Williamsburg, Virginia: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Ever wondered why Williamsburg, Virginia is so special? It's not just its rich history or exciting adventures. This city is a mix of the past with today's fun. Williamsburg has tons to offer, from exploring history to trying delicious food. Let's dive into the best of Williamsburg.

Key Takeaways

• Williamsburg, Virginia is a destination that seamlessly blends its colonial past with modern attractions.
• Visitors can explore the living history of Colonial Williamsburg and Historic Jamestowne, as well as enjoy the thrills of Busch Gardens Williamsburg.
• The region's culinary scene ranges from legendary sandwiches to fine dining with a historic touch.
• Williamsburg's cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, and unique experiences offer something for every traveler.
• The city's prime location within the Historic Triangle allows for easy day trips to nearby destinations like Virginia Beach and the Yorktown Battlefield.

So, what's the big deal about Williamsburg, Virginia? Let’s find out by checking out the top picks for your visit to this historic and exciting city.

Immerse Yourself in Colonial History

Colonial Williamsburg shines as the top spot in Williamsburg. It's a living-history museum where you can travel back to 18th-century colonial America. Walk through the historic district to see actors in period dress. They show the way of life back then, from craftsmen working to leaders in government.

Colonial Williamsburg: A Living History Museum

Experience colonial life with all your senses at this living-history museum. The buildings and streets have been carefully restored. Duke of Gloucester Street, the Wren Building, and the Capitol all take you back in time. In 1934, President Franklin Roosevelt called Duke of Gloucester Street "the most historic in all of America."

Explore Duke of Gloucester Street

Stroll down Duke of Gloucester Street, known for its 18th-century architecture. Everywhere you look, you'll find colonial buildings, shops, and more. The street is full of history, connecting you deeply with Williamsburg's past.

Historic Jamestowne: Witness the Nation's Beginnings

Close by is Historic Jamestowne, where you'll see how the country started. You can look at old remains and learn about the first English settlement in the Americas. See the early settlers' hard work up close and understand the start of the United States better.

Outdoor Adventures and Family Fun

Williamsburg is a top spot for families and thrill-seekers. It's filled with exciting outdoor things to do. Busch Gardens Williamsburg is known around the globe for its rides and coasters. It offers a fun peek into different parts of the world.

Just an hour away from Williamsburg, Go Ape Tree Top Adventures is waiting for you. It has zip lines, Tarzan swings, and tough obstacle courses through the trees.

Closer to the city, Freedom Park shines with miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horse riding. It's home to the Williamsburg Botanical Garden too. This is the perfect place to see all kinds of flora and fauna the area has to offer.

Williamsburg's outdoors makes it a great choice for families. It's got something for everyone, no matter your age. So, why not go and have an adventure in Williamsburg?

Culinary Delights and Colonial Taverns

Williamsburg's food blends old charm with new taste. The Cheese Shop stands out for their famous sandwiches and special dressing. Nearby, Fat Canary serves high-end, local meals in a place reflecting Williamsburg's history.

Visitors can dine as if in the 18th century at places like the King's Arms Tavern. Here, they enjoy historic dishes loved by American heroes.

Williamsburg, Virginia: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Williamsburg, Virginia, is a place with a lot to offer. It's great for everyone, no matter their age or what they like. You can see living history in Colonial Williamsburg. Or, explore the archaeological wonders at Historic Jamestowne. For those seeking adventure, Busch Gardens Williamsburg is thrilling. And if you love to learn, the American Revolution Museum has great exhibits.

This area also has amazing art at places like the Governor's Palace and DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum. You can also learn a lot about the past at the Yorktown Battlefield and the Jamestown Settlement. The rich culture and the well-known College of William and Mary make Williamsburg even more interesting. It's truly a top destination.

Cultural Attractions and Museums

Williamsburg's museums are both fun and educational for everyone. The Ripley's Believe It or Not! Museum and 4D Theater showcase unique exhibits. You can see anything from shrunken heads to two-headed creatures there.

The Virginia Living Museum is where you can see Virginia's wildlife up close. It has more than 250 animal species. You'll also find a Dinosaur Discovery Trail with real-size replicas. For a look into colonial life, visit the Archaearium at Historic Jamestowne. It shows how life was for the first British settlers. This hands-on museum teaches you about their challenges and hard work.

Ripley's Believe It or Not! Museum & 4D Theater

At the Ripley's Believe It or Not! Museum, you'll see strange and unbelievable things. This museum is full of oddities like shrunken heads and two-headed animals. The 4D Theater is also there for a unique show experience. It makes you feel part of the film action.

Virginia Living Museum: Explore Local Wildlife

The Virginia Living Museum is your chance to explore Virginia's wildlife. It showcases over 250 animal species. You can see river otters and bald eagles up close. The Dinosaur Discovery Trail offers encounters with life-like dinosaur models, making history come alive.

The Archaearium: Uncovering Colonial Life

The Archaearium at Historic Jamestowne offers insight into colonial life. It shares the stories of the first settlers through artifacts and exhibits. Learn about their hardships and the beginnings of our nation. It's a place to understand and appreciate their strength and contributions.

Scenic Drives and Outdoor Recreation

Williamsburg area is ideal for those who love to see nature. You can take the Colonial Parkway, a 23-mile road through history. It links Williamsburg to Jamestown and Yorktown. The drive shows off beautiful landscapes.

Colonial Parkway: A Historic Scenic Drive

Cruising the Colonial Parkway lets you see stunning nature. You'll see the York and James Rivers, lush forests, and historic sites. This drive is both educational and beautiful, showing what has drawn people for years.

James City County Marina: Water Adventures

Looking for fun on the water? Visit the James City County Marina. Here, you can rent a kayak or take a boat tour. You'll see wildlife and enjoy the peaceful river and its wetlands.

York River State Park: Hiking and Fishing

Nature lovers can visit York River State Park. It has over 25 miles of trails for hiking and plenty of fishing spots. You can see forests, bluffs, and wildlife here. It's a great place to see the local plants and animals.

Shopping and Entertainment

Williamsburg is special for its mix of old and new shopping and fun. Merchants Square is right next to where history comes alive. It has all kinds of stores, from old-timey gift shops to big brands. And for those who love shows and music, the Kimball Theatre isn't far. It's been around since 1933 and has all sorts of live plays, music, and movie nights.

Merchants Square: Colonial-Era Shops and Boutiques

Taking a walk in Merchants Square means stepping back in time. You can find everything here, from the traditional to the modern. It's a great place to shop and see how Williamsburg mixes past and present in a unique way.

The Kimball Theatre: Live Performances and Movies

The Kimball Theatre is all about live shows and movies that make you think. It has been here since 1933, offering unforgettable stage performances and music. Plus, you can catch some great films. It's a spot that blends fun with learning for everyone who visits.

Unique Experiences and Hidden Gems

In Williamsburg, there's more than famous sites to see. Unique experiences and hidden gems wait for those who seek adventure. Visit Fox Wire Farm to join a herd of over 100 Huacaya alpacas or find the President Heads, a field with giant busts of U.S. presidents. These off-the-path finds make the city rich with new discoveries.

Fox Wire Farm: Meet Alpacas and Farm Animals

Just outside Williamsburg, Fox Wire Farm spreads over 200 acres. It's home to many animals, including Huacaya alpacas. You can meet these soft and friendly creatures and see other farm animals too.

This experience lets you connect with nature and learn about farm life.

President Heads: Giant Busts in a Field

Discover the President Heads in Williamsburg. It's a field with big busts of U.S. presidents. This unique artwork by David Adickes is perfect for a distinctive photo memory.

Ghosts of Williamsburg Candlelight Tour

As night falls in Williamsburg, ghosts stories come alive. Experience this with the Ghosts of Williamsburg Candlelight Tour. It's a spooky walk that shares the city's creepy past.

You might even catch a glimpse of a ghost. This tour is perfect for anyone interested in the city's paranormal history.

Day Trips and Nearby Attractions

Williamsburg is in the heart of Virginia's Historic Triangle. It's easy to check out nearby attractions or take day trips. Places like Virginia Beach are just an hour and a half away. Here, you can enjoy the boardwalk, beach activities, and a lively coastal vibe.

Virginia Beach: Coastal Getaway

Virginia Beach is perfect for a day out. You can walk along the boardwalk, sunbathe on the beaches, and eat freshly caught seafood. It offers fun for families, water sports, and live shows, adding a different vibe to your trip.

Jamestown Settlement and American Revolution Museum

Both a short ride from Williamsburg, they dive into early American history. At Jamestown, you'll see how the first English people lived in America. The American Revolution Museum shows how the Revolution grew and the important people involved.

Yorktown Battlefield: Revolutionary War History

The Yorktown Battlefield is nearby and significant to American history. Here, the last big battle of the American Revolution happened. Visiting offers a chance to understand the fight for freedom our country went through.

Conclusion

Williamsburg, Virginia, mixes its rich past with modern life. It offers a variety of activities and attractions. From Colonial Williamsburg's living history to the Historic Jamestowne's archaeological finds, there's much to see.

But, that's not all. Busch Gardens Williamsburg has thrilling rides. The American Revolution Museum shows educational exhibits. The city is filled with world-class museums, historic sites, and the respected College of William and Mary.

Are you into food, scenery, or hidden gems? Williamsburg has it all. From Colonial Parkway's beautiful drives to the President Heads and Ghosts of Williamsburg Candlelight Tour, there's lots to explore. It's a place where history comes alive, perfect for anyone eager to learn about America's past.

Then there's Yorktown Battlefield and the Jamestown Settlement. Williamsburg lets you experience America's history in a unique way. Whether you love history, nature, or just adventure, this city has something for you. So, get your bags ready. Williamsburg, Virginia, is the place for a journey through America's colonial days.