Visit a National Historic Landmark in Charles City, Virginia for guided house tours, grounds exploration, and seasonal events that bring 18th‑century history to life.
Shirley Plantation Foundation preserves and interprets Shirley Plantation, a National Historic Landmark located in Charles City, Virginia, on the James River. The foundation offers a range of public programs and tours that highlight the architectural history of the manor, the landscapes and gardens, and the lives of the families and enslaved people connected to the estate.
Visitors can choose from guided house tours of the first floor, self‑guided explorations of grounds and outbuildings with a free audio guide, and specialized offerings such as Enslavement Walking Tours, Veterans Day programming, holiday Candlelight Tours, Sunset Tours, and seasonal events like Historic Garden Week. Group tours and educational programs are available with customizable activities—colonial classroom sessions, 18th‑century games, and focused sessions on slave life—designed for school groups, community organizations, and private groups.
The foundation also supports interpretive exhibits, educational outreach, and conservation of historic fabric. Onsite resources include exhibits on slavery and plantation life, restored gardens, and a museum shop where visitors can purchase publications such as Shirley’s Military History. The organization emphasizes historical accuracy, public education, and respectful interpretation of difficult histories, making Shirley Plantation a trusted destination for researchers, educators, and heritage travelers seeking an informed and meaningful experience.
“Every outing is organized with local river knowledge, basic safety instruction, and equipment checks before departure.”