Guide to Williamsburg, Virginia – What You Need to Know
For travelers looking for a destination rich in history, beauty, and culture, Williamsburg, Virginia is a top choice. This city was once the capital of England’s Virginia Colony, and it became the political hub of Virginia during the days of the American Revolution. While much of Williamsburg was destroyed by British troops during this period, sections of the city have been restored and now serve as an interesting backdrop for visitors to explore. In this guide, we cover what you need to know about visiting Williamsburg, so you can get the most out of your trip.
History
Williamsburg has a long and varied history dating back to the Virginia Colony’s establishment in the 1600s. The area was first settled in 1632, and it became the capital of the Colony in 1699. During the period of the American Revolution, Williamsburg was at its peak as the capital of Virginia and played an important role in the war. During this time, locals allied with Patriots, loyalists, and British troops, making Williamsburg an important (and sometimes divided) city. After the Revolution, much of the city in Williamsburg suffered from destruction due to British troops’ assaults, but there were still buildings from colonial-era Williamsburg standing. In 1926, much of colonial-era Williamsburg was restored using the vision of landscape architect Alan Bloom and buildings that were partially restored before. Today, visitors can see the reconstructed buildings and landscapes that accurately reflect colonial-era Williamsburg.
Things to do
Williamsburg offers visitors a range of activities across its many historical sites, nature trails, shops and markets, museums, and performing arts centers. Some of the must-dos while exploring Williamsburg include:
- Colonial Williamsburg: This 330-acre living-history museum offers visitors an immersive experience into the past. Tour reconstructed buildings and explore exhibits that depict life during colonial times.
- The Jamestown Settlement: This 17th-century-style museum tells the story of Jamestown’s settlers from 1607 to 1699. Visitors patrol through recreated Powhatan Indian Village and Fort James as costumed interpreters bring this period to life.
- Water Country USA: Offering thousands of feet of slides, rides, and games for the whole family, this water park offers a thrilling day out.
- Williamsburg Botanical Garden: Lose yourself in 30 acres of splendid gardens featuring neat rows of roses, boxwood parterres, seasonal displays, fruit trees, and more.
- Go-Karts Plus: Get competitive with go-karts or take on mini golf at this action-packed place.
- Busch Gardens: Take on one of the biggest theme parks on the east coast for an exponentially fun day out.
- Bike rental: Rarely traveling more than a few blocks is required in Williamsburg, making bike rental a great way to get around.
- Traversaturbana: Ride this electric bike share program within Williamsburg and choose from various pick up points scattered throughout the city.
- Williamsburg Trolley and Bus: Trolley tours are available throughout the Old Town and along Duke of Gloucester Street all year round.
- TransLoc Bus Service: This is a free bus service run by William & Mary University and offers a convenient way to get around neighborhoods of Williamsburg.
- Woodlands Hotel & Suites: A contemporary resort located near Jamestown Settlement offering flat screen TVs in each room.
- Williamsburg Inn: Stay in style at a Forbes Five Star hotel with some rooms offering elegant canopy beds.
- Kingsmill Resort Hotel: For best value rooms with luxurious amenities you don’t want to miss this onsite resort nestled on a 1000 acre wooded property.
- 1704 Inn & Conference Center: The elite 1704 Inn offers modern hotel rooms close to historic locations in the heart of Williamsburg.
- Colonial Heritage golf club: Located 15 minutes outside Williamsburg, visitors can choose from a range of lodging including townhouses and condos with roomy balconies.
- The Cheese Café Virginia: Delight in brick oven pizza at this gourmet café serving up farm fresh cheeses and unique Italian items such as artichoke-mozzarella panini.
- Salads Of Pompeii: Enjoy Mediterranean cuisine in this Italian bistro offering pizzas, salads, and homemade pastas.
- Cobblestones Old World American Pub & Grill: Choose from a wide selection of craft beer and pub foods such as specialty burgers in this cheerful pub setting.
- The Trekker Café Truck: Try a true local favorite with themed tacos such as carnitas with grapefruit habanero salsa or patty melt tacos.
- Sorrentino’s Italian Restaurant Bar and Grill: This restaurant offers homemade Italian dishes near Green Springs Recreational Park.
- In addition to these attractions, visitors can also explore local restaurants, shops, markets, music theaters, galleries, and colonial-era cemeteries along with walkable streets chalked with history.
Getting Around
Williamsburg is a small city that visitors don’t need a car to explore. Walking is one of the best options here (although hilly roads may not be perfect for those with knee and hip problems). Other easy ways to get around include:
Where to Stay
Williamsburg offers visitors a variety of accommodation ranging from cozy bed & breakfasts to resorts and independent hotels. This city also has some camping sites for those looking for an affordable option for exploring the local area. Some top places to stay include:
Where to Eat
In between exploring historical sites in Williamsburg and hitting thrilling theme parks, you can treat yourself to some delicious meals at top local restaurants including:
All in all, Williamsburg is an exciting destination full of history, culture, and lots of activities that cater to almost every interest from foodie havens to theme parks offering thrilling rides and adventure trails through history-rich sites — giving visitors plenty of options for a top vacation destination in Virginia! Not to mention all the cozy accommodation options ranging from bed & breakfasts to resorts where travelers can end their day in style! So what are you waiting for? Plan that trip to Williamsburg today!
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