Exclusive Private Tour of the Jamestown Settlement

In-Depth Private Tour of Jamestown Settlement in Williamsburg

This private guided tour of Jamestown Settlement offers an immersive experience into the origins of America’s oldest permanent English colony. Priced at $165 per person, the tour lasts approximately 3 to 3 hours 40 minutes and is designed solely for your family or group, ensuring a personalized experience. It includes pickup and a mobile ticket, making logistics straightforward and stress-free.

What sets this tour apart is its comprehensive approach: you’ll explore replicas of the ships from 1607, walk through re-created Native American Paspahegh Town, and experience the Jamestown fort of 1610-14. The guides are highly praised for their knowledge and friendly manner, making history lively and accessible, especially for those interested in detailed, authentic reconstructions. The tour also offers an optional visit to Historic Jamestowne—the actual archaeological site—with an extra fee, giving a deeper connection to this historic location.

While the tour is flexible enough to accommodate handicapped visitors—with wheelchairs and scooters available—it requires prior notice for accessible arrangements. The 3-4 hour duration makes it a manageable yet thorough exploration, perfect for individuals who want both depth and convenience during their Williamsburg visit.

Key Points

• Exclusive private experience with only your family or group
• Includes replicas of the ships Godspeed and Discovery from 1607
• Visits to Paspahegh Native American Town and Jamestown fort reconstructions
• Optional upgrade to explore the actual Historic Jamestowne site and Fort
• Highly praised guides, like Bambi and Dave, for their warmth and expertise
• Accessible options available, with prior notice for mobility aids

The Unique Focus on Jamestown’s Ships and Native American Replicas

The tour begins at Jamestown Settlement, where you encounter detailed replicas of the ships that arrived in 1607. The Godspeed and Discovery ships are central exhibits, with the Susan Constant replica available in the museum because her original is under repair. Visitors get a close look at the tween deck of the Discovery, which once held about 54 passengers.

This stop also features life-size recreations of Paspahegh Native American Town and the Jamestown fort as it appeared between 1610 and 1614. The museum exhibits and introduction film add context, making the past more tangible. After exploring these reconstructions, there’s usually a lunch break, allowing time to reflect on the sights and sounds of early American history.

Exploring the Jamestown Fort and Native American Village

The recreated Jamestown fort provides a vivid picture of settler life during the early 1600s. Visitors see 17th-century homes, fort walls, and artifacts that bring the settlement’s daily life into focus. The Native American Paspahegh Town offers insights into indigenous life alongside the colonists’ story, making it clear how intertwined these histories are.

For those who choose the additional fee for the Historic Jamestowne extension, an NPS guide leads a private tour through the archaeological site. This includes views of the James River, the Tercentennial Monument (standing 104 feet tall since 1907), and the evidence of the original Jamestown fort. The NPS emphasizes safety and accessibility, providing wheelchairs if needed, as long as prior notice is given.

The Jamestown Glasshouse Experience

An optional visit to the Jamestown Glasshouse offers a look into early American glass blowing—the first experimental trade of its kind in America. The 10-minute demonstration showcases glass blowing techniques and allows visitors to purchase Jamestown glass souvenirs from the gift shop, adding a creative twist to the day’s historical immersion.

Practical Details: Logistics, Accessibility, and Comfort

This private tour departs from Jamestown Settlement in Williamsburg, with pickup included. The air-conditioned vehicle and bottled water make the journey comfortable, especially during warmer months. The tour’s 3 to 4-hour length balances depth with ease, making it suitable for most ages and activity levels.

For accessibility, wheelchairs and scooters are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Travelers are advised to notify the guide in advance to ensure arrangements. The tour is tailored to meet various needs, including options for Spanish-speaking guides with prior notice.

Why This Tour Stands Out in Williamsburg

What makes this Exclusive Private Tour particularly appealing is its personalized approach. The guides—like Bambi and Dave—are noted for their friendly demeanor and detailed knowledge. They help make complex historical details accessible and keep the tour engaging, especially for families or groups seeking a flexible, private experience.

The access to the actual archaeological site of Historic Jamestowne adds a layer of authenticity that few other tours can match, although it’s optional and costs extra. The replica ships are a highlight, offering a tangible connection to the 1607 voyage. The combination of museum exhibits, reconstructions, and optional site visits creates a well-rounded picture of early colonial life.

Final Thoughts on the Jamestown Private Tour

This private tour of Jamestown offers an engaging and detailed experience for those interested in early American history. The personalized service and expert guides make it a memorable journey into the past. It’s especially suited for families, history enthusiasts, or anyone who appreciates in-depth storytelling.

The $165 per person price includes many highlights and optional extras, with free cancellation if plans change. The tour’s flexibility and accessibility options make it a practical choice for a wide range of visitors. While the focus is on the recreations and artifacts, the optional visit to Historic Jamestowne provides a compelling extension for those wanting to see the actual archaeological site.

This tour balances rich content, expert narration, and convenience, making it an excellent way to experience one of America’s foundational sites.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour’s length and engaging reconstructions make it suitable for most ages, especially with flexible pacing and accessibility options.

Can I visit the actual Jamestown archaeological site?
Yes, for an additional fee, you can add a private tour of Historic Jamestowne, including the Visitor Center and view of the fort.

Are guides available in Spanish?
Yes, Spanish-speaking guides are available with prior notice, allowing non-English speakers to enjoy the tour fully.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as the tour involves walking through reconstructed sites and possibly uneven terrain. Bottled water and snacks are provided, but you might also bring extra refreshments.

Is the tour accessible for mobility-impaired visitors?
Yes, wheelchairs and scooters are available, but prior notice is required to ensure arrangements are made.