Signature Ride at Upper Shirley Vineyards - 3 hours

Williamsburg , United States

Signature Ride at Upper Shirley Vineyards - 3 hours

Active

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Available only for groups of 6 or more with a phone call. This bike tour is more than just a leisurely ride through scenic landscapes; it's an opportunity to confront our past, understand our present, and shape a more just and equitable future. We will have wheeled our way through 400 years of history to a modern vineyard for wine and celebrating good friends and shared connections.

What truly sets this tour apart?

We present a balanced and nuanced account of history, acknowledging the complexities and contradictions that shaped America's identity.

We encourage open dialogue and respectful exchange of ideas, fostering a sense of shared understanding and empathy.

We prioritize responsible travel practices that minimize our impact on the environment and support local communities.

We donate a % of every tour to local conservation groups like Capital Trees, VCU Rice Rivers Center, and the James River Association.

Available options

Bike Included

Bike is included

Bring your own Bike

Bike not included

What's included

Glass of wine from Upper Shirley Vineyards

Stylish helmet, signature snack, bottle of water

Comfortable, chic, 3 speed, Priority bicycle fitted with Nantucket bike basket and custom liner

Experienced Guide

Detailed itinerary

Our ride begins at Upper Shirley Vineyards, just outside Richmond, VA, with a tour devoted to the history of the Charles City County area and the beautiful James River, aka Yeokanta, that has rightly been called The River Where America Began*.

As we pedal along the dedicated bike path - Virginia Capital Trail, we will face the inspiring and often uncomfortable truths of our history. We will bring in America’s future, introducing you to VCU’s Rice Rivers Center and their work on water quality and preserving the health of all rivers. We will bike on to Historic Westover Parish Church and grounds, built in 1730 where there is a comfort station. We pedal back to the vineyard on what was once the original grounds of Historic Shirley, American’s oldest working farm.

After our tour along the trail, we will come together at Upper Shirley Vineyards to offer you the chance to connect over a glass of wine and optional riverside lunch.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Outside food is not allowed at the vineyard.

E-Waiver Required for each traveler. Please fill out this form prior to arriving for tour. https://waiver.smartwaiver.com/v/basketbiketours/

Booking requires a minimum of 6 people.

Must call to schedule.

Meeting point

Park in the visitor "PLAY" parking lot and we meet at the entrance to the restaurant in front of the large staircase.

About Williamsburg

Williamsburg, Virginia, is a historic city that brings the American Revolution to life. It is home to Colonial Williamsburg, the world's largest living history museum, where visitors can experience 18th-century life firsthand. The city is also part of the Historic Triangle, along with Jamestown and Yorktown, offering a rich tapestry of American history.

Top Attractions

Colonial Williamsburg

The world's largest living history museum, Colonial Williamsburg, brings the 18th century to life. Visitors can explore historic buildings, interact with costumed interpreters, and experience the daily life of colonial America.

Historical Full day Moderate/Expensive

Jamestown Settlement

A short drive from Williamsburg, the Jamestown Settlement offers a fascinating look at the first permanent English settlement in America. Visitors can explore re-created ships, a Powhatan Indian village, and a colonial fort.

Historical Half day Moderate

Yorktown Battlefield

The Yorktown Battlefield is where the American Revolution effectively ended with the surrender of British General Cornwallis. Visitors can explore the historic battlefield, visit the Yorktown Victory Monument, and learn about the pivotal role Yorktown played in American history.

Historical Half day Free/Moderate

Bush Gardens Williamsburg

Bush Gardens Williamsburg is a popular theme park featuring thrilling roller coasters, live entertainment, and beautifully landscaped gardens. The park is known for its European-themed areas and seasonal events.

Entertainment Full day Moderate/Expensive

College of William & Mary

Founded in 1693, the College of William & Mary is the second-oldest institution of higher education in the United States. The historic campus features beautiful architecture, scenic gardens, and the famous Wren Building.

Historical Half day Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Peanut Soup

A creamy and savory soup made with peanuts, vegetables, and sometimes chicken or other meats. It's a classic Southern dish with colonial roots.

Soup Contains peanuts, can be made vegetarian or vegan

Fried Green Tomatoes

Sliced unripe green tomatoes, coated in cornmeal and fried until crispy. Served with various dipping sauces, such as remoulade or spicy mayo.

Appetizer Vegetarian, can be made gluten-free

Ham Biscuits

A popular Southern snack consisting of a flaky biscuit filled with slices of Virginia ham. It's a quick and delicious bite, often enjoyed for breakfast or as an afternoon snack.

Snack Contains meat, can be made with gluten-free biscuits

Popular Activities

Hiking Kayaking Zip-lining Spa treatments Wine tasting Scenic walks Museum visits Live theater

Best Time to Visit

April to October

This is the best time to visit Williamsburg for pleasant weather and outdoor activities. The historic sites are fully operational, and various festivals and events take place.

15-32°C 60-90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish
English: Widely spoken

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

GMT-5 (Eastern Standard Time, EST) or GMT-4 (Eastern Daylight Time, EDT)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Williamsburg is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, visitors should still take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid carrying large amounts of cash
• Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night

Getting there

By air

Richmond International Airport • 80 km (50 miles)
Norfolk International Airport • 90 km (56 miles)

By train

Williamsburg Station

By bus

Greyhound Bus Station in Williamsburg

Getting around

Public transport

WAT provides affordable and convenient public transportation with multiple routes serving the city and nearby attractions.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Historic Area Merchants Square Williamsburg Village

Day trips

Jamestown and Yorktown

10-20 km (6-12 miles) • Full day

Jamestown and Yorktown are two of the most important historic sites in the United States, marking the beginning and end of the American Revolution. Visitors can explore the historic sites, museums, and battlefields that bring these pivotal moments in history to life.

Richmond

80 km (50 miles) • Full day

Richmond, the capital of Virginia, is a vibrant city with a rich history and a thriving arts and culture scene. Visitors can explore historic sites, museums, and galleries, as well as enjoy the city's diverse dining and shopping options.

Chesapeake Bay

50-100 km (30-60 miles) • Full day

Chesapeake Bay is the largest estuary in the United States, offering a variety of outdoor activities and scenic views. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, kayaking, and wildlife watching, as well as exploring the charming towns and villages along the bay.

Festivals

Virginia Wine Expo • April Yorktown Day • October 19 Grand Illumination • December

Pro tips

Visit Colonial Williamsburg early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more immersive experience
Purchase tickets for popular attractions, such as Colonial Williamsburg and Busch Gardens, in advance to save money and skip the lines
Take advantage of free shuttles and public transportation to get around the city and nearby attractions
Explore the city's historic sites and museums on foot or by bike to fully appreciate their beauty and significance
Try local specialties, such as peanut soup, fried green tomatoes, and ham biscuits, at historic taverns and restaurants