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Why Visit Williamsburg
Williamsburg was Virginia's capital from 1699 to 1780. Its historic area features 88 original 18th-century structures. The Governor's Palace and Capitol Building showcase classic Georgian architecture. What is Williamsburg famous for today is its meticulous restoration, funded by John D. Rockefeller Jr., which preserved its colonial character.
Beyond the historic district, the 23-mile Colonial Parkway connects you to Jamestown and Yorktown. You can bike this scenic route or explore the marshes of Jamestown Island, a prime spot for bird watching, especially for bald eagles. Visiting Williamsburg offers more than just history, with kayaking on the James and York Rivers being a local favorite.
One of the best reasons to visit Williamsburg is its colonial-inspired cuisine. Historic taverns like Christiana Campbell's serve dishes based on 18th-century recipes. Try the Virginia peanut soup, a local delicacy. Beyond the taverns, the area's craft breweries, such as Virginia Beer Co., offer a modern taste of the region's heritage.
- WilliamsburgUnited States
- WilliamsburgUnited States
- WilliamsburgUnited States
- WilliamsburgUnited States
Quick Travel Essentials
- Apr-Jun & Sep-Octmild, fewer crowds
- Jul-Aughot & busy
- Wintercool, occasional snow
- #ComfortableShoes
- #LightLayers
- #Sunscreen
- #WaterBottle
- #RainJacket
- 3-4 days for highlights
- 5-6 with side trips or beach visits
- USD ($)
- English
- English is an official language here
- #ColonialWilliamsburg
- #JamestownSettlement
- #YorktownBattlefield
- #BuschGardens
- #WaterCountryUSA
- #AbbyAldrichRockefellerFolkArtMuseum
- Explore historic sites
- Visit Colonial Williamsburg
- Taste peanut soup
- Attend a reenactment
- Stroll through Merchant's Square
Recommended Hotels in Williamsburg by Experience
Things to do in Williamsburg
Discover
Exploring Williamsburg reveals a living history museum. Key sites include the vast Colonial Williamsburg Historic Area, the opulent Governor's Palace, and the nearby Jamestown Settlement, recreating America's first permanent English colony.
Experience
Engage with history through Fife and Drum Corps parades and historic trades demonstrations. Take a spooky ghost tour, browse the Williamsburg Farmers Market for local goods, or enjoy seasonal events like Grand Illumination in winter.
Colonial Williamsburg Historic Area
Living-history museum with costumed interpreters.
Governor's Palace
Reconstructed royal governor's residence and gardens.
Jamestown Settlement
Museum of 17th-century Virginia history with ship replicas.
Busch Gardens Williamsburg
European-themed amusement park with coasters and shows.
Colonial Parkway
Scenic 23-mile roadway connecting historic sites.
Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg
Two museums featuring American folk and decorative arts.
Williamsburg Farmers Market
Saturday market featuring local produce, food, and music.
Before You Arrive
Getting There
Plan a trip to Williamsburg via three airports: PHF (20-min drive), RIC, or ORF (both ~1 hr). The best option for getting from a Williamsburg airport to city center is a taxi or rideshare. Alternatively, Amtrak provides a direct train to Williamsburg.
Getting Around
The historic area is best explored on foot. For wider travel, a Williamsburg shuttle bus connects key attractions. The WATA bus system is the main public transport in Williamsburg. A car rental in Williamsburg is practical for visiting Jamestown and Yorktown.
Local Essentials
A few Williamsburg travel tips for first-timers: when driving in Williamsburg, note the Colonial Parkway's low speed limits. Park at the Visitor Center and use the free shuttles. Purchase tickets for major historical attractions online in advance.
Where to Stay in Williamsburg
Where to Eat and Drink
Celebrate
Explore traditional food in Williamsburg, where colonial history infuses every bite. Taste spoon bread and Brunswick stew in historic taverns. Dining here is an event, often accompanied by live period music for a taste of the past.
Enjoy
For fine dining, eat at Fat Canary's intimate space, reserve early. DoG Street Pub offers a lively vibe, try cask. Top cafes in Williamsburg include Aromas, a cozy spot for coffee, grab patio seating for the best experience.
Fat Canary
Modern American fare. Intimate and upscale, book ahead.
King's Arms Tavern
18th-century recipes. Colonial vibe with costumed servers.
Food For Thought
Diverse American menu. Casual, family-friendly atmosphere.
Second Street Bistro
American-Italian eatery. Known for its energetic, vibrant bar.
Events & Festivals
Celebrate
Explore Williamsburg's past through its authentic events. Experience the Grand Illumination, where fireworks and candlelit buildings kick off the Christmas season. This must-see event reflects 18th-century celebratory practices.
Enjoy
Discover contemporary Williamsburg cultural activities. Enjoy the Williamsburg Live concert series with national rock and country acts. The monthly 2nd Sundays Art & Music Festival showcases local artisans and street performers.
Grand Illumination
December weekends with fireworks and musical performances.
Williamsburg Live
Outdoor June concert series with national music artists.
An Occasion for the Arts
Juried art festival in October with live music and food.
2nd Sundays Art & Music Festival
Monthly street fair (Mar-Dec) with artisans and music.
Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival
Spring festival with international food and wine tastings.
Reenactor Weekends
Spring & fall events recreating Revolutionary War moments.
A True Step Back in Time
Williamsburg is a fascinating place to just walk around and soak in the history. We spent so much time on Duke of Gloucester Street, popping into shops and talking to the costumed interpreters. It feels like you are actually in another century. So well preserved!
Great for the Whole Family
This was a great trip for everyone. The kids loved the excitement of Busch Gardens, while my husband and I really appreciated the historical side of the city. There was a good balance of activities. The food was solid, especially the Virginia ham biscuits.
Incredible Living History
Williamsburg offers an amazing look into American colonial history. The interpreters in Colonial Williamsburg are knowledgeable and make the experience feel so real. It's much more than just old buildings; it's a living, breathing outdoor museum. A must-see.
A Perfect Quiet Weekend
What a nice, low-key weekend away. It's a very peaceful town, perfect for strolling around without a big plan. We really enjoyed the smaller craft shops and cozy cafes we found just by wandering. It was a great way to unwind and disconnect for a few days.
Beautiful College Town
Visited while my daughter was looking at William & Mary. The campus is gorgeous and blends right into the historic downtown area. It's a unique setup with so much history right at the students' fingertips. The area felt very safe and welcoming to us.
Magical During the Holidays
We were here for the holiday season and it was wonderful. All the colonial buildings were decorated with wreaths and candles, and the evening events were fantastic. The whole place has such a special feeling during that time of year. It was truly memorable.