Delicious Pizza & Ice Cream Tour of Richmond

If you’re thinking about exploring Richmond through a tasty lens, this Pizza & Ice Cream Tour might just be the perfect pick. We haven’t personally taken this tour, but based on detailed reviews and its solid lineup, it’s clear that this experience offers a sweet, savory way to get to know the city’s culinary scene. It combines the comfort of familiar favorites with the excitement of trying new styles, all while enjoying a small-group vibe that makes it feel personal.

What we really love about it is how organized and thoughtfully curated the stops are — you’ll visit three different pizza spots and three ice cream shops, each with a unique take. Plus, the knowledgeable guides add a layer of local flavor, sharing stories that make each tasting even more memorable. One thing to consider is that the tour sometimes visits take-out only spots that might not have water or seating, so packing a water bottle is a smart move. This tour suits anyone with a hearty appetite and a love for good food, whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or small group looking for a fun afternoon.

Key Points

• Diverse pizza styles: From sourdough crust to New York giant slices, there’s something for all.
• Variety of ice cream flavors: Each stop offers a unique scoop, including award-winning and classic flavors.
• Small group size: Limited to 12 travelers, so you get personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Convenient transportation: A private, air-conditioned bus makes hopping between spots easy.
• Value for money: At $94 per person, it includes all tastings, making it an efficient, filling treat.
• Flexibility for most travelers: Confirmations are quick, and weather considerations are handled with options for rescheduling.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

This tour packs in six stops over roughly three and a half hours, giving plenty of time to savor each bite without feeling rushed. Starting at Patrick Henry Park, the journey kicks off with a taste of Pizza Bones RVA / FriendBar. Here, you’ll try pizza made from naturally-fermented sourdough, which sets it apart from typical pizza offerings. The tangy crust paired with quality toppings offers a different experience from the standard delivery slice — a highlight for bread lovers and those curious about fermentation.

In the next stop, Ruby Scoops Ice Cream & Sweets, you’ll sample a flavor that’s won awards and garnered recognition in competitions like Ben & Jerry’s Clash of the Cones. This is a real treat for anyone wanting to try innovative craft ice creams with a local twist. Reviewers rave about how the flavors are unique and memorable, making it a perfect sweet stop midway through the tour.

From there, the tour moves to Zorch Pizza, a NY-style slice shop serving giant slices that are perfect for sharing or for those with a hearty appetite. This stop is especially appealing if you love big, cheesy, and satisfying slices. The experience here is about enjoying familiar comfort food prepared in a way that often exceeds expectations.

The fourth stop is Bev’s Homemade Ice Cream & Café, which offers New England-style ice cream in classic flavors. It’s a nostalgic break, and many reviews mention the quality and traditional appeal of the ice cream. Sampling here provides a nice contrast to the more innovative flavors earlier, giving you a well-rounded experience.

Next up is 8 1/2 Church Hill, where you’ll enjoy a white pizza made from handmade dough. This spot is praised for its quality ingredients and craftmanship — a real highlight for pizza aficionados. The white pizza is a favorite among reviewers, with some calling it “amazing” and highlighting the handmade dough.

Finally, the tour wraps up at Spotty Dog Ice Cream Co., one of Richmond’s newest scoop shops. This makes for a fitting end, leaving you with a final scoop of rich, creamy ice cream and a full belly.

Why This Tour Works

The structure of this tour emphasizes variety — each stop offers a different style or flavor, so your taste buds stay engaged. The small-group size means you won’t feel lost in the crowd, and the private transportation makes hopping between these spots easy, even if they are sometimes take-out only. The air-conditioned bus adds comfort, especially on warmer days.

The tour’s inclusiveness is reflected in the reviews, where people of different ages find it appropriate and enjoyable. From families to groups of friends or couples, the relaxed pace and engaging guides make it a versatile experience.

Food Quality and Variety

One of the strongest points here is the diversity of food — each place offers something unique. The naturally-fermented sourdough crust at Pizza Bones, the award-winning flavors at Ruby Scoops, the massive slices at Zorch, and the traditional ice cream flavors at Bev’s all contribute to a comprehensive sampling of Richmond’s culinary talent.

Reviews consistently mention how delicious and well-curated the stops are. Many say they couldn’t pick a favorite — which is actually a good thing because it indicates the quality across the board. It’s not just about quantity but about the quality of flavors and craftsmanship.

Authenticity and Local Stories

Beyond just eating, many reviewers appreciated the stories and anecdotes shared by guides, which added context to each spot. Knowing a little about the owners or the history behind these places makes the experience richer, and guides are often described as knowledgeable and friendly.

Cost and Value

Priced at $94, the tour includes all tastings and transportation, which makes it a pretty good deal considering how much food you get. Comparing the cost to the quality and variety of food, it offers solid value for those wanting a curated, convenient way to explore Richmond’s food scene without the hassle of planning individual stops.

Considerations

A few reviewers mentioned that some spots are take-out only and may not provide water or seating, so packing a water bottle or being prepared to stand during tastings is advisable. The tour is also not recommended for those with gluten or dairy sensitivities, as the stops feature traditional pizza and ice cream.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for food lovers looking for a relaxed and fun way to explore Richmond’s culinary scene. It’s particularly suited to those who enjoy trying different styles of pizza and ice cream or want to sample some of the city’s best offerings without the need to visit multiple places on their own. It works well for couples, small groups, or even families with older children who love food adventures.

If you’re a tour enthusiast who appreciates stories and a bit of local lore accompanying your tastings, you’ll find this a rewarding experience. Keep in mind that if you’re sensitive to gluten or dairy, some stops may not be suitable.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, giving enough time to enjoy each stop comfortably.

What’s included in the price?
All tastings at six different spots — three pizza stops and three ice cream shops — plus private transportation and an air-conditioned vehicle.

Is this a family-friendly experience?
Most travelers can participate, but since it involves pizza and ice cream, it generally appeals to those with an appetite for hearty, traditional fare. Some stops may not have seating or water, so plan accordingly.

Are there any dietary restrictions to be aware of?
The tour is not recommended for gluten or dairy sensitivities because it features traditional pizza and ice cream.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bringing a water bottle is advisable, especially since some venues may not serve water or have seating.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than that are non-refundable.

How many people are on each tour?
The maximum group size is 12 travelers, ensuring a comfortable and personalized experience.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Patrick Henry Park in Richmond and finishes back at the same location.

What’s the best time to book?
Most travelers book about 45 days in advance, so plan ahead if you want to secure a spot during busy seasons.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, it requires good weather. If canceled due to rain or bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the Richmond Pizza & Ice Cream Tour offers a tasty, well-organized way to experience some of the city’s best local eateries. You’ll love the variety, the friendly guides, and the chance to sample unique flavors in a small-group setting. It’s perfect for anyone who enjoys good food, relaxed outings, and discovering new spots without the hassle of planning.

While it’s not a tour for those with serious dietary restrictions or seeking sit-down dining at all stops, the overall value and fun factor make it a worthy addition to your Richmond itinerary. Whether you’re new to the city or a local looking for a fun culinary adventure, this tour is likely to satisfy your cravings — literally!

Happy eating and exploring!