Halloween in Williamsburg VA: Where to Scream, Stay, and Explore in 2025
Haunted sites, civil war battles, and an overflow of colonial ghost stories. Virginia may be for lovers, but Colonial Capital is a haven for pursuers of the paranormal.
Haunted Williamsburg comes alive each October with ghostly legends, eerie inns, and shadows that seem to whisper your name. If you’ve ever wanted to walk through real haunted sites under a full moon, 2025 is your year to do it.
Halloween in Williamsburg VA promises more chills and thrills than ever with new stories, updated tours, and seasonal events for every level of scare-seeker. From colonial ghost stories to eerie echoes of the Civil War, each corner holds secrets that your tour guide can’t wait to share.
A nighttime walking tour through these cobblestone streets might just make a believer out of you. Grab your flashlight and keep reading because the spirits are waiting!
What Makes Haunted Williamsburg the Perfect Halloween Destination?
Haunted Williamsburg sets the stage for a seriously spooky fall, filled with ghost stories, eerie tours, and centuries of haunted history. This charming town turns downright chilling come October, when Williamsburg VA haunted attractions kick into high gear.
You can start your night at the infamous Williamsburg Ghost Tour & Haunted Pub Crawl, where you’ll sip local brews while hearing the juiciest ghost gossip. Each stop is a mix of haunted lore and bar-side banter—basically history class, but with cocktails.
Craving something more theatrical? Head to Busch Gardens Howl-O-Scream, where haunted houses, scream zones, and creepy performers turn a theme park into a horror film set.
Haunted Pub Crawl
The Haunted Pub Crawl is less “organized tour” and more “tipsy time travel with ghosts.” You’ll wander through Williamsburg’s oldest taverns, drink in hand, as your guide spills the haunted tea—no cheesy costumes, just seriously good storytelling.
It’s part history lesson, part bar crawl, and part “wait, did that candle just flicker on its own?” The vibe is relaxed, curious, a little eerie, and honestly kind of hilarious once the second round hits.
You don’t need to be a hardcore ghost believer to have a good time—you just need a sense of humor and a solid pair of shoes. Bonus points if you make it to the end without spilling your beer mid-jump scare.
Busch Gardens Howl-O-Scream
Busch Gardens Howl-O-Scream is what happens when a theme park gets possessed in the best way possible. You’ve got haunted houses tucked into dark corners, scare actors who really commit (like, maybe too much), and coasters that hit different when it’s pitch black and your adrenaline is already tapped out.
The “terror-tories” feel like walking into your nightmares—except there’s kettle corn and people laughing-screaming all around you. It’s chaotic, creepy, and kind of perfect for anyone who wants their Halloween with a side of actual thrill.
Just don’t expect to leave with your voice intact or your dignity unshaken when something jumps out at you holding a chainsaw. It’s called Howl-O-Scream for a reason—so yeah, brace yourself for plenty of screams (yours included).
Great Wolf Lodge Howl-O-Ween
Great Wolf Lodge Howl-O-Ween is Halloween with a sugar high and a swimsuit. The whole place goes all-in from September 25 to October 31, with costume-friendly dance parties, spooky crafts, and more candy than your kids probably need.
It’s all the fun of trick-or-treating, but indoors—with water slides and a mascot named Wiley Wolf cheering you on. The Trick-or-Treat Trail is adorably tame (no jump scares here), and the Boo Bingo and Ghoulish Games are perfect for little ones still working up to haunted houses.
Parents get to kick back with themed cocktails while the kids run wild—because balance. If you’re looking for a Halloween that’s more cozy chaos than full-blown creepy, this is the move.
Williamsburg Campground Halloween Weekends
Williamsburg Campground really leans into the fall fun with its Halloween Weekends, running every Friday from October 3 through October 31, 2025. It’s the kind of place where kids can trick-or-treat through a row of decked-out RVs while parents sip cider and judge the costume contest (unofficially, of course).
The vibe is equal parts cozy and festive, with planned activities that somehow manage to entertain toddlers, teens, and tired adults all at once. Between the jumping pillow, gem mining, and those surprisingly charming yurts, it’s easy to make a whole weekend out of it.
Plus, you’re just minutes from Colonial Williamsburg and Busch Gardens, so you can mix your s’mores with scream zones. It’s basically the choose-your-own-Halloween-adventure of fall getaways.
Where Can You Find Haunted Hotels in Williamsburg VA?
If you’re looking for a thrilling overnight experience, haunted hotels in Williamsburg VA are basically sleepovers with ghosts. These historic inns and lodges have hosted everyone from presidents to poltergeists.
Staying at any of these haunted hotels Williamsburg VA means brushing elbows with colonial spirits and maybe catching some spectral side-eye in the hallway. Some visitors report flickering lights, strange whispers, and that classic cold spot you can’t quite explain.
Whether you’re a seasoned ghost hunter or a curious first-timer, these spooky stays offer the ultimate Halloween sleepover story. Just maybe keep one eye open when you turn off the lights.
Williamsburg Inn
The Williamsburg Inn is renowned for ghostly sightings and mysterious sounds, blending refined accommodations with a storied history that attracts both luxury travelers and paranormal enthusiasts. Guests have reported footsteps echoing through empty halls and sudden chills that come without warning.
Some say a former guest still lingers, unwilling to check out from the afterlife. It’s equal parts Southern charm and spine-tingling intrigue.
Fort Magruder Hotel & Conference Center
The Fort Magruder Hotel & Conference Center sits on land steeped in Civil War history—and it shows. Built atop an actual battlefield, it’s one of the most haunted spots in the area, with guests reporting shadowy figures, phantom footsteps, and doors that open and close on their own.
Some have even heard gunfire and marching at night. If you’re into history with a ghostly twist, this place is basically a paranormal playground.
Brick House Tavern
The Brick House Tavern on Duke of Gloucester Street offers more than colonial aesthetics—it’s rumored to be a hotspot for spectral sightings. Strange noises, flickering lights, and the occasional ghostly figure in 18th-century attire have all been reported.
It’s a favorite for visitors who want their Williamsburg stay with a side of colonial ghost stories. Sleep might be optional, but the history is unforgettable.
Orrell House
The Orrell House is one of those places that feels too quiet… until it isn’t. Guests have reported strange activity in the bathrooms (yep, even ghosts need their privacy), along with sudden drafts and a feeling of being watched.
As a restored colonial home, it offers a cozy, intimate vibe—if you don’t mind the company of lingering spirits. It’s low-key creepy in the best way.
When Is the Best Time to See Fall Foliage in Williamsburg VA?
Fall foliage in Williamsburg VA is the kind of aesthetic explosion that makes you want to live inside a Hallmark movie. The Williamsburg fall foliage season in 2025 is expected to be especially vibrant, with peak color arriving mid to late October through early November.
Golden leaves rain down on Colonial Williamsburg, adding even more charm to the already photo-worthy streets. For leaf peeping with fewer crowds, head to Waller Mill Park, where forested trails wrap around a peaceful reservoir.
Another dreamy option is the Williamsburg Botanical Garden and Freedom Park Arboretum, where fall’s color palette hits max saturation. It’s the kind of scenery that makes you want to wear flannel, sip cider, and pose with a pumpkin.
Which Williamsburg Ghost Tours Are Worth Booking?
Williamsburg Ghost Tours are where historical drama meets pure Halloween vibes. You’ll hear eerie tales of long-lost souls and tragic endings as you walk the same cobblestone paths they once did.
The classic Williamsburg ghost tour is equal parts creepy and educational—because apparently even the afterlife has a syllabus. Try Colonial Ghosts: Williamsburg Ghost Tours if you’re into a more theatrical and spine-tingling experience.
For a traditional touch, The Original Ghost of Williamsburg Candlelight Walking Tour offers flickering lanterns and old-school storytelling charm. Either way, bring your comfy shoes and an open mind—because the spirits might just follow you home.
Where Can You Visit Haunted Locations in Williamsburg?
If you’re brave enough, visit haunted locations around Williamsburg that locals swear are still occupied—just not by the living. These haunted places in Williamsburg come with chilling backstories, lingering spirits, and the kind of energy that makes your skin crawl.
Start at the Peyton Randolph House, known as one of the most haunted homes in America. Then step inside the George Wythe House of George Washington, where ghost sightings and strange occurrences are just part of the tour.
Other haunted houses in the area bring their own eerie flair, each packed with enough ghost lore to keep you up at night. Don’t forget to snap photos—you never know what might appear behind you.
Peyton Randolph House
The most notorious haunted house in town might just be the Peyton Randolph House, built back in 1715. With a tragic tally of around 30 deaths—ranging from war to illness to violent acts—the place feels cursed for a reason.
Legend says the curse may have begun in 1782, when an enslaved woman named Eve was cruelly separated from her son. Visitors have reported everything from eerie singing to unexplained shoves on the second floor, with many hauntings believed to stem from the pain and injustice endured there.
Bruton Parish Church and Graveyard
One of the most quietly unsettling places in Williamsburg is the Bruton Parish Church and Graveyard, a site dating to the 17th century. This resting place of many colonial figures holds centuries of grief, conflict, and final goodbyes.
Guests often speak of ghostly forms in the graveyard and strange sounds echoing through the church. Whether it’s the spirits of parishioners or soldiers, something about this place lingers long after you’ve walked away.
Governor’s Palace
History buffs might be drawn to the grandeur of the Governor’s Palace, but many visitors leave with more than a few goosebumps. Once a Revolutionary War headquarters and later a Civil War hospital, this stately building has seen more than its share of suffering.
Reports include chilling cold spots, unexplained noises, and ghost sightings in the halls. The opulence might be polished, but the energy? Not entirely at peace.
George Wythe House
A lesser-known but deeply creepy stop is the George Wythe House, the former home of George Wythe, a signer of the Declaration of Independence. His death by poisoning gives this house a particularly dark twist.
Guests have shared stories of phantom footsteps, mysterious whispers, and the unmistakable feeling of being watched. The colonial charm doesn’t quite hide the heavy history tucked into the walls.
Public Gaol (Jail)
One of the darkest corners of Colonial Williamsburg is the Public Gaol (Jail), where prisoners once endured cruel and crowded conditions. Known for its brutal past, this jail holds echoes of suffering that many say never left.
Apparitions, moaning sounds, and an overwhelming heaviness have all been reported by both guests and staff. It’s not hard to imagine why—this place was never meant to be comfortable.
What Are the Best Tips for Planning a Halloween Trip to Williamsburg?
Tips for planning include making reservations early to avoid last-minute scares. Be sure to book tours in advance, especially for popular ghost walks and haunted attractions.
Trust us, the spirits aren’t the only ones lining up for these events. Pack smart and dress appropriately for cool evenings, long walks, and maybe even the occasional rain.
And while it’s fun to get spooked, be respectful of the history, the locations, and any lingering residents of the ghostly kind. With the right prep, your haunted getaway will be a scream—in the best way.
What Are The Haunted Williamsburg FAQs?
Can I join a Haunted Pub Crawl in Williamsburg even if I’m not a big drinker?
Yes, the Haunted Pub Crawl in Williamsburg is more about the ghost stories and historic taverns than just the drinks. Guests can enjoy spooky lore and haunted locations while sipping cider or soda at each stop.
Is Busch Gardens Howl-O-Scream too intense for my family?
Busch Gardens Howl-O-Scream ramps up the scares after 6 PM, with haunted houses, “terror-tories,” and night rides not recommended for young children. For families, it’s best to visit earlier in the day before the park transforms into full scream mode.
Will my kids enjoy the Great Wolf Lodge Howl-O-Ween if they’re easily scared?
Yes, Great Wolf Lodge Howl-O-Ween is designed to be festive and kid-friendly with costumes, dance parties, and candy—not jump scares. It’s perfect for younger children who want Halloween fun without the fright.
What should I expect if we book Williamsburg Campground Halloween Weekends?
During Williamsburg Campground Halloween Weekends, families can enjoy costume contests, trick-or-treating, and themed activities every Friday in October. It’s ideal for travelers who love fall camping with a festive twist.
How haunted are the Haunted Hotels in Williamsburg VA, and are they suitable for overnight stays?
Haunted hotels in Williamsburg VA offer a stay steeped in colonial history and chilling lore, with guest reports ranging from cold spots to phantom footsteps. Despite the hauntings, these historic stays are fully functional and surprisingly cozy.
If I stay at the Williamsburg Inn, should I expect to encounter any ghosts?
The Williamsburg Inn is known for elegant hospitality and the occasional ghost sighting or unexplained noise. Some guests report eerie occurrences, especially in the quiet evening hours.
Will I feel safe staying at Fort Magruder Hotel & Conference Center with its haunted reputation?
The Fort Magruder Hotel & Conference Center sits on a Civil War battlefield and has frequent reports of paranormal activity. Guests have experienced flickering lights, voices, and shadows—especially near the older parts of the building.
What kind of paranormal activity happens at the Brick House Tavern?
The Brick House Tavern is known for colonial charm and ghostly legends, including moving objects and unexplained footsteps. Visitors say nighttime stays often include the sounds of invisible guests moving about.
Is the Orrell House a good fit if I want a more low-key haunted hotel experience?
Yes, the Orrell House is a cozy colonial home with reported hauntings mostly confined to quiet moments and bathroom oddities. It’s perfect for travelers who want a softer brush with the paranormal.
When should I plan my trip to catch the best Fall Foliage in Williamsburg VA?
Fall foliage in Williamsburg VA reaches its peak from mid-October through early November. Top spots like Colonial Williamsburg and Freedom Park offer stunning photo ops during this vibrant season.
Are Williamsburg Ghost Tours more theatrical or historically accurate?
Williamsburg Ghost Tours strike a perfect balance between colonial history and eerie storytelling. Guides share well-researched tales in candlelit settings for an immersive and informative experience.
If I want to visit haunted locations, where should I start in Williamsburg?
To visit haunted locations in Williamsburg, begin with iconic sites like Peyton Randolph House and the Public Gaol. These historic places are known for intense energy, ghost sightings, and centuries-old mystery.
What makes the Peyton Randolph House such a famous haunted site?
The Peyton Randolph House has seen multiple deaths, a possible curse, and unexplained physical encounters like shoves and knocks. It’s often considered the most haunted house in all of Williamsburg.
Is it really true that Bruton Parish Church and Graveyard are haunted?
Yes, the Bruton Parish Church and Graveyard have centuries of burial history and reports of ghostly figures and eerie sounds. The graveyard especially has an unsettling quietness that many describe as haunted.
Could I encounter ghosts at the Governor’s Palace during my visit?
The Governor’s Palace has been a site of war, death, and recovery, making it a hotspot for paranormal reports. Visitors frequently note cold spots, apparitions, and an overwhelming sense of past unrest.
Is the Wythe House haunted, or just historically significant?
The Wythe House is both a historic landmark and a reported paranormal site, linked to George Wythe’s suspicious poisoning. Guests mention feelings of unease, shadowy figures, and unexplained noises.
Is the Public Gaol (Jail) open to visitors, and is it really haunted?
Yes, the Public Gaol (Jail) is open to visitors and is notorious for its oppressive, haunted atmosphere. Many have reported whispers, moans, and shadowy shapes tied to its dark history of colonial imprisonment.
What are the most important Tips for Planning a Halloween trip to Williamsburg?
Top tips for planning include booking your ghost tours and hotels early, especially during October weekends. Dress for cool nights, wear comfy shoes, and always be respectful at haunted and historic sites.
How can I get the best deals on Halloween Haunted Williamsburg hotel packages for my trip?
Booking Halloween Haunted Williamsburg hotel packages through Tripster can save travelers up to 51% on lodging bundled with top attractions. These deals are perfect for fall trips near Water Country USA, Busch Gardens, or Colonial Williamsburg—and they help stretch your budget without cutting the fun.
What’s included in the Halloween Haunted Williamsburg vacation packages, and will it actually save me money?
With Halloween Haunted Williamsburg vacation packages, guests can bundle tickets to two attractions and save up to 46%. These combo deals are ideal for visitors who want to mix thrill rides with colonial experiences—without juggling separate bookings.
Are There Any Halloween Haunted Williamsburg Hotel Packages?
Yes, if you’re heading to Haunted Williamsburg this fall, Tripster has Halloween Haunted Williamsburg worth howling over. You can snag up to 51% off with the Water Country USA + Hotel Package, making a splashy getaway totally affordable.
For thrill-seekers, the Busch Gardens Williamsburg Hotels Package offers 42% off and pairs perfectly with a night of haunted house hopping. History buffs can step back in time (and maybe meet a few ghosts) with the Colonial Williamsburg Vacation Package, currently 11% off.
These bundles are ideal whether you’re planning a family weekend, a friends’ trip, or just need a festive fall reset. One booking, major savings, and no stress—it’s the easiest way to haunt Williamsburg in style.
What Halloween Haunted Williamsburg Vacation Packages Are Available?
Tripster offers Halloween Haunted Williamsburg vacation packages that bundle tickets to two attractions, with up to 46% off, giving you more bang for your broomstick. These bundles are ideal for making the most of a long weekend without overthinking every detail.
Just choose your experiences, lock in your deal, and let Tripster do the heavy lifting. It’s a no-brainer for anyone wanting maximum fun with minimal effort.
Busch Gardens & Water Country USA Vacation Package
Save up to 46% with the Busch Gardens & Water Country USA Vacation Package and enjoy double the thrills for less. Book now to maximize your Halloween trip with heart-pounding rides and splashy fun—without drowning your budget.
Colonial Williamsburg & Busch Gardens Combo Tickets
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Busch Gardens Williamsburg VA + Historic Triangle Combo
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So, What’s My Next Move?
Haunted Williamsburg is calling, and there’s no better time than now to plan your autumn escape. From ghost tours to haunted hotels, Halloween in Williamsburg VA delivers a season full of chills, charm, and unforgettable memories.
Make the most of your trip by booking your hotel and attraction tickets through Tripster—so you can skip the stress and get straight to the fun. Don’t forget to check for vacation packages to maximize your Halloween adventure without maxing out your budget.
With so many events, tours, and local haunts to explore, having your itinerary in place means you won’t miss a single scream. Time to lock it in and get spooky!
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