Tours in 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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Death in Williamsburg Tour Join us for a unique experience as we explore the darker side of Williamsburg's history. This walking tour will take you on a journey to experience the history of death, murder, burials, and epidemics that took place right here in Williamsburg! Tour Highlights: - Learn about the deaths and burials of Pocahontas and her father. - Hear the chilling story of the Colonial Parkway Killer. - Bring to light the secrets hidden beneath Williamsburg's parking lots. - Discover what happens to convicted pirates in Williamsburg! - Explore a family cemetery hidden in plain site! - Uncover the mysterious death of a founding father! Don't miss out on this one-of-a-kind adventure that will leave you with a new perspective on Williamsburg's history. Grab your friends and family and get ready for a night you won't soon forget! Please note: - This is NOT specifically a ghost tour it is a history tour about death & murder - We DO NOT enter any of the buildings on tour.

Journey into the heart of 18th-century America with our immersive Three-Hour Colonial Williamsburg History Walking Tour. As you stroll the cobbled streets of this meticulously preserved colonial capital, your expert guide will bring history to life with stories of revolution, daily life, and transformation. Explore the buildings that capture the spirit of a young nation on the brink of independence. Enter the elegant halls of the Governor’s Palace, seat of British authority—and later, revolutionary resistance. Walk the creaking floors of the Capitol Building, where debates that shaped the birth of democracy echoed through its chambers. Along the way, you’ll visit blacksmiths, printers, apothecaries, and wigmakers—living history tradespeople who carry on colonial craftsmanship. Each stop unveils another layer of the complex, fascinating world of 1700s Virginia. Perfect for history lovers, families, or curious travelers, this tour offers a vivid, interactive experience.

Independence from Mother England was not a foregone conclusion as we've been taught. Many questioned what American Independence would mean. For the colony of Virginia, it was a very difficult decision. During this one-hour walking tour discover how and why the men of the House of Burgesses finally decided to declare independence for Virginia and how their decision influenced the Continental Congress in Philadelphia. 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.

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.

Join the Night Watchman for a chilling evening walk through the city’s shadowy past. Led by a professional guide, this 90-minute tour uncovers real tales of crime, punishment, and restless spirits. Wander historic streets and hear eerie stories that bring the dark side of history to life. Perfect for fans of true crime, ghost stories, and immersive storytelling.

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

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

Colonial Williamsburg is often times associated with the Revolutionary War era,, but the old capital city is home to many civil war related sites as well. On May 5, 1862, approximately 70,000 union and confederate soldiers clashed at the Battle of Williamsburg. Remnants of that bloody struggle linger to this day. A nighttime stroll along Duke of Gloucester Street will reveal headquarters, Barracks, arsenal’s, hospitals, morgues and some say even Ghosts!

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.

Not all women were high-born ladies… many worked long and hard to survive. This walking tour will open your eyes to pieces of the past. Women were fully one half of the story, and you will learn about their roles as business owners and consumers. Over more than 325 years, the buildings in Williamsburg have had many lives and multiple uses, as social and political history was made both inside and out, shaping the community we know today.