People enjoying a ghost tour led by candlelight.

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Haunted History: Get to Know the Williamsburg Ghost Tour Scene

The history of Virginia is filled with stories of ghosts, witches and other paranormal activity. In fact, there are so many ghost stories in Williamsburg that the city has multiple ghost tours! Learn about America’s past while getting an eerie thrill at the same time.

It doesn’t have to be Halloween to enjoy thrilling ghost stories. If you’re looking for something fun to do with friends or family, consider taking one of these haunted ghost tours around Williamsburg!

What’s So Great About a Williamsburg Ghost Tour?

A ghost tour in Williamsburg, Virginia, is not just about ghosts. The storytellers who lead the tours share some true stories and tales, creating a captivating and immersive experience while visiting haunted sites. It’s also about the people who lived in Colonial Williamsburg since just before the 18th century, those who died in Colonial Williamsburg, Civil War stories and so much more. Typically done at night, see places you might not visit by day, possibly seeing orbs or actual colonial ghost sightings!

The Original Ghost Tour

Touting itself as the second oldest ghost tour in the United States, The Original Ghost Tour is the oldest of its kind in Williamsburg. During this walking tour (which is appropriate for all ages), rain or shine, enthusiasts of this walking ghost tour are led around by candlelight, learning hidden secrets about Colonial Williamsburg. Other tours are available, as well, including Yorktown battlefields and holiday-themed adventures. Tickets are only sold online though the website, and costs range depending upon the type of tour.

Bruton Parish Church

Built in 1683, Bruton Parish Church is the oldest building in Williamsburg. At one point during the Civil War, it was a hospital then later a mass burial site for confederate soldiers from the Battle of Williamsburg. Reverend Jones, a reverend of the church, and his wife are buried there. While his wife was on her deathbed, Jones declared he could never be with another woman – but then three months after Mrs. Jones’ death, her husband remarried. Legend has it that locals can hear and see the first Mrs. Jones, crying and roaming the graveyard.

The Governor’s Palace

Another hospital site, but this time utilized during the Battle of Yorktown, the Governor’s Palace was originally built in 1710 and was known for its over-the-top parties. It burned to the ground in 1781, and during reconstruction in the late 1930’s, it was discovered that the area also served as burial grounds for soldiers. A tradition for College of William and Mary students is going through a winding hedge maze – at night – after jumping the wall. Since that route is not favored by the security guards, you can purchase tickets, and go sightseeing with a tour guide around the grounds.

George Wythe House

Named for the country’s first law professor at William and Mary University (who was also mentor to Thomas Jefferson), the George Wythe House has a haunted history with its one-time resident, Ann Skipwith. Slamming doors to cold hands on guests’ foreheads from Wythe himself have been reported over the years.

Williamsburg West Tour

This ghost tour is based on ghost pictures. Guides point out where images were captured inside a haunted house on a tour, which starts at the Cheese Shop in Merchants Square and ends at the Peyton Randolph House – the most haunted building in Williamsburg. Tour participants are given options of where the tour can go, so each adventure is truly unique.

Merchants Square

One of the most popular spots for paranormal activity is Merchants Square. This is the oldest public square in America and was at one time called Blood Alley, due to gruesome events throughout history.

Kimball Theater

This place is haunted by two Civil War soldiers, brothers who fought against each other.

Duke of Gloucester Street

Legend has it that you can still see George Washington’s ghost walking the street, usually around midnight.

Extreme Ghost Tour

Another ghost tour led by the Original Ghost Tour group, the Extreme Ghost Tour is for those seeking the thrill of ghost hunting. During this two-hour tour, you can use paranormal investigation equipment while learning about the types of experiments used when ghost hunting. If you have your own equipment, you’re encouraged to bring your own!

Jamestown Settlement

Jamestown Settlement is a living history museum that recreates life in 1607 when Europeans first arrived at Virginia Beach (now known as Jamestown). You can learn about what life was like back then while exploring this village full of period buildings – or even take part in some reenactments yourself! While you’re going along the various tours, learn about ghosts and local folklore.

Relax Williamsburg is Your (Ghost) Tour Resource

Find out for yourself why Williamsburg is one of the spookiest places in the country by taking one of the nation’s best ghost tours! With great stories and knowledgeable tour guides, you won’t regret the experience of a ghost tour of Williamsburg. The only thing left to do is pack your flashlight and prepare for a night filled with adventure and history.

Book now so you don’t miss out on all this city has to offer. Don’t forget to check out Relax Williamsburg for places to stay and other activities during your stay!