Youre sure to see cool places and learn some amazing things when you take a Williamsburg walking tour. In addition to all the history, this Virginia town is also full of amazing parks, gardens, museums and more. Established in 1985, the DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum should be on the itinerary of any serious antiquer. Williamsburg, VA 23188, Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 6pm; Sun: 12pm - 5pm. One of Busch gardens biggest attractions is its rides, particularly its incredible roller coasters. Breakfast lovers will especially love Culture Caf, since they offer it all-day. Leave your purse in the hotel room. York River State Park is also brimming with opportunities to go boating, kayaking, fishing, and so much more. Le Yaca shows how much good food is in Williamsburg, Virginia. For something a bit more casual, head over to the 1619 Wine Pavilion or the Susan Constant Hall where you can choose from five tasting flight options. It uses art to tell stories that need to be passed down. You mightve heard a lot about this awesome amusement park. Its open every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Williamsburg is also a great multi-generational vacation destination. All Rights Reserved. Why not check out some of the things to do in Virginia Beach& some of the things to do in Charlottesville? THE 10 BEST Hidden Gem Activities in Williamsburg - Tripadvisor Preservation efforts have kept it looking as it did during the Rockefellers residence. 17 Best Day Trips Near Me In Virginia: Must-See Attractions Then, make sure you visit Whitleys Peanut Factory when in Williamsburg. Its amazing when the sun is shining and at night. The galleries of the art museum showcase a variety of paintings, sculptures, and collections of ancient textiles, pottery, painted furniture, souvenirs and decor. Food 2. The museum features classic paintings and prints, and a collection of ancient art and collectables. Youll quickly find that Williamsburg is a great city just for going on a walkthrough. Right down the road from the College of William & Mary, this scenicpark provides a lookout tower and marsh walkway through CollegeCreek. Fun Things to Do. Their beer selection is amazing, and so is the experience of seeing it made. Historic B&B. The museum houses over 5,000 artworks acquired through purchases and general donations. This is a perfect list of things to do in Colonial Williamsburg in April. 6. The sprawling living history museum takes up 301 acres right in the heart of the city, so its best to allot an entire day to exploring Colonial Williamsburg. During this excursion, Drink Williamsburg will take you out to three local alcohol producers so you can drink, tour, and taste their offerings. There are constantly great things happening here. The points of interest and tourist attractions are made even better when viewed or accessed by bike. You can find rare artifacts, vintage jewelry, impressive antique furniture, and several trinkets for sale here. There are also great options for vegans and vegetarians. The beautiful and historic city of Williamsburg in Virginia is also worth visiting on a scenic train trip on the east coast. The Escape Game San Francisco. Spend the better part of a day or weekend here. Williamsburg, Virginia is the perfect place to visit for history buffs. Check out these alternative activities in the same location. Although we didn't take a horse carriage ride or visit the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum, we did . Jamestown Island Drive is a paved figure-eight-shaped trail thats open to cars, bikes, and pedestrians. If yes, dont miss visiting the Williamsburg Antique Mall when holidaying in Williamsburg. This historically-charged region (the Greater Williamsburg area, comprised of Williamsburg, Jamestown and Yorktown) is cool and beautiful in the fall. Learning and entertainment are combined with such quality at this museum. In fact, its the second American college to be established. You can go for a hike or even ride a horse at York River State Park. The property features an exhibition of shrines, pre-Colonial farming equipment, barns and more. In addition to all the history, this town is also full of amazing parks, gardens, museums and more. Also, the museum hosts several musical events, and lectures in their auditorium. Youll also have the chance to check out rotating exhibits. Address:4207, 522 Francis St E, Williamsburg, VA 23185, United States. One of the top things to do near Williamsburg is a trip with Yorktown Sailing Charters. The tree-lighting ceremony is a must-see, and the Governor's Palace is decked out in all its colonial glory. There are lots of impressive things to see at the Governors Palace, and the guided tours will give you plenty of great information. You dont need to have any particular reason to ride the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry. The restaurant also has a very cozy atmosphere. Its simply one of the best activities you can enjoy in Williamsburg. They can answer all your questions with total ease and know how to attend to your needs. The winery offers several different tours to choose from. All kinds of activities can be experienced at Busch Gardens. Indulge in modern romantic attractions such as golfing, shopping, and dining in the Burg, while also making time for spooky specters or visits to the Jamestown Settlement. This is what to see if you want to feel brought into the past. William and Mary is the second oldest University behind Harvard. The James River is one of the biggest points of interest around Williamsburg, and the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry is a great way to experience it. York River State Park. The 12 Best Luxury Hotels in Williamsburg, VA, The 12 Best Hotels in Charlottesville, VA, The 15 Best Things to Do in Charlottesville, Virginia. The Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum is an excellent experience that shows how much the past matters. Whether or not you believe in ghosts, youre bound to get a few chills from these tellings. 8 Cool and Unusual Things to Do in Williamsburg - Atlas Obscura If you are seeking an authentic 18th-century experience, this living history museum has it all. If youre really hungry, head over to The Captain Georges where you can gorge yourself on a full-service seafood buffet. This Williamsburg church was the first in the state to have a cruciform shape. The Kimball Theatre is part of Merchants Square in Colonial Williamsburg. Of course, we cant forget how awesome the candles. Thomas Jefferson's estate is home to hundreds of varieties of historic fruits and vegetables. Oops, this activity is currently unavailable. Shopping can be a great way to relieve stress and have fun. Address:425 Water St, Yorktown, VA 23690, United States. Just strap on your helmet, get on your bike, and enjoy cruising around this historic region. The 15 Best Things to Do in Williamsburg, VA - Wandering Wheatleys Thanks to its massive theme parks, this city is a popular destination for families with kids of all ages. Enjoy dishes that founding fathers once ate at this Colonial Williamsburg pub. You can also explore the rose-studded Colonial Garden, take a horse-drawn carriage ride around the cobblestone streets, and catch a show in the Hennage Auditorium at the Art Museums. With so much history, its no surprise that Williamsburg is a hotbed for paranormal activity. MAP. Youll travel from Victory Center to the entrance of the National Park Service visitor center. Past exhibitions include Edgar Degas: The Private Impressionist and The Human Frame: Prints by Leonard Baskin. Its well worth taking a look at the website to see what fun events are on the calendar during your visit. You can go fishing, canoe down James River, and take your dog for a walk. Pay a visit to the Muscarelle Museum of Art. Busch Gardens Williamsburg is proud to salute the men and women of the United States Armed Forces and their families. has been to 7. AleWerks started in 2006 and has become a true institution in Williamsburg. With centuries of semesters and some truly incredible people who went here, from Thomas Jefferson to Jon Stewart and Glenn Close, the College of William and Mary is a school thats strong in both reputation and results. Address:2110 Jamestown Rd, Williamsburg, VA 23185, United States. all were enjoyable and entertaining. Their waitstaff are true professionals as well. You dont even need any sightseeing plans. Dine like an American revolutionary at Colonial Williamsburg. Bubba's Ice Cream Shack in the Williamsburg General Store. Peanuts here are made in an old-fashioned way and are hand cooked slowly to perfection. Not only does this amazing winery feature some of the best locally-produced wines in the region, they also have an amazing restaurant, spa services, and an inn on property. This is one of the best places near Williamsburg for furthering your American history knowledge. Introductory tours are offered daily. You will enjoy viewing gallery exhibits, films, and reconstructed Colonial houses. Youre going to need a car. The living history museum encompasses a re-creation of the Original James Fort, a Powhatan American town, and replicas of original settler ships. Flying into Richmond VA? You can also get Salted Jumbo Cashews and Honey Cinnamon Almonds. Head to French Twist Boutique for upscale clothes, peruse Danforth for handcrafted metal goods, or pop into Everything Williamsburg for locally-made goods and gifts. . 9 Best Romantic Things to Do in Williamsburg Va Click here to grab 7 Secret Hacks that the owner personally uses to fly her family for 4 for free all over the world! However, learning at the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown is a lot more exciting than just reading a textbook. 2022 2. Explore the museum by walking among the haunting sounds of past residents. Its got so many awesomely weird things to see. You can find here a lovely 360-acre (145.68-hectare) lake to enjoy activities, such as boating, canoeing, fishing, kayaking, and pedal boating. You can up your beer knowledge and enjoy some of the tastiest brews Virginia has to offer. 1. There are also lighter options like veggie burgers, chicken sandwiches, and salads. Theres no cost to ride the ferry either. If you like to enjoy water, fresh air and sunshine all at the same time, you can enjoy a day of family fun getting soaked in the biggest water park in the Mid-Atlantic, Water Country USA. There are plenty of cool things you can find while youre here. Address:Sadler Center, 200 Stadium Dr, Williamsburg, VA 23185, United States. And for that, they needed women. Here are 21 things to do in Williamsburg VA that we know you and your crew will enjoy. . The lush park is set right on the banks of the York River, just 20 minutes from Colonial Williamsburg. Address:1831 Jamestown Rd, Williamsburg, VA 23185, United States. Guests are in for an epic journey on the park's wildest family thrill slide, Colossal Curl. This is one of the top meals you can have in Williamsburg. Wine Tasting Room. From Japanese prints to German Expressionist works and 17th-century American colonial portraits, theres a lot to take in! The Williamsburg Antique Mall is great for both the items and the general experience. In the gardens, you can cruise the Rhine, attend October Fest, see the Colosseum or the Eiffel Tower, explore the Pompei ruins, etc. 10 FUN Things to Do in Williamsburg VA with Kids - Parenthood and Passports Its so much fun to try these different items and dig into all the flavors. The remains of a failed attempt at medieval nerdery are hidden deep in the woods of Virginia. In its heyday, the palace functioned as the social heart of Williamsburg and played host to all sorts of extravagant balls and galas. Pay a visit to the Public Hospital Museum, which is known for being a treatment center in the 18th century, for the mentally ill. A creek doesnt need to have to be viewed as a humble body of water. Get Your Guide offers their Ultimate and Bone-Chilling Ghost Tour, which takes you to 12 of the most haunted sites in downtown Williamsburg. Youll pay a visit to an eerie insane asylum, stroll through the pitch-black hallways of The Public Gaol (Old Jail), explore a 350-year-old cemetery, visit Williamsburgs most haunted house, and stop off at the haunted Governors Palace, where Thomas Jefferson once lived. Outside the home, you can see the beautifully manicured gardens. This is one of the best historical Williamsburg attractions. Reservations must be made in advance by calling 757-566-9633. Its one of the most impactful tourist attractions youll see here. These experiences can give you a healthy scare and help you feel a closer connection to the area and its story. You can satisfy your desires for both adrenaline and relaxation. Required fields are marked *, About | Privacy Policy | Contact The itineraries change depending on the day, but you can expect stops at places like Joker Brewing, The Virginia Beer Company, Williamsburg Winery, and Kombucha Brewery. This amazing park is located near a reservoir that has been open since July 1972. If you are into American Folk Art, then the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum in Colonial Williamsburg is a must-see. Or try Alpengeist if youre feeling especially brave. Once youve worked up an appetite, you can sample hundreds of cheeses at The Cheese Shop, indulge in comfort food at Blue Talon Bistro, or treat yourself to homemade desserts at Blackbird Bakery. You can also see wonderful works from the likes of Pablo Picasso and Lee Krasner, among other greats. However, if you get woozy at the idea of twists, turns, and speeds, there are other fun things you can do. Historic Jamestowne. If making contact with ghosts and spirits is up your alley, going on a ghost tour should be at the top of your Williamsburg bucket list! Kings Arms Tavern opened its doors way back in 1772. A boat ramp, a fishing pier, and seasonal boat rental are available here. The only place for a truly presidential dram. Shop Till You Drop in Merchant Square. For over 33 years, this establishment is known for producing the finest quality Virginia peanuts. And dont miss out on the herb- and fruit-infused meads at Silver Hand Meadery. A trip to Williamsburg is never complete without taking part in the Segway Tour that is facilitated by Patriot Tours Company. "So he can have more historical fun facts to share with friends at game night gatherings." more. 8. It is still a working farm, with crops such as corn, wheat and soybeans. 10 Fun Things to Do in Williamsburg May 2023 | Expedia If so, youll love coming to Yankee Candle Village. Williamsburg, VA Things To Do LIST. Dont worry if your kids are still little Busch Gardens has plenty of toddler-friendly rides too. In addition to ghost tours, they also offer ghost hunts and cemetery tours. During a nice day, theres hardly a better place to be but in their beer garden, sipping some of their finest products. Your decision-making was likely influenced by their looks in some ways. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Williamsburg - Tripadvisor Second Street Bistro is open from Mondays to Thursdays from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays from 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Read on to learn some of the best non-touristy things to do in Williamsburg, Virginia. The palace also housed two of Virginias post-Colonial governors until the capital of the state of Virginia was moved to Richmond in 1780. Kids Birthday Party. Coffee, to me, is like a giant hug in a mug. The park features over 30 miles of hiking trails, with some shorter trails that are great for kids. RiverMango on Twitter: "RT @a_newgarden: 32 Best & Fun Things To Each ferry ride takes about 15 to 20 minutes to cross the charming James River one way. Its incredible to see how much the Rockefellers efforts paid off. Colonial America 3. If you and your significant other need a romantic getaway, this is a great place to go. Many a community program and performances are held here. 5. Theres even a place to dine, known as La Petite Tea Room. The Jamestown Settlement recreates and teaches about this settlement with pointed detail. Come with an open mind, and youll be astounded by how many great things are here. Biking. Grabbing a burger doesnt have to feel like youre comprising on taste and quality, even at a low price. The DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum has a specific focus. Families can enjoy the park's grounds for a picnic, play on the . As fun as it is to drink beer, its even more to do so after youve learned about the manufacturing process. So, enjoy a refreshing ferry ride for free. Address:176 Water Country Pkwy, Williamsburg, VA 23185, United States. Stop by Shields Tavern and where you can sample Colonial favorites, such as Crayfish and Shrimp Stew. This 422-acre theme park boasts a variety of thrill rides, roller coasters, games, performances, and more. Yelp for Business. If you want to go all out or are in town to celebrate a special occasion, you can stay at the winerys luxurious 28-room boutique hotel, Wedmore Place. Scenic driving, interpretive. That could very well be you or your children. The other, original Busch Gardens is in Tampa, Florida, but the Williamsburg location isnt a runner-up by any stretch of the imagination. Located near the Governors Palace, this plantation is a recreation of a Colonial Virginia farmstead. The gardens of enslaved people left a lasting legacy across the American South. 1. This was the former home of John D. Rockefeller and his family when Colonial Williamsburg was being restored. Its one of the best Williamsburg attractions for guests of all ages. Learn about the history of AleWerks, an overview of the brewing process of AleWerks, and visit the Taproom. Fun Things to Do at Night. To get a better idea of the towns role in the American Revolution, start your day at the American Revolution Museum. Experience a Colonial Williamsburg Christmas. Join us for a daily celebration of the worlds most wondrous, unexpected, even strange places. History 2. Williamsburg with Kids: 25 Best Things To Do in Williamsburg, VA 2022. The Williamsburg Premium Outlets let you feel good about your shopping intuition. Theres the Home Stretch IPA, the Saving Daylight Citrus Wheat, and the Elbow Patches Oatmeal Stout.. Unlike most other buildings that have been reconstructed, the Wythe House is mostly original. 12,657. The portions are generous, and the ice cream might have been the creamiest I've . True to its name, this mega water slide will deliver a high-adrenaline, family . Address: AleWerks Brewing Company, 189B Ewell Rd, Williamsburg, VA 23188, Opening hours: Taproom Hours: Mon - Sat: 12pm - 9pm; Sun: 12pm - 8pm. Enjoy this 140-acre outdoor facility on the banks of the beautifulChickahominy River. 8 Best Things to Do in Williamsburg, VA | U.S. News Travel This is the tip of the island that was first glimpsed by colonists in 1607! Colonial Williamsburg. Colonial Williamsburg is a must-visit for anyone who wants to learn more about the history of the United States. Beloved by Edna Lewis, this plum-based favorite deserves a resurgence. Another one of the best places to go shopping in Williamsburg is the Williamsburg Antique Mall. THE 10 BEST Fun Activities & Games in Williamsburg - Tripadvisor However you decide to fill your action-packed days, youll love spending your evenings sampling traditional colonial-style cuisine at a historic tavern and enjoying international eats in the bustling Merchant Square. Address:428 W Duke of Gloucester St, Williamsburg, VA 23185, United States, Second Street American Bistro Williamsburg. Vegans and vegetarians should also be pleased by their quality salad options. You can even bring your pet along, as long as they stay in your vehicle during the trip. You must see this museum if you want to learn about art in Virginia. Touring the DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum is fun and informative. If youre coming to Williamsburg this weekend, you should consider bringing along a bicycle. Its also awesome to visit during the holidays. The fun and thrill of amusement parks mixed with the refreshment of water on a warm day make waterparks like Water Country USA such amazing places to visit. Its one of the best tourist attractions for families who all love a little oddity. Plus, there are always pop-up events going on in Merchant Square. If you have any interest in US history, youll be spoiled for things to do in Williamsburg! 278 Cool and Unusual Things to Do in Virginia - Atlas Obscura Colonial Williamsburg Merchants Square Ticket Office. This is the perfect setup for some spooky stories. They put a lot of work into giving it a homestyle feel. Their small class sizes give this an intimate feel, even with it being a public university. On top of that, the interpreters stage performances pertaining to the Revolutionary War and try to recreate life during the Colonial era. Some of the collections you should expect to see here are British and American antiques, such as furniture, textiles, metals and ceramics. Also, the museum is a laboratory and research center for the college. Make sure to catch a movie at the popular Kimball Theatre when holidaying in Williamsburg. This is a massive complex where hundreds of merchants are selling their retro goods. Unique Restaurants & Bars 2. When you come to the Governors Palace, you can see what high society was like in Williamsburg, back in the day. Be sure to try Mrs. Campbells famous crab cakes, filet beef with crab-stuffed shrimp, and Gloucester chicken! Monticello's Vegetable Garden and Fruitery. Its a must see church, no matter what your beliefs are. English colonists needed alcohol to survive. This is such an exciting and informative city. Fun things to do in Williamsburg, VA, include watching live demonstrations by blacksmiths, silversmiths, and cabinetmakers. Should you feel like immersing yourself further in the sights and sounds of 18th century America, you cant miss visiting the Historic Jamestown Settlement. York River State Park is home to a rare habitat where freshwater and saltwater meet on its grounds. For Virginia wine, youll definitely want to stop off at the award-winning Williamsburg Winery before heading over to Saud Creek Vineyards, where you can sip while taking in views of the Pamunkey River. Virginia's Eastern Shore has rallied around a sweet, centuries-old local delicacy. The winery is owned and operated by the Duffeler family and has been producing award-winning wines since the 1980s. Here you can browse artifacts, exhibitions, and military equipment that will take you back in time. Their collection has pieces going back to the 17th century. Its one of the top things to do in Williamsburg, both for learning about history and seeing art. If youre looking for older but not disposable wares, you should come here. Book a stay at Great Wolf Lodge, and in addition to getting up to 40% off your reservation, for every booking we'll make a $10 donation to DonorsChoose to go to teachers in underserved communities, for up to $100,000 in school supplies. During your tour, a guide will share information about the Colonial, Revolutionary, and Civil War periods. Their Exclusive Tour and Reserve Wine Tasting allows you to sample some of their reserve wines in the wine cellar, and compare them with wines from their vintage library. Head inside the home, and youll have the chance to check out the antique furnishings, period weapons, and regal ballrooms. Hampton Inn & Suites Williamsburg-Central is also close to historic downtown at about a mile. The Williamsburg Winery offers amazing wine and incredible scenery. Throughout the 60- to 90-minute tour, your guide will pepper you with all sorts of fascinating historical facts and recount eyewitness accounts of what happened at each different location. There really is no other American city quite like Williamsburg. This amazing city played a significant role in the American Revolution, and the remnants of that role can still be seen today. Address:410 E Duke of Gloucester St, Williamsburg, VA 23185, United States. Categories Arcades & Amusements; Museums; Movies & Video; Clubs & Nightlife; Cultural Attractions; Lounge; Go-kart Track ( 473 Reviews ) Marcelo Dozzi Nov 30th, 2020. First, there was Patrick Henry and future-President Thomas Jefferson. And thats just scratching the surface of everything on offer along the Williamsburg Tasting Trail! If youre looking for places to visit that show how local products are made, come here. Opus 9 Steakhouse in Williamsburg, Virginia truly does feel like an opus. You may find a sharks tooth if youre lucky, but youre almost guaranteed to come across a Chesapecten Middlesex (an extinct type of scallop). You can also enjoy your wine with a meal at the Gabriel Archer Tavern. 8 Things To Do In . Another excellent place for fun in Williamsburg, Virginia is Busch Gardens. Many guests with the tour say theyve witnessed events they cant explain! Youll have the chance to interact with Continental Army soldiers and learn all about their daily life. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. This museum is open every day of the week from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. And another great spot for families with a pool, complimentary breakfast and suite options. There is something for everyone to experience in Williamsburg. Theres so much entertainment and excellent stuff to do at Busch Gardens. 11. This mall is open from Mondays to Fridays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. As soon as you step in, the scents and visions should bring a smile to your face. These are the best of the best. Public Hospital Museum - Talk to the staff or curator and learn about the unique collections held here. Wonderworks. The heart of the city is Colonial Williamsburg, a living history museum where you can get a glimpse into what life was like in this historic town long ago. Unsubscribe in one click. The excellent museum is located on the College of William & Mary campus, which is a must-see attraction in its own right. Williamsburg is a wonderful and beautiful city with plenty of historical importance. Williamsburg, Virginia is an ideal destination for a family vacation on the east coast of the United States. If this is your first time in the city, Colonial Williamsburg is a must on your Williamsburg sightseeing tour. With a wide variety of stores including Tommy Hilfiger, Aeropostale, and Sperry, you can find a great new outfit at the Williamsburg Premium Outlets. Coming here is something you must do if youre into art. In addition to Colonial Williamsburg, the best things to do in Williamsburg, VA, include riding the coasters at Busch Gardens and cooling off at Water Country USA. Details: 424 W Duke of Gloucester St, Williamsburg, VA 23185 | Website. Click here to compare rental car prices. Theres plenty of outdoorsy fun to be had and things to admire. This is a great place to take your children, who mightve just started learning about American history. Slip your pre-school pilots into a World War I fighter plane ride, or let them take a spin in The Little Gliders. Take a ghost tour in the haunted areas of Williamsburg (from USD 20.0). Check out our favorite books and travel guides! Since its opening in 1933, it has become such a vital part of the local arts scene. Whats more, at the entrance, there is a public hospital exhibition that reenacts the mental illness treatment methods of the 17th century. Places like the Kimball Theatre give citizens something to be proud of, culturally. History-loving partners will cherish the opportunity to dive into the American . Today, patrons are served colonial-style dishes by staff dressed in 18th-century costumes. According to their website, Of the twenty-four Williamsburg Bed & Breakfasts, Newport House is the only one with 18th Century History as its central theme. And check out the real English Dancing events! These are some of the top nuts manufactured in the U.S. Whitleys Peanut Factory is open every day from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Enjoy historically-inspired, local shrimp, scallops, and fish. There are hundreds of exhibits at this museum, including ones you can interact with. Get a meal here as a perfect way to cap off a day full of sightseeing. Yorktown Sailing Charters is open every day of the week from 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Tours are $39 for adults and $27 for children, ages 12 and younger, at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Spanning over 300 acres, the vast outdoor museum houses a variety of reconstructed and restored Colonial-era buildings, historic sites, art museums, gardens, and trades. Take a look around, and youll find a mixture of original and newly-built colonial-style buildings, costumed actors re-enacting scenes from everyday life in the 17th and 18th centuries, and demonstrations by craftspeople. No trip to the city is complete without spending some time exploring Colonial Williamsburg.