The Office of Historic Alexandria is joining with 70 historic destinations across Virginia to launch the Virginia 250 Passport, a statewide tourism initiative in recognition of America’s 250th anniversary. The program is organized by the Virginia Museum of History & Culture (VMHC), Colonial Williamsburg, George Washington’s Mount Vernon, the Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation, and Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello. It is supported by the Virginia American Revolution 250 Commission and the Virginia Tourism Corporation.
Starting November 11, 2025, the Virginia 250 Passport will be available for free at key sites such as VMHC, Colonial Williamsburg, Mount Vernon, Monticello, Jamestown Settlement, and the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown. Passports can also be picked up at the VA250 Mobile Museum, select VA250 events, and all 12 Virginia Welcome Centers along interstate highways. A total of 250,000 copies are set for distribution.
Rita McClenny, president and CEO of the Virginia Tourism Corporation said: “This statewide partnership between some of the finest history institutions in the nation is an example of how, when we work together, we can create engaging, meaningful experiences for our fellow Virginians. We encourage you to pick up your passport while supplies last and spend a year with us traveling around our great Commonwealth.”
The commemorative booklet includes descriptions of participating museums and historic sites across five regions: Central Virginia, Northern Virginia (including Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, Alexandria History Museum at The Lyceum, and Alexandria Black History Museum), Shenandoah Valley, Southwestern Virginia and Tidewater.
Jamie Bosket, president & CEO of VMHC stated: “America’s 250th anniversary is a once in a lifetime opportunity to come together, reflect on our shared past, and recommit ourselves to the continued progress of our nation. And there is no better place to do this than right here in the Commonwealth of Virginia.”
Visitors using the passport can collect unique stamps at each site. After collecting a stamp at one location they can receive up to a 15% discount on admission at other participating locations. Those who gather stamps from at least five sites become eligible for prize drawings scheduled for December 2026; prizes include yearlong museum memberships and cash awards up to $2,500.
Gretchen Bulova, Director of the Office of Historic Alexandria said: “This collaboration is a wonderful example of how, when Virginians work together, we can show the world the best of who we are. With support from the Virginia Tourism Corporation and VA250, this statewide effort celebrates Virginia’s pivotal role in shaping America’s past, present, and future—and serves as an inspiring model of collaboration and shared pride.”
The program runs until December 31, 2026. The Virginia Department of Education will coordinate with school superintendents to ensure teachers are informed about the passport so it reaches students and families throughout the state.
Aimee Rogstad Guidera, Virginia secretary of education said: “The Virginia 250 Passport is a wonderful tool that can be used both inside and outside the classroom to inspire curiosity, learning and civic pride as it makes history come alive across the Commonwealth. By exploring the people and places that shaped our nation, young Virginians and their families can connect more deeply with our shared story and gain a greater appreciation for the ideals that continue to define the Commonwealth and our country.”
More information about sweepstakes rules is available at https://VirginiaHistory.org/250Passport.
For details about accessibility or translation services related to this program or any other inquiries regarding Historic Alexandria’s programs visit https://www.alexandriava.gov/Historic.
