We ask for a minimum monthly commitment of 3-6 hours (the equivalent of approximately one tour shift per month) and offer a very flexible schedule. Most of our volunteers work the “front lines,” giving tours to the thousands of walk-in visitors, school groups, and/or special event guests that come to Gadsby’s every year. Volunteers are needed weekdays and weekends both during the day and in the evening, so there is probably something happening that will fit your schedule.

If you have any questions or would like to learn more about other volunteer opportunities at Gadsby's Tavern Museum, please contact the Volunteer Coordinator or call 703.746.4242. 

If we can not meet your needs right away for a rewarding volunteer experience, you may want to consider volunteering at another Alexandria museum. And be sure to join check our Calendar of Events for festivals, lectures, and other fun and interesting ways to participate.

Gadsby’s Tavern Museum is now accepting 4th, 5th, 6th and 7th grade applicants for the Junior Docent Program. Junior Docents build confidence and public speaking skills by learning the museum tour and talking with museum visitors Sundays during the summer. The 2022 Applications are due March 25, auditions March 27. See the application for more details about training and the summer commitment.

The Museum is proud to work with the next generation of historians! Students in high school and college are welcome to apply for any of our regular volunteer opportunities. The application and training is identical to what we provide for adult volunteers. The Volunteer Coordinator is happy to work with students to meet internship or community service requirements.

Gadsby’s Tavern Museum also works with 4th-8th graders through its Junior Docent program. Elementary-aged docents assist with stationed tours and special events. Participants are selected through a competitive application process. If you are interested in receiving more information about this program, please contact the Volunteer Coordinator.

Tour Guide
Volunteer tour guides lead 40-45 minute tours of the tavern once an hour during regular museum hours as well as provide tours for private groups. Once certified as a tour guide, volunteers are asked to cover a minimum of one shift per month. Shifts are available weekdays and weekends. 

The next Gadsby's tour guide training class runs January 15 through March 3. Training includes two in-person workshops (January 15, 9-11 a.m. kick-off and a second tour workshop in late February/early March), five virtual trainings, and a commitment to studying and developing your tour individually. Tour guides are certified by successfully completing a tour review with staff. 

Interested in volunteering? Submit a volunteer application to receive an invitation to the next training class. 

Current volunteers receive free parking during their shifts and a discount in the museum shop. Volunteers also receive free reciprocal admission to other museums in Alexandria and throughout the region. Ongoing professional development opportunities are provided about Alexandria’s history, the museum’s history specifically, and interpretation and public speaking techniques.