Looking for the best Colonial Williamsburg ghost tour? I’ve got you!
A quick guide into choosing the best ghost tour in Williamsburg that’s right for you, from someone who’s spent a lot of time in the area!
I’m a Virginia native and I studied at William and Mary, the main college in Williamsburg. I’ve spent many nights walking along the cobblestoned streets, and I can tell you – there’s definitely something spooky about Williamsburg at night!
Let’s dive right into it – what’s the best ghost tour in Colonial Williamsburg, and how do you choose the right one?
Short on time?
When picking the best Colonial Williamsburg ghost tour, check the tour duration, group size, time of day, weather, accessibility, age suitability, price, and cancellation policy. Don’t forget to look into special themes, what to bring, and, most importantly, read those reviews and ratings!
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Best Colonial Williamsburg Ghost Tour
As far as I’m concerned this is THE ONLY ghost tour you should consider in Williamsburg. It’s the only tour that’s received consistently good reviews, and if you book the extended version for $5 more, you can tour exclusive haunted buildings on the William & Mary campus.
The tour is also super affordable, interactive, and you really feel taken care of by your tour guide. They’re very accommodating to all ages and accessibility levels too, and the tour doesn’t feel forced or staged (unlike some other Williamsburg ghost tours that lean heavily into the acting side).
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11 Things To Know When Booking a Ghost Tour in Colonial Williamsburg
Let’s dive right into it! No matter what type of tour you choose, these are 11 great tips to help you make the most out of your experience.
1. Tour Duration
Most of the tours I’ve seen last around 60 to 90 minutes. If you’re like me and prefer not to be out for too long, look for tours closer to the 60-minute mark.
Some tours offer extended versions, but if you’ve got little ones or people in your group who might get restless, I’d recommend sticking with the shorter ones. It’s always a good idea to double-check the duration before booking so you know what you’re getting into!
2. Group Size
This is something I didn’t think much of at first, but the size of the group can really impact your tour experience. Colonial Williamsburg ghost tours can vary from intimate groups of about 10 people to larger ones with 30 or more.
I’ve been on both, and if you ask me, the smaller tours feel more personal and engaging. If you’re able, I recommend looking for a tour with fewer people so you can hear the guide more clearly and have a more immersive, custom experience.
3. Time of Day
Most tours kick off around sunset or after dark to really amplify the spooky vibes. That said, if you’re not a fan of late-night activities or would rather not roam around in the dark, some tours offer daytime options too. Just check ahead if that’s more your speed.
There are definitely perks to daytime ghost tours – it’s less chilly, you still get a chance to learn about the town’s haunted history, and you’ll probably have an easier time falling asleep!
But personally, I think the tours that start after sunset are the best. Especially if you’re hoping to snap a photo of a ghost!
4. Weather Forecast
One thing I didn’t realize before booking my ghost tour was how much the weather can affect your experience, especially since tours run rain or shine!
Williamsburg gets a fair amount of rain, particularly between May and September, so it’s definitely worth checking the forecast before you go. If there’s any chance of rain, I’d suggest bringing an umbrella or a jacket just in case.
Honestly, a misty, overcast night can make the whole experience feel even spookier, so a little rain might actually work in your favor. Just be prepared for it!
5. Accessibility
Colonial Williamsburg has a lot of old cobblestone streets, which can be beautiful but also pretty uneven and tricky to navigate, especially if you’re dealing with limited mobility, or people in your group have limited mobility.
Some tours are designed to be more accessible, so if anyone in your group uses a wheelchair or has difficulty walking long distances, be sure to double-check with the tour operator.
Thankfully, there are options out there that accommodate all kinds of needs, and many of them are family-friendly as well, making them a great choice for everyone in your group!
6. Age Appropriateness
When I was looking up different ghost tours, trying to find the best one, I quickly realized that not all tours are created equal when it comes to spookiness.
Some are more family-friendly with just a few spooky stories, while others are definitely aimed at adult thrill-seekers who are looking for a serious scare.
If you’re bringing younger kids along, it’s definitely worth checking the age recommendations for the tour beforehand. You don’t want to scare the little ones out of their wits!
And if you’re someone who’s looking for a good balance of history and a bit of creepy stories, you’re going to have a great time on the tour I recommended earlier in this post. A lot of people report that they like this tour because it balances spookiness with historical information – it makes for a fascinating tour! seeing apparitions or getting ghostly photos during their tours. So, make sure your camera is charged and ready!
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7. Check the Reviews and Ratings
I always like to do a little research before committing to something like a ghost tour, and reading reviews is one of the best ways to get a sense of what you’re in for. Sites like TripAdvisor, Viator, and Yelp are goldmines for honest feedback from people who have actually taken the tour.
I’d suggest looking for tours that consistently get high ratings and glowing reviews—especially ones that mention how engaging the guide was. Real experiences from past participants can tell you a lot about what to expect and whether a tour is worth your time (and money).
8. Cost
When I was booking this tour, I was surprised by the variety of price points. Ghost tours in Colonial Williamsburg can cost anywhere from $10 to $25 to $30 per person, depending on the length and type of tour.
That’s why I was shocked at how affordable my favorite Williamsburg ghost tour is! The quality of the tour is just as good (if not better) than a lot of tours going for $30 or $35.
But the nice thing is that some tours offer discounts for kids, seniors, or large groups. It’s always a good idea to compare prices across different tours before you book, just to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
9. Cancellation Policy
I’ve learned the hard way that you should always check the cancellation policy before booking anything, and ghost tours are no exception. Some tours offer full refunds if you cancel within a certain timeframe, while others have a strict “no refunds” policy, which can be a bit nerve-wracking if you’re not 100% sure about your plans.
To avoid any surprises, I recommend reviewing the tour’s cancellation terms before you book, just so you know what to expect in case your plans change. You can also contact them beforehand!
10. What to Bring
Comfortable walking shoes are a must, especially with all the cobblestone streets in Colonial Williamsburg.
A flashlight can also be really helpful for navigating darker areas, especially if your tour is after dark. And yes, I’m talking about handheld flashlight (since your phone will probably be busy taking photos!).
And of course, if you’re hoping to capture any supernatural moments, don’t forget your camera! No worries if you don’t have a fancy camera on hand – on some tours, like the one I’ve done myself and highly recommend, you can ask your tour guides to help you take photos at night so you can get some great shots on your phone.
11. Special Themes and Events
One of the coolest things about these ghost tours is that some of them have special themes, especially around Halloween. If you’re visiting during the spooky season, you might find tours that feature costumed guides, live actors, and even a stop at a haunted house.
These extra touches can really elevate the experience and make it even more immersive. If you’re hoping to catch one of these themed tours, I’d recommend checking the tour’s website or calling ahead to see if there are any special events lined up during your visit!
Where To Stay Nearby
There are lots of places to stay in Colonial Williamsburg, and it can be hard to choose a hotel that’s right for you. Here are some of the most charming and unique accommodations near Colonial Williamsburg.
📍Budget Option: Holiday Inn Express Williamsburg Busch Gardens Area, an IHG Hotel
Depending on the time of year you’re booking, prices range from $90-$120/night. This is one of my favorite places to stay in Williamsburg.
It’s about 2 miles from Colonial Williamsburg, located in a nice quiet area surrounded by trees. The hotel is clean and well-kept, with free parking and free breakfast. Also, kids stay free!
📍Mid-Range Option: Williamsburg Woodlands Hotel & Suites
This accommodation is an official Colonial Williamsburg Hotel and is a short walking distance from the colonial city! It has spacious rooms, which range from $143-$179/night.
Parking is extremely easy (and free). It’s family-friendly, and kids will enjoy the splash park!
📍Luxury Option: The Williamsburg Inn
The Williamsburg Inn is the only Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star rated resort in the Historic Triangle. It has seen many famous visitors, including Queen Elizabeth II, Winston Churchill, and Henry Ford.
The hotel is beautifully maintained and oozes luxury, so if you choose to spend the extra money & stay here, you definitely won’t regret it!
FAQs
Some frequently asked questions about Colonial Williamsburg ghost tours and historic Williamsburg!
How long is the Ghost Tour in Williamsburg?
The Ghost Tour in Williamsburg typically lasts around 60-90 minutes, giving you plenty of time to immerse yourself in the spooky stories and haunted landmarks of Colonial Williamsburg.
Can you walk through Colonial Williamsburg at night?
Yes, you can walk through Colonial Williamsburg at night. The area is pretty safe at night, and the dimly lit streets and historic buildings take on a new, spooky meaning as you embark on a historic ghost tour.
How long do you need to tour Colonial Williamsburg?
To fully appreciate Colonial Williamsburg and its rich history, plan to spend at least a full day exploring its museums, reenactments, and colonial-era architecture. If you want to explore everything at a more leisurely pace, a two-day visit should give you enough time to visit the historic sites.
What is the most haunted house in Williamsburg, VA?
The Peyton Randolph House is the most haunted house in Williamsburg, VA. With numerous reports of ghostly encounters and unexplained phenomena, it’s a must-visit for paranormal enthusiasts and history buffs.
Conclusion
Taking a Colonial Williamsburg ghost tour is one of the best things to do in Williamsburg and choosing the right one doesn’t have to be complicated. The key is to think about what excites you the most. Are you into spine-chilling ghost stories, or do you prefer tours that mix in some rich history and tales of the real people who once lived in this haunted town?
Before you book, take a few minutes to check out reviews (locals’ recommendations are always a goldmine!). With so many different tours available, you’ll find one that matches your vibe—whether you want a chilling experience or a more laid-back, history-filled walk. And, of course, don’t forget those comfy shoes—you’re going to want to be ready for whatever creepy adventure comes your way!
Happy Travels!
About the Author
Sasha is the founder of Little Happy Travels, a blog with tips and inspiration for combining work + travel and living the digital nomad lifestyle. As a business coach and remote worker, she’s spent the last few years traveling the world while helping others do the same. Follow for guides, tips, and personal stories on working from anywhere!
