Manumission Tour Company (tel. 703/719-2150) offers several 90-minute tours focusing on the stories of the African people who were brought to Alexandria in bondage at the height of the slave trade, the fugitive slaves who escaped via the Underground Railroad, and the free African Americans and abolitionists who fought back tirelessly against injustice, all while seeing the sites around Old Town where such stories and events occurred. Tickets cost $15 for adults, $12 for children ages 12 and under and can be booked through the website or at the Alexandria Visitor Center. Check the website for scheduling as tour dates, times, and meeting places vary.

Ghost tours are also very popular. The “Ghosts and Graveyard Tour” from Alexandria Colonial Tours (tel. 703/519-1749) is offered Wednesday through Sunday at 7:30, 8:30, and 9pm March through November. This 1 hr. tour departs from Ramsay House and costs $15 for adults, $14 for seniors, military, and law enforcement, and $10 for children ages 7 to 17 (free for children 6 and under). Reservations are recommended, though not required, or you can purchase tickets from the guide, who will be dressed in Colonial attire and standing in front of the Alexandria Visitor Center. Alexandria history walking tours are also available Friday through Sunday at 2pm for those who’d prefer to learn more about the city and its past during daylight hours.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.