A New Tour Is Highlighting Richmond’s LGBTQ+ History—Here’s Why That Matters

Richmond has never been short on history. From its Revolutionary roots to its thriving arts scene, the city is filled with stories waiting to be told. But for many years, one important part of Richmond’s past wasn’t always front and center: the people, places, and cultural movements that helped shape the city’s LGBTQ+ community.

That’s beginning to change. Across the country, and right here in Richmond, there’s growing momentum to recognize queer history as an essential part of local storytelling. One recent example is a new group travel experience created by Starr Tours, designed to introduce visitors to Richmond through an LGBTQ+ heritage and culture lens.

The multi-day itinerary highlights the city’s arts scene, community spaces, and historic narratives connected to LGBTQ+ Richmonders. While it’s structured as a travel experience, it also reflects a broader trend: tourism that centers inclusion and representation creates a richer, more complete picture of a city.

When developing the tour, Starr Tours partnered with OutRVA and Richmond Region Tourism to curate an itinerary that celebrates the city’s queer community while also showcasing Richmond’s broader cultural landscape.

“This tour represents something very meaningful to us,” said Sandy Borowsky, third-generation owner of Starr Tours. “We believe travel should reflect and celebrate the diversity of the people who experience it. This itinerary was created with intention, authenticity, and pride, and we are honored to introduce it.”

Tours like this go beyond sightseeing. They highlight moments of resilience, creativity, and community-building—from grassroots advocacy and early queer organizing to the thriving arts and cultural scene that exists today. These experiences help ensure that LGBTQ+ history is visible, valued, and woven into the broader story of Richmond.

In recent years, local organizations, historians, and tourism leaders have increasingly worked together to preserve and share these stories. Each walking tour, arts program, or historical initiative adds a new layer to the city’s queer narrative.

By shining a light on Richmond’s LGBTQ+ heritage, projects like this ensure that these stories aren’t just remembered, they continue to inspire, educate, and strengthen the community for generations to come.

Learn more about the tour and save your seat by visiting https://tours.starrtours.com/Tour/Richmond-VA-Pride-LGBTQ-Heritage-History-2026.