Then, do not miss a ride on the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry. Take a self-guided tour of the Great Hopes Plantation and discover how Virginians lived long ago. Set inside a fully refurbished gas station, dining at Casa Pearl is definitely one of the most unique things to do in Williamsburg. While it might present itself like fast food, it doesnt feel cheap. This 410-seat theater offers a main theater that regularly screens movies. Flying into Richmond VA? Its open every day from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. This is one of the best French restaurants in the south. Learn about the treatments used that you may not have heard earlier. Located in the heart of Colonial Williamsburg, the Governors Palace is easily one of the most iconic Williamsburg attractions. Best Tickets/Tours in Williamsburg: The Original Ghosts of Williamsburg Tour (#1 tour in Williamsburg!) Book These 10 Unique Maldives Resorts On The Water This Summer. Plus, there are always pop-up events going on in Merchant Square. Colonial Williamsburg is a must-visit for anyone who wants to learn more about the history of the United States. Colonial Williamsburg is one of the few museums in the country dedicated to preserving and displaying a wealth of Colonial buildings and artifacts. You can go for a hike or even ride a horse at York River State Park. Giant busts of 42 U.S. presidents are sitting in a field in Virginia. Yorktown is also home to an 18th-century farm, where you can learn about the family of Edward Moss and their slaves from historical interpreters. If youre looking for places to visit that show how local products are made, come here. Reservations must be made in advance by calling 757-566-9633. Written April 16, 2023. Scenic driving, interpretive. This is a great place to take your children, who mightve just started learning about American history. Enjoy historically-inspired, local shrimp, scallops, and fish. Bassett Hall was first built in the 18th century. Norborne Berkeley was well known as the governor of the Virginia colony from the year 1768 to 1770. Canoeing & Kayaking. Address: The Mariners Museum and Park, 100 Museum Dr, Newport News, VA 23606, Opening hours: Museum: Mon - Sat: 9am - 5pm; Sun: 11am - 5pm; Park: 6am - 5pm (daily), Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account. But youll want to make sure you check out the Governors Palace (the seat of Royal power in 18th-century Virginia) and the 1715 Bruton Parish Episcopal Church. The extravagant estate was home to seven royal governors, as well as the first two elected governors in Virginia: Patrick Henry and Thomas Jefferson. The Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum is an excellent experience that shows how much the past matters. With a wide variety of stores including Tommy Hilfiger, Aeropostale, and Sperry, you can find a great new outfit at the Williamsburg Premium Outlets. If youre looking for something to bring back home, you can pick up gifts at Wythe Candy & Gourmet Shop, The Spice & Tea Exchange, and R. P. Wallace & Sons. Address:1351 Richmond Rd, Williamsburg, VA 23185, United States. You can go fishing, canoe down James River, and take your dog for a walk. History buffs will definitely want to take a day trip to neighboring Yorktown, which is part of Americas Historic Triangle. 18 hours ago. Are you an antique lover? has been to Whether or not you believe in ghosts, youre bound to get a few chills from these tellings. There are so many awesome offerings at Whitleys Peanut Factory. Exploring other areas of Virginia? After seeing lots of Williamsburg attractions, you may want to whet your appetite with a rich and juicy meal at Opus 9. With fun toys, apparel, home decor, and souvenirs, Williamsburg General Store is the cutest little country store. There are fun stage shows and lots of delicious food. Monticello's Vegetable Garden and Fruitery. There are constantly great things happening here. This amazing park is located near a reservoir that has been open since July 1972. 2023 Atlas Obscura. Colonial Williamsburg is the largest living history museum in the world! Copyright 2023 Wandering Media LLC. 5. The restaurant also has a very cozy atmosphere. Address:747 Scotland St, Williamsburg, VA 23185, United States. Water Country USA, Virginia's largest water park, is just three miles west of Busch Gardens and features state-of-the-art water rides and resort-style amenities. Youll also have the chance to peruse the 1,000 archaeological artifacts that have been unearthed over the years. There's no better way to experience Christmas than by visiting Colonial Williamsburg! Youll pay a visit to an eerie insane asylum, stroll through the pitch-black hallways of The Public Gaol (Old Jail), explore a 350-year-old cemetery, visit Williamsburgs most haunted house, and stop off at the haunted Governors Palace, where Thomas Jefferson once lived. The palace also housed two of Virginias post-Colonial governors until the capital of the state of Virginia was moved to Richmond in 1780. 79 likes, 0 comments - William and Mary Class of 2027 (@wmclassof2027) on Instagram: "Hello. With multiple locations in the United States, Wonderworks is a science-focused indoor amusement park loaded with interactive exhibits and educational fun. Thats how Colonial Williamsburg came to be one of the most successful historical recreations projects in American history. The park features over 30 miles of hiking trails, with some shorter trails that are great for kids. I would go so far as to say that snuggling up with a cup of coffee is the ultimate cozy activity. Explore 17th- through early 19th-century paintings, textiles, furniture, metals, ceramics and prints. Famous for its role in the American Revolution, Williamsburg was the capital of the Virginia Colony from 1699 to 1780. This is where youll find costumed characters re-enacting scenes from daily 18th-century life, glimpse historic buildings and churches, and see soldiers practicing musket drills. Address:603 Jamestown Rd, Williamsburg, VA 23185, United States. Theres so much entertainment and excellent stuff to do at Busch Gardens. Many bike rides themselves are absolutely unforgettable. The tree-lighting ceremony is a must-see, and the Governor's Palace is decked out in all its colonial glory. Dine like an American revolutionary at Colonial Williamsburg. 1. Brunch: Sundays from 11 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. Its open from Sundays to Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and on Fridays and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. You might want to stock up, given how great these beers are. And for that, they needed women. The museum is open everyday, except Christmas and New Years Day. If you dont have your own gear, you can rent kayaks, tubes, and stand up paddleboards from Maiden Voyage Outfitters. York River State Park is home to a coastal estuary, and as the name indicates, the park is located on the York River. Guests are in for an epic journey on the park's wildest family thrill slide, Colossal Curl. Details: 12602 Harrison Landing Rd, Charles City, VA 23030 | Website. Enrich your travel experience by exploring Williamsburg in a unique way. Its a spectacular experience, both during the day or at night. Affectionately known as "Lord Bot," this historic statue has a cult social media following and rightly claims to be the most metal inhabitant of the Wren Yard.. If you and your significant other need a romantic getaway, this is a great place to go. Its one of the best Williamsburg attractions for guests of all ages. Address:9801 York River Park Rd, Williamsburg, VA 23188, United States. See More. Also, the museum is a laboratory and research center for the college. The Virginia Beer Company is another one of the best places to learn about and drink beer. If you are fond of spine-tingling and creepy stories, go for a ghost and witch tour in the haunted areas, such as historic bars, graveyards, and homes, in Williamsburg. Ice Skating Rink. Introductory tours are offered daily. The only place for a truly presidential dram. Book a Ghosts and Graves, History and Hauntings Tour. For a small fee, you get to enjoy a bus tour around town with stops at multiple breweries, distilleries and wineries. The Extensive Tour and Reserve Wine Tastings offer visitors the chance to sample reserve wines in the private wine cellar. The oldest and most historic plantation in the U.S., Berkeley Plantation covers about 1000 acres. Its also not called a mall in a gimmicky sense either. Theres even a place to dine, known as La Petite Tea Room. There are also lighter options like veggie burgers, chicken sandwiches, and salads. Come to visit when its open, from May to September. However, if you get woozy at the idea of twists, turns, and speeds, there are other fun things you can do. Williamsburg is also a great multi-generational vacation destination. 12. Check out these alternative activities in the same location. 2022 2. A boat ramp, a fishing pier, and seasonal boat rental are available here. Youll also have the chance to check out rotating exhibits. You could end up bagging an impressive catfish. This shopping complex is made up of more than 130 stores. Planning a trip to Virginia? Colonial America 3. Be sure to try the Williamsburg ice cream, which is made just like they did it in colonial times. Its a fascinating glimpse into a world gone by. And thats just scratching the surface of everything on offer along the Williamsburg Tasting Trail! Today, the living museum offers the chance for visitors to learn all about what life was like for early colonists in the 17th century. Their collection has pieces going back to the 17th century. You can up your beer knowledge and enjoy some of the tastiest brews Virginia has to offer. This is something you must do if you love having fun outdoors. Whats more, at the entrance, there is a public hospital exhibition that reenacts the mental illness treatment methods of the 17th century. In 1933, President Franklin D. Roosevelt so enjoyed a ride through Virginias Skyline Drive that he wanted to make it go on longernearly 500 miles longer, to be exact. Lunch: Mondays to Saturdays from 11:30 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. Dinner: Mondays to Thursdays and Sundays from 5 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. and Fridays and Saturdays from 5 p.m. to 9:15 p.m. It includes thousands of pieces from different eras and groups. Its a truly wonderful amusement park with cant-beat attractions. Retros menu is focused on old-fashioned favorites like hot dogs, burgers, and sundaes. Lesli Peterson, owner of 365 Traveler, has lived in multiple countries and 30+ states across the US from coast to coast. While it may be easiest to spot the most notable differences between Western and English riding styles - namely, the types of saddles and reins used - there are other subtle differences that equine enthusiasts can learn about on intimate, small-group excursions. While the initial building was lost to fire, the replica, built in 1934, is a more-than-acceptable substitute. Outside the home, you can see the beautifully manicured gardens. Featuring a large outdoor pool and suite options, this place is fantastic for a family getaway. RT @a_newgarden: 32 Best & Fun Things To Do In Williamsburg (Virginia) https://busytourist.com/things-to-do-in-williamsburg-va/?utm_source=twitter&utm_medium=social . The excellent museum is located on the College of William & Mary campus, which is a must-see attraction in its own right. Best Budget Option. Williamsburg is a fascinating destination with an abundance of exciting activities to enjoy. Join us for a daily celebration of the worlds most wondrous, unexpected, even strange places. 8 Things To Do In . With its incredible pieces and recreations, you might feel like youre actually witnessing the American Revolution as it happened. Unfortunately, the original Governors Palace burned down in a fire in 1781, but a replica was built in the 1930s on the exact same site as the original palace. The Kimball Theatre is the performing arts center of Williamsburg and is located in the popular Merchants Square. Details: 100 Visitor Center Dr., Williamsburg, VA 23185 | Website. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (dont worry, its at no extra cost to you). Join us for a daily celebration of the worlds most wondrous, unexpected, even strange places. There are also a lot of attractions to choose from, such as rollercoaster rides, Broadway-style shows, Sesame Street forest, and several different types of tamer rides. With eight roller coasters, and plenty of other thrill rides, youll have plenty to do here. If you visit a bar in Williamsburg, you might notice a lot of AleWerks beer. Another excellent place for fun in Williamsburg, Virginia is Busch Gardens. This is the perfect setup for some spooky stories. The "first cat," "first dog," and even a presidential pygmy hippo all get their due in this museum. Not too far from Washington DC or North Carolina cities like Wilmingtonor Raleigh, the town and the surrounding county offers both educational experiences and entertaining family fun. Located just minutes from downtown Williamsburg in the historic Freedom Park, Go Ape is a unique and highly interactive treetop adventure. The Williamsburg Antique Mall is great for both the items and the general experience. Make sure to try their famous crab cakes! 1. . Jkjkjk . There are rides, shows, and some options for animal encounters. Thats because this is Williamsburgs local brewery. Sample Local Wines at The Williamsburg Winery. If you want something to soak up all that wine, The Williamsburg Winery is also home to the renowned Gabriel Archer Tavern, which serves up incredible farm-to-table dishes. The Escape Game San Francisco. The sprawling living history museum takes up 301 acres right in the heart of the city, so its best to allot an entire day to exploring Colonial Williamsburg. According to their website, Of the twenty-four Williamsburg Bed & Breakfasts, Newport House is the only one with 18th Century History as its central theme. And check out the real English Dancing events! From an incredible museum of arts, water parks, lush green gardens with chirpy birds to scrumptious food and resorted area, Williamsburg unveils itself in an entirely different manner. Thanks to its massive theme parks, this city is a popular destination for families with kids of all ages. Williamsburg has a long history of brewing, fermenting, and distilling alcoholic beverages. The next time you're researching "best day trips near me in Virginia," we hope this list comes in handy! Here, you can see exhibitions about African-American quilts and portraits. "So he can have more historical fun facts to share with friends at game night gatherings." more. Outdoor lovers should definitely add a day trip to nearby York River State Park to their to-do list. Statues 2. Williamsburg, Virginia is the perfect place to visit for history buffs. These are some of the best places to visit in Williamsburg in general. It comprises of four vessels. If this is your first time in Williamsburg, youll definitely want to pay a visit to Historic Jamestowne and the nearby Jamestown Settlement.