Journey Through America's Most Historic Cemetery Complex
Overview
Available languages
1 hour 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
Explore America’s most historic cemetery complex with the public historian who helps care for it.
Led by David Heiby, cemetery superintendent and creator of Gravestone Stories, this small-group walking tour takes you inside Alexandria’s remarkable 13-cemetery landscape, where George Washington’s pallbearers, Revolutionary War patriots, Civil War soldiers, a Cold War Soviet spy, and the highest-ranking Confederate general buried in Alexandria all rest within a single historic district.
Mentioned in national and local press, cited by respected history sources, and backed by a perfect 5.0 guest rating, this tour goes far beyond a typical historic walk. Every stop is grounded in original research, cemetery records, and on-site discoveries, including graves rediscovered after nearly 200 years.
Walk quiet lanes, pass through gates most visitors never enter, and hear stories you will not find anywhere else.
Group size is limited for comfort, safety, and a better experience.
Additional Info
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Uneven ground
Grass pathways
Historic walkways
Historic cemetery paths may have uneven terrain. Contact us about accessibility needs.
What To Expect
Historic cemetery complex established 1796, containing 13 distinct cemeteries with over 35,000 burials spanning Revolutionary War to modern era. America's most concentrated collection of historic burial grounds.
Options
Journey Through America's Most Historic Cemetery Complex
What‘s Included
90-minute small-group cemetery tour
Professional historian-led tour
Free Parking Available
Access to the 13 cemeteries of the Wilkes Street Cemetery Complex
Transportation to meeting point
Gratuities
Food and drinks (please bring your own water bottle)
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
24 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Amazing walk through history
Z5168NFkt,Jun 1, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00If you’re into history and want to walk historic grounds and learn about historic figures who helped form this nation’s history then this tour is for you. My wife and I highly recommend it. Dave the tour guide is a wealth of information. It’s worth every penny
Alexandria Cemetery Walking Tour
Kevin T,Jun 1, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00If you’re into history and want to walk historic grounds and learn about historic figures who helped form this nation’s history then this tour is for you. My wife and I highly recommend it. Dave the guide is a wealth of information
Interesting History & Connections
Caroline B,May 12, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Grave Dave, as he is known, was an amazing host and guide for this tour. He has clearly done extensive research on this historic cemetery complex, and he has made interesting connections among the people buried in this area. Immediately after leaving, I thought of a half dozen family members or friends I would love to bring on this tour in the future! At any time, but especially for America's 250th birthday, this is a tour not to skip!
An Unbelievable Amount of History in One Serene Setting!
Vacationer546095,Apr 26, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This tour was absolutely incredible and is a must for locals and visitors alike! I was amazed to learn so much about Alexandria's role in American history and have the stories be brought to life by my exceptional guide and historian, David. I now have a greater appreciation for the area I call home.
Great tour! A hidden gem plus free parking!
elowenw,Mar 16, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The tour was great! David can customize the tour based on your interests. He is very knowledgeable and makes history fun! I especially enjoyed learning more about the history of civil rights. This cemetery was the first desegregated cemetery in the entire US!
Amazing!
Claire M,Mar 8, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Amazing! Super knowledgeable and friendly guide. More than worth it! So cool to hear about America’s history from that perspective.
History Of US
527cathleenb,Mar 7, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This was an awesome tour...the guide is so knowledgeable and told engaging facts of American history that crosses Alexandria
Fantastic stories about...
Cathleen B,Mar 7, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Fantastic stories about key people in American history! The guide is incredibly knowledgeable and full of fun facts....I will go again to hear more stories!
Amazing Walk Through History with an Exceptional Historian
NOIDK,Jan 3, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00What a fantastic experience!! As lovers of history, we hit the jackpot when we booked this tour. Our tour guide, David Heiby, is a noted historian, and an authority on American history from the colonial era through the 19th century. He is truly a force of nature! After booking the tour, he sent us precise directions on where to meet him before taking us on one of the most fascinating historical tours we have ever enjoyed. David is incredibly bright, very welcoming, and a polished speaker who really took his time to answer all questions patiently. He also has a great sense of humor, and truly enjoys sharing his extensive knowledge with others. As we went from one area to the next, David vividly brought so many American historical events back to life. We especially enjoyed learning about the cemetery’s tie to Fort Myers, Florida, the meaning of the marker inscription, USCT, and about Alexandria’s famous, “female stranger.” We highly, highly, recommend booking this tour. David’s in-depth level of knowledge, combined with his keen intellect, and passion for American history, makes it a wonderful way to spend an afternoon. Thank you David!! We hope to come back again soon and wish you continued success in 2026.
Best tour ever!
Tracey N,Dec 17, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Fantastic tour. Our guide knew his history inside and out. Very impressive knowledge and supporting documents to share. All stories were very interesting and very noteworthy subjects. So happy I booked this for us to do. We had such a good time and learned so much!
Related Experiences
Operated by Gravestone Stories