The Murder Tour and Pub Crawl

If you’re exploring Williamsburg and looking for something a little different from the usual historic tours, the Murder Tour and Pub Crawl might catch your eye. This experience is billed as Williamsburg’s first and only tour focused entirely on murder stories—no ghosts, just real crimes from the city’s darker past. It combines walking through historic streets with visits to some of the area’s favorite watering holes, making for a fun, slightly macabre evening that blends history, storytelling, and drinks.

What we really like about this tour is how it keeps things engaging. The knowledgeable guides add a layer of authenticity and fun, and the selection of local bars helps you relax in-between the stories. Plus, the evening timing makes it a perfect plan after a day of sightseeing, setting a cozy, intriguing mood. However, it’s worth mentioning that some reviews point out the walking can be a bit more than expected, and the number of murder stories might seem lighter than anticipated for some.

This tour is best suited for those with a curiosity about local crime and history, who enjoy a social atmosphere, and don’t mind a little walk. If you’re after ghost stories or a more traditional historic tour, you might want to look elsewhere. But if a mix of true crimes, good drinks, and a lively group sounds appealing, this could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Focus on real murder stories in Williamsburg’s history, not ghostly tales
• Includes three drinks at carefully chosen local pubs
• Guided walking tour through historic and atmospheric streets
• Approximately 3 hours long, perfect for an evening adventure
• Private tour experience for your group only
• Price point around $48, offering a combination of drinks, stories, and sightseeing

What to Expect from the Murder Tour and Pub Crawl

Let’s break down what this experience looks like, step by step. Knowing what’s involved can help you decide if it’s right for your group’s vibe.

Meeting Point and Duration

You’ll start at 110 S Henry St in Williamsburg at 7 p.m., a spot conveniently near public transportation. The tour lasts around three hours, making it a manageable evening event. It ends right back at the starting point, so no worries about complicated logistics—just show up ready for an intriguing night.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Precarious Beer Project

The night kicks off at the Precarious Beer Project, where you’ll enjoy your first drink. This is a relaxed opening, giving everyone a chance to gather, chat, and get into the mood. The admission is free, but you get to pick your beverage—probably a craft beer or something special from their selection.

Stop 2: Williamsburg Winery Tasting Room and Wine Bar

Next, you’ll stroll over to the Williamsburg Winery Tasting Room. Here, you’ll sip a glass of wine while soaking in the historic surroundings. The tasting room provides a cozy atmosphere, perfect for discussing what you’ve just heard and gearing up for the next story.

Stop 3: The Hound’s Tale

For your third stop, it’s time to visit The Hound’s Tale in Merchants Square. Again, you’ll have the chance to enjoy a drink, perhaps a specialty cocktail or local brew, and continue the conversation about Williamsburg’s darker tales.

The Walking Part

The guided walk between stops is about 1 hour 30 minutes, during which your guide shares true stories of crimes and murders that took place in Williamsburg’s long history. It’s a chance to see the city’s quiet, historic streets at night, adding an atmospheric layer to the tales. Reviewers mention that the walking can be more extensive than expected, so comfortable shoes are a must. Some guests noted that the pace is leisurely, but if walking long distances is a concern, this is worth considering.

The Storytelling and Atmosphere

The stories focus on Williamsburg’s notorious crimes, painting a vivid picture of a city that harbors more than just pretty colonial buildings. The tone is serious but engaging, aiming to entertain and educate without crossing into ghoulish territory. One reviewer praised the guide Randy for being “awesome,” highlighting that a knowledgeable and charismatic guide can make a huge difference in how enjoyable the experience is.

Drinks and Atmosphere

Having three included drinks at local pubs is a major plus. The establishments are highly rated, and the drinks are generally well received. This makes the tour feel more like a social night out than a stiff history lecture. As one reviewer put it, “The drinks were good, and it was nice to take some breaks in between to chat with the group.”

The Value of the Experience

At $48 per person, this tour offers a mix of storytelling, drinks, and a chance to see Williamsburg in a different light. The fact that it’s a private experience for your group means it can feel more intimate and tailored. The inclusion of three drinks adds a lot of value, especially for those who enjoy sampling local beverages and socializing.

However, some travelers, like Jim B, felt that the tour was “more walking than expected” and only covered “three murders,” which might seem light for the price. The tour’s focus on true crime stories combined with visits to nice bars makes it appealing, but if you’re expecting a deep-dive into dozens of cases, you might be slightly disappointed.

How It Compares to Other Tours

The reviews mention that other tours in Williamsburg might be more interesting or less costly, especially if you’re looking for a broader history experience. But for a unique mix of crime stories and relaxed pub stops, this tour hits a sweet spot.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adventurous adults who enjoy true crime stories, social drinking, and walking through historic streets. If you’re in Williamsburg for a weekend and want an evening activity that’s a little out of the ordinary, it’s a good pick. Those looking for ghost tales or extremely detailed crime histories may find it a bit light on content, but the lively atmosphere and good drinks compensate.

Travelers with mobility concerns should note that the walking might be more than anticipated, based on some reviews. Also, since the tour is non-refundable, make sure your group is solid and prepared for the time commitment.

Final Thoughts

The Murder Tour and Pub Crawl in Williamsburg offers a fun, engaging evening for those curious about the city’s darker past. It’s a casual, social experience—more about storytelling and drinks than intense crime analysis. The guides seem to make a real difference, and the selection of local pubs adds a genuine flavor to the night.

If you enjoy true stories, a relaxed pace, and a good drink, this tour could be a highlight of your trip. It’s not perfect for everyone, especially if you’re expecting a comprehensive crime history or aren’t comfortable walking longer distances, but for many, it provides a memorable, slightly spooky evening.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is designed for adults, given the theme of murder stories and alcohol consumption. It’s not geared toward children or families.

How many drinks are included?
You will enjoy three drinks during the tour, chosen from the bars and pubs along the route.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about three hours, starting at 7 p.m. and ending back at the meeting point.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 110 S Henry St and finishes at the same spot, making it easy to plan your evening.

Can I join this tour if I have mobility issues?
The tour involves walking between stops, which might be more than expected, so consider your mobility before booking.

What is the price and what do I get?
For $48, you get a guided walk through Williamsburg, three drinks, and the stories shared by a knowledgeable guide. The private nature of the tour means you won’t be in a large group, which adds a personal touch.

If you’re game for a fun, spooky, social evening with a side of history and local beverages, this tour offers a lively way to explore Williamsburg’s darker side. It’s ideal for curious adults, especially those who appreciate storytelling and good company.