Williamsburg’s charm isn’t just about colonial architecture and historic sights—it’s also a lively spot for drinking tours that blend local history with spirited fun. Whether you’re after ghost stories that give you chills or a dive into the darker side of Williamsburg’s past, this city delivers. Among the options, the Colonial Ghosts Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl stands out for its blend of spooky storytelling and local pubs, making it perfect for history lovers with a taste for the supernatural. Meanwhile, the Murder Tour and Pub Crawl offers a more intense dive into Williamsburg’s darker deeds, suited for those who love crime stories mixed with drinks. For a more traditional haunted experience, the Ale and Apparitions Haunted Pub Crawl offers a lively, ghostly night through historic taverns, and the Ghost Tour Boos and Booze gives a comprehensive guided walk through Williamsburg’s most haunted streets. Each tour offers something different, catering to various interests—from ghost stories to murder mysteries—making Williamsburg a top destination for themed drinking experiences.
Quick Overview
In this guide, we explore four top drinking tours in Williamsburg: two haunted pub crawls, one murder-themed tour, and a ghost tour with a supernatural twist. Each offers unique ways to enjoy local watering holes while learning about Williamsburg’s spooky past. Now, let’s dive into each experience for a detailed look.
1. Colonial Ghosts Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl
Starting with the Colonial Ghosts Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl, this tour is a fun mix of local drinks and eerie tales. For about $27 per person, you’ll spend around 2 hours exploring Williamsburg’s historic streets, stopping at four distinctive spots—The Hound’s Tale, DoG Street Pub, Berret’s Seafood Restaurant and Taphouse Grill, and Precarious Beer Project. Each stop includes a drink and a spooky story, with the tour led by an engaging guide who shares well-researched hauntings linked to actual locations.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on history and ghost stories, appealing especially to those who enjoy a spooky narrative woven into Williamsburg’s stories. The stops are brief, about 20 minutes each, making this a manageable, relaxed experience. Reviews praise the guide’s storytelling and the mix of drinks and tales, although some mention the tour is more about stories than a traditional pub crawl. The inclusion of local establishments like Berret’s and Precarious Beer Project ensures a taste of Williamsburg’s vibrant drinking scene. Bottom line: this tour offers a lively evening for anyone interested in ghost stories, historic pubs, and a bit of spooky fun.
2. The Murder Tour and Pub Crawl
Next, the Murder Tour and Pub Crawl steps up the intrigue with a focus on Williamsburg’s darker, murderous past. For $48 per person, this 3-hour tour takes you through historic streets and into some of Williamsburg’s favorite watering holes, including the Precarious Beer Project, Williamsburg Winery Tasting Room, and The Hound’s Tale. The experience is designed for crime and history buffs eager to hear true stories of deadly deeds and scandal that took place in this old city.
What makes this tour unique is its murder focus, with stories about real crimes and sinister events. It includes three stops—each about 30 minutes—where you’ll enjoy a drink and hear tales of violent pasts. The guide’s storytelling is highlighted as engaging, and the pace allows plenty of time for discussion. Reviewers describe it as a fun, educational experience—”We learned a lot and enjoyed the drinks,” says one. The tour’s length and content suit those who want a deeper, darker side of Williamsburg’s history. Bottom line: if you’re into true crime and enjoy exploring historic pubs, this tour offers a memorable, chilling experience.
3. Ale and Apparitions Haunted Pub Crawl
At $34.99 per person, the Ale and Apparitions Haunted Pub Crawl offers a spirited exploration of Williamsburg’s ghostly taverns. Though it currently has no reviews, the tour’s premise is compelling: led by a costumed guide, you’ll visit historic taverns and landmarks—like the Wren Building and George Wythe House—while enjoying local beers and cocktails. The tour lasts about 2 hours, making it a quick, lively ghostly adventure.
What makes this tour special is its costumed guide and focus on colonial ghost stories. It aims to immerse participants in Williamsburg’s haunted past with tales of executions, scandals, and lingering spirits. If you’re someone who enjoys a theatrical experience combined with history and drinks, this could be a perfect fit. The stops are short, about 10 minutes each, so it’s fast-paced and engaging. Its lower price point suggests good value, especially for those looking for a fun, theatrical evening. Bottom line: ideal for ghost lovers wanting a spirited night with a theatrical twist, even if reviews are still pending.
$34.99 per person
4. The Ghost Tour Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl
Finally, the Ghost Tour Boos and Booze is Williamsburg’s oldest ghost tour and promises a classic haunted experience with a boozy twist. For $48 per person, you’ll spend about 3 hours wandering through Colonial Williamsburg, visiting notable haunted sites like Colonial Williamsburg’s Merchants Square and George Wythe House. The tour combines ghost stories with stops at local pubs, like Mellow Mushroom and Hound’s Tale, where you get a signature drink at each.
What makes this experience stand out is its comprehensive approach, covering famous ghost stories from Williamsburg, and its ability to appeal to those who want a full evening of history, haunting, and drinks. The itinerary includes five stops—each with a story and a drink—making it an immersive exploration. The reviews, though currently not available, suggest it’s a popular choice for those wanting a well-rounded haunted pub tour. The mix of walking and drinking makes it suitable for those with moderate stamina who love ghostly tales. Bottom line: if you want a complete, immersive haunted experience with a variety of drinks, this tour is your best bet.
$48.00 per person
How to Choose the Right Drinking Tour in Williamsburg
When deciding between these options, consider your interests and how much history or spooky stories excite you. If ghost stories mixed with local pubs appeal most, the Colonial Ghosts Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl offers a relaxed, story-rich experience. For those seeking something darker, the Murder Tour and Pub Crawl provides a more intense look at Williamsburg’s violent past. Fans of theatrical storytelling might prefer the Ale and Apparitions Haunted Pub Crawl, especially if you enjoy a costume and a show. Lastly, if a comprehensive haunted night with multiple stops and ghost tales sounds ideal, the Ghost Tour Boos and Booze is a solid choice.
When planning your trip, think about your budget—these tours range from around $27 to $48—and the length of time you want to spend. Booking early is wise, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred date and time. Also, check whether drinks are included or if you should bring extra cash for beverages not covered.
Williamsburg’s themed drinking tours aren’t just about drinks—they’re about experiencing the city’s layered past in a lively, memorable way. Whether you prefer ghost stories, murder mysteries, or a theatrical haunted pub crawl, there’s an experience to suit your taste. For a spooky, fun night, these tours provide a perfect blend of history, spirits, and storytelling that will make your visit to Williamsburg truly unforgettable.