Pre-BEX Tours
TBEX North America 2026 Pre-BEX Tours are OPENING Soon!
Pre-BEX Tours: Hosted by Richmond Region Tourism
- Only registered conference attendees can sign up for a Pre-BEX Tour.
- Pre-BEX Tours are offered on a first-come, first-serve basis. No guests, companions, or plus-ones are permitted unless they, too, are registered. There are no waitlists once a tour becomes full.
- Please sign up with the same email address used when you registered for TBEX North America 2026. You must be 18 years of age or older to participate in TBEX activities.
- If you need to cancel any Pre-BEX Tour you have signed up for at any time before the event for any reason PLEASE email suzy@tbexcon.com ASAP to do so. Others can then take your cancelled spot(s). Thank you for your understanding and cooperation with this.
- Occasionally Tours may be altered or canceled due to weather, operational needs, or partner availability. Participants will be notified.
- All tours take place Tuesday, June 23 & Wednesday, June 24, 2026, unless otherwise noted.
Pre-BEX Tour #1
Rails, Reels & Small-Town Feels: Creator Day in Ashland – Town of Ashland
Date
Tuesday, June 23rd & Wednesday, June 24th
Number of Participants
Start Time & Location
Approx. End Time
10
Meet at 8:45 for a 9:00AM departure from the Greater Richmond Convention Center
Approximately 4:00PM
Highlight
Stroll through a real-life “Hallmark Main Street” — complete with charming shops, small-town hospitality, train-lined streets, camera-ready murals, and behind-the-scenes access to beloved local landmarks.
Notes
Accessibility
Comfortable shoes, water bottle, and a hat is recommended.
For accessibility questions, Contact Toni Bastian: tbastian@visitrichmondva.com BEFORE you register for a tour.
Sign Up →
Sign Up →
Tuesday, June 23rd – Coming Soon
Wednesday, June 24th – Coming Soon
Just 20 minutes north of Richmond, the Town of Ashland, affectionately known as the Center of the Universe, offers creators a warm, walkable, story-rich backdrop filled with Americana charm, railroad nostalgia, and vibrant small-business culture.
This immersive, creator-focused experience begins with a stop at the “Welcome to the Center of the Universe” mural, then unfolds through a curated walking itinerary featuring local history, film-worthy architecture, boutique retail, artisan food, and exclusive access to Ashland’s most iconic destinations.
Visit the Historic Ashland/Hanover Visitor Center, stroll Railroad Avenue beside passing trains, tour the Henry Clay Inn, dive into equine legacy with Secretariat’s “Racing Into History”, enjoy a private Historic Ashland Theatre tour, explore Center Street’s shops and gardens, and enjoy a delicious local lunch at Ash & Olive.
Wrap up your content-filled afternoon with behind-the-scenes filming at Origin Beer Lab before gathering at the tracks for a final group photo.
This Pre-BEX Tour is tailor-made for lifestyle, small-town Americana, travel, and visual creators looking for authentic and charming storytelling moments.
Pre-BEX Tour #2
Off the Rails at Kings Dominion – HANOVER COUNTY
Date
Tuesday, June 23rd & Wednesday, June 24th
Number of Participants
Start Time & Location
Approx. End Time
20
Meet at 8:45 for a 9:00AM departure from the Greater Richmond Convention Center
Approximately 4:00PM
Highlight
A VIP, behind-the-scenes close-up of rollercoaster design, engineering, and thrills at Kings Dominion, Virginia’s premier theme park. Go backstage at Kings Dominion for exclusive access to coaster control rooms, maintenance areas, media opportunities, and technical teams who bring the park’s world-class attractions to life. Then enjoy early ride access on signature coasters and a VIP lunch with park leadership.
Notes
Accessibility
Mobility: Moderate. Must wear closed-toe shoes. Weather-dependent , water bottle, and a hat is recommended.
For accessibility questions, Contact Toni Bastian: tbastian@visitrichmondva.com BEFORE you register for a tour.
Sign Up →
Tuesday, June 23rd – Coming Soon
Wednesday, June 24th – Coming Soon
Pre-BEX Tour #3
Walk in the Footsteps of Liberty: The Patrick Henry Experience
Date
Wednesday, June 24th
Number of Participants
Start Time & Location
Approx. End Time
20
Meet at 8:45 for a 9:00AM departure from the Greater Richmond Convention Center
Approximately 4:00PM
Highlight
Follow Patrick Henry’s life journey at the sites that shaped the American fight for independence featuring a live reenactment of the Parson’s Cause at the Hanover Courthouse. Visit Scotchtown, Historic Hanover Tavern, Hanover Courthouse, and Polegreen Church, the places where Henry sharpened his fiery oratory and forged the arguments for liberty. Includes a theatrical court performance, guided interpretation, and lunch at the historic Tavern.
Notes
Accessibility
Comfortable shoes, water bottle, and a hat is recommended.
Mobility: Moderate outdoor walking on grass and uneven surfaces. For accessibility questions, Contact Toni Bastian: tbastian@visitrichmondva.com BEFORE you register for a tour.
Sign Up →
Wednesday, June 24th – Coming Soon
Pre-BEX Tour #4
The Flavor of Home: From Soil to Soul at Esther Manor Farm
Date
Tuesday, June 23rd & Wednesday, June 24th
Number of Participants
Start Time & Location
Approx. End Time
10
Meet at 8:45 for a 9:00AM departure from the Greater Richmond Convention Center
Approximately 4:00PM
Highlight
Immerse yourself in African heritage agriculture, mindful eating, and wellness at Esther Manor Farm. Experience a serene, sensory journey through African heritage crops, wellness practices, culture, and foodways. Walk the fields with the farmer, explore ancestral crops, and enjoy either a farm-to-table lunch or afternoon tea rooted in West and Central African culinary traditions.
Notes
Accessibility
Comfortable shoes, water bottle, and a hat is recommended.
Mobility: Moderate; rural outdoor walking required.. For accessibility questions, Contact Toni Bastian: tbastian@visitrichmondva.com BEFORE you register for a tour.
Sign Up →
Tuesday, June 23rd – Coming Soon
Wednesday, June 24th – Coming Soon
Pre-BEX Tour #5
Beauty in Bloom
Date
Tuesday, June 23rd & Wednesday, June 24th
Number of Participants
Start Time & Location
Approx. End Time
20
Meet at 8:45 for a 9:00AM departure from the Greater Richmond Convention Center
Approximately 4:00PM
Highlight
Explore Richmond’s two crown-jewel gardens: Maymont and Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden. Begin with a guided walk through Maymont’s Italian and Japanese Gardens, then continue to Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden for a curated tour and a seasonal garden-fresh lunch. Perfect for creators capturing nature, architecture, and landscape design.
Notes
Accessibility
Comfortable shoes, water bottle, and a hat is recommended.
Mobility: Moderate walking; outdoor terrain.. For accessibility questions, Contact Toni Bastian: tbastian@visitrichmondva.com BEFORE you register for a tour.
Sign Up →
Tuesday, June 23rd – Coming Soon
Wednesday, June 24th – Coming Soon
Pre-BEX Tour #6
Unwind in Style
Date
Tuesday, June 23rd & Wednesday, June 24th
Number of Participants
Start Time & Location
Approx. End Time
15
Meet at 8:45 for a 9:00AM departure from the Greater Richmond Convention Center
Approximately 4:00PM
Highlight
A luxurious wellness day featuring spa treatments and curated shopping in Richmond’s premier retail district. Enjoy a custom spa treatment at Aura Spa at Hilton Short Pump, followed by a relaxed lunch and VIP shopping at Short Pump Towne Center. Perfect for lifestyle, wellness, and beauty creators.
Notes
Accessibility
Comfortable shoes, water bottle, and a hat is recommended.
Mobility: Light. Most activities indoors. For accessibility questions, Contact Toni Bastian: tbastian@visitrichmondva.com BEFORE you register for a tour.
Sign Up →
Tuesday, June 23rd – Coming Soon
Wednesday, June 24th – Coming Soon
Pre-BEX Tour #7
River City Rush” (Two tours per day: RVA Paddlesports & Riverside Outfitters)
Date
Tuesday, June 23rd & Wednesday, June 24th
Number of Participants
Start Time & Location
Approx. End Time
20
Meet at 8:45 for a 9:00AM departure from the Greater Richmond Convention Center
Approximately 4:00PM
Highlight
Split into two small groups and paddle the James with certified guides from two premier outfitters. Capture unforgettable views of the Richmond skyline, river islands, and rapids. Includes lunch.
Notes
Accessibility
Change of clothes, comfortable shoes, water bottle, and a hat is recommended.
Mobility: High. Must be able to swim and participate in active paddling For accessibility questions, Contact Toni Bastian: tbastian@visitrichmondva.com BEFORE you register for a tour.
Sign Up →
Tuesday, June 23rd – Coming Soon
Wednesday, June 24th – Coming Soon
Pre-BEX Tour #8
Liberty Lives Here
Date
Tuesday, June 23rd & Wednesday, June 24th
Number of Participants
Start Time & Location
Approx. End Time
20
Meet at 8:45 for a 9:00AM departure from the Greater Richmond Convention Center
Approximately 4:00PM
Highlight
A VA250-aligned historical experience linking Richmond’s civic story to America’s fight for liberty. Begin with a guided visit at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, enjoy lunch onsite, then travel to the Virginia State Capitol for a tour of the grounds and chambers. Conclude at St. John’s Church for a live reenactment of Patrick Henry’s “Give me liberty, or give me death!”
Notes
Accessibility
Comfortable shoes, water bottle, and a hat is recommended.
Mobility: Moderate walking indoors and outdoors. For accessibility questions, Contact Toni Bastian: tbastian@visitrichmondva.com BEFORE you register for a tour.
Sign Up →
Tuesday, June 23rd – Coming Soon
Wednesday, June 24th – Coming Soon
Pre-BEX Tour #9
Rooted and Rising
Date
Tuesday, June 23rd & Wednesday, June 24th
Number of Participants
Start Time & Location
Approx. End Time
15
Meet at 8:45 for a 9:00AM departure from the Greater Richmond Convention Center
Approximately 4:00PM
Highlight
Journey through the heart of Richmond’s Black history and culture with a guided walking tour of Jackson Ward.
Notes
Accessibility
Comfortable shoes, water bottle, and a hat is recommended.
Mobility: High — this is a walking tour For accessibility questions, Contact Toni Bastian: tbastian@visitrichmondva.com BEFORE you register for a tour.
Sign Up →
Tuesday, June 23rd – Coming Soon
Wednesday, June 24th – Coming Soon
Pre-BEX Tour #10
Nevermore RVA
Date
Tuesday, June 23rd & Wednesday, June 24th
Number of Participants
Start Time & Location
Approx. End Time
15
Meet at 8:45 for a 9:00AM departure from the Greater Richmond Convention Center
Approximately 4:00PM
Highlight
Dive into Richmond’s gothic and literary roots, inspired by Edgar Allan Poe. Visit Hollywood Cemetery, the Poe Museum, and Rest in Pieces for uniquely Richmond storytelling. Enjoy lunch at the Evermore Café at Linden Row Inn and end with a guided Haunts of Richmond experience.
Notes
Accessibility
Comfortable shoes, water bottle, and a hat is recommended.
Mobility: Moderate; uneven cemetery surfaces. For accessibility questions, Contact Toni Bastian: tbastian@visitrichmondva.com BEFORE you register for a tour.
Sign Up →
Tuesday, June 23rd – Coming Soon
Wednesday, June 24th – Coming Soon
Pre-BEX Tour #11
STREET ART TOUR
Date
Tuesday, June 23rd & Wednesday, June 24th
Number of Participants
Start Time & Location
Approx. End Time
15
Meet at 8:45 for a 9:00AM departure from the Greater Richmond Convention Center
Approximately 4:00PM
Highlight
A mural-focused creative exploration through Richmond’s Arts District, Jackson Ward, and Manchester.
Notes
Accessibility
Comfortable shoes, water bottle, and a hat is recommended.
Mobility: Moderate walking indoors and outdoors. For accessibility questions, Contact Toni Bastian: tbastian@visitrichmondva.com BEFORE you register for a tour.
Sign Up →
Tuesday, June 23rd – Coming Soon
Wednesday, June 24th – Coming Soon
Pre-BEX Tour #12
Meet Poppy IRL
Date
Tuesday, June 23rd & Wednesday, June 24th
Number of Participants
Start Time & Location
Approx. End Time
10
Meet at 8:45 for a 9:00AM departure from the Greater Richmond Convention Center
Approximately 4:00PM
Highlight
A VIP animal encounter at Metro Richmond Zoo with Poppy the hippo. Behind-the-scenes access at the region’s most beloved zoo, featuring up-close animal interactions, wildlife conservation education, and creator-friendly content opportunities
Notes
Accessibility
Comfortable shoes, water bottle, and a hat is recommended.
Mobility: Outdoor walking. For accessibility questions, Contact Toni Bastian: tbastian@visitrichmondva.com BEFORE you register for a tour.
Sign Up →
Tuesday, June 23rd – Coming Soon
Wednesday, June 24th – Coming Soon
Pre-BEX Tour #13
Made in America
Date
Tuesday, June 23rd & Wednesday, June 24th
Number of Participants
Start Time & Location
Approx. End Time
10
Meet at 8:45 for a 9:00AM departure from the Greater Richmond Convention Center
Approximately 4:00PM
Highlight
A nostalgic Americana experience showcasing tractors, local history, vineyards, and the world’s largest Arby’s. Start with a tour of the Keystone Tractor Museum, then stop at Violet Bank Museum, enjoy lunch and wine at Ashton Creek Vineyard, and finish with a playful dessert stop at America’s largest Arby’s.
Notes
Accessibility
Comfortable shoes, water bottle, and a hat is recommended.
Mobility: Moderate. For accessibility questions, Contact Toni Bastian: tbastian@visitrichmondva.com BEFORE you register for a tour.
Sign Up →
Tuesday, June 23rd – Coming Soon
Wednesday, June 24th – Coming Soon
Pre-BEX Tour #14
History and Harvest – NEW KENT COUNTY
Date
Tuesday, June 23rd & Wednesday, June 24th
Number of Participants
Start Time & Location
Approx. End Time
6
Meet at 8:45 for a 9:00AM departure from the Greater Richmond Convention Center
Approximately 4:00PM
Highlight
A countryside escape featuring horseback riding, historic sites, and local foodways. Enjoy a private equestrian experience, historic storytelling at New Kent Ordinary and St. Peter’s Church, and lunch featuring local flavors. Ideal for rural, heritage, and outdoor content.
Notes
Accessibility
Comfortable shoes, water bottle, and a hat is recommended.
Mobility: High; horseback riding required. For accessibility questions, Contact Toni Bastian: tbastian@visitrichmondva.com BEFORE you register for a tour.
Sign Up →
Tuesday, June 23rd – Coming Soon
Wednesday, June 24th – Coming Soon
