. The restaurant offers a unique dining experience with a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The Depot Grille is known for its delicious American cuisine, featuring a variety of dishes ranging from steaks and seafood to sandwiches and salads.
For something truly memorable, opt for a masterclass in cheese and wine in a beautifully restored tasting room. Ballerino Creamery’s head cheesemaker Louella Hill and master vintner John Kiers of Ox-Eye Vineyards join forces to help you taste your way through the Valley’s freshest flavors.
Pick up a copy of the self-guided walking tour and get acquainted with Staunton’s preservation success; six historic districts are independently listed on the National Register of Historic Places
Refresh yourself at the Ciders From Mars taproom, where you can enjoy a full flight or a single glass of their flagship Hellas Dry Cider. It’s made with a blend of modern and heirloom apples, grown locally. BLU Point Seafood Co. showcases lobster rolls and seafood baskets, as well as catches straight from the Chesapeake Bay such as rockfish, blue crab, and oysters. Private dining areas can accommodate groups of up to 80 people. Gorgeous mountain scenery surrounds Staunton. Two national parks, Shenandoah National Park and the Blue Ridge Parkway are close by and make an easy destination for sunset views.
Love,
