Top Williamsburg Private and Luxury

Immerse yourself in the atmospheric setting of Colonial Williamsburg after dark—and learn all about the real-life murders, executions, and other sordid events that happened here—on this nighttime ghost tour. No separate ticket to Williamsburg is needed: meet your costumed guide at the Capitol Building and set off. Visit supposedly haunted landmarks like the Peyton Randolph House, and hear stories about pirates, witch trials, and more as you go.

Discover Colonial Williamsburg and experience all this renowned historic city has to offer by prebooking your ticket and securing your spot at one of the world's largest living museums. Learn about life in colonial America and the American Revolution. Enjoy historical reenactments and theatrical performances, the vibrant gardens and art museums, plus guided and self-guided tours of the original 18th-century buildings and homes, and personal interaction with the townspeople. Parking fee not included.

Don’t just visit Colonial Williamsburg’s most important historic landmarks—bring the complexities and drama of the colonial period to life with this immersive, insider history tour. Meet your guide at a convenient start point in Williamsburg, and set off on foot to really soak up the scenery. As you spot landmarks like the Governor’s Palace, Market Square, and more, your historian guide will share stories about the city’s former residents and political tensions.

Face the ghosts of Williamsburg’s past on an evening haunted history tour in one of America’s oldest cities. After nightfall, visit centuries-old sites in Colonial Williamsburg while a guide shares reports of ghostly activity, from the days of early settlers through the Civil War. Beyond just chilling anecdotes, all sightings are based on paranormal research and thoroughly documented for a spine-tingling evening experience.

With this tour, you can expand your knowledge of the colonial history of Williamsburg—dating back to the 18th century. Instead of reading a guidebook, enjoy a much more immersive way of learning about the city—by following a costumed guide around key landmarks. Along the way, hear stories about famous historical figures linked to the city—such as Thomas Jefferson and George Washington—as well as fun facts about the monuments you pass.

*FOR MATURE AUDIENCES ONLY-AGES 17 +* During this one-hour walking tour, hear the darker side of 18th-Century Williamsburg. Stories of murder, mayhem, and scandal--those things talked about in taverns, back alleys, and the courts--straight from the town's citizens. Each tour will be different and the stories are a-plenty. Due to the sensitive nature of the subjects and the salty language of the time, this tour is recommended for mature audiences 17 and older. Please note, that since every tour is different, the routes advertised may also differ. Please note: Due to staff participation in other events, tours may be unavailable on some days. Please see our website for information. Shades of Our Past is not affiliated with Colonial Williamsburg; therefore, this tour does not include entrance or admission into Colonial Williamsburg-owned buildings. Since the tour is through the streets of Colonial Williamsburg it is weather contingent. Please be prepared for all weather conditions.

Enjoy a time-saving way to discover the best of Colonial Williamsburg—and learn the stories behind the sights—on this private walking tour. Pick from a range of convenient start times, meet your guide in Merchants Square, and set off on foot. You’ll see highlights like the Governor’s Palace and Capitol, will stroll along the history-saturated West Duke of Gloucester Street, and will visit the adjacent College of William & Mary.

We will discuss the different philosophies of architectural preservation between Europe and the United States during the late 19th and 20th Century and how it applies to the restoration of Colonial Williamsburg. The restoration materials of Colonial Williamsburg had to appear as if they were constructed in the 18th Century. For example, the roofs of many of the reconstructed buildings were man made fire retardant composites, and the masonry emulated the original bound of the public buildings. When the Main College was rededicated as the Wren building, credit was given to the the famous English Architect, Sir Christopher Wren. However, there is no proof that this is true. The base of this building is a Flemish design as opposed to the English bond. As the Wren building stands today, it is a redesign of the building that existed in 1733. It will be a comprehensive discussion of the vision of Rev. W.A.R. Goodwin and John D. Rockfeller, Jr. that resulted in Colonial Williamsburg.

This private tour picks you up from your Williamsburg hotel to visit Berkeley, Westover and Sherwood Forest Plantations. Berkeley’s 1726 Georgian mansion is the birthplace of Benjamin Harrison V, signer of the Declaration of Independence, and also the birthplace of William Henry Harrison, 9th U.S. President, and his grandson, Benjamin Harrison, 23rd U.S. President. During the Civil War, Berkeley was occupied by General McClellan’s troops. While at Berkeley, General Butterfield composed the familiar tune “Taps”, played by his bugler. We will explore the Native American, Colonial and Civil War artifacts, along with historical paintings and exhibits in the 18th century basement museum. At Westover, we tour the grounds of this beautiful Georgian mansion, its amazing gardens and secondary buildings. At Sherwood Forest, we tour the grounds of our 10th U.S. President, John Tyler's home, the longest frame house in America. If scheduling in advance, we can request an interior tour.

Spend the evening exploring the historic streets of Colonial Williamsburg on a candlelit guided ghost tour. The ghost tour reveals a lesser-known side of the historic streets and takes you to parts of the town most tourists wouldn’t be comfortable visiting on their own. Along the way, a guide entertains the group with family-friendly stories and local legends.

Let's go back in time together! Join your licensed guide on this fun, engaging walking tour of Colonial Williamsburg. See the major historic sights, learn how our democracy began, and walk in the footsteps of our Founding Fathers – and maybe bump into them! Discover the special places only a local knows, like delightful gardens, where they hide the sheep, and favorite spots for 18th-century cookies. Starting at The Williamsburg Inn, you'll view the Capitol, stroll by trades and shops, and see horse-drawn carriages on your way to the Governor’s Palace. Our walk ends close to Merchants Square where you can shop or grab a bite. Our guests are saying: “We rank Cyndi in the top 2% of professional guides we’ve experienced.” “She knows her history and shows a lot of enthusiasm for it.” “She was a pleasure to be with.” - She has had the honor of being ranked nationally in the Top 10% of guides in the country. - This tour can be customized to your interests to make the most of your time here.

Raise a glass with the spirits of the past on this haunted pub crawl through Colonial Williamsburg. Led by a costumed guide steeped in ghostly lore, you’ll explore historic taverns and haunted landmarks where tales of executions, scandal, and lingering souls still echo. Sip on local brews and cocktails as you uncover the chilling stories behind America’s colonial capital—perfect for those seeking a spirited night out with a supernatural twist.

Spend an entertaining and educational hour with a local guide who’s more than happy to share what they know about this historic town. Learn all about how events in the 1770s shaped America as it’s known today, and gain fresh insight into the attitudes of the founding fathers. Your friendly tour leader would love for you to pick their brain.

Come on to our history of black Americans tour presented by Junket! We often learn the history and stories of heroes of the American Revolution and the early history of America. What isn't often covered in history classes and history books is the story of African Americans who were enslaved during this time. On this unique tour, we'll discover the stories of African Americans who lived and worked in Colonial Williamsburg. From the slaves buried in the graveyard of the Historic First Baptist Church, to the woman who left property to her freed black servants, you'll uncover the untold stories of the oppressed, and their path to freedom.

Our certified tour guide will greet you in front of illy's cafe and share background information as you walk over to the historic College of William & Mary (est. 1693), our "Alma Mater of the Nation." You'll tour the oldest academic building in the United States, the Sir Christopher Wren building, and learn about the second-oldest college in America, alma mater to four United States Presidents. If the Wren building is open, there may be an opportunity for a free organ recital on Saturdays at 10am in the Chapel, and our morning tour time on Saturday is longer for the recital. All tours include touring the Colonial classroom, the Chapel, the Blue Room, the Hall of Leadership, the Great Room and academic classrooms that are still used for religious studies. We'll also visit the Brafferton, former school for Native Americans, the Hearth: Memorial to the Enslaved, and the Sunken Garden, visiting James Monroe, James Blair, the Tyler Family Garden (aka "Echo Wall") and Thomas Jefferson.

Step into the heart of Colonial Williamsburg on this self-guided walking tour that goes beyond the costumes and reenactments. This tour invites you to explore not just what happened, but how it's remembered. Along the way, you'll uncover stories of power, protest, labor, and legacy. Each stop reveals how colonial life was lived, contested, and reimagined. As you walk, you'll hear about the celebrated and the overlooked: from revolutionaries and craftsmen to the enslaved and the displaced. Rather than simply retelling history, this tour asks deeper questions about memory, identity, and what it means to inherit the past. Designed to be thoughtful and accessible, this tour is perfect for curious travelers, history buffs, and anyone who wants to see Williamsburg in a new light. Please note this tour is independently produced and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation and does not include admission to any ticketed exhibits.

Enjoy a night of drinking and ghost stories as you explore Williamsburg with the help of a tour guide to show you around. Stop at a range of local establishments for drinks and pass by historical sights on the way while you listen to the macabre tales told by your engaging tour leader. Make sure you come thirsty for some drinks and hungry for some thoroughly researched spooky stories.

Hear all about the spookier side of Colonial Williamsburg on this nighttime walking ghost tour led by a local resident. Great for anyone from history buffs to fans of scary stories, you’ll see Colonial Williamsburg by night and tour (allegedly) haunted locations without worrying about getting lost thanks to your guide and group.

See Washington DC’s key attractions, all in one day—and leave the navigation to your guide—on this full-day tour from Williamsburg. Set off early in the morning via air-conditioned bus, and stop by Arlington National Cemetery en route to the nation’s capital. Discover highlights like the Lincoln Memorial, stop for photos outside the White House and US Capitol, enjoy free time for lunch (own expense) and a stroll, and more.

Delve into the eerie history of Williamsburg on the Forgotten Spirits of the Past ghost tour. This one-hour walking experience reveals the chilling tales of those forgotten by history—ordinary souls and overlooked tavern keepers who still linger in the shadows. Venture off the beaten path into hidden courtyards and narrow lanes, uncovering stories that reveal the haunted heart of the city. Ideal for history buffs and ghost enthusiasts alike, this tour offers a unique perspective on Williamsburg's past. Join us and meet the spirits that history left behind. - One-hour walking tour exploring the haunted corners of Williamsburg - Discover the stories of forgotten souls and lost spirits - Suitable for all ages; children 6 and under are free - Check for varying times and availability on our website

Explore Yorktown and Colonial Williamsburg, where America’s future was decided. This historical voyage transports you to an era that shaped our nation. See meticulously preserved colonial architecture, revolutionary battlefields, and much more as you explore these iconic destinations. Fascinating audio stories and historical reenactors bring the past to life with this easy-to-use tour bundle. Purchase one tour per car, not per person. Everyone listens together! After booking, check your email/text to download the separate Audio Tour Guide App by Action while connected to WiFi or mobile data. Enter the password, download the tour, and enjoy it offline. Follow the audio instructions and route from the designated starting point. New, Lifetime access, no expiry. Use it anytime, on any trip, as many times as you want. This isn't an entrance ticket. Check opening hours before your visit.

The Ghost Tour is Williamsburg's first and only murder-focused tour. Explore areas that other history tours would be afraid to visit. Explore a historic city that conceals a sinister and unsettling past. A netherworld of horrific death and hatred. Accompany your guide on foot to some of our favorite local watering establishments. To help you get ready for what's to come, try a drink with a murder theme or one of the pub's specialty beverages. Then, take a stroll through the dim, peaceful streets of Historic Williamsburg, where you may learn the real stories of the city's most notorious crimes. There's nothing ghostly about Williamsburg's scariest tour. It has to do with murder.

Experience the Dead of Night with Spooks and Legends Haunted Ghost Tours! Looking for a ghost tour that’s more than just spooky stories? The Dead of Night Tour with Spooks and Legends is the ultimate paranormal experience you’ve been searching for! Join our expert guides as they take you on a thrilling outdoor ghost-hunting expedition through the haunted streets of Colonial Williamsburg. This isn’t just a tour—it’s an interactive ghost hunt where you’ll use professional gear like the PSB7 Spirit Box, EMF Meters, Dowsing Rods, and Rem Pods. You’ll get hands-on experience with real ghost-hunting equipment while searching for actual evidence of the supernatural! But that’s not all—you’ll also hear true -chilling stories that add a whole new a rare glimpse into the unexplained phenomena that continue to haunt the historic area. Our groups are small, so you’ll get a personal, hands-on experience. We provide all the equipment you’ll need. Don’t miss out - This Tour sells out !