America’s Historic Triangle: A Family-Friendly Guide to Williamsburg, Jamestown & Yorktown
Curated By
Danielle Call
Curator’s statement
Travel back in time to the fight for American independence. The Historic Triangle offers different experiences to learn about our past, from engaging with archaeologists and items found at Jamestown, to listening to Thomas Jefferson give a speech at the Capitol. The programs offered at Colonial Williamsburg ignited my love of history, and continue to be a place to learn about and connect with America’s past.
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Things to do in Virginia
Colonial Williamsburg
Visit all of the historic sites like the blacksmith, the cabinet maker, and even visit the historic kitchens where you will see food cooked using 18th century recipes and techniques.
Historic Jamestown
Tour the original Jamestown Fort site from 1607 and experience the original church (which I helped uncover as an archaeology student in the summer of 2010) and visit the Archaearium Archaeology Museum to view some of the many artifacts found on Jamestown Island.
Jamestown Settlement
A more interactive experience of Jamestown, here you can visit with historic reenactors and explore replicas of the ships that would have journeyed here across the Atlantic. Try to imagine living in one of those for three months across the ocean.
Yorktown Battlefield
Explore the historic site where the British Army finally surrendered to American and French troops. Visit the house that Cornwallis used as his military headquarters. You can even see some of the historic redoubts (early trenches) used by American soldiers.
Busch Gardens Williamsburg
Fun for the whole family with award-winning shows and rides for everyone from Sesame Place to the mighty Griffon.
Smith’s Fort
The land was originally owned by Captain John Smith. Here you will visit the Virginia home of John Rolfe and Pocahontas.
Sherwood Forest Plantation
Still owned and maintained by the Tyler family, you can tour the home of America’s 10th President, John Tyler. Learn about his home and life at Sherwood Forest.
Waller Mill Park
Great for nature trails and kayaking or paddle-boarding.
Places to eat & drink in Virginia
Kings Arms Tavern
Get a taste of historic food set in an 18th century tavern. The peanut soup is delicious!
Honey Butter Kitchen
Great local diner for breakfast. The corn cakes with honey butter are a nice sweet breakfast, and the garlic home fries are amazing.
The Cheese Shop
A must-visit in Merchant’s Square. Simple, delicious sandwiches. I recommend always getting a side of house dressing with them. You can also get a cheese plate and wine and eat on the patio to people-watch.
Plaza Azteca
Fun Mexican restaurant. The portions are generous, but I always get table-side guac as an appetizer. There’s even a robot that brings your meal!
Food for Thought
A casual dinner spot with classic comfort food and conversation starter cards on each table.
The Amber Ox Public House
Great for families or a nice date night out. Their menu changes seasonally, but I have always enjoyed everything I’ve gotten here. They also have brunch on the weekends. Definitely get the biscuit board!
Precarious Beer Project
A fun spot for adults and kids. They have classic arcade games to keep everyone busy and a taco and burger stand inside. I recommend the electric circus wings!
Aroma’s
Local coffeeshop with a large menu. Great for breakfast or lunch. I always like to treat myself to a giant oatmeal raisin cookie!
Need to know
Williamsburg is beautiful all year round, but I think the best time to visit is in the fall, when the trees are changing. The weather is warm during the day and cool at night, making it comfortable for spending the day outside exploring and learning.
Travel Advisor
Danielle Call
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