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The 16 Best Tours in Williamsburg
Williamsburg is a treasure trove for anyone interested in early American history, colonial architecture, and even a touch of the spooky. This city’s well-preserved streets offer a chance to step back into the 18th century, but it’s also a place where you can explore beyond the historic core with guided tours that bring stories to life. We particularly like the Full Day Guided Tour to Jamestown and Yorktown for its comprehensive deep dive into the Colonial Triangle, and the Colonial Ghosts Haunted Williamsburg Night Tour for a spooky twist on history. Whether you’re a history lover, a family with kids, or just here for some ghost stories, Williamsburg’s tour scene covers all bases.
Williamsburg’s charm isn’t just in its historic buildings—it’s in its storytellers, its walking routes, and its ability to adapt to different interests. From immersive walking tours to full-day explorations, you’ll find options that fit your schedule and your curiosity. If you’re planning a visit, knowing which tour best fits your style can make all the difference, so read on for our detailed guide.
Quick Overview of Williamsburg Tours
Williamsburg offers a variety of history-focused tours, ghost walks, private explorations, and themed pub crawls. Many tours are walkable, such as the Colonial Ghosts Ghost Stories or the Pirate Walking Tour, which provide rich storytelling in historic settings. For a more in-depth experience, the Full Day Historic Guided Tour to Jamestown and Yorktown offers a day packed with visits to key sites, including a Colonial-style lunch. Meanwhile, the Private Tour of Colonial Williamsburg allows for personalized, flexible exploration, perfect for small groups or special interests.
There are also night-time ghost tours, like the Colonial Ghosts Haunted Williamsburg Night Tour, which combine history and paranormal tales in an atmospheric setting. Whatever your interest, Williamsburg’s tour options promise an engaging way to learn, be entertained, and even get a little spooked.
1. Full Day Historic Guided Tour to Jamestown and Yorktown with Lunch
At number 1, the Full Day Historic Guided Tour to Jamestown and Yorktown stands out for its thorough approach to early American history. This tour covers the entire Historic Triangle in one day, making it ideal for travelers who want a rundown without the hassle of planning. The tour is all-inclusive, with admission tickets to the sites, transportation in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, and a Colonial-style lunch at a local family-owned restaurant.
The tour begins with a guided visit to Jamestown Settlement, where you’ll learn about the English arrival in 1607, followed by free time to explore. Afterward, you’ll stop for a colonial meal, which offers dietary options and a taste of the period’s flavors. The afternoon includes visits to Yorktown Battlefield, where the pivotal 1781 battle took place, and the American Revolution Museum, with engaging exhibits and guided portions. The reviews highlight the knowledgeable guide, Matt, who makes history come alive. Guests appreciate this tour for its convenience, expert narration, and the well-paced itinerary.
Bottom Line: This full-day trip offers a deep, hassle-free dive into American history, perfect for history enthusiasts and first-timers wanting a complete experience.
2. Full-Day Tour in Washington DC
For those craving a taste of the nation’s capital, the Full-Day Tour in Washington DC provides a 12- to 15-hour immersion into iconic sights. Departing early from Williamsburg, this tour makes the logistics easy, with round-trip transit and stops at the White House, Lincoln Memorial, and US Capitol. The trip also includes a visit to Arlington National Cemetery and free time for lunch.
Your guide handles navigation, allowing you to focus on the monuments and memorials, each with its own story. Reviewers mention guides like John as being knowledgeable, making the experience both informative and enjoyable. The tour is ideal if you want to maximize sightseeing without the worry of driving and parking in DC.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided introduction to Washington’s highlights in one long day.
3. The Original Ghosts of Williamsburg Tour
If you’re interested in the spooky side of Williamsburg, the Original Ghosts of Williamsburg Tour is a fun, family-friendly option. This 1.5-hour candlelit walk explores haunted landmarks and shares paranormal stories rooted in Virginia’s past. The guide, with 35 years of experience, keeps everyone engaged with stories of ghostly sightings, executions, and legendary figures like Grace Sherwood, the famous witch.
Guests love the mix of history and ghost tales, with some even capturing “ghost photos” along the way. The tour’s small group size creates an intimate experience, making it suitable for all ages. It’s a great way to combine history with a bit of fun scare, especially after a day of sightseeing.
Bottom Line: Perfect for families or groups interested in the supernatural, this guided ghost walk offers a memorable evening in Colonial Williamsburg.
4. Patriots Tour of Colonial Williamsburg or Williamsburg 101
At number 4, the Patriots Tour of Colonial Williamsburg provides an engaging, hour-long introduction to the town’s revolutionary past. Led by a lively guide, you’ll visit key sites like the Capitol Building, Raleigh Tavern, and the Governor’s Palace, while learning how Williamsburg contributed to the birth of America. This tour is ideal for those seeking a quick but insightful overview before exploring on their own.
Guests praise the guide’s enthusiasm and deep knowledge, making complex history accessible and entertaining. The tour encourages questions and offers a solid foundation for further exploration. It’s a good fit if you’re short on time but want context for the sites you visit later.
Bottom Line: This short, highly-rated tour is perfect for first-time visitors wanting a lively, informative introduction to Williamsburg’s role in American independence.
5. Williamsburg Ghosts, Witches and Pirates Tour
For a more spirited adventure, check out the Williamsburg Ghosts, Witches and Pirates Tour. This 1 hour 45-minute nighttime walk visits haunted landmarks linked to pirates, witch trials, and executions. The guide shares well-researched stories of Blackbeard’s crew, witch trials, and local legends, making it both spooky and educational.
Guests appreciate the atmosphere of Colonial Williamsburg after dark and the lively storytelling. The tour is suitable for families and history enthusiasts alike, especially those interested in pirate lore or ghost stories. It’s a good choice for an evening activity that blends adventure with history.
Bottom Line: Great for fans of the creepy and historical, this tour offers a fun, spooky way to experience Williamsburg’s darker tales.
6. Colonial Ghosts Haunted Williamsburg Night Tour with Add-on Options
The Colonial Ghosts Haunted Williamsburg Night Tour covers haunted sites with a focus on paranormal activity backed by research. This 1-hour to 1-hour 15-minute tour takes you through historic buildings like The Precious Gem and Bruton Parish Church, where reports of ghostly encounters abound. The tour offers an optional extended experience if you want more chills.
Guests find this tour compelling because it combines history, ghost stories, and real paranormal research, creating an immersive experience. It’s best suited for those who like spooky stories with an extra layer of authenticity and enjoy a guided walk through Williamsburg’s eerie side.
Bottom Line: Ideal for ghost enthusiasts or those seeking an atmospheric, research-backed haunted walk.
7. Private Tour of Colonial Williamsburg & Sir Christopher Wren Building
If personalized attention is your priority, the Private Tour of Colonial Williamsburg is a flexible, intimate way to explore. Led by a knowledgeable guide, the route can be tailored to your interests, including stops at the Capitol, William and Mary College, and the Governor’s Palace. It’s especially good for small groups or travelers wanting a deeper dive into specific sites.
Guests praise the guide’s expertise and the ability to customize the experience, making it a perfect option for those with particular interests or limited time. It’s a more relaxed, in-depth option compared to group tours.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a personalized, in-depth Williamsburg experience with expert guidance.
8. Colonial History Tour in Williamsburg Virginia
The Colonial History Tour offers a 1 hour 45-minute walk led by a costumed guide. It’s a lively way to learn about famous figures like George Washington and Thomas Jefferson, and the stories behind Williamsburg’s founding. The guide shares fun trivia and insights not found in guidebooks, making it engaging for all ages.
Guests find this tour both entertaining and educational, noting the guide’s ability to make history come alive. It’s perfect for first-time visitors or families looking for a brief, lively overview of Colonial Williamsburg.
Bottom Line: An enjoyable, family-friendly tour that offers a quick but colorful introduction to Williamsburg’s colonial past.
9. Jamestown Settlement American Revolution Museum 7-Day Ticket
This flexible ticket provides 7 days of access to both Jamestown and the American Revolution Museum. Located just 15 minutes from Williamsburg, it’s perfect for those wanting to explore at their own pace. The ticket includes access to films, exhibits, and reenactments, including the Siege of Yorktown on a 180-degree screen.
Reviewers love the value for money and the ability to split visits over multiple days, especially for families or history nerds. The site’s working farms and recreated colonial spaces add hands-on appeal, making this a versatile option.
Bottom Line: Best for visitors who want flexible, extended exploration of early American history without feeling rushed.
10. Let’s Go Sail Virginia
For something completely different, the Let’s Go Sail Virginia offers a relaxing 3-hour sailing lesson. You’ll learn how to manage a modern sailboat on the waters near Williamsburg, getting a hands-on experience of boat handling, wind, and safety.
Guests rave about the expert instruction and the chance to take the helm, making it a fun, active break from more traditional sightseeing. Watching Navy ships transit to Yorktown adds a touch of maritime history, too.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those interested in sailing or looking for an active outdoor experience on the water.
11. Ultimate Pirate Walking Tour in Colonial Williamsburg
Pirates are a fascinating part of American history, and the Ultimate Pirate Walking Tour finally puts their story center stage. This 1 hour 45-minute small-group tour dives into pirate lore, privateering, and how piracy influenced American development. Meet your costumed guide outside the Capitol Building and set off on foot.
Guests love the interactive stories, treasure hunts, and insights into infamous pirates like Edward Teach (Blackbeard). Kids especially enjoy the adventure, but history buffs will appreciate the detailed storytelling.
Bottom Line: A lively, family-friendly way to explore Williamsburg’s lesser-known pirate past.
12. Colonial Ghosts Ultimate Dead of Night Haunted Ghost Tour
The Colonial Ghosts Haunted Ghost Tour blends history and the paranormal in a 1 hour 30-minute evening walk. It visits sites like William & Mary and Kimball Theatre, where reports of hauntings are backed by research and psychic testimony.
Reviewers mention the engaging narration and the opportunity to see Williamsburg’s spooky side. It’s suited for everyone from casual ghost seekers to serious paranormal enthusiasts.
Bottom Line: This ghost tour’s research-backed stories and atmospheric stops make it a memorable night adventure.
13. Colonial Williamsburg Ghost Stories and Walking Tour
For those wanting a shorter, family-friendly ghost experience, this Ghost Stories Walking Tour offers an hour of storytelling. Led by a local resident, it covers 18th-century tales and recent paranormal reports as you stroll through Williamsburg’s illuminated streets.
Guests love the storyteller’s craft and the chance to take photos of supposed apparitions. It’s a good introduction for kids and adults alike, blending spooky stories with genuine history.
Bottom Line: A perfect light-hearted ghost walk that’s both fun and informative.
14. Secrets of Williamsburg
If you’re eager for a more in-depth, insider tour, the Secrets of Williamsburg takes you beyond the main sights. This 2-hour walking tour digs into lesser-known stories of the city’s political tensions, notable residents, and hidden landmarks. Your guide, a professional historian, shares fascinating anecdotes about figures like Martha Washington and George Wythe.
Guests appreciate the personalized storytelling and the chance to learn details not found in standard guides. It’s ideal for history lovers who want a richer understanding of Williamsburg’s past.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want an intimate, detailed narrative of Williamsburg’s hidden stories.
15. Colonial Williamsburg Admission
For flexible exploring, the Colonial Williamsburg Admission ticket offers access to all historic sites, reenactments, and museums for 1 or 2 days. The ticket includes guided tours of government buildings, trade shops, and art museums. Visitors enjoy watching blacksmiths, printers, and artisans in action, experiencing a lively 18th-century atmosphere.
Guests highlight the great value and the ability to enjoy Williamsburg at their own pace. It’s best for travelers who want a self-guided experience with plenty of options.
Bottom Line: A versatile choice for those wanting full access to Williamsburg’s historic attractions over multiple days.
16. Colonial Ghosts Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl
Rounding out our list, the Colonial Ghosts Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl combines local drinks with ghost stories. Over two hours, you’ll visit historic pubs and hear tales of pirates, witches, and haunted landmarks. The guide weaves history and spooky legends while you sample drinks (not included in the price).
Guests enjoy the informal, fun atmosphere and the chance to socialize while learning about Williamsburg’s eerie past. It’s ideal for night owls and those who enjoy both drinks and ghost stories.
Bottom Line: A lively, social way to experience Williamsburg’s haunted nightlife.
How to Choose the Right Tour for You
Selecting the perfect Williamsburg tour depends on your interests, time, and budget. If you want a comprehensive day packed with history, the Full Day Guided Tour to Jamestown and Yorktown is hard to beat. For a quick overview, the Patriots Tour offers a lively intro, while history aficionados might prefer the Secrets of Williamsburg for its hidden stories.
Ghost lovers should consider the Ghosts, Witches, and Pirates Tour or the research-backed Haunted Ghost Tour. Families with kids might enjoy the Pirate Tour, while those seeking a private experience can opt for the Private Williamsburg Tour.
Consider your schedule, interests, and whether you prefer guided, self-guided, or themed tours. Booking early is wise, especially for popular ghost walks or private tours.
Final Thoughts
Williamsburg’s tour lineup offers a rich variety of experiences suited to different travelers. For a full immersion into early American history, the full-day Jamestown and Yorktown tour provides excellent value. If you’re after a spooky night, the ghost and pirate walks deliver atmospheric storytelling and fun scares. And for those who want a personalized touch, private tours ensure you get exactly what you’re most interested in.
Whatever your preference, Williamsburg’s tours are a great way to deepen your understanding of this historic town—and, let’s be honest, they’re also pretty fun. Be sure to book ahead, especially during peak seasons, and enjoy your time exploring one of America’s most charming and storied destinations!