Summary
Williamsburg, Virginia, also known as Colonial Williamsburg, is America’s largest interactive history museum, located just a few hours south of Washington, DC. The 301-acre restored 18th-century capital city of Virginia transports visitors back in time to the period of the American Revolution. Beating drums, trilling fifes, firework displays, theatrical programs, and interpretive characters are just a few of the entertainment elements that are designed to spark your interest in 18th-century Virginia.
Getting to Williamsburg
From Washington DC: Take I-95 South toward Richmond, Take exit 84A on the left to merge onto I-295 South toward Rocky Mt NC/Richmond International, Take exit 28A to merge onto I-64 E toward Norfolk/VA Beach, Take exit 238 for VA-143 toward US-60. Follow signs to Williamsburg. See a map.
Visiting Tips
- Plan to spend at least a full day in Colonial Williamsburg. Additional days will allow you to visit Busch Gardens, Water Country USA, Jamestown Settlement, and Yorktown Victory Center.
- Upon arrival, stop at the Visitor Center to gather information and watch the 30-minute orientation film. Leave your car in the Visitor Center Parking Lot and utilize the free shuttle to navigate around the Historic Area.
- Make reservations for evening programs and dinners in the Colonial Taverns prior to arrival.
- Be sure to wear comfortable shoes. Cars are not allowed in the Historic Area, so expect to do a lot of walking.
History and Restoration
From 1699 to 1780, Williamsburg served as the capital of England’s wealthiest and largest colony. In 1780, Thomas Jefferson moved Virginia’s government to Richmond, transforming Williamsburg into a quiet country town. In 1926, John D. Rockefeller Jr. supported and financed the town’s restoration, a commitment he maintained until his death in 1960. Today, the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, a private, not-for-profit educational institution, preserves and interprets the Historic Area.
Historic Area
The Historic Area of Colonial Williamsburg includes 88 original 18th-century structures and hundreds of houses, shops, and public outbuildings that have been reconstructed on their original foundations.
Key Sites:
- Governor’s Palace – the symbol of British authority in the colony.
- Capitol – the seat of colonial power and the site of Virginia’s vote for independence on May 15, 1776.
- Peyton Randolph site – where historic trades carpenters are reconstructing Randolph’s “urban plantation.”
- Raleigh Tavern – where Virginia patriots met to discuss independence in open defiance of the Crown.
- George Wythe House – home of Thomas Jefferson’s teacher and friend.
- James Geddy House and Foundry – site of an up-and-coming family business.
Indoor Museums:
- Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum – features 18 galleries filled with paintings, embroideries, whirligigs, weathervanes, toys, dating from the 1720s to the present.
- DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum – showcases a collection of English and American antiques, including furniture, silver, textiles, ceramics, and more.
Historic Trades and Demonstrations
Visitors can watch historic trade demonstrations, dramatic vignettes, and engage in interactive programs with “People of the Past.” Tradesmen and women are professional artisans dedicated to specific trades, such as brickmaking, culinary arts, carpentry, apothecary, gunsmithing, and saddlery. Homes, public buildings, and shops in the Historic Area are furnished with objects from an extensive collection of English and American antiques, as well as reproductions made by Colonial Williamsburg tradespeople.
Walking Tours and Special Programs
Tours, evening programs, and special events change daily. To truly immerse yourself in the Historic Area, consider participating in a themed walking tour or attending live comedy, theatre, and musical performances. Some programs come at an additional charge and require advance reservations, especially during the holiday season when unique programs are offered for families.
Historic Area Operating Hours
Generally, hours are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., but they may vary by season. The buildings and grounds are open seven days a week, 365 days a year.
Tickets
Tickets are necessary to access the historic buildings and participate in special programs. Single-day and multiple-day passes are available. Visitors are welcome to explore the historic district, dine in the taverns, and shop without a ticket. To purchase tickets in advance, visit www.colonialwilliamsburg.com.
Other Major Attractions in the Williamsburg Area
- Busch Gardens – This European-themed amusement park provides a full day of fun with dozens of rides, attractions, and stage shows alongside various food options.
- Water Country USA – A state-of-the-art water park featuring numerous slides and water play areas themed around the 1950s and ’60s surf culture.
- Jamestown Settlement – The site of America’s first permanent English colony, located just 8 miles from Colonial Williamsburg. Explore a visitor center, the Powhatan Indian Village, and hands-on exhibits.
- Yorktown – Known for the American Revolution’s climax with British surrender on October 19, 1781, this living history center recreates the Continental Army encampment with interactive programs.
- Williamsburg Winery – Virginia’s largest winery offering daily tours and tastings.
- College of William and Mary – The second-oldest college in America, recognized as one of the best public universities.
Hotels and Places to Stay
The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation manages five hotel properties located within walking distance of the Historic Area. Guests of these hotels enjoy discounted visitor passes.
- Williamsburg Inn – Recognized as one of the world’s best hotels, renovated in 2001 with amenities including a top-notch restaurant, outdoor pool, tennis courts, and spa services.
- Colonial Houses – Authentic 18th-century accommodations situated in the Historic Area.
- Williamsburg Lodge – Originally one of John D. Rockefeller Jr.’s hotels.
- Woodlands Hotel & Suites – The newest hotel in the area, moderately priced.
For further information, call 1-800-HISTORY or visit www.colonialwilliamsburg.com.
The area boasts diverse accommodations, from family-friendly hotels to elegant inns and cozy bed and breakfasts. To find a suitable stay, see goWilliamsburg.com.
Dining
Colonial Williamsburg operates four dining taverns in the Historic Area, each presenting distinctive 18th-century menus in authentic colonial settings:
- Chowning’s Tavern – casual dining featuring chicken, ribs, and pulled pork.
- Christiana Campbell’s Tavern – specializing in premier seafood dishes.
- Shields Tavern – an 18th-century coffeehouse offering lighter fare.
- King’s Arms Tavern – fine dining with a focus on prime beef, pork, and lamb.
Additionally, numerous restaurants are a short drive from Williamsburg. Notable options include:
Shopping
Williamsburg is a delightful destination for shopping, offering authentic reproductions, Colonial Williamsburg foods, and other products in nine Historic Area shops, the Colonial Nursery, and Market Square merchants’ booths. Additionally, consider these shopping attractions:
- Market Square – The adjacent retail village to Colonial Williamsburg’s Historic Area, featuring over 40 shops and restaurants, perfect for purchasing gifts and enjoying meals.
- Premium Outlets Williamsburg – An outlet shopping center with over 120 major brand and designer outlets.
- Williamsburg Pottery Factory – Offering a vast selection of pottery, baskets, candles, and giftware, along with the opportunity to tour and observe pottery being made.
