If you’re visiting Williamsburg and are curious about the spooky stories lurking behind the historic facades, this Colonial Ghosts tour by US Ghost Adventures might just be the highlight of your evening. It’s a walk through the shadows of America’s past, filled with ghostly tales, chilling energy, and a good dose of history—perfect for those who love a mix of the eerie and educational.
What really drew us in are two things: first, the experienced guides who weave credible stories that aren’t just made-up ghost tales; second, the way the tour explores some of Williamsburg’s most iconic sites, blending history with ghostly whispers. But, it’s worth mentioning that if you’re sensitive to walking or have trouble hearing, you might want to consider the time of day or bring a flashlight and patience.
One thing to keep in mind is that this tour isn’t highly physical—it’s a walking adventure, but not suitable for those with mobility issues. Overall, it’s a great pick for history buffs, ghost story enthusiasts, or anyone looking to add a spooky twist to their Williamsburg visit.
Key Points
- Authentic storytelling from seasoned guides with credible historical research
- Short duration of 1 to 1.5 hours makes it easy to fit into your evening plans
- Visiting iconic sites like the Peyton Randolph House and Governor’s Palace adds a historic touch
- Spooky tales include stories of Civil War surgeons, poisonings, and haunted homes
- Cost-effective at $26 per person, offering good value for a mix of history and ghost stories
- Accessibility note: tour is wheelchair accessible but not suitable for those with mobility issues
An In-Depth Look at the Williamsburg Ghost Tour
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What to Expect from the Tour
When you arrive at 424 Duke of Gloucester Street, you’ll find your guide, easily identifiable by a US Ghost Adventures t-shirt and a lantern, ready to lead you through the night. The meeting point is right in Merchant’s Square, close enough to feel like you’re stepping into a different world when the sun sets.
The tour lasts roughly 60 minutes, sometimes stretching to 90 minutes, depending on the group and the stories told. It’s designed to be an evening activity that combines fun storytelling with a touch of spine-tingling suspense. Expect to walk through Colonial Williamsburg’s cobblestone streets, historic squares, and past some of its most famous buildings.
The Historic and Haunted Stops
Each stop on the tour is carefully curated for its spooky significance and historical importance. Here’s what you’ll likely learn about:
- The Peyton Randolph House: Known as one of the most haunted homes in Williamsburg, this blood-red house is believed to harbor evil energy. The guide will share chilling stories and first-hand accounts that make this stop especially memorable. As one reviewer noted, standing in its “blood-red glow” is an experience you won’t forget.
- Governor’s Palace & Hedge Maze Ghost: Here, your group might search for the elusive Hedge Maze Ghost, adding an interactive element to the spooky tales. It’s a setting that feels authentic and atmospheric, perfect for storytelling.
- Market Square & Civil War Stories: The tour reveals darker stories tied to the Civil War era, including tales of a sadistic surgeon and war-related betrayals. These stories add context and depth to Williamsburg’s haunted reputation.
- Poisonings and Crimes: A highlight for history buffs is learning about a signer of the Declaration of Independence poisoned by his grandnephew—an intriguing story that blends true crime with history.
Guides and Storytelling
The guides, like “Patrick,” “Austin,” “Robert,” and “William Penn,” are praised for their knowledge and entertaining delivery. Several reviews emphasize how they bring the stories to life, making the history both credible and captivating. One reviewer mentioned, “Austin did a great job telling us about the history of the area. He made the tour hauntingly exciting.”
This means you’re not just hearing ghost stories, but also gaining a better understanding of Williamsburg’s past—sometimes unsettling, sometimes fascinating. The storytelling is lively, and the guides are keen to keep the group engaged.
More Great Tours NearbyAtmosphere and Experience
The atmosphere is what makes this tour special. Walking through Williamsburg at night, with historic buildings casting long shadows, creates a perfect setting for ghost stories. You’ll traverse cobblestone streets, historic open spaces, and alleys that seem to hold centuries of secrets.
While most people felt the tour was well-paced and atmospheric, a few found it a little hard to hear the guide at times. One reviewer suggested an earlier evening slot might have been noisier, which could make the stories harder to catch. Arriving 15 minutes early to settle in and possibly bringing a small flashlight can mitigate these issues.
Value for Money
At $26 per person, the tour offers excellent value—combining history, storytelling, and a spooky experience into a compact, walkable package. Many reviewers felt they received a lot for the price, especially considering the knowledgeable guides and the authentic stories shared.
Since the tour is well-researched and credible, it’s more than just ghost stories; it’s an educational experience with a spooky twist. Plus, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for those with mobility needs.
Practical Details & Tips
- Duration: 1 to 1.5 hours, making it easy to slot into an evening
- Meeting Point: Statue of Thomas Jefferson in Merchant’s Square, easily accessible
- Weather: Runs rain or shine, so dress weather-appropriate and wear comfortable shoes
- What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, maybe a flashlight if you want to see your footing better
- Not allowed: Smoking, alcohol, and video recording—stick to this to respect the atmosphere and other guests
- Accessibility: Cheaper for some, but not suited for those with significant mobility impairments
The Booking and Cancellation
You can reserve your spot with the flexibility to pay later. Cancellations are possible up to 24 hours in advance, which is helpful if your plans shift. This ease of booking makes it less stressful to decide on a spooky night out.
Authentic Voices from Past Participants
Many who’ve taken this tour praise the guides’ storytelling abilities, with one saying, “William Penn was great!!” Another loved the mix of history and ghost stories, commenting, “It was a great experience learning the history.” Others appreciated the authenticity, noting that the stories are well-researched and credible, not just fabricated ghost tales.
A few reviews pointed out minor hiccups, like difficulty hearing the guide or conflicting stories from staff at some sites. These are good considerations—if you’re a light sleeper or easily distracted, you might want to choose a quieter night or arrive earlier to settle in.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is ideal for anyone interested in history combined with ghost stories. It’s especially suited for adults or older teens who enjoy walking tours and spooky atmospheres. If you appreciate a good storyteller and are curious about Williamsburg’s darker side, this tour will satisfy that craving.
It’s not perfect for those with mobility issues—though accessible, walking is involved, and some might find it taxing. Also, if you’re super sensitive to loud noises or need complete silence, the group setting might be a bit challenging.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a fun, slightly spooky way to explore Williamsburg after dark, the Colonial Ghosts tour offers a memorable mix of history and ghostly tales. For a reasonable price, you’ll encounter authentic stories, get to walk through historic sites, and enjoy the company of guides who know their stuff.
While it’s not a haunted house or a theatrical production, the atmosphere, storytelling, and historic context make it a genuinely enjoyable experience. It’s perfect for those who enjoy learning about the past while feeling a little thrill in the night air.
For history enthusiasts, ghost lovers, or anyone interested in Williamsburg’s mysterious side, this tour deserves a spot on your evening plans.
Colonial Ghosts: Ghostly Whispers of Williamsburg Ghost Tour
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s generally geared towards older audiences due to its spooky stories and walking nature. Younger children might find it a bit intense or scary.
How long does the tour last?
Typically around 60 minutes, but some tours might run up to 90 minutes depending on the group and stories.
Where do I meet the guide?
At the statue of Thomas Jefferson on the bench in Merchant’s Square, between the Precious Gem Jewelry Store and Kimball Theater.
Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible, though it involves walking through historic streets.
What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing since you’ll be outside walking.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Does the tour run rain or shine?
Yes, it does, so prepare accordingly.
What’s included in the price?
A 60-minute guided tour with authentic stories and credible history.
Is transportation included?
No, transportation isn’t included. You’ll need to get there on your own.
If you’re ready for a night of history, mystery, and ghostly tales in Williamsburg, this tour might just be the perfect spooky addition to your trip.
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