Williamsburg Virginia Travel Guide: 18 BEST Things To Do In Williamsburg VA

Williamsburg Virginia Travel Guide: 18 BEST Things To Do In Williamsburg VA

So you want to know what are the best 
things to do in Williamsburg, Virginia? Great, you’re in the right place.
In this video, we’re gonna discuss the top things to do in Williamsburg.
Number 18: Colonial Williamsburg This 301-acre (122 ha) living history 
museum brings Colonial Virginia to life. You will see historic buildings, gardens, 
shops, taverns, homes, and government buildings restored to their 18th-century appearance.
People dressed in period clothing act as townspeople, shopkeepers, and leaders, 
showing how life was in colonial times. You can join guided tours, self-guided tours, or 
ghost tours that mix history with spooky stories. Throughout the day, you will hear noon 
day cannons, watch Patriots at Play games, and listen to speeches by George Washington.
You can also enjoy meals inspired by the 18th century at King’s Arms Tavern while taking in 
the sights and sounds of colonial Virginia. Number 17: Historic Jamestowne
Located just a short drive from Williamsburg, Historic Jamestowne is an 
active archaeological site where you can see the ruins of the 1607 settlement 
and a 17th-century church tower. You will walk along boardwalk trails that 
lead to the old fort and view artifacts from the first English colony in America.
The site includes outdoor exhibits about the Powhatan people who lived in the 
region before the settlers arrived. You can also visit Jamestown Settlement, 
about a mile away, which features replicas of the settlers’ ships, life-size models of 
their homes, and recreated Powhatan villages. The area offers guided tours and interactive 
displays that show daily life in early Jamestown. Number 16: Water Country USA
If you want to enjoy a full day of water fun, Water Country USA is the place to be.
It is the largest water park in Virginia, with 11 slides, a water coaster, 
a wave pool, and a lazy river. You can race on the Riptide water slide, 
float along the lazy river, or ride the Aquazoid Amped through a neon-light tunnel.
Kids will enjoy Cow-A-Bunga, a cow-themed splash pool, and other smaller splash areas.
For more adventure, you can try Vanish Point, a 75-foot (23 m) tower slide, or 
enjoy the waves at Surfer’s Bay. The park also has restaurants, shops, and 
live entertainment to enjoy between rides. Number 15: Busch Gardens
Owned by the same company that runs Water Country USA, Busch Gardens 
Williamsburg is a European-themed park. You will find ten roller coasters, 
including the intense Griffon, and rides suitable for toddlers and younger 
kids, like Sesame Street Forest of Fun. Each themed land has live shows you can watch 
while taking a break or having lunch, such as the Oktoberfest dancing and singing in Germany.
The park features animal exhibits, such as the Clydesdale horses.
You can also try DarKoaster, an indoor launched coaster.
Number 14: Williamsburg Premium Outlets With over 120 stores, Williamsburg Premium 
Outlets is a place where you can shop for many different things in one trip.
You will find big names like Nike, Adidas, Michael Kors, Calvin Klein, 
Kate Spade New York, and The North Face. There are also stores for casual clothes, 
business wear, shoes, and stylish accessories. The open-air layout makes it easy to walk 
around as you move from one shop to another. Discounts on well-known brands mean you can 
save money while picking out new outfits. You can also find good deals on 
bags, sports gear, and jewelry. Number 13: Wine Tasting
You will have a nice time at the Williamsburg Winery, especially if you 
enjoy wine tasting in a peaceful setting. The 320-acre (130 ha) property grows 
grapes like merlot, cabernet franc, malbec, vidal blanc, and viognier, giving 
you a chance to sample a variety of flavors. You can take part in guided tastings or choose 
more elaborate experiences that include a meal. The winery also has a restaurant where you 
will enjoy dishes such as shrimp and grits, along with wines made from local grapes.
For a longer stay, you can book an overnight escape at the inn, combining 
wine, food, and a quiet atmosphere. Number 12: Yorktown Battlefield 
& American Revolution Museum Just 14 miles (23 km) from Williamsburg, the 
Yorktown Battlefield is where the American Revolution came to an end in 1781 with the 
surrender of British troops to George Washington. You can walk past the old trenches, 
see the cannons still in place, and picture how the battle unfolded.
The visitor center shows a film about the final battle and displays Washington’s 
original tent used during the siege. Driving tours take you through 
key points of the battleground with markers and monuments along the way.
At the American Revolution Museum nearby, you will find live demonstrations, musket 
firing, and films that bring the story to life. Number 11: Visit a Brewery
Williamsburg is home to several breweries where you can enjoy 
different craft beers and unique settings. If you want a lively spot, head to The Virginia 
Beer Company, which features 16 rotating taps, daily food trucks, and live music 
in its taproom and beer garden. Another option is Alewerks Brewing Company, 
with its main taproom offering plenty of seating and The L.A.B., a smaller location serving 
exclusive brews and hosting Jukebox Bingo. You can also sip a pint at Billsburg Brewery on 
the waterfront, relax at Strangeways Brewing with 48 draft choices, or try Frothy Moon Brewhouse 
and Kingship Brewing Co. for trivia nights, coffee, kombucha, and creative events.
Number 10: Williamsburg Antique Mall For more shopping options, you can 
visit the Williamsburg Antique Mall, located off 199 on Lightfoot Road.
Inside its 45,000 square feet (4,180 sq m), more than 300 dealers display antiques and collectibles 
ranging from vintage jewelry to fine furniture. You will see both rare pieces and 
items with modern style, giving you many choices as you walk through the aisles.
The building is fully air-conditioned, heated, and accessible for all visitors, 
making it comfortable year-round. When you need a break, you can stop at Cafe 
Antiquity inside the mall, which serves soups, salads, sandwiches, and desserts to 
keep you refreshed during your shopping. By the way, check the links in 
the description for the ultimate guide on saving money while traveling, plus 
recommended tour operators in Williamsburg. Number 9: Play Golf
Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf gives you two different 18-hole courses, 
making 36 holes of miniature golf to enjoy. Each course is built around pirate stories 
from the 18th century, with caves, waterfalls, and a full-size pirate ship adding to the setting.
As you move from hole to hole, you cross footbridges and pass through themed 
areas that keep the game exciting. The holes are designed to be 
fun but also a bit challenging, so both kids and adults stay engaged.
You will also find small signs with facts about famous pirates, adding 
a touch of history while you play. Number 8: Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Williamsburg
At Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Williamsburg, you will find over 350 strange and unusual 
exhibits collected from around the world. You can stand next to a life-size figure 
of Robert Wadlow, the tallest man ever, or see a real shrunken head.
Kids and adults will enjoy hands-on fun like the giant Operation 
game and the spinning Vortex Tunnel. The 4D Theater shows movies on a big 
screen with wind, water, and other effects that make you feel part of the action.
You can also try Virginia’s only Impossible Laser Race, where you race against 
time to move through a maze of lasers. Before you leave, stop at the on-site candy shop, 
which offers more than 150 flavors to choose from. Number 7: Williamsburg Botanical 
Garden and Freedom Park Arboretum Covering 600 acres (240 ha) of woodland 
with a 2-acre (1 ha) garden, Williamsburg Botanical Garden and Freedom Park Arboretum 
is a peaceful place to enjoy the outdoors. You will see bright flowers in 
spring and colorful leaves in autumn. The trails are gentle and easy for families, 
and kids will enjoy the open paths. Benches are placed along the way, 
giving you space to sit and rest. The garden also has workshops and guided tours 
that share details about plants and wildlife. For butterfly lovers, spring is the best time to 
visit, as you will see them resting on vibrant flowers, making it perfect for photos.
The nearby Free Black Settlement includes reconstructed homes from the 1870s, 
showing how formerly enslaved people lived. Number 6: Powhatan Creek Park and Blueway
Powhatan Creek Park and Blueway is a peaceful place where you can enjoy both nature and history.
You can walk on quiet trails, have a picnic with family, or take children to the playground.
The park has fishing piers and a launch for kayaks and canoes, so you can spend time on the water.
If you enjoy watching wildlife, this creek is full of birds, fish, and other animals, making it 
one of the most biodiverse spots on the peninsula. As you paddle or fish, you will see wide 
views of the water and surrounding marshes. The creek also passes by Jamestown Island, 
Greensprings Plantation, and Mainland Farm, connecting you to centuries of local history.
Number 5: Waller Mill Park This 2,705-acre (1,095 ha) park has a 360-acre 
(146 ha) lake where you can go fishing, canoeing, kayaking, pedal boating, or rent small boats.
A tunnel connects the upper and lower sections of the lake, giving you more 
space to enjoy the water. The park has several hiking trails, 
including a paved multi-use path and wooded routes with scenic views of the lake.
You will also find picnic shelters, playgrounds, and open fields where you can 
relax with family or friends. If you enjoy playing golf, there is an 
18-hole disc golf course that winds through the wooded terrain and offers a fun challenge.
The park also has a dog park and a store with rentals, bait, snacks, and drinks.
Number 4: Virginia Musical Museum Anyone interested in music history 
will enjoy the Virginia Musical Museum. You will see antique instruments like 
harpsichords, organs, pianos, and phonographs, along with music boxes and nickelodeons.
The museum also shows how recorded music began, from Edison’s tin foil 
machine to his opera phonograph. What makes the visit special are the personal 
items from Virginia’s famous artists. You can view Patsy Cline’s stage outfit and 
hand-made scarf, Ralph Stanley’s gold plated banjo, Ella Fitzgerald’s performance dress, 
and Wayne Newton’s custom 1978 roadster. Other highlights include Bruce Hornsby’s 
Key to the City and The Statler Brothers’ performance outfits, giving you a closer 
look at Virginia’s musical legacy. Number 3: Jamestown-Scotland Ferry
From Williamsburg, you can take the nearby Jamestown-Scotland Ferry for a 
relaxing ride across the James River. The trip takes about 20 minutes and gives you 
open views of the water, sky, and green shores. The ferry runs day and night, 
so you can use it any time. You can stay in your car or step out to 
feel the fresh air and watch the river. The boats are named Pocahontas, Powhatan, Surry, 
and Williamsburg, each carrying 50 to 70 cars. During the ride, you will see gulls flying close 
to the boat, and you can take clear photos of the wide river and peaceful scenery.
Number 2: Chippokes State Park Formerly known as Chippokes Plantation State Park, Chippokes State Park is one of the oldest 
working farms in the United States. It is located in Surry County, about 14 miles 
(22 km) from Williamsburg, along the James River. You will find a restored mansion, a farm and 
forestry museum, and formal gardens filled with azaleas, crepe myrtle, and boxwood.
The grounds include cabins, campgrounds, biking and hiking trails, as well as 
equestrian paths and a swimming complex. Along the riverbank, you can see marine 
fossils scattered across the beach. Fishing is also popular here, with chances 
to catch catfish, bass, and croaker. Number 1: Quarterpath Park
End your adventure in Williamsburg at Quarterpath Park, a 23-acre (9 ha) 
park where you can relax or stay active. You can enjoy a picnic at the 
covered shelter with a grill or spend quiet time by the pond and wooded area.
Children have a playground with equipment for all ages, while the athletic fields are open 
for softball, basketball, and sand volleyball. Tennis courts and long trails are 
available if you want to walk or bike. Inside the recreation center, you will 
find basketball and volleyball courts, along with ping-pong and pool tables.
The center also offers programs and classes. Dogs on leashes are welcome, 
adding to the park’s appeal. Click here to watch this video.

This Williamsburg travel guide shares the best things to do in Williamsburg.

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How to travel more and visit your dream destinations without breaking the bank: https://travelmorepayless.com

Recommended Tours in Williamsburg:

Private Tour – Colonial Life & Revolutionary Role of Williamsburg: https://www.viator.com/tours/Williamsburg/5K-Walk-Through-Colonial-Williamsburg-and-William-and-Mary-History/d33617-335271P2?pid=P00104625&mcid=42383&medium=link&medium_version=selector&campaign=yttj-Williamsburg

Busch Gardens Williamsburg Admission Ticket: https://www.viator.com/tours/Williamsburg/Busch-Gardens-Williamsburg/d33617-3348WDC_BUS?pid=P00104625&mcid=42383&medium=link&medium_version=selector&campaign=yttj-Williamsburg

Water Country USA Ticket (Williamsburg, Virginia): https://www.viator.com/tours/Williamsburg/Water-Country-USA/d33617-3348WCUSA?pid=P00104625&mcid=42383&medium=link&medium_version=selector&campaign=yttj-Williamsburg

Colonial Williamsburg Admission: https://www.viator.com/tours/Williamsburg/Colonial-Williamsburg-Admission/d33617-6362COLWIL?pid=P00104625&mcid=42383&medium=link&medium_version=selector&campaign=yttj-Williamsburg
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Welcome to Williamsburg, Virginia, a city where American history comes to life. Known as part of Virginia’s Historic Triangle, along with Jamestown and Yorktown, Williamsburg is a destination that blends colonial heritage with family-friendly attractions and modern charm.

Start your visit at Colonial Williamsburg, the largest living history museum in the United States. Costumed interpreters, restored buildings, and reenactments transport visitors back to the 18th century. You can tour the Governor’s Palace, walk down Duke of Gloucester Street, and watch traditional trades like blacksmithing and weaving.

Nearby, explore Jamestown Settlement, where you’ll learn about the first permanent English colony in America, and Yorktown Battlefield, the site of the final major battle of the Revolutionary War. Together with Williamsburg, these sites tell the story of America’s beginnings.

History lovers will also enjoy the Colonial Williamsburg Art Museums, which showcase decorative arts and folk art, and Bruton Parish Church, one of the oldest Episcopal churches in continuous use in the country.

For family fun, Williamsburg offers modern attractions too. Busch Gardens Williamsburg is a European-themed amusement park with roller coasters, shows, and seasonal events. Nearby, Water Country USA provides water rides and pools for summer fun.

Stroll through Merchants Square, a shopping and dining district next to Colonial Williamsburg. Here you’ll find boutique shops, cafés, and restaurants serving everything from traditional Southern fare to modern cuisine.

Nature lovers can enjoy the outdoors at Waller Mill Park, with hiking trails, fishing, and boating, or take a drive along the scenic Colonial Parkway, which links Williamsburg, Jamestown, and Yorktown with views of the James and York Rivers.

Food is another highlight of Williamsburg, with options ranging from colonial-style taverns serving historic recipes to modern breweries, wineries, and farm-to-table restaurants.

Throughout the year, Williamsburg hosts seasonal events like Grand Illumination during the holidays, Revolutionary reenactments, and cultural festivals that add to the city’s lively atmosphere.

With its blend of history, family attractions, and scenic beauty, Williamsburg, Virginia, is a destination that appeals to all ages. Whether you’re stepping into the 18th century, riding a roller coaster, or enjoying a quiet walk through historic streets, Williamsburg offers a unique experience that connects America’s past with the present.

Keep watching to see the top things to do in Williamsburg, top attractions in Williamsburg, places to visit in Williamsburg and Virginia travel guides.

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