Williamsburg, Virginia, isn’t just a place to see historic buildings; it’s an active town filled with hands-on experiences that bring the past alive. Whether you’re interested in walking through colonial streets, exploring haunted sites, or diving into revolutionary stories, Williamsburg has something for every type of traveler. Among our favorites are the Colonial Williamsburg: Colonial History Guided Walking Tour for its engaging storytelling and unique insights into colonial figures, and the Haunted Ghosts, Witches, and Pirates Tour for a spooky twist on history. We also love the Christmas Walking Tour, which offers a festive way to enjoy Williamsburg’s holiday traditions. Each of these tours brings a special flavor to your visit and is worth considering depending on your interests.
If you want a well-rounded experience, our list covers the best in history, ghost stories, and seasonal celebrations. Keep reading for detailed descriptions of each tour, along with practical tips to help you decide which ones suit your schedule, budget, and curiosity.
1. Colonial Williamsburg: Colonial History Guided Walking Tour
Walking in the footsteps of America’s founding fathers is a highlight in Williamsburg, and this guided tour provides just that. For only $25 per person, you’ll spend around 105 minutes exploring East Duke of Gloucester Street, where actors in period costumes recreate colonial life. Your guide shares stories of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and other colonial figures not always covered in textbooks, making history lively and personal.
What makes this tour stand out is the chance to encounter British redcoats and revolutionaries on the streets, visit historic sites like the Raleigh Tavern, and see the stores and buildings where important decisions were made. The guides are praised for their enthusiasm and depth of knowledge; reviews mention guides like Elizabeth who bring history to life with engaging stories. Perfect for history buffs or anyone wanting a solid introduction to Williamsburg’s colonial past, this tour offers excellent value and plenty of memorable moments.
Bottom Line: A well-paced, informative walk that reveals the stories behind Williamsburg’s most iconic sites, ideal for history enthusiasts and first-timers alike.
2. Williamsburg: Haunted Ghosts, Witches, and Pirates Tour
For those who enjoy a spooky twist, this 2-hour ghost tour is a hit. At $25 per person, your guide—dressed in 18th-century costume—takes you through 13 haunted sites in Colonial Williamsburg, sharing stories of restless spirits, pirates, and witches. Highlights include tales of the Wagon of Death, the Peyton Randolph House, and the legend of Mr. Pirate and Petey the Parrot.
What makes this tour special is its interactive storytelling style and focus on local legends. Reviewers rave about guides like Gracie and Lexi, who make the stories captivating and fun, especially after dark. If you’re interested in pirates like Blackbeard or enjoy feeling the thrill of ghost stories in an atmospheric setting, this tour delivers. It’s suitable for families and adults, especially those who enjoy a bit of fright mixed with history.
Bottom Line: An entertaining, spooky experience that blends history with supernatural tales—perfect for fans of ghost stories and maritime legends.
3. Williamsburg: The Patriots Historical Walking Tour
This 1-hour walking tour, priced at $25 per person, offers a focused look at the rebellion and revolutionary moments in Williamsburg. Starting in the heart of Colonial Williamsburg, the tour explores original and reconstructed buildings linked to the founding of the U.S. The guide walks you through the city where many key events happened, helping you understand how Williamsburg shaped the nation.
What sets this tour apart is its deep dive into the stories of lesser-known figures who influenced independence. Guests have praised guides like Lonnie for their knowledge and engaging manner, making complex history accessible. At a quick 60-minute, it’s perfect for those short on time but eager to connect the dots of American independence.
Bottom Line: An insightful, brisk introduction to Williamsburg’s revolutionary past, great for history aficionados and newcomers alike.
4. Williamsburg: Pirate Tour
Travel to the age of piracy with this 105-minute Pirate Tour for $25 per person. Walking through Colonial Williamsburg, your guide, dressed as a pirate, shares stories of Blackbeard’s demise, privateering, and pirate life in Virginia. You’ll visit historic sites like the Raleigh Tavern and learn how piracy influenced colonial trade and culture.
What makes this tour stand out is its interactive pirate theme, which appeals to families and kids, and the lively storytelling style. The guide Colin earns praise for blending history and entertainment, making it one of the most fun ways to explore Williamsburg’s maritime past. If you’re interested in pirates or want a playful take on history, this tour offers a unique perspective.
Bottom Line: A lively, themed tour that combines history with pirate adventure, ideal for families or anyone fascinated by maritime legends.
5. Colonial Williamsburg: Christmas Walking Tour
Experience Christmas in colonial times with this 2-hour walking tour for $25. During the holiday season, Williamsburg’s streets are decorated with period-appropriate ornaments, and your guide shares stories of early American holiday traditions. You’ll see where the first Christmas tree in America was and learn about colonial holiday customs.
Guests praise the festive atmosphere and the lively narration of Tom, who makes history fun and approachable. The tour offers plenty of photo opportunities and insights into how Christmas was celebrated in the 18th century, making it a wonderful choice for families and anyone looking to enjoy Williamsburg’s holiday spirit.
Bottom Line: A festive, family-friendly way to see Williamsburg decorated for Christmas and learn about colonial holiday traditions.
6. Williamsburg: Colonial Ghosts Haunted Walking Tour
This ghost tour, priced at $26 for about 1 to 1.5 hours, explores the darker side of Williamsburg’s past. Led by seasoned guides like Austin and Bryce, you’ll visit haunted sites like the Governor’s Palace and the Peyton Randolph House, listening to stories of civil war surgeons, poisonings, and restless spirits.
What makes this tour engaging is its combination of history and ghost stories, with detailed tales of the Hedge Maze Ghost and other eerie legends. Reviewers find the guides entertaining and knowledgeable, with some saying it’s “frightfully fun.” It’s suited for those who appreciate spooky stories with historical context.
Bottom Line: A fun, spooky experience blending ghost lore with Williamsburg’s skeletons in the closet, perfect for thrill-seekers.
7. Williamsburg: Christmastime in Virginia Walking Tour
For a shorter but equally festive experience, this 1-hour Christmas-themed walk offers a glimpse of Williamsburg’s holiday decorations and traditions. For $25, you’ll explore the most iconic Colonial Williamsburg decorations, with a chance to take a family photo at the key spots.
Though brief, the tour is highly praised by those who want a quick but meaningful holiday experience. Ideal for families or anyone interested in unique colonial holiday crafts and decorations, it’s a light-hearted way to enjoy Williamsburg’s Yuletide atmosphere.
Bottom Line: A quick, cheerful holiday stroll that captures the spirit of colonial Christmas traditions.
8. Williamsburg, VA: History of Slavery Guided Walking Tour
This 1-hour tour, at $25 per person, offers an honest look at slavery’s impact on Colonial Williamsburg and America. Led by knowledgeable guides like Lonnie Sandifer, the tour explores the courthouse where independence was proclaimed and discusses the first emancipator in the city.
What makes this tour valuable is its focus on deconstructing myths and presenting a more complete picture of slavery’s role in history. Reviewers appreciate the friendly and well-informed guides, who make difficult topics accessible and respectful. It’s best suited for those interested in understanding the complex legacy of slavery in colonial America.
Bottom Line: An important, insightful tour that provides a deeper understanding of a difficult but essential part of American history.
9. Colonial Williamsburg Ghost Stories
This shorter ghost storytelling tour for $25 takes you through Williamsburg at night, listening to ghost stories residents have told for centuries. It’s a perfect way to explore haunted spots in a relaxed setting, with a focus on local legends and ghostly sightings.
Reviewers mention that the stories are entertaining and well-told, and it’s a good way to experience Williamsburg’s nocturnal ambiance. Suitable for families with older kids or anyone interested in the spooky side of Williamsburg.
Bottom Line: An atmospheric, story-driven ghost tour that’s both fun and slightly spooky.
10. The Original Ghost of Williamsburg Candlelight Walking Tour
As Virginia’s oldest ghost tour, this 1.5-hour experience costs $20 per person. It offers a classic look at Williamsburg’s most chilling legends under candlelight, walking through historic streets and listening to eerie stories.
While reviews don’t mention specific guides, the tour’s reputation as the second oldest ghost tour in the U.S. makes it a popular choice for those craving authentic ghost stories in a historic setting.
Bottom Line: A traditional ghost walk rich in local lore, great for history lovers and ghost enthusiasts alike.
11. Williamsburg: Dead of Night Paranormal Investigations Tour
For the most immersive paranormal experience, this 105-minute investigation tour led by an experienced paranormal investigator costs $30. Using state-of-the-art equipment, you explore haunted houses and burial grounds, hunting for apparitions and spirits.
This tour’s appeal lies in its authentic paranormal research approach, making it perfect for serious ghost hunters or curious travelers wanting an interactive behind-the-scenes look at ghost investigations. Some reviews mention hearing ghostly whispers and seeing unexpected phenomena, adding a tangible element of excitement.
Bottom Line: An intense, investigative tour for those interested in real paranormal activity rather than just stories.
How to Choose
When selecting a tour in Williamsburg, consider your interests, budget, and physical activity level. If you want a rundown of colonial history, the Colonial Williamsburg Guided Walking Tour offers a thorough experience. For a spooky night, the Haunted Ghosts Tour or the Ghost Investigation Tour provide thrilling stories and hands-on ghost hunting. Families might prefer the Pirate Tour or the Christmas Tours, which add fun and festive moments.
Booking early is advisable during peak seasons, especially for Christmas or summer ghost tours, to secure your spot. Check availability and start times in advance to tailor your experience to your schedule and interests.
Final Thoughts
Williamsburg offers a diverse variety of tours and experiences tailored to history lovers, thrill-seekers, and holiday revelers alike. For a comprehensive dive into colonial America, the Colonial Williamsburg Guided Tour provides an excellent starting point. If ghost stories and paranormal investigations fascinate you, the Ghost Tour or the Dead of Night Investigation will satisfy your curiosity.
No matter your preference, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable experiences. Williamsburg’s vibrant history and spirited tales guarantee your visit will be anything but dull. Whether you’re exploring the streets by daylight or chasing spirits at night, there’s a tour waiting to make your trip unforgettable.