All Williamsburg Tours &amp; Excursions in 2026

We Shall Overcome: A Williamsburg Black History Experience

Colonial Williamsburg’s historic streets and preserved buildings are the backdrop for a private walking tour led by a local guide. Over roughly two hours, the route includes Bruton Parish Church, the Capitol Building, the Governor’s Palace, and Duke of Gloucester Street, with stories about 18th-century daily life, religion, colonial government, and Williamsburg’s role in the nation’s beginnings.

Colonial Williamsburg Private Tour Step Into America’s Past

Yorktown Battlefield Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour

1 to 2 hoursFree Cancellation

Join us as we discover the History of Christmas in the colony while exploring the handcrafted decorations that adorn the historic buildings. On our 1-hour leisurely stroll thru the city, you will have the opportunity to photograph some of the most iconic decorations that are uniquely Colonial Williamsburg. Handcrafted one-of-a-kind decorations made by employees and residents of the city are beautifully and proudly displayed on each building and we will discover the most beautiful and unique of this year's display. We will discover the religious, humorous, and heartfelt traditions that span the centuries. While learning how the decorations are made, how they became a tradition, and even helpful tips and tricks on how the create your own decorations at home. Christmas in Colonial Williamsburg is truly an experience that you and your family will cherish for years to come.

1 Hour Christmastide Walking Tour in Virginia Past and Present

Ale & Apparitions connects Williamsburg’s haunted history to the places where the city still gathers after dark. Beginning in Merchants Square and moving into the William & Mary nightlife district, this pub crawl blends local bars with stories of theater folklore, institutional confinement, wartime occupation, destructive fires, disturbed burials, and campus legends. It is not just a historic ghost tour with a drink stop added in — it follows the line between old Williamsburg and modern college-town nightlife, showing how the city’s past still lingers around the places people meet, drink, talk, and trade stories today. This experience blends ghost stories, colonial history, tavern culture, and a fun night out for adults. Guests will hear about the people who filled Williamsburg’s evenings, the legends that grew around its taverns, and why some believe echoes of those nights still linger. Guests must be age 21+ and bring valid government-issued photo ID.

Williamsburg Haunted Pub Crawl of Spirits and Stories

5% savings

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$35$33

Williamsburg is celebrated as the birthplace of American liberty, but its history is not as polished as its restored streets suggest. Gallows Path explores the darker side of Colonial Williamsburg through stories of power, punishment, betrayal, confinement, and justice that did not always serve the truth. This 90-minute adults-only ghost tour, for guests ages 16+, follows historic streets after dark, connecting real colonial history with the legends and reported hauntings that followed. Your Ghost City Tours Ambassador will guide you to exterior locations tied to the Colonial Williamsburg Courthouse, Bruton Parish Church, George Wythe House, Peyton Randolph House, Public Hospital Museum, Magazine Green, and Public Gaol. This tour is not built around costumes, staged scares, or invented stories. The history is dark enough on its own. Gallows Path asks one question that grows more complicated at every stop: what happens when justice fails?

Gallows Path Ghost Tour Adults Only Haunted Experience

Gallows Path Ghost Tour Adults Only Haunted Experience

1 hour 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Private Cultural Culinary Walking Tour in Williamsburg invites you to embark on a delicious journey through the flavors, traditions, and stories of this charming historic town. Stroll along picturesque colonial streets and discover how generations of cooks, local communities, and cultural influences have shaped Williamsburg’s distinctive food heritage. Uncover the stories behind traditional Southern favorites, explore inviting culinary spots, and learn how historic recipes connect the past with modern dining culture. With your private guide, enjoy a personalized exploration filled with fascinating food history, local character, and tempting discoveries along the way. Perfect for curious travelers and food enthusiasts, this experience blends cultural exploration with culinary charm to give you a fresh taste of Williamsburg. Please note: The program and attractions may vary based on booking date/time and crowd conditions, ensuring each visit is a unique experience.

Private Cultural Culinary Walking Tour in Williamsburg

Axe Republic invites you to unleash your inner lumberjack with a thrilling 75-minute axe-throwing experience in Williamsburg. Perfect for first-timers and groups, this activity begins with a safety briefing and personalized coaching to help you hit the bullseye. Enjoy a lively atmosphere where friendly competition thrives, and don’t forget to wear your flannel to complete the lumberjack vibe. The dedicated Axepert staff ensures a fun and safe experience, making it ideal for parties or team-building events. Grab a drink from the bar to keep your energy up as you aim for your next target.

Lumberjack Axe Throwing Experience in Williamsburg

Lumberjack Axe Throwing Experience in Williamsburg

1 hour 15 minutesFree Cancellation

Learn all about a different side of early American history—and explore Colonial Williamsburg in the company of a costumed guide—on this small-group, pirate-themed tour. Pick between morning and afternoon start times, meet your guide right outside the Capitol Building, and set off on foot. In between admiring the centuries-old landmarks, you’ll learn about how piracy influenced American history—and can soak in your guide’s in-depth stories as you go.

Ultimate Pirate Walking Tour in Colonial Williamsburg

1 hour 45 minutesFree Cancellation

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.

Yorktown Battlefield and Colonial Williamsburg Audio Bundle Tour

5 to 6 hoursFree Cancellation

The Winter Lantern Festival in Williamsburg offers a dazzling evening at Jamestown Settlement, showcasing hundreds of hand-crafted lanterns. With three immersive themes Christmas cheer, Jamestown history, America 250 Visitors can explore stunning displays of vibrant LED lights. Enjoy live shows, delicious food from local vendors, and capture memorable moments under the stars. This family-friendly event runs from November 6 to January 3, making it perfect for date nights or family outings. Don't miss this unique winter experience.

Williamsburg Winter Lantern Festival Immersive Experience

1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Relaxed, yet luxurious learning experience about Williamsburg before and after the restoration of Colonial Williamsburg in the late 1920s and early 1930s with photos and stories from either Williamsburg Before and After or Restoring Williamsburg. These photos help visualize and better understand the restoration of the world’s largest history museum. Most of the tour is seated during breakfast for those who enjoy the warmth (or air conditioning) indoors. This is an easily accessible tour, well suited for those who enjoy a creative culinary experience, breakfast on bad weather days or for any individuals with physical limitations. Our guide will offer an easy tour of some of the grounds including a look at the Golden Horseshoe Golf courses or admire some of the original décor of the hotel and grounds as well as a short walk to the Duke of Gloucester St., the most historic street in America. Note: Guests pay for their own breakfast including food, drinks and gratuities to hotel staff.

Private Colonial Williamsburg Breakfast - Exploring Before and After Restoration

1 hour 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Explore the captivating haunted history of Williamsburg, Virginia, on a guided ghost tour through its historic streets. Delve into tales of colonial life, unsolved mysteries, and tragic events that intertwine with reported paranormal activity. Witness notable landmarks, churches, and cemeteries as you uncover the legends that contribute to Williamsburg's allure. Each tour is led by expert guides who share engaging narratives and hidden stories, ensuring a memorable experience for everyone. - 90-minute guided ghost tour through historic Williamsburg - Hear about local legends, tragic events, and paranormal encounters - Family-friendly atmosphere suitable for all ages - Perfect for history enthusiasts, couples, and groups seeking unique activities

Williamsburg Ghost Tour Haunted History and Local Legends

1 hour 30 minutesFree Cancellation

5% savings

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$25$24

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.

The Murder Tour and Pub Crawl

This is my favorite tour - I pick 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.

Presidents, Plantations & the James-Private Virginia History Tour

6 hoursFree Cancellation

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.

2-Hour Private Guided The best of Williamsburg Walking Tour

Colonial Williamsburg Ghost Stories and Walking Tour

A unique night at the Speak Easy Murder Mystery Dinner immerses you in the vibrant atmosphere of the roaring '20s. Indulge in a delicious dinner while unraveling a thrilling murder mystery with fellow guests. Put on your detective hat and engage with live characters to solve the whodunit before the night concludes. This event promises a delightful mix of intrigue and laughter, making it an unforgettable evening filled with surprises. Perfect for friends, couples, or anyone looking for a fun night out.

Speak Easy Murder Mystery Dinner Show at Kings Creek Williamsburg

3 hoursFree Cancellation

*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.

Murder, Mayhem, and Scandal: 1-hour Historical Character Tour

Private Shadows of the Past: Tracing Slavery’s Legacy Tour invites you to embark on a deeply moving journey through history, remembrance, and resilience. Walk through places that preserve the echoes of lives shaped by slavery and discover the powerful stories of those who endured injustice while holding on to hope, dignity, and the dream of freedom. Through meaningful historical insights and reflections on the generations who fought for equality, explore how this painful chapter shaped communities and continues to influence society today. Each stop offers an opportunity to honor the voices of the past, recognize the strength of the human spirit, and reflect on the enduring importance of justice and humanity. This thoughtful experience goes beyond sightseeing, inviting you to listen, learn, remember, and carry these stories forward. Please note: The program and attractions may vary based on booking date/time and crowd conditions, ensuring each visit is a unique experience.

Private Shadows of the Past: Tracing Slavery’s Legacy Tour

Private Historic Williamsburg Colonial Heritage Tour

America turns 250 in 2026. The celebrations are deserved. But the full story of those 250 years includes voices that were long left out of the official account. This private 2-hour walking tour traces the history of slavery in Colonial Williamsburg — the legal systems that enforced it, the buildings where enslaved people lived and worked, the courts that judged them, and the legislature that debated their lives as political abstractions. Your dedicated guide does not simplify this history or soften it. They bring it to life with care, context, and humanity. Colonial Williamsburg, the Courthouse, the Capitol Building, and the James Geddy House — each stop reveals a different dimension of a society built on enslaved labor. Understanding this history is not separate from celebrating America's 250th anniversary. It is essential to it.

Williamsburg Full Story of America's 250th Private Tour

Williamsburg Full Story of America's 250th Private Tour

5% savings

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$280$266

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.

Private Colonial Williamsburg Architectural Tour

Private Colonial Williamsburg Architectural Tour

4 hoursFree Cancellation

Explore the eerie side of Colonial Yorktown on the Yorktown Ghost Tour. This guided stroll takes you through the town's haunted history, revealing stories of spirits from the Revolutionary and Civil War eras. As you walk the historic streets, discover the explosive tales behind the ghosts that still linger, offering a glimpse into the past. This tour ensures a unique blend of history and mystery that will captivate both children and adults alike. Join in on an unforgettable journey through time and the supernatural.

Yorktown After Dark Haunted History and Ghost Tour

Colonial Williamsburg - Private Tour Celebrating American History

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Must-Dos in Williamsburg

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What are people saying about Williamsburg

Monica_B, Nov 2026

Highly recommend.

Bambi was awesome! She tailored the trip to what we were interested in. We knew very little about the specific history here and she gave us lots of good information and explained things we hadn’t even thought about with regard to colonial life. Very, very interesting. Bambi has tons of knowledge about this area. We really enjoyed our tour. I’m so glad we booked this tour. We noticed and learned about many things we would never had seen if we had toured on our own.

Colonial Williamsburg Ghost Stories and Walking Tour

Anne_M, Oct 2026

Excellent historical ghost tour from Colonial Williamsburg retiree

Lonnie is a Colonial Williamsburg retiree who used to give their official ghost story tours. The official ones were sold out, so I was lucky to book Lonnie’s tour and have only 5 people on it. He told some great stories and enabled me to take a photo with two ghosts in the same window of the Peyton Randolph House! Unforgettable!

Dead Of Night Ghost Tour in Williamsburg / PARANORMAL EQUIPMENT

Angela_D, Oct 2026

An Amazing Experience! Highly Recommend!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ An Amazing Experience! Highly Recommend‼️ I don’t normally leave reviews, but this experience was definitely worth sharing! My friend and I decided to take the Dead of Night Ghost Tour with Paranormal Gear in Williamsburg, and let me tell you, we had a GREAT time‼️ Our tour guide was absolutely wonderful so sweet, friendly, and knowledgeable about the history and stories behind each location we visited. You could tell she genuinely enjoyed what she was doing, which made the entire experience even more enjoyable! Getting to use the paranormal equipment was such a fun and exciting part of the tour! It was fascinating to see how the equipment reacted at some of the places we stopped, which added an extra thrill to the experience. My friend and I truly enjoyed every moment of the tour, and our guides made the night that much more special. It was a wonderful mix of history, mystery, and paranormal fun! We give this experience a well deserved FIVE STARS‼️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ If you’re visiting Williamsburg or looking for something fun, unique, and a little spooky to do, I HIGHLY recommend booking this tour! You won’t regret it. Thank you for such a memorable experience! 🖤👻

History of Slavery Tour in Williamsburg

Gloria_D, Oct 2026

Passing of the Baton

I would suggest that a person anticipating taking this tour do some research on their own concerning slavery in Virginia, especially Williamsburg. Lonnie was such a personable tour guide very very knowledgeable and engaging. We almost felt like we had been transported back to the 1800s. The things are ancestors endured all of the setbacks, but yet they prevailed and steel prevailing the phrase we shall overcome, actually takes on a new meaning meaning overcoming as a daily thing a continual thing.

Full Day Historic Guided Tour to Jamestown and Yorktown with Lunch

steffydave, Oct 2026

Don’t miss this amazing opportunity!

This was truly an excellent experience. Matt offered personal and professional perspectives on every aspect of the history of Jamestown and Yorktown. His narration was humorous and sincere, raising important questions as he “taught” us to think about some curious and interesting facts about that period of time. I learned a lot and had fun discovering the past. I would not hesitate to recommend this tour. It had it all, including a delicious lunch and very comfortable bus ride. Thank you, Matt, for making history come alive!

Whispers of Williamsburg Haunted Ghost Tour with Add-on options

Eliana_S, Oct 2026

Great stories, Great Guide

We went on the ghost tour last night with Austin and had a great time! He’s a wonderful storyteller and did a great job explaining the history behind the different locations, even sharing pictures along the way. The tour was not rushed, and doing it at night made the experience even better! One thing we really appreciated was the smaller group size, unlike some of the other tours in the area. It made the experience more personal, and we had plenty of opportunities to ask questions. Austin was friendly, knowledgeable, and very personable. We really enjoyed ourselves and definitely recommend this tour!

Jamestown Settlement American Revolution Museum 7-Day Ticket

Karen_K, Oct 2026

Can do both in one day

Take the time to read the information about the exhibits. Watch the short videos as you go in. Both museums can be a little confusing on the flow, based on design, if you are trying to exit, so keep that in mind. Especially if you have others in your party who might wander off. Although I bought the 7 day ticket, I did both museums in the same day since I’m in town for 2 days and the second day is raining all day. Otherwise I would’ve done them on separate days.

Colonial History Tour in Williamsburg Virginia

Tom_G, Oct 2026

Great stories on this tour!

It was a very immersed tour and you may get chosen to play a role. (Don’t worry. No memorizing lines are involved.) Our guide was very passionate about telling the stories of the people and buildings we saw. She included MANY explanations of where old sayings come from. Those were great! Just a heads up, there was quite a bit of standing in one place while the guide tells these stories. Also, allow enough time to tour on your own. The only building we went in and saw up close was the jail. Make sure you explore before or after your tour.

Exclusive Private Colonial Williamsburg Walking Tour by a Local

Whitney_P, Oct 2026

Perfect day in Williamsburg!

So informative, a great way to get to know Williamsburg with lovely stories to go with it. We had three elementary children with us and she was wonderful to include them in all the fun. I would recommend this to anyone wanting to explore Williamsburg in a less overwhelming way!

Williamsburg Ghosts, Witches and Pirates Tour

Richard_F, Sep 2026

Fun time!!

We had A Lot of fun with our guide Gracie! We learned so much about colonial Williamsburg and got A Lot of “interesting “ pics!! I was very thankful it wasn’t hard to keep up with the group, I have a hard time walking fast. I was able to keep up and the whole group had a lot of fun! You can’t go wrong with doing this!!

Yorktown Museum, Battlefields & Historic Area-Private Guided Tour

Jill_F, Aug 2026

Must Do!

Bambi was an incredible guide for our Yorktown Battlefield tour. We brought our 9-year-old with us, and she did a wonderful job making the experience engaging and enjoyable for all of us. She was personable, knowledgeable, and incredibly well-versed not only in the subject matter of the tour, but in the broader history surrounding it as well. She was very generous with her time and had such an easy, comfortable manner. We learned so much and would highly recommend her!

Patriots Tour of Colonial Williamsburg or Williamsburg 101

Russell_M, May 2026

Great history of Williamsburg by a true historian

Guide was excellent. He worked in Colonial Williamsburg for years so he new the history of the town, building and people who lived. Tour starts at the Capitol and goes down Duke of Gloucester to the main Green. He was able to gives the facts on all of the buildings, how they were used. A snapshot into the past. Highly recommend the tour. Inexpensive and let's you know what areas you may want to focus on.