Richmond Region African American History Itinerary

Honoring the roots of the region's African American culture

The story of African Americans in the Richmond region runs deep. Today, groups can gain perspective through numerous walking tours, museums, attractions and more. See why Historic Jackson Ward became one of the most historic black communities in America and was known as the "Birthplace of Black Capitalism" and “Harlem of the South.” Celebrate the achievements of the people who built this region and gain insight on the incredible challenges they overcame. Learn more about our rich African American culture at BLKRVA.

MAGGIE L. WALKER NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE
Meet the woman who broke through barriers to stake her claim as a leading businesswoman and civic leader. Maggie Walker was also the first woman in the country to charter and serve as president of a bank. Be sure to make time to visit the Maggie L. Walker Statue, a few blocks west from the Historic Site.
Time Allotment: 1.5 hours
Location: Jackson Ward, Richmond
Bus Parking: Onsite

BLACK HISTORY MUSEUM & CULTURAL CENTER OF VIRGINIA
With interactive, educational permanent and traveling exhibitions, The Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia celebrates the rich culture and moving histories of African Americans in Virginia and their contributions to our country.
Time Allotment: 1.5 hours
Location: Jackson Ward, Richmond
Bus Parking: Onsite

SIXTH MOUNT ZION BAPTIST CHURCH
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this active place of worship was organized by Rev. John Jasper in 1867. Born a slave in 1812, Rev. Jasper gained freedom to become a nationally-celebrated preacher.
Time Allotment: 1 hour
Location: Jackson Ward, Richmond
Bus Parking: Onsite

THE MUSEUM GALLERIES AT VIRGINIA UNION UNIVERSITY
Located in the L. Douglas Wilder Library at Virginia Union University, the galleries include collections of masks, sculptures and paintings from Africa and the South Pacific, as well as African American folk art.
Time Allotment: One hour
Location: Richmond
Bus Parking: Onsite

VIRGINIA MUSEUM OF HISTORY & CULTURE
This major museum features exhibits on the civil rights movement of the 1950s-1970s, which was just one phase in the long struggle for black freedom. 
Time Allotment: 1.5 hours
Location: Museum District, Richmond
Bus Parking: Onsite

VIRGINIA CIVIL RIGHTS MEMORIAL
Part of the Civil Rights Trail, this thought-provoking memorial is located on the grounds of the Virginia State Capitol.
Time Allotment: 30 minutes
Location: Downtown Richmond
Bus Parking: Drop-off only

THE VALENTINE FIRST FREEDOM CENTER
This museum houses exhibitions that delve into America’s experience of religious liberty. It is located on the same corner where Virginia’s General Assembly met in secret during the American Revolution. 
Time Allotment: 45 minutes
Location: Richmond
Bus Parking: Drop-off only

RUMORS OF WAR 
Artist Kehinde Wiley’s direct response to the statues on Monument Avenue – a 27-foot tall modern-day hero cast in bronze and sporting contemporary clothing. Modeled after the confederate J.E.B. Stuart monument, Rumors is located on the grounds of the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts.
Time Allotment: 20 minutes
Location: Museum District, Richmond
Bus Parking: Onsite

MAYMONT MANSION AND GARDENS
Upstairs/Belowstairs provides an in-depth look at the dynamics between the upper-class landowners and working-class staff of this Gilded Age Mansion.
Time Allotment: 1 hour *Allow time to explore the gardens of Maymont after your tour.
Location: Richmond
Bus Parking: Onsite

ELEGBA FOLKLORE SOCIETY & RICHMOND SLAVE TRAIL TOUR
Offers tours and learning through interactive cultural experiences.
Time Allotment: Two hours
Location: Richmond
Bus Parking: Drop-off only