What Is There to Do in Williamsburg, Virginia?

Are you looking for a fun destination for your next family trip, a romantic getaway, or simply an enjoyable weekend in a vibrant small city? Williamsburg, Virginia provides all of the attractions, sights, and activities that many travelers hope to experience in a charming location. From the Colonial Williamsburg Historic Area to delicious local restaurants, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this town.

For families, there are a wide variety of attractions and activities that encompasses culture, entertainment and nature. Historical attractions in the area are sure to delight the kids and provide them with fascinating history. Colonial Williamsburg is one of the largest living history museums in America and covers over 176 acres with 88 original 18th century buildings. Parents can also explore its galleries and shops, while children can partake in one of the many hands-on programs such as visits with Thomas Jefferson or costumed interpreters. Other historic attractions include the Jamestown Settlement, Yorktown Victory Center, Carter’s Grove Plantation, Ruark Boatworks and Historic Jamestowne.

Vibrant downtown Williamsburg is full of boutique shops and art galleries which fathers can explore while the kids enjoys some ice-cream from one of the many ice cream stores. With its several public parks, trails and recreational centers, families can enjoy outdoor activities such as: biking, hiking at Freedom Park, mini golf at Par 3 Adventure Land and even horseback riding.

For couples looking to spend some quality time together on a romantic getaway, there are plenty of attractions to keep them entertained. Williamsburg has world-class spas, golf courses, wine tasting rooms and a vibrant nightlife with mesmerizing live music and comedy clubs. Monthly events such as the “Second Sunday Street Fair” come alive with artisan shows and street performances. For those looking to get away from it all, they can go horseback riding while overlooking Freedom Park’s scenic beauty or sip on some coffee at a cafe while listening to local musicians.

Couples can also sample gourmet dishes and drinks at some of Williamsburg’s amazing restaurants such as The Trellis, Blue Talon Bistro or Playa Azul Mexican Restaurant and Salsa Bar. Finally, indulge in delicious desserts at one of the area’s sweet spots like Aromas Coffeehouse & Cafe or The Cheese Plate.

No matter what your reason for visiting Williamsburg, Virginia there is something for everyone its enjoy. From historical attractions like Colonial Williamsburg to art galleries, festivals and outdoor activities – vacationers are sure to be delighted with the wide range of things to do in this vibrant town.

Virginia tourism website provides more detailed information about all the attractions relevant for visitors of Williamsburg. Their search friendly website serves as an easy way to plan your next trip to this amazing area!

An Insider’s Guide to Williamsburg, Virginia

Williamsburg, Virginia is a charming small city located in the southeastern part of the state. It is steeped in history and culture, as it was the capital of Virginia Colony before the American Revolution. Nowadays, it is a popular tourist destination due to its rich heritage, beautiful scenery, and vibrant food scene. In this insider’s guide, we will share with you the top attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions you need to know for your trip to Williamsburg.

Top Attractions in Williamsburg

Williamsburg offers a plethora of top-notch attractions for tourists to visit. Here are some of our top picks:

• Colonial Williamsburg: This is the heart of Williamsburg and the main reason why tourists flock to the city. Colonial Williamsburg is essentially an outdoor living museum, where you can learn about what life was like in colonial times. The streets are lined with historically accurate buildings, shops, and taverns, and actors dress up in period costumes to provide an interactive experience for visitors.
• Jamestown Settlement: This attraction allows visitors to step back in time and learn about the first permanent English settlement in North America. There are exhibits, films, and living-history areas where you can witness what life was like in Jamestown in the 17th century.
• Busch Gardens Williamsburg: If you’re looking for a fun day out with your family, Busch Gardens is the place to be. It is an amusement park that boasts thrilling roller coasters, water rides, and entertainment shows.
• The College of William & Mary: This college is the second-oldest in the United States and has a beautiful campus that is worth visiting for a stroll or a picnic.
• Williamsburg Winery: This winery is situated on 300 acres of land and offers guided tours and tastings of its award-winning wines. It is a beautiful spot to relax and enjoy some wine while taking in the stunning scenery.

Dining Spots in Williamsburg

Williamsburg is known for its classic Southern cuisine, but it also has a variety of international options for all kinds of tastes. Here are some of our top recommendations:

• The Fat Canary: This restaurant is located in the heart of downtown Williamsburg and serves seasonal American cuisine with an impressive wine selection. It is on the pricey side, but definitely worth a visit for a special night out.
• The Trellis Bar and Grill: This restaurant has been a staple in Williamsburg for over 35 years and is known for its signature dessert, Death by Chocolate. Their menu is modern American with international influences, and they often feature live music.
• Blue Talon Bistro: This French-inspired bistro serves up classic comfort food such as onion soup, coq au vin, and steak frites. They have a lovely outdoor seating area and an extensive wine list.
• Aromas Coffeehouse, Bakery & Cafe: This cozy spot has delicious coffee, pastries, and sandwiches. It is a favorite among locals and a great spot to grab breakfast or lunch.
• La Tienda: This Spanish specialty food and wine shop offers an array of tapas, paellas, and other Spanish dishes. They also have a great selection of Spanish wines and cheeses.

Cultural Experiences in Williamsburg

Williamsburg has a rich history and culture that is evident throughout the city. Here are some cultural experiences you should check out:

• The Muscarelle Museum of Art: This museum is located on the campus of the College of William & Mary and features a collection of over 5,000 works of art from around the world.
• The Virginia Musical Museum: This small museum is dedicated to preserving Virginia’s musical heritage and has an impressive collection of instruments and memorabilia.
• The Kimball Theatre: This intimate theatre hosts plays, concerts, and other events throughout the year. It is a great spot to catch a show during your visit to Williamsburg.
• The Colonial Williamsburg Art Museums: These museums include the DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum, the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum, and the Bassett Hall House Museum. They all offer unique insights into the history and art of Williamsburg.

Local History in Williamsburg

Williamsburg played an important role in American history, and there are many historic sites throughout the city that are worth visiting. Here are some of our top picks:

• The Governor’s Palace: This was the residence of the royal governor of Virginia during colonial times and is now a museum. It features beautiful gardens, period furnishings, and exhibits about life in the 18th century.
• The Capitol Building: This was the seat of Virginia’s government during colonial times and was also where Patrick Henry gave his famous “Give me liberty or give me death” speech.
• The Bruton Parish Church: This church was founded in 1674 and has a rich history. It was attended by many famous figures in American history, including Thomas Jefferson, George Washington, and Patrick Henry.
• The Carter’s Grove Plantation: This plantation was built in the 18th century and is now a museum. It offers a glimpse into the lives of the wealthy plantation owners of the time.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’re looking for something a little different to do in Williamsburg, here are some off-the-beaten-path suggestions:

• The Jamestown Island Loop Trail: This 5.3-mile hiking trail takes you through the woods and along the James River to the site of the first English settlement in America.
• The Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Sculpture Garden: This outdoor sculpture garden is located in Colonial Williamsburg and features works by famous artists such as Henry Moore and Isamu Noguchi.
• The Williamsburg Botanical Garden: This garden is located on the campus of the Virginia Cooperative Extension and features over 800 varieties of plants.
• The Williamsburg Farmers Market: This farmers market is open on Saturdays from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm and features fresh produce, baked goods, and other local treats.
• The Waller Mill Park: This park is located just outside of Williamsburg and offers hiking trails, fishing, kayaking, and other outdoor activities.

Conclusion

Williamsburg is a wonderful place to visit, with so much to see and do for people of all interests. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an outdoor enthusiast, there is something for everyone in Williamsburg. We hope this insider’s guide has given you some inspiration for your trip to this beautiful city in Virginia.