Hi, I’m Katie! Are you new here? Welcome!
I’m a travel advisor with The Magic’s Yours Travel and I send clients on vacations of all kinds all over the world. My specialty is Disney travel!
Want to work together? Please check out my website katievtravel.com to request a vacation quote or email me at katiev@themagicsyours.com with any questions. I’d love to make your vacation dreams a reality!
Williamsburg, Virginia, nestled just inland from the Atlantic coast, is a beautiful blend of modern charm and rich colonial history. This vibrant destination offers a wide variety of activities, ensuring there is something to engage every member of the family.
In this guide, I’ll share a comprehensive list of attractions in Williamsburg and the surrounding areas, curated from several visits over the past few years.
Whether you’re planning a quick weekend escape or a weeklong stay, Williamsburg is a fantastic choice. It’s ideal for multigenerational trips, couples, or families with young children, offering a little something for everyone.
The Historic Triangle
Williamsburg is best known for its colonial attractions, but it’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to historical destinations in the area. The Historic Triangle refers to the region connecting Williamsburg, Jamestown, and Yorktown, each located within a thirty-minute drive of one another. For history buffs, a visit to Williamsburg isn’t complete without exploring all three, as together they tell the full story of America’s beginnings.
Visiting Colonial Williamsburg
Colonial Williamsburg is the heart of the Historic Triangle and one of the largest living history museums in the world. As the former capital of Virginia from 1699 to 1780, Williamsburg played a crucial role in the events leading up to the American Revolution. Today, this meticulously preserved and recreated colonial town offers visitors a chance to step back in time and experience 18th-century life firsthand.
Living History in Action
This is not your typical museum. Colonial Williamsburg is a fully immersive experience with costumed interpreters who remain in character as blacksmiths, teachers, soldiers, tavern keepers, and town leaders. They share not only the daily life of white colonists but also tell the stories of enslaved people, free Black residents, and Indigenous peoples, who all lived and worked together in this complex colonial society.
Throughout the day, you’ll find live theatrical performances and reenactments taking place on the streets, courthouse steps, and green spaces. Be sure to check the daily schedule at the start of your day so you don’t miss key events.
Must-See Sites and Guided Tours
With a valid ticket, you can enter dozens of historic buildings and homes. Top stops that offer guided tours include:
- The Governor’s Palace – Once home to the royal governors and later Patrick Henry, this mansion offers a look at wealth, power, and politics in colonial Virginia.
- Capitol Building – Where the colony’s legislative body met, it played a major role in the birth of American democracy.
You’ll also find smaller buildings staffed with craftspeople demonstrating traditional trades such as blacksmithing, wigmaking, weaving, silversmithing, and bookbinding. Many of these artisans are masters in their fields, keeping colonial trades alive through public demonstration and interpretation.
Museums
Colonial Williamsburg is also home to several outstanding museums. The Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg, which include the DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum and the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum, are located just off the main historic area. These museums are free to visit through 2026 in celebration of the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary. The exhibits inside explore everything from 18th-century furniture and ceramics to folk art, textiles, and colonial artifacts.
Visiting Colonial Williamsburg with Young Kids
Colonial Williamsburg offers plenty of hands-on activities that make history fun and engaging for young children. Kids will love exploring the blacksmith shop, meeting costumed interpreters, and watching live demonstrations of colonial crafts like weaving and pottery. Skip the guided house tours and let kids explore the open gardens instead. The open spaces and interactive storytelling help little ones connect with the past in a playful way. Be sure to bring snacks and plan for breaks, as dining options inside the historic area are limited.
Practical Tips For Colonial Williamsburg:
- Tickets: Walking around Colonial Williamsburg is free, but you’ll need a ticket to enter any buildings or take part in guided tours. Even without tickets, the grounds make for a beautiful early morning walk or jog. Purchase tickets in advance for best pricing.
- Start at the Visitor Center: This is your best first stop. There is ample parking here, a welcome film that gives you historical context, and access to the shuttle system that runs to and from the historic area. You can either walk to the colonial area from the Visitor Center via a shaded path or take the shuttle. Once in the historic district, it’s mostly pedestrian-only.
- Dining: Food options inside Colonial Williamsburg are limited. If you’d like to eat at one of the historic taverns like Christiana Campbell’s or King’s Arms Tavern, be sure to make reservations in advance. Alternatively, you can head to Merchants Square, just a short walk away, which offers a variety of modern dining options.
- Weather: Much of the area is open-air with little shade or shelter between buildings, so plan ahead for sun, rain, heat, or cold.
- Special Events & Fireworks: Colonial Williamsburg hosts special events throughout the year, including holiday celebrations and fireworks displays on July 4th, New Year’s Eve, and select nights in December. These events often draw large crowds and are worth planning your visit around. The Christmas season is an especially beautiful time to explore, with festive decorations, candlelight, and seasonal programming adding extra magic to the experience.
Jamestown, Virginia
Just a short drive from Williamsburg, Jamestown is where it all began, the site of the first permanent English settlement in North America, founded in 1607. Today, visitors can explore this history through two distinct attractions located just minutes apart, each offering a unique experience.
Top Tip: Taking the scenic Historic Highway / Colonial Parkway, from Williamsburg to Jamestown offers a charming drive through Virginia’s countryside, allowing you to soak in the region’s rich history and picturesque landscapes along the way.
Jamestown Settlement – Living History Museum & Village
Operated by the Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation, Jamestown Settlement is a living history museum designed to engage all ages. Inside, interactive exhibits and galleries trace the stories of the English colonists, Powhatan Indians, and the first Africans in Virginia. A must-see orientation film provides essential background before exploring the museum and outdoor areas.
Outside, the recreated village includes:
- A Powhatan settlement
- A colonial fort staffed with costumed interpreters
- Reproductions of the ships Susan Constant, Godspeed, and Discovery, which visitors can board and explore
Top Tip: Jamestown Settlement is ideal for families and children thanks to its hands-on exhibits, costumed demonstrations, and ship replicas. It’s also a good option in less-than-perfect weather, thanks to the large indoor museum.
Historic Jamestowne – National Park Service Site
Just down the road, Historic Jamestowne is the actual site of the 1607 colony. Managed by the National Park Service, this site offers a more academic and archaeological perspective. Visitors can:
- View ongoing archaeological digs and remains of original buildings
- Visit the Archaeology Museum, which features hundreds of artifacts recovered from the site
- Attend ranger talks or chat with archaeologists for deeper insight
This site offers a meaningful, real-world connection to America’s early history and is best for those who want to experience the original location where it all began.
Practical Tips for Visiting Jamestown
- Visit Both Sites: If you have the time, visiting both Jamestown Settlement and Historic Jamestowne (in that order) gives you the most complete picture of the area’s history. They are just a few minutes apart by car.
- Separate Admission: Each site requires its own ticket. Combo tickets are sometimes available for multiple Historic Triangle sites.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: There is a lot of walking, especially at Historic Jamestowne where paths are gravel or unpaved.
- Dining: There’s a small café at Jamestown Settlement and limited food options nearby, so plan your meals in advance.
Yorktown, Virginia
The final chapter of the American Revolution was written in Yorktown, where in 1781, British General Cornwallis surrendered to General George Washington, effectively securing American independence. Today, Yorktown is a charming waterfront village rich in history and scenic beauty, with two key sites worth visiting.
American Revolution Museum at Yorktown – Living History Museum
Operated by the Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation (like Jamestown Settlement), the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown is a dynamic and family-friendly museum that tells the story of the nation’s founding from colonial unrest to independence and the creation of a new government.
Inside, the museum features interactive exhibits and immersive galleries. Outside, a living-history encampment brings Revolutionary War life to life with:
- A Continental Army camp complete with musket demonstrations
- A recreated 18th-century farm showing how civilians lived during the war
Top Tip: This is a great companion to Colonial Williamsburg, as it focuses on the Revolutionary War period and offers hands-on elements that kids will enjoy.
Historic Yorktown – National Park Service Site
Managed by the National Park Service, Historic Yorktown includes the Yorktown Battlefield, where visitors can walk the actual site of the 1781 siege, explore the Moore House, the site of surrender negotiations, and visit the Nelson House. The Yorktown Visitor Center offers artifacts, maps, and a short film to enhance the experience. A battlefield driving tour with marked stops highlights key locations of the siege, and daily ranger-led programs provide informative tours and talks that bring the history of the battlefield to life.
Top Tip: I recommend skipping Historic Yorktown entirely with kids, as the battlefield is mostly open fields and can be boring for little ones. For other visitors interested in history, attending a ranger talk and visiting a couple of key sites makes for a more engaging experience without becoming overwhelming.
Exploring Yorktown Beach and Downtown
Yorktown’s scenic waterfront area offers a relaxing break from history with its sandy beach, walking trails, and beautiful views of the York River. It’s a great spot for families to picnic, play, or simply unwind by the water. The nearby Riverwalk Landing and Downtown Yorktown feature charming shops, galleries perfect for browsing unique gifts and local art, restaurants, cafes, and taverns serving everything from fresh seafood to casual fare. Whether you’re looking for a cozy spot for a family meal or a place to enjoy a waterfront drink, you’ll find plenty of options.
Don’t miss the iconic Victory Monument, which commemorates the American victory at the Siege of Yorktown in 1781. Located near the waterfront, it’s a great photo opportunity and a fitting tribute to this historic site.
Yorktown is especially charming during the Christmas season, with festive lights, holiday markets, and special events that make the waterfront and downtown area feel magical and welcoming. One highlight is the Lighted Boat Parade, typically held on the first Saturday in December.
Top Tip: Yorktown does offer a trolley that will take you around to the various attractions but it is easy enough to park at these locations on your own.
Busch Gardens Williamsburg
Busch Gardens Williamsburg is more than just a local amusement park. It’s an immersive theme park with European-themed lands filled with world-class thrill rides, live entertainment, family-friendly attractions, and seasonal events that keep guests coming back all year long.
Thrill Rides & Attractions
Adrenaline lovers will find plenty to get excited about with coasters like Pantheon, Verbolten, Griffon, and Apollo’s Chariot, each offering unique drops, loops, and speed. For families with younger children, the Land of the Dragons and Sesame Street Forest of Fun offer gentler rides, splash zones, and character meet-and-greets perfect for little ones.
Entertainment & Experiences
Throughout the park, you’ll find live shows featuring music, dance, and impressive costumes, adding a vibrant cultural flair to your visit. Busch Gardens also has a surprising mix of animal exhibits, including eagles, wolves, and Clydesdales, tucked among the park’s lush, hilly landscape.
Food & Drink
While the food inside the park is nothing to write home about, Festhaus is a solid bet, with hearty fare to keep you going and a festive atmosphere. Beer and wine options are available throughout the park, making it a nice place to relax between rides. For better dining, consider leaving the park for dinner, especially in the summer and then return for nighttime concerts or fireworks, which are often included with admission.
Seasonal Events
No matter when you visit, there’s likely a special event happening. Busch Gardens goes all out for Halloween (Howl-O-Scream), Christmas Town, Food & Wine Festival, and Summer Nights, offering themed entertainment, decorations, and exclusive menus.
Practical Tips for Visiting Busch Gardens Williamsburg
- Pre-Purchase Your Tickets
- Arrive Early: The park opens mid-morning, but arriving at least 30 minutes before opening gives you a head start on popular rides before the crowds arrive.
- Visit on a Weekday: If possible, plan your visit for a weekday, especially during the summer or around school breaks, when crowds are lighter and lines are shorter.
- Download the App: The Busch Gardens app is essential for checking wait times and show schedules. It also has a park map.
- Plan Your Ride Strategy: Decide in advance which rides you want to prioritize. Major coasters like Pantheon, Griffon, and Apollo’s Chariot or the newest attractions can have long waits later in the day.
- Check the Show Schedule: Busch Gardens offers a variety of live shows throughout the day. Check the schedule early to fit performances into your ride plan.
- Consider Purchasing Quick Queue: If you’re visiting on a weekend or during a peak season, consider purchasing Quick Queue for shorter wait times on popular rides.
- Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable shoes, Busch Gardens is very hilly, and be prepared for sun, rain, or changing weather throughout the day.
- Bring or Rent a Stroller or Scooter: Busch Gardens is large and quite hilly, which can be challenging for both young kids and guests with mobility concerns. Strollers are available to rent near the entrance, or you can bring your own. For those who need extra assistance, ECVs (electric scooters) and wheelchairs are also available to rent, making it easier to navigate the park comfortably.
Water Country USA
Located just minutes from Busch Gardens, Water Country USA is Virginia’s largest water park and a perfect way to cool off during the summer. The park features a mix of high-thrill water slides like Colossal Curl and Cutback Water Coaster, as well as relaxing attractions like the lazy river and wave pool. There are also dedicated areas for little ones.
Practical Tips
- Cabanas are available to rent for added shade and comfor
- Locker rentals are offered near the entrance.
- Arrive early to grab chairs in shaded areas and head straight to the most popular slides to beat the lines.
- Don’t forget water shoes as walkways can get hot in the afternoon sun!
Outdoor & Nature Experiences
Beyond its rich history, Williamsburg is surrounded by natural beauty and offers a wide range of outdoor adventures. Whether you want to relax by the water, hit the trails, or paddle through scenic rivers and marshes, there’s something for every nature lover.
- River Beaches: Just a short drive away, Yorktown Beach is a favorite for families and couples alike. This calm, sandy beach along the York River is perfect for swimming, lounging, or letting kids splash in the shallows. Lifeguards are on duty in the summer, and it’s easy to walk to nearby restaurants and shops.
- Kayaking & Water Adventures: Williamsburg is a fantastic base for exploring the region by water. Popular launch spots include:
- Jamestown Island Water Trail – For a historic twist, paddle the same waters once navigated by early colonists. Bring your own kayak and explore the marked route around Jamestown Island, spotting osprey and bald eagles along the way.
- York River State Park – Offers kayak rentals and peaceful paddling routes through coves and saltwater marshes. Keep an eye out for herons, turtles, and even dolphins near the mouth of the river.
- Chickahominy Riverfront Park – Rent kayaks or canoes on-site and paddle through scenic tidal waterways rich with cypress trees, marshes, and wildlife.
- Guided eco-tours are also available through local outfitters like Bay Country Kayaking and James City County Parks, offering family-friendly outings and sunset paddles.
- Biking: The Virginia Capital Trail stretches from Williamsburg to Richmond and is ideal for a leisurely ride or a longer cycling adventure. Rentals are available in town, and the trail includes rest areas and scenic views along the way.
- Birdwatching & Wildlife: Nature enthusiasts can find excellent birding and wildlife opportunities at Waller Mill Park, New Quarter Park, and Jamestown Island, where wooded paths and quiet waterways create ideal habitats for herons, eagles, owls, and migrating songbirds.
- Parks & Trails: Local parks like Freedom Park and Chickahominy Riverfront Park offer hiking trails, fishing docks, and shaded picnic areas, great for a laid-back afternoon outdoors.
Shopping in Williamsburg
Williamsburg offers a wide range of shopping experiences. Whether you’re searching for souvenirs, seasonal décor, or antiques, there’s something for every kind of shopper.
- Merchants Square: Located right next to Colonial Williamsburg, this elegant shopping district is filled with locally owned boutiques, artisan shops, and specialty food stores. You’ll find books, gifts, fashion, and home goods in a setting that blends colonial charm with modern style. The perfect end to your Colonial Williamsburg day.
- Williamsburg Premium Outlets: A must-visit for bargain hunters, this large outdoor outlet mall features over 100 stores, including Nike, Coach, Kate Spade, and Under Armour. It’s a great place to score deals on brand-name clothing, shoes, and accessories.
- Williamsburg Antique Mall: This massive, air-conditioned antique mall is a treasure trove for vintage lovers who can browse everything from furniture and glassware to rare books and modern collectibles.
- Top Tip – This location is tons of fun to just explore and it is HUGE!
- Christmas Mouse: A year-round holiday wonderland, the Christmas Mouse is packed with festive décor, ornaments, and themed holiday gifts.
- Wallace’s Trading Post: This quirky, old-school roadside-style store is full of souvenirs, moccasins, T-shirts, and novelty items. Perfect for picking up something fun or unique to remember your trip.
- Williamsburg General Store: Another local favorite for souvenirs, gifts, and Williamsburg-themed goodies. They also carry Virginia-made snacks, jams, and other regional treats.
Dining in Williamsburg
Williamsburg has no shortage of delicious dining options, with everything from local gems and historic taverns to modern counter-service chains.
- Colonial Pancake House: A go-to for breakfast or brunch, this casual spot offers classic comfort food and is known for being especially allergy-friendly, making it a great choice for families or guests with dietary restrictions.
- Food For Thought: My favorite restaurant in Williamsburg and one that always seems to have a crowd and for good reason. The menu is diverse and health-conscious, with plenty of gluten-free and allergy-friendly options clearly marked. The creative, conversation-themed décor adds to the fun atmosphere. Call ahead to add your name to the waitlist (they don’t take reservations).
- The Jefferson Restaurant: For a meal with colonial atmosphere, this cozy, historic-style restaurant serves up classic Southern favorites like pot roast, fried chicken, and hearty sides in a charming setting.
- La Terrazza: If you’re craving Mexican, this is my top pick. The food is fresh and flavorful, with generous portions, great margaritas, and friendly service.
- Fat Tuna Grill & Oyster House: A must for seafood lovers, this casual yet lively spot offers fresh oysters, crab cakes, and coastal classics.
- Williamsburg Farmers Market (Saturdays): Held in Merchants Square, this vibrant market is perfect for a light breakfast, fresh coffee, baked goods, and regional specialties. It’s a great way to taste local flavors and shop from Virginia-based vendors.
You’ll also find familiar counter-service options like Chipotle, Panera, Chick-fil-A, and all major fast food chains in the area, along with several grocery stores if you’re picking up supplies for a picnic or staying in a rental.
Top Tip: Williamsburg is a busy destination, especially on weekends and during holidays, call ahead when possible.
Drink Around Williamsburg
Williamsburg has a thriving modern craft beverage scene. Whether you’re into beer, wine, or spirits, there’s no shortage of great local spots to sip and relax. Here are a few favorites to check out:
8 Shires Distillery
A unique, colonial-inspired distillery offering historically themed spirits like rum and whiskey made using 18th-century techniques. The vibe here is very old-timey and intimate, with a small tasting room and plenty of outdoor seating (though it’s essentially in a parking lot). The staff is chatty, welcoming, and knowledgeable about both the distilling process and colonial history making it a fun and educational stop.
Copper Fox Distillery
Located in a beautifully converted space, Copper Fox offers a contemporary, hip-yet-chill atmosphere with lots of room to spread out. It’s a great place to hang out, enjoy a free tasting, and explore their full shop. You’ll find award-winning whiskey and gin, tours of the distillery, and a casual but elevated vibe. Great for groups or anyone looking for both good drinks and a solid space to unwind.
Williamsburg Winery
Set on a scenic estate just outside of town, the Williamsburg Winery is a relaxing escape with tastings, tours, and on-site dining at Gabriel Archer Tavern. It’s perfect for a slow afternoon while you sip a glass of red or white while overlooking the vines, then grab a cheese plate or a full meal. Reservations recommended for tastings, especially on weekends.
Virginia Beer Company
A favorite local brewery with a laid-back vibe, rotating food trucks, live music, and a dog-friendly patio. The beer menu rotates frequently and includes creative seasonal brews, IPAs, lagers, and limited releases. A great casual hangout with both indoor and outdoor seating.
Billsburg Brewery
Located right on the marina, this spot offers great water views and a rotating selection of beers on tap. Billsburg has a loyal local following and often hosts events, live music, and food trucks. It’s a fun place to end a day outdoors or grab a pint after a paddle on the nearby river.
More Fun Things to Do in Williamsburg
Visit William & Mary
Take a stroll through the scenic campus of the College of William & Mary, the second-oldest college in the U.S. The historic buildings and shaded walkways make for a pleasant break, and you’ll often find art shows, student performances, or events open to the public.
Catch a Show
Williamsburg has several local theaters. Kimball Theatre, in Merchants Square, presents indie films and live performances. For something more whimsical, check out the Magic Show Theatre a family-friendly venue featuring interactive magic shows, comedy, and sleight-of-hand that kids and adults love.
Play Mini Golf at Pirate’s Cove
Enjoy a fun round at Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf, a pirate-themed course complete with caves, waterfalls, and whimsical décor. It glows at night, making it a perfect post-dinner outing after a day of sightseeing.
Williamsburg Indoor Sports Complex (WISC)
Rainy day? No problem! WISC includes an indoor playground, gymnastics space, an arcade, and sports fields, ideal for kids to play and burn off energy.
Apex Entertainment
Bowling, laser tag, bumper cars, an arcade, and a sports bar all under one roof. This large entertainment complex is great for families or groups, especially for evening fun.
Escape Rooms
Challenge yourself at one of Williamsburg’s escape room venues, where teams solve puzzles to “escape” themed rooms within a set time.
Ghost Tours
For a spooky twist, join a ghost tour after dark. Walk the candlelit streets of historic Williamsburg while guides share spooky and intriguing tales from its past. Some tours are family-friendly; others are more adult-focused.
Top Tip: These activities are perfect for half-days or evenings, especially when traveling with kids or teens looking for something fun after historical touring.
Great Day Trips from Williamsburg
If you have extra time during your trip to Williamsburg, there are several exciting destinations within 1–2 hours that offer beaches, culture, food, and family fun.
Virginia Beach (Approx. 1 hour 15 minutes)
A classic East Coast beach destination with a bustling boardwalk, wide sandy beaches, and great oceanfront dining. Highlights include the Virginia Aquarium, First Landing State Park, and Rudee Inlet for dolphin tours or jet ski rentals. Perfect for a full beach day or overnight getaway.
Richmond (Approx. 1 hour)
Virginia’s capital city blends rich history with an edgy, creative vibe. Explore the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, walk the historic Canal Walk, or visit Maymont, a beautiful estate with gardens, animals, and a mansion tour. The food and craft brewery scene is top-notch too!
Hampton (Approx. 45 minutes)
A quieter waterfront city with family-friendly attractions like the Virginia Air & Space Science Center, and lovely harbor views. It’s a nice option for a slower-paced half-day trip.
Hampton is rich in African American heritage, featuring important sites like the Hampton University Museum, the oldest African American museum in the U.S., and Fort Monroe, known as “Freedom’s Fortress” for its role as a refuge for escaped enslaved people during the Civil War. Don’t miss the Emancipation Oak on Hampton’s university campus, where the first Southern reading of the Emancipation Proclamation took place. The historic Phoebus District also showcases a vibrant African American community with cultural events and historic landmarks.
Norfolk (Approx. 1 hour)
A vibrant port city with a mix of art, culture, and naval history. Top picks include the Chrysler Museum of Art, the USS Wisconsin battleship, and the scenic Elizabeth River waterfront. As well as the Virginia Zoo which spans 53 acres and houses over 700 animals representing more than 150 species from around the globe. You’ll also find great seafood restaurants and a growing craft beer scene.
Top Tip: Check traffic especially to and from Virginia Beach during summer weekends!
Where to Stay in Williamsburg
With so many hotel options in Williamsburg and the surrounding area, finding the perfect place to stay can feel overwhelming. That’s where working with a travel agent like me makes all the difference! I’m here to help you find the best accommodations tailored to your needs, budget, and travel style.
Contact me today to get started on your personalized Williamsburg vacation quote!
📧 katiev@themagicsyours.com
🌐 Visit my website: katievtravel.com
Let’s make your Williamsburg getaway magical and stress-free!
I’m a travel advisor and would love to work with you!
Check out my website katievtravel.com to request a vacation quote or email me at katiev@themagicsyours.com with any questions.
I’d love to make your vacation dreams a reality!
Katie Vassalotti - Travel Advisor - Travel Blog 