Colonial Williamsburg Breakfast Tour: Before & After Restoration

Breakfast at the Williamsburg Inn while learning how a city was rebuilt

A private breakfast tour at the Williamsburg Inn for up to six guests, led by a certified guide with historical photos and a book about Colonial Williamsburg's restoration in the late 1920s and early 1930s. The guide walks you through the hotel grounds, past the Golden Horseshoe Golf courses, and to Duke of Gloucester Street. Most of the 90 minutes is spent seated indoors over breakfast, making it accessible for anyone with mobility concerns or on days with bad weather.

The experience

The Williamsburg Inn, where Queen Elizabeth II and US presidents have stayed, is where your guide meets you for breakfast. You'll sit with photos and stories from either "Williamsburg Before and After" or "Restoring Williamsburg": books that show what the city looked like before the restoration and how it was rebuilt. Your guide explains the people behind it: Reverend W.A.R. Goodwin, John D. Rockefeller Jr., Abby Rockefeller and others who recreated the Colonial Capital of the original 13 Colonies and the birthplace of American independence.

After breakfast, you'll tour some of the hotel grounds, including a look at the Golden Horseshoe Golf courses and the original décor: chandeliers, furniture, and decorations throughout the property. If you want to walk further, your guide will take you to Duke of Gloucester Street, the most historic street in America, which President Franklin Roosevelt singled out by name. The whole experience stays mostly indoors during the meal, so weather or physical limitations don't get in the way.

What’s included

• Certified tour guide knowledgeable about Colonial Williamsburg's restoration.
• one historical book per group (either "Williamsburg Before and After" or "Restoring Williamsburg").
• a walk through the Williamsburg Inn grounds and the Golden Horseshoe Golf courses.
• optional walk to Duke of Gloucester Street.

Before you book

Days and timesTuesday and WednesdayDepartures at 07:30, 08:00 and 09:00

Book up to14h before

AgesAdult (10 and older) · Under 10: can't be booked

GroupPrivate

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.

Prices and times updated yesterday

Good to know

Low physical effortWheelchair accessiblePets welcome

Operated by Best Williamsburg Tours

Is this one for you?At 90 minutes with most of the time spent seated at breakfast, this tour fits easily into a morning or afternoon and leaves the rest of your day open for other Williamsburg attractions or activities.

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Top questions

What book do I get to take home from this tour?

You receive one copy per group of either "Williamsburg Before and After" or "Restoring Williamsburg," both filled with photographs and stories that show the restoration work done in the late 1920s and early 1930s.

Is breakfast included in the price, or do I pay separately?

You pay for your own breakfast, including food, drinks, and gratuities to the hotel staff, at the time you eat.

What is Duke of Gloucester Street, and will I definitely walk there?

Duke of Gloucester Street is the most historic street in America, noted by President Franklin Roosevelt. Your guide will offer to walk you there if you'd like, but it's optional depending on your preference and time.

Can I do this tour if I use a wheelchair or have mobility concerns?

Yes, this tour is designed to be easily accessible, with most of the experience seated indoors during breakfast. All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible, and service animals are allowed.

How many people can join this private tour?

The tour is private to your group only, with a maximum of six guests. There is a minimum of two people to book.