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Let Our Lively Characters Guide You Through Historic Olde Towne Portsmouth, VA

Overview
Our guides don't just dress the part. These expert interpreters, in the guise of real characters from Portsmouth's rich and colorful past, will entertain you with stories and songs, amuse you with word origins and colonial culture, and educate you on the history of the homes and their architectural features.

Portsmouth boasts the largest collection of standing period architecture between Charleston and Alexandria, and has been an integral part of the history of our nation. Walk the streets where Benedict Arnold, Cornwallis, Lafayette, James Armistead, Billy Flora, Andrew Jackson, Chief Black Hawk, Mark Twain, and Martin Luther King Jr. walked.

End at the Portsmouth Arts and Cultural Center where something new and interesting is always on display for your enjoyment. Then, find yourself in the heart of the restaurant district, with a plethora of eateries from which to choose.
City: Virginia
Sun 23 Feb
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You can choose the date already on the booking website
Starting at $20.00
Sun 23 Feb
Starting at $20.00
Make a reservation
What's Included
Fun, Fun, and More Fun!!!
Additional Info
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Our tours are primarily out-of-doors. The nature of what we do is not compatible with wearing a mask, although guests are, of course free to do whatever makes them comfortable.
What To Expect
1
Lightship Portsmouth Museum
See Portsmouth's own lightship museum and hear its history! There are only 17 lightships left in the U.S., and even fewer are maintained as museums. The interior of this museum is currently closed for renovations, but now that you know it's location, you can revisit it when it opens again. The Norfolk Naval Shipyard Museum is only one block away, and another point of interest you might consider after the walk (if open) or on your next visit.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews (10)
320lorettal
Sep 2022
On a recent trip to Portsmouth, Mary Veale and the Colonials were recommended to me. We had a group of over 20 people, some of whom had mobility issues. We were also looking to have lunch as a group. Needless to say, Mary came through. She arranged for carts to transport those who were unable to walk and arranged for a luncheon. Mary and the guides were very informative about Portsmouth and its past. Everyone also enjoyed the singing. Both myself and my group highly recommend Mary Veale and the Colonials to anyone who is visiting Portsmouth for not only the first but to anyone who wants to learn more.
Response from Host
Sep 2022
Loretta, Thank you so much for taking time out of your very busy schedule to tell folks about your time with us! Your group was an absolute joy!!! We are so happy that your group chose Portsmouth and allowed us to show you around!!! Always at your service, Mary Veale
Vienna N
Aug 2022
This tour was AWESOME and very informative. Great for anyone interested in learning more about Portsmouth history. Very interesting and super fun!
Response from Host
Aug 2022
So very glad you had fun. That truly is the most important thing, is it not? And the best part is, when YOU have fun, WE have fun too!!! Thank you so much for taking the time to review our walking tour-we are so grateful! Always at your service, Mary Veale
Chase N
Aug 2022
Highly recommend this tour to learn about the amazing historic old town Portsmouth. Our tour guides were awesome and extremely knowledgeable and made the experience super fun.
Response from Host
Aug 2022
So happy you could join us! When you're having a good time, it's infectious and energizes us all the more! So we thank you and your group for making OUR experience so very enjoyable, as well as for you taking the time to write your review! We can toot our own horn all we want, but when folks like you share your experience, it's far more valuable. Always at your service, Mary Veale

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