Exclusive Private Colonial Williamsburg Walking Tour by a Local

Williamsburg , United States

Exclusive Private Colonial Williamsburg Walking Tour by a Local

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(28 reviews)

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About this experience

Let's go back in time together!
Join your licensed guide on this fun, engaging walking tour of Colonial Williamsburg.
See the major historic sights, learn how our democracy began here, and walk in the footsteps of our Founding Fathers – and maybe bump into them!
Discover the special places only a local knows, like delightful gardens, where they hide the sheep, and favorite spots for 18th-century cookies.
Starting at The Williamsburg Inn, you'll view the Capitol, stroll by trades and shops, and see horse-drawn carriages on your way to the Governor’s Palace. Our walk ends at Merchants Square where you can shop or grab a bite.
Our guests are saying:
“We rank Cyndi in the top 2% of professional guides we’ve experienced.” “She knows her history and shows a lot of enthusiasm for it.” “She was a pleasure to be with.”
This tour can be designed to focus on your interests. It will give you an insightful overview of Colonial Williamsburg and help make the most of your time here.

Available options

Exclusive Private Colonial Williamsburg Walking Tour by a Local

What's included

Private Tour of Colonial Williamsburg

Official Map of Colonial Williamsburg

Detailed itinerary

Your licensed guide will meet you at the elegant Williamsburg Inn, 136 E. Francis Street, and escort you back in time to the 18th-century.
As we walk up Duke of Gloucester Street we will enter a different, slower-paced town. We will learn why the Colonists decided to break off from Great Britain.
We will experience the sights, sounds, and scents of the 1700s, when Virginia was the largest and wealthiest colony in British America.

We will immerse ourselves in the 18th century as we walk up Duke of Gloucester Street, "the most historic street in America."
We will stop to view the Capitol Building, where our Founding Fathers debated British taxation and finally proposed independence.
Along the way we will pass by busy trades, merchant shops, and taverns.
And maybe even visit the dark jail cells and shackles of the Public Gaol (Jail) where Blackbeard's pirates were imprisoned.

Walking down Duke of Gloucester Street, we will talk about Virginia's role in declaring our independence and chat about Colonial life here in the capital city.
We will see costumed interpreters and observe the busy shops, working trades, and taverns for hungry travelers where our Fouding Fathers debated independence.
We will stop by the Courthouse where we'll share the punishments doled out to convicted criminals and perhaps take a photo with your feet in the "stocks."

On our way to the magnificent Governor's Palace, we'll pass by horse-drawn carriages, perhaps encounter a patriot, and walk up Palace Green to see the mansion that showcased the wealth and power of the British empire.

We will conclude our tour in charming Merchants Square, with its 40 quaint shops including gift shops, clothing stores like Talbot's and Scotland House, and award-winning restaurants, from fine dining to casual spots.
You may want to grab a bite or go souvenir shopping. Your guide will let you know their favorite spots!

What's not included

Gratuities

Bottled water

Does not include Admission Ticket to Colonial Williamsburg

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

13 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

15 reviews

5★

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Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

This is a private tour, for your group only

This is a 1.5 mile walking tour

Walking is on uneven surfaces, on paved roads, brick sidewalks, large cobblestones, shell pathways, and grassy areas

Colonial Williamsburg's historic area is a lot larger, with a lot more walking than visitors may expect. For those with difficulty walking, please consider renting an electric scooter. We can help put you in touch with a good local scooter rental company, to help improve your enjoyment of the beautiful historic area.

Not recommended for travelers who have difficulty walking. We are happy to help you rent an electric scooter so you will have an enjoyable experience.

Meeting point

We will meet in the Lobby at The Williamsburg Inn, 136 Francis St. (off Colonial St.), Williamsburg, VA 23185. Your guide will be wearing a tour guide badge.

About Williamsburg

Williamsburg, Virginia, is a historic city that brings the American Revolution to life. It is home to Colonial Williamsburg, the world's largest living history museum, where visitors can experience 18th-century life firsthand. The city is also part of the Historic Triangle, along with Jamestown and Yorktown, offering a rich tapestry of American history.

Top Attractions

Colonial Williamsburg

The world's largest living history museum, Colonial Williamsburg, brings the 18th century to life. Visitors can explore historic buildings, interact with costumed interpreters, and experience the daily life of colonial America.

Historical Full day Moderate/Expensive

Jamestown Settlement

A short drive from Williamsburg, the Jamestown Settlement offers a fascinating look at the first permanent English settlement in America. Visitors can explore re-created ships, a Powhatan Indian village, and a colonial fort.

Historical Half day Moderate

Yorktown Battlefield

The Yorktown Battlefield is where the American Revolution effectively ended with the surrender of British General Cornwallis. Visitors can explore the historic battlefield, visit the Yorktown Victory Monument, and learn about the pivotal role Yorktown played in American history.

Historical Half day Free/Moderate

Bush Gardens Williamsburg

Bush Gardens Williamsburg is a popular theme park featuring thrilling roller coasters, live entertainment, and beautifully landscaped gardens. The park is known for its European-themed areas and seasonal events.

Entertainment Full day Moderate/Expensive

College of William & Mary

Founded in 1693, the College of William & Mary is the second-oldest institution of higher education in the United States. The historic campus features beautiful architecture, scenic gardens, and the famous Wren Building.

Historical Half day Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Peanut Soup

A creamy and savory soup made with peanuts, vegetables, and sometimes chicken or other meats. It's a classic Southern dish with colonial roots.

Soup Contains peanuts, can be made vegetarian or vegan

Fried Green Tomatoes

Sliced unripe green tomatoes, coated in cornmeal and fried until crispy. Served with various dipping sauces, such as remoulade or spicy mayo.

Appetizer Vegetarian, can be made gluten-free

Ham Biscuits

A popular Southern snack consisting of a flaky biscuit filled with slices of Virginia ham. It's a quick and delicious bite, often enjoyed for breakfast or as an afternoon snack.

Snack Contains meat, can be made with gluten-free biscuits

Popular Activities

Hiking Kayaking Zip-lining Spa treatments Wine tasting Scenic walks Museum visits Live theater

Best Time to Visit

April to October

This is the best time to visit Williamsburg for pleasant weather and outdoor activities. The historic sites are fully operational, and various festivals and events take place.

15-32°C 60-90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish
English: Widely spoken

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

GMT-5 (Eastern Standard Time, EST) or GMT-4 (Eastern Daylight Time, EDT)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Williamsburg is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, visitors should still take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid carrying large amounts of cash
• Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night

Getting there

By air

Richmond International Airport • 80 km (50 miles)
Norfolk International Airport • 90 km (56 miles)

By train

Williamsburg Station

By bus

Greyhound Bus Station in Williamsburg

Getting around

Public transport

WAT provides affordable and convenient public transportation with multiple routes serving the city and nearby attractions.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Historic Area Merchants Square Williamsburg Village

Day trips

Jamestown and Yorktown

10-20 km (6-12 miles) • Full day

Jamestown and Yorktown are two of the most important historic sites in the United States, marking the beginning and end of the American Revolution. Visitors can explore the historic sites, museums, and battlefields that bring these pivotal moments in history to life.

Richmond

80 km (50 miles) • Full day

Richmond, the capital of Virginia, is a vibrant city with a rich history and a thriving arts and culture scene. Visitors can explore historic sites, museums, and galleries, as well as enjoy the city's diverse dining and shopping options.

Chesapeake Bay

50-100 km (30-60 miles) • Full day

Chesapeake Bay is the largest estuary in the United States, offering a variety of outdoor activities and scenic views. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, kayaking, and wildlife watching, as well as exploring the charming towns and villages along the bay.

Festivals

Virginia Wine Expo • April Yorktown Day • October 19 Grand Illumination • December

Pro tips

Visit Colonial Williamsburg early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more immersive experience
Purchase tickets for popular attractions, such as Colonial Williamsburg and Busch Gardens, in advance to save money and skip the lines
Take advantage of free shuttles and public transportation to get around the city and nearby attractions
Explore the city's historic sites and museums on foot or by bike to fully appreciate their beauty and significance
Try local specialties, such as peanut soup, fried green tomatoes, and ham biscuits, at historic taverns and restaurants