Williamsburg, Virginia, is a treasure trove of American history and mystery, making it an ideal place for a variety of tours. Whether you’re interested in walking through the past, uncovering hidden stories, or experiencing spine-tingling ghost stories, Williamsburg offers plenty of options. We particularly enjoy the Secrets of Williamsburg Walking Tour, which blends history with engaging storytelling, and the Ghost Tours that add an extra thrill to your visit. These tours give you a chance to see Williamsburg from a new perspective, with plenty of details about the people who shaped this historic city.
Williamsburg provides a rich collection of history-focused, ghostly, cultural, and family-friendly tours. Whether you want a deep dive into colonial life, a spooky night walk, or a fun day at amusement parks like Busch Gardens, there’s something for every traveler. Below, you’ll find a detailed list of the top 14 tours, complete with insights to help you choose the right experience for your trip.
1. Williamsburg: Secrets of Williamsburg Walking Tour
At number 1, this Secrets of Williamsburg Walking Tour offers an engaging 1.5-hour walk through the heart of what is often called America’s largest living history museum. Priced at $35 per person, it has a solid rating of 4.8/5 from 82 reviews, showing strong approval from past travelers. The tour explores the personal stories of Revolutionary War figures, including visits to restored taverns, Peyton-Randolph House, and Governor’s Palace. Guides share little-known stories that make history come alive, making this ideal for those wanting an authentic, storytelling approach to colonial Williamsburg. The walk’s pace and narrative depth make it great for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
Bottom Line: A lively, educational stroll packed with surprising stories, perfect for first-timers wanting a comprehensive yet engaging overview of Williamsburg’s past.
2. Williamsburg: ‘We Shall Overcome’ Black History Walking Tour
Coming in at number 2, this Black History Walking Tour is a 2-hour journey into the lives of Williamsburg’s Black founders and enslaved people. With a 4.8/5 rating from 16 reviews, travelers praise it for uncovering untold stories. The tour highlights figures like Gowan Pamphlet and Ona Staines, shedding light on the resilience and struggles of Black Americans in colonial Virginia. It’s a moving, eye-opening experience that tackles parts of history often overlooked, making it an excellent pick for those interested in social history and civil rights.
Bottom Line: An impactful tour that reveals stories of courage, love, and perseverance, essential for understanding the full scope of Williamsburg’s history.
3. Colonial Ghosts: Ghostly Whispers of Williamsburg Ghost Tour
Number 3 on our list is the Ghostly Whispers Ghost Tour, priced at $26 per person. This 1 to 1.5-hour tour explores Williamsburg’s haunted sites, from the Peyton Randolph House to the Governor’s Palace. Rated 4.4/5 from 29 reviews, it’s a favorite for those who enjoy a spooky twist on history. Led by US Ghost Adventures, guides share true ghost stories and legends, with activities like searching for the Hedge Maze Ghost. It combines historical facts with ghostly encounters, making it a fun, atmospheric experience.
Bottom Line: A perfect choice for fans of haunted tales and ghost stories, combining history with a chilling dose of the supernatural.
4. Williamsburg: Busch Gardens Ticket & Water Country Option
Number 4 is a different kind of tour—Busch Gardens Ticket & Water Country Pass. For $96, you get access to a beautifully themed amusement park with roller coasters, animal exhibits, and water rides. This pass is valid for a full year, making it a flexible option for families or thrill-seekers. While not a historical tour, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy Williamsburg’s family-friendly entertainment and see animals involved in rescue and conservation efforts. The park is considered world’s most beautiful theme park and offers an excellent break from history.
Bottom Line: Great for families or adrenaline junkies wanting a full day of fun, with the added bonus of a long ticket validity.
$96 per person
5. Williamsburg: Dead of Night Paranormal Investigations Tour
Number 5, the Dead of Night Paranormal Investigations Tour, is led by a paranormal investigator with 20 years’ experience. For $30 and 105 minutes, participants explore haunted sites armed with state-of-the-art ghost-hunting equipment. Tour-goers love the detailed stories, and the guide’s personal ghost encounters add a real touch of authenticity. It’s ideal for those who want to actively participate in a paranormal investigation and learn about the spirit world in Williamsburg.
Bottom Line: An interactive, authentic ghost-hunting experience for those fascinated by the supernatural and the strange.
6. Williamsburg: Colonial Ghosts Haunted Pub Crawl
At number 6, the Haunted Pub Crawl combines drinks and ghost stories over a 2-hour, 1.2-mile walk. For $30, you visit haunted pubs like DoG Street Pub and Amber Ox, hearing tales of fallen soldiers and colonial tragedies. Rated 4.4/5 from 17 reviews, it’s perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, social way to explore Williamsburg’s darker side. You’ll enjoy bites and pints while uncovering the city’s haunted past.
Bottom Line: A fun, lively way to combine nightlife with ghost stories—ideal for those who love a good ghost story with a drink in hand.
7. From DC: Colonial Williamsburg and Historical Triangle Tour
Number 7 offers a full-day private experience, the Colonial Williamsburg and Historical Triangle Tour. Priced at $2,064 for up to five people, it includes visits to Jamestown, Williamsburg, and Yorktown. It’s ideal for history lovers wanting an in-depth, personalized exploration. The tour covers major sites like the first permanent English settlement and George Washington’s battlefield, with a flexible itinerary tailored to your interests.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a comprehensive, guided look at Virginia’s most historic sites—worth the investment for history aficionados.
$2,064 per group up to 5
8. Williamsburg: Dead of Night Tour with Paranormal Equipment
Number 8, the Dead of Night Paranormal Tour, is similar to the previous paranormal experience but emphasizes hands-on use of ghost-hunting gear. For $30 and 2 hours, it features stories from a guide with 10 years’ paranormal investigation experience. Guests will learn how to operate equipment and listen to ghost voices. It’s suited for those curious about the scientific side of ghost hunting and who want a more interactive experience.
Bottom Line: A good pick for paranormal fans who want to actively participate and get behind the scenes of ghost investigations.
$30 per person
9. Williamsburg: Echoes of Twilight Late-Night Ghost Tour
Number 9 offers a spooky late-night experience, the Echoes of Twilight Ghost Tour. For $30, this 2-hour tour explores haunted sites and legends of Civil War soldiers, witch trials, and infamous figures like Blackbeard’s crew. Rated 4.3/5 from 12 reviews, it appeals to night owls looking for a more atmospheric, chilling experience. Guides share tales of tortured spirits and the energy of the past as you walk through the dark streets.
Bottom Line: An atmospheric, late-night adventure suited for those who enjoy ghost stories with a spooky, twilight vibe.
10. Williamsburg: Colonial Williamsburg Ticket
Number 10 is a simple, flexible option: Colonial Williamsburg Ticket. For $35, you get access to the historic area for 1-2 days, including 89 original buildings, live demonstrations, and free museum admission. It’s best for travelers who prefer to explore at their own pace, with ample time to visit multiple sites and enjoy the living history exhibits.
Bottom Line: Great for those who want the freedom to roam Williamsburg’s historic streets on their own schedule.
$35 per person
11. Colonial Williamsburg Wander: A Private Journey Through Time
Number 11 offers an intimate, private experience called Colonial Williamsburg Wander. This 2-hour tour costs $586 for up to 4 people and covers landmarks like the Williamsburg Inn, Capitol Building, and Governor’s Palace. It’s perfect for couples or small groups who want a personalized, relaxed exploration of colonial Williamsburg’s architecture and stories.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a private, in-depth experience tailored to their interests.
$586 per group up to 4
12. Flavors & Footsteps: A Private Culinary Walk in Williamsburg
Number 12, Flavors & Footsteps, is a 2-hour private food-focused tour costing $1,607 for up to four people. It combines history, storytelling, and tasting local foods, uncovering how cuisine shaped American colonial life. Participants stroll through historic streets, sampling dishes and learning about early American culinary traditions. It’s an excellent choice for foodies and those wanting a sensory experience of Williamsburg’s history.
Bottom Line: A delicious, personalized way to connect Williamsburg’s past with its flavors today.
$1,607 per group up to 4
13. Private Walking Tour of Williamsburg’s Colonial History
Number 13 is a Private Colonial History Walk, priced at $299 for up to 2 people. This 2-hour guided walk visits key sites like Bruton Parish Church, Merchant’s Square, and hidden gardens. It’s perfect for couples or small groups who want a personalized, in-depth look at Williamsburg’s streets and stories, including lesser-known details and tastings like at The Peanut Shop of Williamsburg.
Bottom Line: A tailored, intimate tour for those who appreciate personalized attention and local insights.
$299 per group up to 2
14. The Original Ghost of Williamsburg Candlelight Walking Tour
Finally, the Original Ghost Tour is an established favorite at $20 per person. As Virginia’s oldest ghost tour, it takes you through historic streets by candlelight, sharing 400-year-old legends and spooky tales. Rated no reviews listed, but its reputation as the second-oldest ghost tour in the US speaks to its enduring appeal. It’s perfect for those seeking an authentic, atmospheric ghost story experience in a historic setting.
Bottom Line: A classic, accessible ghost walk that’s especially good for first-time ghost tour participants.
$20 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting a tour, consider your interests and budget. For history buffs, the Secrets of Williamsburg Walking Tour offers an engaging overview, while those interested in social stories might prefer the Black History Walking Tour. If ghost stories excite you, options like the Ghostly Whispers Tour or the Candlelight Ghost Tour are excellent picks.
For families or thrill-seekers, Busch Gardens offers a full day of fun with rides and animal encounters. Meanwhile, those seeking a more personalized experience might enjoy the private Colonial Williamsburg Wander or culinary Walking Tour. Ghost enthusiasts should consider the Paranormal Investigations for a hands-on experience.
Booking early is always wise, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred tour date. Also, check the tour duration and whether it’s best suited for your fitness level or interest in history, ghosts, or entertainment.
Final Thoughts
Williamsburg offers a wide range of tours that cater to history lovers, families, thrill-seekers, and paranormal fans alike. For a rundown, the Full-Day Historical Triangle Tour is perfect for serious history enthusiasts, while the Ghost Walks and paranormal investigations add a spooky edge for those craving some chills. For those who prefer a relaxed, personalized experience, private tours like the Wander and culinary walks are excellent choices.
No matter your style, Williamsburg’s tours are a great way to deepen your understanding of this historic city. Reserve your spot early—these experiences are popular and tend to fill quickly, especially in peak seasons. Happy exploring!