At Williamsburg, see history recreated at a 301 acre (121 hectare) village with historically furnished buildings and costumed interpreters. Colonial Williamsburg is the largest outdoor living history museum in America. Step back in time at this fully operational 18th-century city. Trace the historic footsteps of people such as first president George Washington, military strategist Benedict Arnold and the principal author of the Declaration of Independence, Thomas Jefferson.Visit the Colonial Williamsburg Resort to shop for gifts or souvenirs, including reproduction flatware and furniture from the 18th century. Enjoy a round of golf on the resort’s course or relax with a pampering treatment at the spa. For couples seeking a romantic excursion or families looking to rest their legs, take a leisurely tour by horse-drawn carriage. Sit back and relax while learning about the Revolutionary City from a Colonial Williamsburg “citizen” who will serve as your guide. There is an admission fee to enter Colonial Williamsburg, which is open 365 days a year. Some features within the village, such as the guided tours, are included with your admission ticket.While many visit Williamsburg to learn about the past, you’ll find many other attractions and activities as well. There are dozens of hiking trails in and around the city. Visit Freedom Park and hike through the 600-acre (243-hectare) preserve passing through historic sites, forests, creeks and open green space. For a more challenging workout, head to the 52-mile (84-kilometer) paved Virginia Capital Trail. Walk, jog or cycle this scenic path across the Virginia landscape.Just outside the city is Busch Gardens, a theme park with thrill rides, animal exhibits and shows. Ride the roller coasters, which include Griffon, with its 205-foot (62-meter), 90-degree free fall. View the mysterious gray wolf at the Wolf Valley exhibit and see exotic animals at Jack Hanna’s Wild Reserve. Williamsburg Area Transport (WAT) runs trolley and bus services that stop at the city’s attractions, including Busch Gardens. There is a shuttle bus service in the Colonial Williamsburg village.
Williamsburg, VA
Where to stay in Williamsburg
Kingsmill
While visiting Kingsmill, you might make a stop by sights like Kingsmill Plantation Golf Course and Colonial National Historical Park.
Reviewed on May 12, 2024
Reviewed on May 13, 2024
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Reviewed on Mar 29, 2024
Reviewed on Jul 9, 2023
Getting around Williamsburg
There are a few options to choose from when it comes to getting around Williamsburg. An extensive public bus network connects the center with the suburbs, while Colonial Williamsburg operates a shuttle service for ticket holders between its Visitor Center and nearby hotels and attractions. The Williamsburg Trolley, a vintage streetcar, is another great way to get between popular tourist areas. Visit the Williamsburg Area Transit Authority website.Browse Williamsburg rental cars.
Best time to visit
The busiest time of year in Williamsburg is the summer, when temperatures reach an average high in the mid 80s F (low 30s C), although it can be quite humid at this time of year. For more pleasant weather, smaller crowds and cheaper hotels, visit in spring or fall. Winter is also a good time to visit, as it is not too cold but the town gets into the festive spirit in the lead up to Christmas.
Popular places to visit
Busch Gardens Williamsburg
Enjoy the excitement at Busch Gardens Williamsburg and see why people love this amusement park in Williamsburg. Experience the entertainment choices or attend a sporting event in this family-friendly area.
Jamestown Settlement
You can browse the exhibits at Jamestown Settlement, a museum with a story of its own, during your trip to Williamsburg. Amble around this quaint area's picturesque gardens or attend a sporting event.
College of William and Mary
Explore the campus of College of William and Mary, during your trip to Williamsburg. Amble around the area's picturesque gardens or attend a sporting event.
Historic Jamestowne
The site of America’s oldest colony, this historical park offers an intriguing perspective into the lives of the country’s first settlers.
Merchants Square
During your visit to Williamsburg, you can do some window-shopping at Merchants Square. Amble around this family-friendly area's picturesque gardens and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.
Williamsburg Winery
You can enjoy a tasting or tour at Williamsburg Winery during your travels to Williamsburg. Amble around this family-friendly area's picturesque gardens or attend a sporting event.
Things to do
Colonial Williamsburg Admission
Williamsburg: Secrets of Williamsburg Walking Tour
Water Country USA Waterpark
Williamsburg’s Culinary Trail: A Feast of Flavors
Colonial Williamsburg Trivia Walk
Colonial Williamsburg Ghost Stories and Walking Tour
Reviews of Williamsburg
4/5 - Good
I love Williamsburg and always will but will pick a better spot for my family to stay at next time
5/5 - Excellent
This really is beautiful country and the majority of the people here are welcoming and friendly..
4/5 - Good
Every attraction was closed due to Covid-19
5/5 - Excellent
Check out the two distilleries. They are unique and fun to visit
4/5 - Good
We toured Jamestown Island & Yorktown visitors' center. Busch Gardens was closed. We didn't have time to get tickets for Colonial Williamsburg. We spent time visiting family.
4/5 - Good
Great dining options. We felt the Historic area docents were more geared to students. Not a whole lot going on when we were there but I guess it wasn’t season
- Busch Gardens Williamsburg
- Jamestown Settlement
- Water Country USA
- College of William and Mary
- Historic Jamestowne
- Williamsburg Premium Outlets
- Merchants Square
- Williamsburg Winery
- Governor's Palace
- Ford's Colony at Williamsburg
- Colonial Williamsburg Visitor Center
- Ripley's Believe It or Not!
- Golden Horseshoe Golf Club
- Kingsmill Plantation Golf Course
- Williamsburg National Golf Club
- Williamsburg Botanical Garden
- Colonial Heritage Golf Club
- Williamsburg Pavilion Shops Shopping Center
- Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum
- York River State Park
- Bassett Hall
- DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum
- Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf
- Freedom Park
- Kiskiack Golf Club
- Waller Mill Park
- Alewerks Brewing Company
- Bounce House