Virginia Beach True Crime Tour

Looking for a different kind of sightseeing experience in Virginia Beach? The Virginia Beach True Crime Tour offers a one-hour journey into the city’s most infamous crimes, murder stories, and dark tales that have left their mark on this seaside town. This isn’t your typical walk along the boardwalk; it’s an opportunity to explore the shadowy corners of Virginia Beach’s history with a knowledgeable guide, providing a blend of crime stories, local history, and some chilling moments.

What we love about this tour is how it keeps the focus on genuine, often shocking stories, giving you a new perspective on what lies beneath the surface of this popular beach destination. The tour is well-paced, avoiding sensationalism while delivering engaging and sometimes disturbing tales. A second big plus: it’s wheelchair accessible, so more visitors can participate.

That said, it’s not a ghost or haunted house tour—it’s strictly about true crime stories. So if you’re expecting ghostly apparitions or supernatural tales, this might not be for you. It’s perfect for those curious about the darker history of Virginia Beach, crime buffs, or anyone interested in local stories that have shaped the town’s past.

Who should consider this tour?

If you enjoy history with a twist of the macabre, want to see Virginia Beach from a different angle, or simply want an engaging hour of storytelling, this tour fits the bill. It’s also an excellent choice if you’re traveling with older kids or adults who are comfortable with crime-related stories.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Short but impactful: An hour-long tour that covers some of Virginia Beach’s most notorious crimes.
• Authentic storytelling: Guided by a live, English-speaking guide with a focus on real events.
• Accessible and flexible: Wheelchair accessible and with a flexible cancellation policy—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Great for crime enthusiasts: Offers an intriguing mix of murder tales, serial killer stories, and the city’s crime history.
• Start and end at the same spot: Under the iconic Boardwalk Birds Sculpture, a recognizable meeting point.
• Balanced experience: This isn’t a spooky ghost tour but a sober exploration of true crime history.

An In-Depth Look at the Virginia Beach True Crime Tour

The Experience in Detail

This guided tour, organized by Old Dominion Walking Tours, promises an engaging and somewhat chilling hour exploring Virginia Beach’s dark past. The experience begins right at the Boardwalk Birds Sculpture, a central and easily identifiable location. Meeting here, you’ll be greeted by your guide, ready to walk you through a series of sites linked to infamous murders and crimes.

The tour itself lasts approximately one hour, during which you’ll walk between various sites tied to Virginia Beach’s most notorious moments in history. While the actual stops aren’t specified in detail, the stories covered include serial killers, crime wave periods of the 70s, and pivotal moments like the end of the hitchhiking era—a fascinating insight into how crime has influenced local life and law enforcement.

What You Can Expect at Each Stop

While the full itinerary details aren’t explicitly provided, you can expect the tour to focus on sites linked to some of Virginia Beach’s most infamous killings. The guide’s storytelling style is likely to evoke both intrigue and respect, framing these stories within the context of local history. The stories aren’t sensationalized but presented in a way that highlights their importance in shaping Virginia Beach’s criminal past.

Many reviewers have appreciated the tour’s focus, with one noting, “We loved the way the guide combined local history with true crime stories, making it both educational and captivating.” Others find the stories chilling but compelling, especially since they’re drawn from real events, like the crimes that ended the hitchhiking era—a phenomenon that once defined roadside travel in the region.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Setting and Atmosphere

The tour’s starting and ending point, the Boardwalk Birds Sculpture, offers a picturesque yet slightly ironic backdrop for such dark tales. The walk is on flat terrain and relatively short, making it accessible for most visitors. The guide’s storytelling style tends to be engaging but respectful, avoiding sensationalism, which ensures the stories are told with the weight they deserve.

Practical Details

• Duration: 1 hour
• Meeting Point: Under the Boardwalk Birds Sculpture at coordinates 36.846508, -75.973930
• Language: English
• Wheelchair accessible: Yes
• Price: Not explicitly listed, but the focus is on value—an affordable way to add a unique dimension to your visit.
• Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
• Availability: Check the schedule for suitable starting times

Value for Money

Considering it’s a one-hour guided experience, the tour offers solid value for those interested in local true crime stories. You won’t be paying for a lengthy tour or multiple sites, but the quality of storytelling and the exclusive focus on Virginia Beach’s criminal history make it worthwhile. It’s an easy addition to a day at the beach or as a standalone activity for those curious about the town’s darker stories.

What the Reviews Say

Feedback from past participants paints a picture of a tour that’s both informative and entertaining. One reviewer said, “The stories were fascinating, and the guide kept everyone engaged without sensationalizing the crimes.” Another appreciated the balance, noting, “It’s a great way to learn about Virginia Beach beyond the beach itself.” As always, keep in mind that this tour isn’t designed to be spooky but instead offers a sober look at some of the most infamous moments in the city’s history.

Final Thoughts: Is the Virginia Beach True Crime Tour Worth It?

For travelers interested in history, true crime stories, or local legends, this tour offers a fun and slightly eerie insight into Virginia Beach’s past. It’s a short, accessible experience that can easily fit into a day by the sea or as a standalone adventure into the city’s darker side.

The tour’s value lies in its storytelling quality, accessibility, and focus on real events. It’s especially suitable for those who prefer their history with a twist of the macabre and appreciate a guide who can weave stories with respectful authenticity.

However, if your idea of sightseeing revolves around art, nature, or family-friendly fun, this might be outside your typical interests. Also, given it’s only an hour long, don’t expect in-depth analysis—this is a quick, compelling overview rather than a comprehensive crime documentary.

All in all, the Virginia Beach True Crime Tour is a unique, engaging, and well-produced experience that adds a compelling layer to your understanding of this coastal city. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for something different—and a little dark—to spice up your trip.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately one hour, making it an easy and manageable addition to your day in Virginia Beach.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at the Boardwalk Birds Sculpture, which is a central and easy-to-find location on the Virginia Beach boardwalk.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, ensuring that more visitors can participate and enjoy the stories.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is guided in English.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel schedule.

Is this a ghost tour?
No, this tour is not a ghost or haunted house tour; it focuses solely on true crime stories and criminal history.

What kind of stories will I hear?
You’ll learn about infamous murders, serial killers, and the city’s crime wave of the 70s, among other dark tales linked to Virginia Beach’s history.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the stories are about true crimes and may be disturbing for very young children. It’s best suited for older kids, teens, and adults comfortable with crime stories.

In summary, the Virginia Beach True Crime Tour offers a compelling window into the city’s darker moments. It’s a smart choice for those curious about local history, crime buffs, or anyone looking to add a memorable, slightly unsettling experience to their trip. With its accessible format and engaging storytelling, it stands out as a unique way to see Virginia Beach from a different perspective—one that’s a little more shadowy, but no less fascinating.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby