Curator’s statement
Historic Williamsburg, Virginia, is more than a preserved town—it’s a living, breathing chronicle of America’s earliest chapters. As you walk its cobblestone streets and step inside its meticulously restored homes, workshops, and public buildings, you are transported to an era where revolutionary ideas were debated in taverns, trade flourished in bustling shops, and the ideals of liberty and self‑governance began to take shape.
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Where to stay in Williamsburg, Virginia
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Things to do in Williamsburg, Virginia
Jamestown settlement, the first settlement in the United States
Walk through Colonial Williamsburg
Experience the most iconic attraction: the largest living‑history museum in America. Stroll along Duke of Gloucester Street and visit the Governor’s Palace, Bruton Parish Church, and various artisan workshops. With costumed interpreters, live reenactments, candlelit ghost tours, and carriage rides, it’s a vibrant dive into 18th‑century colonial life.
Explore Jamestown Settlement & Historic Jamestown
Step back to 1607 at this immersive museum featuring full‑scale reconstructions: the three original ships, James Fort, and a Powhatan village. Engage with interpreters, multimedia exhibits, and archaeology at Historic Jamestown’s Archaearium—all central to America’s first permanent English colony.
Thrill-seek at Busch Gardens Williamsburg
Just a short drive away, Busch Gardens offers European-themed villages, and world-class roller coasters like the historic Loch Ness Monster, live entertainment. It’s voted one of the world’s most beautiful theme parks.
Splash around at Water Country USA
Located nearby in York County, this is the Mid‑Atlantic’s largest water park—boasting wave pools, lazy rivers, and adrenaline‑pumping slides. Multi‑park passes even include Busch Gardens on the same day.
Sip & stroll at Merchants Square and local breweries
Adjacent to Colonial Williamsburg, Merchants Square offers a charming blend of boutique shops, cafés, and eateries. For a taste of local flavor, stop by Williamsburg’s oldest microbrewery, Alewerks Brewing Co., or explore the Williamsburg Tasting Trail with craft beer and spirits.
Places to eat & drink in Williamsburg, Virginia
Amber Ox Public House
A local favorite brewpub in Merchants Square, Amber Ox serves small-batch, on-site ales alongside smoked brisket, Southern fried chicken, and rich tomato chowchow—great for pairing with house beers and craft spirits.
Alewerks Brewing Company
Williamsburg’s oldest craft brewery (est. 2006), Alewerks offers 16 beers on tap—including six flagship and seasonal brews—plus tours and tastings in a relaxed, welcoming space.
The Brass Tap
A polished craft-beer bar with over 150 brews from around the world, as well as premium wines and cocktails. It’s a lively place for trivia nights, tap takeovers, or just sharing small plates with friends.
Williamsburg Winery at Wessex Hundred
Virginia’s largest winery offers vineyard tours and guided tastings of its distinctive Viognier, Cabernet Franc, and other varietals. A boutique destination with lovely on-site dining.
Restoration Bar (Williamsburg Inn)
Found inside the upscale Williamsburg Inn, this refined lounge features rare wines, premium spirits, barrel-aged cocktails, and cigars in a sophisticated, historic setting.
Need to know
Plan your days around history & fun
Start early in Colonial Williamsburg before the crowds build. The streets are magical in the morning, and interpreters often have more time to interact.
Pair historical sites with lighter activities in the afternoon—like Merchants Square shopping, a brewery stop, or a nature trail.
Bundle tickets & passes
Consider a Historic Triangle Pass (Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown Settlement, and Yorktown Battlefield) to save money and streamline entry.
If you’re hitting Busch Gardens and Water Country USA, grab a multi-park ticket—often cheaper than buying separately.
Balance history with live experiences
Don’t just look at buildings—book an evening program like a ghost walk, a colonial tavern dinner, or a Revolutionary City reenactment for deeper immersion.
Time your visit to catch musket demonstrations, fife and drum marches, or carriage rides.
Eat like a local
Make reservations ahead of time for popular spots like Fat Canary or Berret’s (especially on weekends or during festivals).
Try a historic tavern meal at Christiana Campbell’s Tavern for authentic 18th‑century recipes served by candlelight.
Mix in outdoor adventures
Bring comfortable walking shoes. Colonial Williamsburg and Jamestown involve a lot of walking.
Explore the Virginia Capital Trail or Freedom Park for biking, hiking, and fresh air between museum visits.
Know the seasons
Spring/Fall: Mild weather and smaller crowds—ideal for outdoor sites.
Summer: Be ready for heat and humidity. Plan early morning or late-afternoon outdoor time and spend midday at indoor exhibits or Water Country USA.
Winter: Fewer crowds and magical holiday decor (especially if visiting during Grand Illumination or Christmas festivities).
Getting around
Most historic areas are walkable, but having a car makes it easy to hop between Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown, and Busch Gardens.
Parking in Colonial Williamsburg is plentiful at the Visitor Center, with free shuttles into the historic area.
Extra pro tip
Slow down. Williamsburg isn’t just about checking off attractions—it’s about soaking in the atmosphere, chatting with costumed interpreters, and letting the centuries unfold around you.
Travel Advisor
Zachary McDonald
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Williamsburg page.