Williamsburg VirginiaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Williamsburg, Virginia.
1. Colonial Williamsburg
LIVING HISTORY MUSEUM
Colonial Williamsburg is a 301-acre living history museum that brings travelers back in time to colonial Virginia through immersive experiences and historic interpretations. Visitors can explore historic buildings, interact with costumed interpreters, and witness daily life from America's founding era. The attraction offers museums, special events, and hands-on activities that make history come alive for guests of all ages.
2. Jamestown Settlement
AMERICA'S FIRST ENGLISH COLONY
Jamestown Settlement offers an immersive look at America's first permanent English colony with interactive exhibits and historic replicas. Visitors can explore a recreated Native American village, colonial fort, and ships with costumed interpreters bringing history to life. The living history museum covers the period from 1607 to 1700, providing engaging storytelling about the early days of American colonization.
3. Historic Jamestowne
ORIGINAL SETTLEMENT SITE
Historic Jamestowne is the authentic site of America's first permanent English settlement, featuring original colonial buildings and archaeological digs along the James River. Visitors can view museum exhibits of artifacts, participate in interactive programs, and enjoy scenic marshland walkways. Park ranger talks provide additional insights into this crucial piece of early American history.
4. Busch Gardens Williamsburg
THRILLING THEME PARK
Busch Gardens Williamsburg offers thrilling rides, live shows, and animal encounters just a short drive from Colonial Williamsburg. Visitors can explore themed European villages while experiencing heart-pounding roller coasters and family-friendly attractions. The park provides a perfect complement to historical sightseeing with its entertainment options for all ages.
5. Water Country USA
MID-ATLANTIC'S LARGEST WATERPARK
Water Country USA is the largest water park in the mid-Atlantic region featuring slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers. Families can enjoy a refreshing escape with water attractions designed for visitors of all ages. The park offers a perfect summer complement to Williamsburg's historical attractions, providing cooling fun during warmer months.
6. Governor's Palace
COLONIAL SEAT OF POWER
The Governor's Palace served as the official residence for Virginia's royal governors and the first two elected governors of the Commonwealth. The meticulously reconstructed building showcases the lavish lifestyle and political importance of colonial leadership. Visitors can tour ornate rooms, manicured gardens, and see the impressive display of weapons in the entrance hall symbolizing British authority.
7. Jamestown Glasshouse
HISTORIC GLASSMAKING TRADITION
The Jamestown Glasshouse continues the tradition of America's first English industrial venture with live demonstrations of colonial glassblowing techniques. Visitors can watch skilled artisans create beautiful glass pieces using methods from the 17th century. The attraction offers a fascinating glimpse into early American craftsmanship and industrial development.
8. Jamestown-Scotland Ferry
SCENIC RIVER CROSSING
The Jamestown-Scotland Ferry provides a scenic crossing of the historic James River, connecting Jamestown to Scotland, Virginia. Passengers can enjoy breathtaking views of the river while traveling the same waterway used by early colonists. The free ferry service offers a relaxing break from sightseeing while serving as both a practical transportation link and a tourist attraction.
9. Kimball Theatre
HISTORIC ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
The Kimball Theatre is an intimate and historic venue located in Colonial Williamsburg's Merchants Square. Visitors can enjoy concerts, plays, dance performances, and screenings of independent and classic films in this charming setting. The theater combines historical ambiance with contemporary entertainment options in the heart of Williamsburg.
10. Go Ape!
TREETOP ADVENTURE COURSE
Go Ape! offers an exciting outdoor adventure featuring treetop obstacle courses, ziplines, and rope swings near Williamsburg. The attraction provides thrill-seekers and nature lovers with a unique perspective of the area's natural beauty from above the forest canopy. Participants can challenge themselves physically while enjoying a fun and active way to experience the great outdoors.
11. Go-Karts Plus
FAMILY RACING FUN
Go-Karts Plus offers racing excitement with multiple go-kart tracks for drivers of various ages and skill levels. Visitors can also challenge themselves on mini-golf courses or enjoy arcade games and bumper boats at this family entertainment center. The attraction provides a perfect venue for family fun, group outings, or an action-packed day away from historical sightseeing.
12. Merchants Square
HISTORIC SHOPPING DISTRICT
Merchants Square is an outdoor shopping and dining district adjacent to Colonial Williamsburg featuring over 40 shops and restaurants. Visitors can browse unique boutiques, dine at charming eateries, and enjoy the colonial-inspired architecture in this pedestrian-friendly area. The district regularly hosts special events, farmers markets, and seasonal celebrations throughout the year.
13. Williamsburg Winery
VIRGINIA WINE EXPERIENCE
The Williamsburg Winery offers visitors a taste of Virginia's vibrant wine culture on a picturesque 300-acre farm. Guests can tour the production facilities, sample award-winning wines in the tasting room, and dine at on-site restaurants featuring locally-sourced cuisine. The winery combines viticulture education with relaxation in a beautiful setting just minutes from Williamsburg's historic attractions.
14. Yorktown Battlefield
REVOLUTIONARY WAR VICTORY
Yorktown Battlefield preserves the site of the final major battle of the American Revolutionary War where British forces surrendered to the combined American and French armies. Visitors can explore the battlefield, view historic buildings, and see original earthworks fortifications from this decisive 1781 conflict. The site includes a museum with artifacts, interactive exhibits, and ranger-led programs explaining the battle's significance in securing American independence.
15. College of William & Mary
HISTORIC AMERICAN UNIVERSITY
The College of William & Mary, established in 1693, is the second-oldest institution of higher education in the United States with a beautiful campus adjacent to Colonial Williamsburg. Visitors can tour the historic grounds, see the Sir Christopher Wren Building (the oldest college building still standing in America), and appreciate the Georgian architecture. The college educated many founding fathers including Thomas Jefferson and continues as a prestigious public university with deep connections to American history.