Things to Do in Williamsburg, VA – Downtown
Downtown Williamsburg is a great place to start your exploration of the city. Stroll down Duke of Gloucester Street, the main thoroughfare, and take in the colonial-era architecture. Stop in one of the many shops or grab a bite to eat at one of the restaurants.
Colonial Williamsburg
Then head over to Colonial Williamsburg, where you can step back in time and experience what life was like in the 18th century. Visit historic buildings, take part in interactive demonstrations, and learn about the people who lived here during America’s early days. It’s the largest outdoor living history museum in the U.S.!
Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum
One place you’ll find in Colonial Williamsburg is Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum, which is housed in an 18th-century building. The museum features a collection of folk art from around the world, as well as works by American artists.
DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum
Together with the museum described above, DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum forms the Historic Area’s two art museums. The DeWitt Wallace museum is located in a restored 18th-century building and features a collection of British and American decorative arts from 1670 to 1830.
College of William & Mary
Another highlight of the city is the beautiful campus of College of William & Mary. Take a walk around the grounds, admire the buildings, and stop by the on-campus museum.
The Golden Horseshoe Golf Club
Outdoorsy types will enjoy a round of golf at The Golden Horseshoe Golf Club. This club features three championship courses, as well as a clubhouse and pro shop. Why not challenge yourself and your family while you’re in Williamsburg?
Things to Do in Williamsburg, VA – Outskirts and Neighboring Towns
In addition to all the things to do in Williamsburg, VA, there are also plenty of activities to enjoy in the surrounding area. Head to Jamestown Island or explore one of the many state parks and nature trails for hiking, biking, and more.
Jamestown Settlement
Just a short drive from Williamsburg is Jamestown Settlement, the first permanent English settlement in North America. Explore the museum, watch films about the colony’s history, and see re-creations of the fort, ships, and homes.
Yorktown Battlefield
Yorktown Battlefield on the shore of York River is the site of the last major battle of the Revolutionary War. Today, you can explore the battlefield, visit the American Revolution Museum, and take a walking tour of the historic town.
New Quarter Park
For some outdoor fun, check out New Quarter Park. This Williamsburg park has hiking and biking trails, a playground, picnic areas, a fishing lake, disc golf, and more. If you’re looking for things to do in Williamsburg, VA while breathing some fresh air, add it to your list!
Williamsburg Winery
Last but not least, no visit to Williamsburg would be complete without a stop at Williamsburg Winery. This local winery offers tours, tastings, and special events throughout the year.
Things to Do with Kids in Williamsburg, VA
There are plenty of things to do in Williamsburg, VA with kids. Visit Busch Gardens Williamsburg or explore one of the city’s many historic sites and museums designed with kids in mind.
Busch Gardens Williamsburg & Water Country USA
When you visit Busch Gardens as a family, you won’t want to leave! This theme park features roller coasters, live shows, and animal encounters. Kids will love exploring all there is to see and do. For example:
- Skyride – the whole family can enjoy seeing the park from up above,
- Land of the Dragons – kids can climb nets and take dragon-themed rides,
- Sesame Street Forest of Fun – kids can take photos with employees in Sesame Street costumes and splash around Elmo’s Castle.
And that’s just the beginning. Water Country USA is also worth a visit, especially on hot summer days. This water park has slides, pools, and a lazy river for hours of fun in the sun.
Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Williamsburg
Ripley’s Believe It or Not! is always a hit with kids. They’ll love seeing the bizarre and unusual things on display, from two-headed animals to shrunken heads. This is one of the best things to do in Williamsburg, VA if you’re looking for something different.
Williamsburg Botanical Garden and Freedom Park Arboretum
Would you like to show your kids some butterflies? Then head to the Williamsburg Botanical Garden. This garden is home to over 50 species of butterflies, attracted by its wide variety of plants and flowers.
You can also explore Freedom Park Arboretum, which features more than 200 species of trees from around the world. This is a great place for a family nature walk or picnic lunch.
Where to Have Dinner in Williamsburg, VA?
A day of sightseeing and playing means you’ll go hungry. There are a number of great restaurants in Williamsburg, VA. Here are some of our favorites:
- The Cheese Shop – This shop offers a wide variety of cheeses, as well as soups, sandwiches, and salads.
- Berret’s Seafood Restaurant & Taphouse Grill – This restaurant has something for everyone with its seafood, burgers, pizzas, and more.
- Fat Canary – This is a Williamsburg favorite for its fine dining and unique atmosphere. The menu changes seasonally to feature the freshest ingredients.
If you’re traveling on a budget, don’t worry – Williamsburg has plenty of cheap eats too! Head to one of the city’s many food trucks or taverns for a quick and tasty meal.
Things to See a Short Drive Away from Williamsburg
There’s plenty to do in Williamsburg, but if you’re looking for things to see a short drive away, consider the Virginia Living Museum in Newport News. There, you can see animals native to Virginia – from eagles and otters to snakes and frogs.
The Virginia Beach Boardwalk is another great option, about an hour’s drive away. This three-mile boardwalk is perfect for a family stroll, and there’s plenty to see and do along the way. Stop for an ice cream cone, visit the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, or simply enjoy the views.
Planning Your Trip to Williamsburg Yet?
We hope this list of things to do in Williamsburg, VA has inspired you to plan a visit! This city is perfect for a family vacation, with something for everyone to enjoy. Start planning your trip today!
Similar Posts:
- Things to Do in Harrisonburg, VA: Major Attractions and Hidden Gems
- Things to Do in Roanoke, VA – Museums, Parks, and Other Tourist Attractions
- Things to Do in Charlottesville VA: Your Complete & Quick Guide on the Best Attractions Around Charlottesville Virginia
- Best Things to Do in Beverly Hills, Places to Visit & Tourist Attractions. Plan a Perfect Day in Beverly Hills
- Things to Do in Charleston, WV – Places to Visit and Things to See When You Visit the Capital of West Virginia
- Top Things to Do in Morgantown, WV: Best Tourist Attractions for the Whole Family
- 14 Things to Do in Fredericksburg, VA: Attractions, Places to Go and Things to See On Your Day Trip to Fredericksburg
- Things to Do in Norfolk, VA – Explore the Attractions of Downtown Norfolk and Beyond
