The Original Ghosts of Williamsburg Tour

If you’re considering a nighttime stroll through Colonial Williamsburg with a spooky twist, the Original Ghosts of Williamsburg Tour might just be your next adventure. Priced at $20 per person and lasting about an hour and a half, this walking tour promises a blend of history, legends, and ghost stories—all told under flickering candlelight. It’s a popular choice among visitors, with nearly 600 reviews praising its storytelling and atmosphere.

What we love about this tour is the engaging guides who keep the stories lively and accessible for all ages, and the authentic historic setting, which makes each tale feel more vivid. However, some might find the ghost stories somewhat lighter on thrill and more family-friendly than spine-chilling. This tour is ideal for history buffs, families, or anyone curious about the supernatural side of Williamsburg, especially those who appreciate storytelling with a good dose of local lore.

Key Points

• Authentic storytelling from guides with decades of experience
• Family-friendly atmosphere suitable for all ages
• Candlelit walk enhances the eerie ambiance
• Historic streets reveal a lesser-known side of Williamsburg
• Great value for the price, with detailed tales and engaging narratives
• Limited walking difficulty but not recommended for those with walking problems

A Walk Through Colonial Williamsburg’s Haunted Side

The Original Ghosts of Williamsburg Tour offers a different perspective on this beloved historic town. While most visitors focus on the colonial buildings and museums during daytime visits, this tour draws you into the shadows of Williamsburg’s streets after sunset. It’s essential to understand that this isn’t a scare-your-socks-off kind of ghost tour—think of it more as a curated collection of local legends, curious happenings, and stories passed down through generations.

Starting at 8:00 pm at 345 W Duke of Gloucester St, the tour sets the scene for an atmospheric walk. You’ll follow a licensed or certified guide, who is a Virginia’s #1 and oldest ghost tour storyteller with 35 years of experience. The route is carefully designed to stay within the historic district, with all tours ending back at the starting point, making logistics simple. The entire experience takes around 90 minutes, during which you’ll explore parts of Williamsburg most travelers don’t venture into alone.

The Itinerary: What to Expect on Each Stop

Williamsburg

The tour begins in the heart of colonial Williamsburg, where the guide introduces the night’s journey. Expect to walk through cobblestone streets, illuminated only by candlelight, which really does add a spooky glow to the atmosphere. This initial segment is about setting the mood and sharing some of the lesser-known stories that don’t often make it into mainstream guides.

Stories and Legends

Our favorite part is the storytelling style—performed as true stories and passed-down legends, making each tale feel personal and authentic. Some reviews highlight that the guide’s engaging narration keeps the group interested and entertained, regardless of age. One reviewer mentioned how they captured ghost photos during the tour, adding a fun, interactive element.

Less-Known Hidden Gems

The tour takes you to parts of Williamsburg that most travelers would avoid at night. These spots are not just for ghost stories but also give a fresh look at the historic streets and buildings, “bringing to life” a side of Williamsburg you might not see during the day. One reviewer praised the “beautiful walk around Colonial Williamsburg” combined with “fascinating stories,” highlighting how the tour balances sightseeing with storytelling.

Candlelight Atmosphere

The candlelit setting offers a romantic yet eerie vibe, making the walk feel more immersive. Since the tour is primarily walking, comfortable footwear is recommended, but the pace is gentle enough for most visitors. If you have mobility issues or walking problems, keep in mind it might be less suitable.

Guides and Their Role

The success of this tour heavily relies on the guide’s storytelling ability. Many reviews praise guides like Rick, Ben, Kenny, and Rich for their engaging manner, factual knowledge, and occasional humor. Several reviews mention how the guides make the stories lively and accessible, even for those who don’t usually believe in ghosts. One review noted that guide Rick sometimes had difficulty with his accent, but overall, his storytelling was engaging.

A great guide can turn a simple walk into a memorable experience, and many reviewers highlight individual guides as the highlight of their evening. The maximum group size of 33 ensures everyone can participate and hear the tales.

The Value for Money

At $20 for about 90 minutes, this tour offers good value, especially when you consider the quality of storytelling, the historic ambiance, and the unique experience. It’s likely to be a highlight for those interested in local legends or seeking a different view of Williamsburg after dark.

While some reviews note minor issues—like difficulty hearing in some spots or a few stories that felt incomplete—the overall consensus is positive. The tour balances entertainment, education, and fun, making it suitable for families, couples, and groups of friends.

Practical Details and Tips for Participants

• Meeting point is at the historic district’s main street, easy to find.
• The experience is all outdoors, so dress warmly if visiting in cooler months.
• The tour starts promptly at 8:00 pm; arriving a few minutes early helps.
• Gratuities are not included, so consider tipping your guide for a job well done.
• Service animals are allowed, though it’s best to check if your pet is comfortable on a walk.
• The tour is not recommended for those with walking problems or mobility issues.
• Since the tour is in a historic district, some surfaces may be uneven or cobblestone.

What the Reviews Say

The overall rating stands at 4.4 out of 5, based on nearly 600 reviews. Many praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning walk through Williamsburg’s streets. One reviewer said, “Rick was entertaining and knowledgeable,” while another appreciated the “beautiful walk around Colonial Williamsburg” with “fascinating stories.”

However, a few reviews mention minor frustrations, such as difficulty hearing the guide or stories that felt a bit thin on substance. For example, one reviewer felt the stories were not very exciting and suggested that the tour could have more material to thrill the audience. Still, the majority find the experience engaging and worth the cost.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This ghost tour is especially well-suited for families with children, who will appreciate the family-friendly stories and gentle pace. It also appeals to history enthusiasts interested in a spooky, atmospheric perspective on Williamsburg. If you’re looking for a romantic or atmospheric night walk with eerie tales, this tour hits the mark.

Those who prefer super intense, spine-tingling ghost stories might find this tour’s tone lighter than expected, but for most, the combination of history, storytelling, and candlelight makes for a memorable evening.

The Sum Up

The Original Ghosts of Williamsburg Tour offers a relaxed, engaging way to see a different side of this historic town. The stories told under flickering candlelight blend local legends with the charm of Williamsburg’s streets, creating an experience that’s both educational and entertaining. With knowledgeable guides and a balanced mix of history and ghost tales, it provides good value for the price.

This tour is a fantastic choice for families, history lovers, and those curious about the supernatural. If you’re after an easy, atmospheric evening that doesn’t take itself too seriously, it’s hard to go wrong. Just remember to bring a warm jacket and an open mind—ghosts or not, you’ll leave with a new appreciation for Williamsburg’s mysterious side.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly and suitable for all ages, thanks to its engaging storytelling style and family-oriented legends.

How long does the tour last?
The walking tour takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, including time for storytelling and walking between stops.

Where do I meet the tour?
The tour begins at 345 W Duke of Gloucester St in Williamsburg. The meeting point is easy to find within the historic district.

Are the guides licensed or certified?
Yes, the guides are licensed or certified, with some having decades of experience in storytelling and guiding.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly and comfortably, especially in cooler months, since the tour is outdoors and involves walking.

Can service animals participate?
Yes, service animals are permitted on the tour.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to rain or other poor conditions, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

This detailed review aims to help you decide whether the Original Ghosts of Williamsburg Tour fits your interests and expectations. Whether you’re a history buff, a family on a spooky adventure, or just looking for something different to do after dark, this guided walk offers a simple yet immersive experience into Williamsburg’s haunted past.