Tours in Williamsburg

Discover the city on a private tour made just for you! Embark on a Colonial Williamsburg culinary tour that blends food, history, and tradition into one unforgettable experience. Explore the charming streets of Colonial Williamsburg while discovering the rich food traditions that shaped 18th-century life. This immersive walking tour invites you to experience the sights, scents, and flavors of the colonial era. Taste seasonal specialties, learn about historic recipes, and uncover how local ingredients and timeless customs became part of Williamsburg’s enduring cultural legacy. Whether savoring festive holiday treats or connecting with everyday colonial flavors, this guided culinary walk offers a meaningful way to experience the spirit of Colonial Williamsburg—through the footsteps and tastes of its past. Please note: The program and attractions may vary based on booking date/time and crowd conditions, ensuring each visit is a unique experience.

The only ghost tour in the world based on the first ever photo-study of ghosts! Real ghost photos, featured in the books Haunted Historic Colonial Williamsburg Virginia with Breakthrough Ghost Photography, Parts 1 & 2, are shown at each stop on a large computer notebook (Samsung Galaxy). Guides will point out the exact location around or in the house or building where the photo was taken and encourage travelers to take their own photos. Tour guides will give relevant historical information pertaining to the haunting as well as personal stories encountered by the book's author and others, including interpreters and security guards from Colonial Williamsburg. Travelers will be given choices about where they would like to stop based on their interests--no tour is ever the same! The East Tour starts at the Capital and continues down Duke of Gloucester Street to the Courthouse of 1770 and walking across the Market Square to the last stop--Williamsburg's most haunted: Peyton Randolph House.

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.

Tacky Lights from property owners that have received National attention over the year, some have been doing this over 30 years. We will visit some of these unique properties as well as holiday lights around the town. Is it a competition or a deep passion for the season? Just how far will they go to win or share the love this Holiday Season. Sit back and leave the driving to us as we share some information about some of the properties we see as well a little bit of history.

This captivating bundle of self-guided audio tours immerses you in the battles of Gettysburg, Antietam, and Vicksburg. Discover how the Americans finally defeated the mighty British empire in the decisive battle of the Revolutionary War. Then jump forward in time to two of the bloodiest battles of the Civil War, when brother fought against brother. Hear about the generals, unsung heroes, and blow-by-blow accounts of how it all unfolded. Recommended: Purchase one tour per car. Everyone can listen at the same time! 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. This is not an entrance ticket. Check opening hours before your visit. Buy once, use for one year! Ideal for extended visits and return trips over the next 12 months.

With this top-tier self-guided tour bundle, explore America's beautiful East Coast. Explore Bar Harbor, Acadia National Park, the Blue Ridge Parkway, and the Kancamagus Scenic Byway. Walk the Boston Freedom Trail, Cambridge, Plymouth. Explore the Salem Witch Trials, Lexington & Concord, Cape Cod, Cape Ann, Martha's Vineyard, and Newport's Gilded Age grandeur. Cades Cove, Great Smoky National Park, and Washington D.C. Recommended: Purchase one tour per car. Everyone can listen at the same time! 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. Buy once, use for one year! Ideal for extended visits and return trips over the next 12 months. This isn't an entrance ticket. Check opening hours before your visit.

Explore at your own pace with a fully private guided tour! “Shadows of the Past: Tracing Slavery’s Legacy in Williamsburg” invites you to delve into the history of slavery in colonial America, beginning in the historic area of Colonial Williamsburg. This tour provides insights into how slavery shaped the community and the lives of those who lived during that era. After exploring Colonial Williamsburg, the journey continues to the Colonial Williamsburg Courthouse, reflecting the legal aspects of slavery. Next, visit the Capitol Building, where significant legislative decisions about slavery were made. Conclude the tour at the James Geddy House, offering a perspective on the daily lives of both free and enslaved people of the time.

Virginia's oldest ghost tour has added a twist of everyones favorite tour The Original Ghost of Williamsburg. Scroll the the streets of historic Williamsburg as you hear all the famous ghost stories that make The Ghost Tour the #1 Ghost Tour in Virginia. We will bring you to the most haunted places in Colonial Williamsburg.

During this one-hour walking tour, discover how a sleepy southern town was restored to its former colonial splendor through the dream of Dr. W.A.R. Goodwin and the backing of Mr. John D. Rockefeller, Jr. We will take you through the restoration of Colonial Williamsburg from its conception through to the continuing restoration efforts. We encourage questions and conversation so all guests can better understand why this place was, and is, so important not only to Dr. Goodwin and Mr. Rockefeller but also to future generations. 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.

Survive an apocalypse in Williamsburg today with Zombie Scavengers! An app will provide you with a list of items needed to survive the zombies. Find these items in any order you'd like and perform fun zombie themed challenges for points. Come up with a system to get the most points in order to survive the zombie apocalypse. Your friendly remote host will help you throughout the game via chat. Get enough points to survive the zombie apocalypse in Williamsburg today!

Join us as we explore the fascinating stories of women from all walks of life—each of whom played her part in the community’s development. From the beloved midwife whose knowledge and care were instrumental to the town’s health, to the famous schoolmistress who taught future leaders, these women were pillars of the community. Discover the Governor’s Lady, who maintained the standards of society, and the Councillor’s wife, who helped shape political circles from behind the scenes. Learn about the enslaved cook who worked closely with the Founders, displaying incredible skill and resilience, and even hear the tales of actresses who broke societal norms to entertain and inspire. .

Have you ever wondered how our modern Christmas traditions began? Join us for a 1-hour walking tour through the streets of Colonial Williamsburg, where your guide will reveal the colonial Christmas celebrations that shaped our current traditions. You'll also learn how the decorating style of Colonial Williamsburg influenced decorations across the nation. Shades of Our Past is not affiliated with Colonial Williamsburg; therefore, this tour does not include entry to any buildings owned by Colonial Williamsburg. The tour takes place through the streets of Colonial Williamsburg and is subject to weather conditions. Please be prepared for various weather scenarios. Additionally, the advertised tour route may change based on activities in the Historic Area. Please note that tours may be unavailable on certain days due to staff participating in other events. For more details about these programs, please visit our website.

Skip the crowds this is a private tour for your group only! Embark on the “Williamsburg Family Explorer: An Outdoor Historical Adventure,” a tour tailored for families to experience the rich history of Williamsburg entirely outdoors. Begin your exploration at the Kimball Theatre, appreciating its historical facade. Then, view the George Wythe House from the outside, imagining the life of this influential patriot. Stroll through Market Square, soaking in the lively atmosphere of this historic gathering place. Observe the Colonial Williamsburg Courthouse, a symbol of 18th-century law and order. Conclude at the Peyton Randolph House, where the stories of its past residents are told through its architecture and surroundings. This tour is perfect for families looking to enjoy a day of historical discovery and outdoor enjoyment in Williamsburg.

Be transported back to Williamsburg in 1943 in this 1-hour character tour. Learn how the citizens of the town are dealing with rationing, blackout drills, and all the new servicemen in town during the Holiday season. Please note that each tour is unique, so the advertised routes may vary. You will be guided through town by either a USO Hostess or an Air Raid Warden. However, for evening tours, the guide will solely be an Air Raid Warden. 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. Please be aware that due to staff participation in other events, tours may be unavailable on certain days. For details about these programs, please visit our website.

This is a private tour (your group) to an exceptional tour to visit Monticello, a World Heritage Site, home to our 3rd President, Thomas Jefferson, primary author of our Declaration of Independence and founder of the University of Virginia. Monticello provides in-depth tours of the historic house, gardens, views of the plantation, and, sometimes, an opportunity to engage in a lively presentation by Bill Barker, who portrays Thomas Jefferson. Jefferson enslaved over six hundred people throughout his life, and there are hourly slave tours to learn about the enslaved men, women, and children who labored on the plantation, including the Hemmings family and many others, like the Fosset family. The Monticello tour concludes with an opportunity to visit Thomas Jefferson's gravesite which is still owned by the family today. After leaving Monticello, guests may choose to have lunch at a nearby restaurant before returning to Williamsburg. Approx: 4 hours travel, 3.5 hours touring, 1 hour lunch.

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.

Walk the final steps of the condemned on this adults-only ghost tour led by the Executioner of Colonial Williamsburg. Through chilling tales of crime, punishment, and restless spirits, this immersive experience explores the haunted legacy of justice in the colonial capital. From gallows to graveyards, uncover the dark truths behind public executions, vengeful ghosts, and the souls left behind. Gripping, grim, and unforgettable—this tour is not for the faint of heart.

This private tour picks you up from your hotel in Williamsburg, Virginia to visit Berkeley Plantation. 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 president of the United States, and his grandson, Benjamin Harrison, the 23rd 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. The tour offers a close look at the site's architecture and surroundings, giving a clear picture of life in that era. The kitchen dependency and reconstructed slave quarters tell the story of the enslaved workers at Berkeley. Grounds include five terraces leading to the banks of the James River.

To play Operation City Quest in Williamsburg, you'll use an app to gather points by completing exciting tasks and finding objects around the city in any order you choose. Use strategy to gain the most points on the app's leaderboard and beat out other Williamsburg teams. Our scavenger hunt has a remote host that will help throughout the game via chat. Let's get competing in Williamsburg!

Delve into the history of the American Revolution at the American Revolution Museum in Yorktown, guided by a Spanish-speaking expert. This tour offers an immersive look at the Siege of Yorktown, a pivotal moment that led to the surrender of British forces on October 19, 1781. As you explore the exhibits, gain in-depth knowledge about the events that shaped the nation. Whether you choose a private or group setting, this experience is tailored for history enthusiasts seeking a deeper understanding of America's past. - Explore the American Revolution Museum in Yorktown - Learn about the Siege of Yorktown with a Spanish-speaking guide - Discover the significance of October 19, 1781, in American history - Tickets for the museum are not included in the tour fee

Available only for groups of 6 or more with a phone call. This bike tour is more than just a leisurely ride through scenic landscapes; it's an opportunity to confront our past, understand our present, and shape a more just and equitable future. We will have wheeled our way through 400 years of history to a modern vineyard for wine and celebrating good friends and shared connections. What truly sets this tour apart? We present a balanced and nuanced account of history, acknowledging the complexities and contradictions that shaped America's identity. We encourage open dialogue and respectful exchange of ideas, fostering a sense of shared understanding and empathy. We prioritize responsible travel practices that minimize our impact on the environment and support local communities. We donate a % of tour proceeds to local conservation concerns like Capital Trees, VCU Rice Rivers, James River Association.

This is a private tour, tailored to your interests and schedule! Embark on a romantic journey through Williamsburg, a city rich in history and love stories. Your tour begins at the Williamsburg United Methodist Church, where you’ll be captivated by its stunning architecture and the heartwarming love stories it has witnessed. Next, cross the enchanting Crim Dell Bridge, a symbol of eternal love. It’s said that a kiss at its crest with your beloved ensures a lifelong bond. Discover the serenity of the Natural Wildflower Refuge, established in the 1970s. This tranquil spot is home to an array of ferns, wildflowers, and native plants, providing a perfect backdrop for romantic moments. Conclude your tour at the College of William and Mary, the second-oldest university in America. Stroll through its historic grounds while unraveling the romantic story of its namesakes, William and Mary.

This is a private tour, tailored to your interests and schedule! Williamsburg’s Winter Wonderland: A Historic Holiday Stroll” offers a festive journey through the historic streets of Williamsburg. Begin this seasonal adventure at the Visitor Center, festooned with holiday decorations. Next, visit the St. George Tucker House, an elegant example of local architecture, often adorned with Christmas cheer. Continue to Bruton Parish Episcopal Church, resonating with centuries of holiday traditions. Enjoy the holiday spirit along W. Duke of Gloucester St., where the season’s joy is palpable. Conclude with a warm and delightful stop at the Raleigh Tavern Bakery, perfect for tasting traditional holiday treats.

Available only for groups of 6 or more with a phone call. This bike tour is more than just a leisurely ride through scenic landscapes; it's an opportunity to confront our past, understand our present, and shape a more just and equitable future. We will have wheeled our way through 400 years of history to a modern vineyard for wine and celebrating good friends and shared connections. What truly sets this tour apart? We present a balanced and nuanced account of history, acknowledging the complexities and contradictions that shaped America's identity. We encourage open dialogue and respectful exchange of ideas, fostering a sense of shared understanding and empathy. We prioritize responsible travel practices that minimize our impact on the environment and support local communities. We donate a % of every tour to local conservation groups like Capital Trees, VCU Rice Rivers Center, and the James River Association.