How to Enjoy and Plan a Trip to Williamsburg, Virginia?
Taking a trip to the city of Williamsburg in the Hampton Roads area of Virginia is about as exciting as it gets. While usually thought of as the home of colonial-era reenactments, there are tons of other ways to enjoy the city and its surroundings from day trips to full multi-day touring expeditions. Whether you’re coming from nearby Norfolk, Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, or any other part of the state, there’s something for everyone in Williamsburg.
Getting to and Around Williamsburg
If you’re coming from outside the area, your only real choice is to drive. Luckily, the historic city is conveniently located within two hours of Richmond, Virginia Beach, Norfolk, and other nearby cities. Even if you don’t have your own car, taxi or ridesharing services can get you to Williamsburg with ease. Once you are in town, there are a lot of different modes of transportation available that do not require you to rent a car and hit the highways. From downtown Williamsburg, you can ride the City Bus to nearby shopping centers and other attractions located just outside city limits. The Taxi King Transportation Company is a fantastic option and provides private rides to downtown Richmond or Virginia Beach.
Top Attractions in and around Williamsburg
For history buffs and people who are interested in American colonial life, there are several attractions worthy of visiting in and around Williamsburg.
Colonial Williamsburg
This historic attraction is probably the most iconic place to visit in Williamsburg. Reenactments of everyday colonial life create a museum without walls, featuring live actors and plenty of educational opportunities. Guests can tour historic places all over the city, stroll through gardens and step into living history museums.
Busch Gardens
The Busch Gardens amusement park brings Europe to life with thrill rides and park activities, including several roller coasters and other attractions like a train ride through mythical terrain and an interactive animal park.
Jamestown
The first permanent English settlement in North America was established at Jamestown in 1607. The fort there has been reconstructed with help from historians who learned how to build the original structure using lime plaster, logs and iron tools that were once found at the site. There’s also a museum dedicated to telling the story of Jamestown’s founding settlers.
Yorktown Battlefield
Just east of Williamsburg lies Yorktown Battlefield, where the Revolutionary War was effectively ended with a 41-day siege in 1781. There are a few sites for guests to explore like Moore House, where negotiations for American Independence occurred in 1781, and Redoubt No. 9, which was the first fort taken by American forces during the siege.
Williamsburg Winery
The Williamsburg Winery is one of the country’s largest and best-rated wineries. The facility has multiple tasting rooms where guests can try some delicious handcrafted wines like Muscat or Chardonnay. Plus, they offer special events every weekend like live music and themed tastings.
Williamsburg Premium Outlets
For those looking for some good deals on quality fashion and accessories, the Williamsburg Premium Outlets is a great way to find what you need for a fraction of the price. No matter what kind of apparel or accessories you’re looking for, chances are you’ll find it here at an unbeatable price.
Places To Eat in Williamsburg
Williamsburg is full of delicious eateries to satisfy any type of foodie. From fine dining tasting menus to vegan dishes with local produce and farm-to-table food, finding something delicious won’t be difficult here. And with dozens of restaurants within short walking distance of each other, you can try several different places during your trip – very different than trying one restaurant per day somewhere else in town! Here’s our short-list of must-try restaurants in Williamsburg:
- Bistro Pub: A local favorite that offers an ever-changing wine list along with an array of delicious pub fare.
- Table Fare Restaurant: A cozy restaurant near the historic area that offers modern American food infused with flavors from all over the world.
- Mercato Bar & Latin Grill: Featuring Mexican classics as well as more complicated takes on traditional recipes.
- Salt & Vine Gastropub: Providing a gastronomic experience with flavors from all corners of the world.
- Tree Relaxation Bar & Café: A tranquil spot with Indian flavors that will help you unwind after a long day exploring the city sights.
- Cantina Sienna: An Italian-inspired restaurant that offers classic Neapolitan pizzas and fresh pastas using fresh local ingredients.
These are just a few restaurants located in Williamsburg and the area surrounding it – but trust us when we say there’s plenty more where that came from!
Fun Things To Do in and around Williamsburg
There is no shortage of activities in Williamsburg both on its own or as part of a multi-day road trip around the Hampton Roads area. In addition to checking out the area’s breweries (Alewerks Brewing Company being an especially popular choice) and historical sites, here are some other fun options:
- Williamsburg Marketplace: Get all your souvenirs at this open air market, which offers antiques as well as all sorts of knick knacks, jewelry and other keepsakes.
- Prince George’s County Tech Park: Get a bird’s eye view of one of the area’s most innovative technology centers.
- How to Enjoy and Plan a Trip to Williamsburg, Virginia?
- Getting to and Around Williamsburg
- Top Attractions in and around Williamsburg
- Colonial Williamsburg
- Busch Gardens
- Jamestown
- Yorktown Battlefield
- Williamsburg Winery
- Williamsburg Premium Outlets
- Places To Eat in Williamsburg
- Fun Things To Do in and around Williamsburg
- Where To Stay in Williamsburg?
- Final Considerations: Enjoy a Fun-Filled Trip to Williamsburg
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