Williamsburg, Virginia
Colonial Williamsburg is extraordinary and worth every minute of your time. But Williamsburg is also a college town anchored by William & Mary, one of the finest public universities in Virginia, which lends the place a youthful, creative energy that offsets the colonial grandeur in the best possible way. Craft beer flows, converted buildings house inventive restaurants, and the walkable streets feel genuinely alive. Come for the history. Stay for the rest of it.
I’ve been to Williamsburg at least 3-4 times, from college tours in high school to most recently, a family member’s wedding. Williamsburg is the type of town you can visit more than once and discover something new each time.
Things to Do
One of the most remarkable living history museums in the world, Colonial Williamsburg spans over 300 acres of meticulously restored 18th-century buildings, gardens, and streets. Costumed reenactors bring the colonial era to life — blacksmiths, glassblowers, printers, and townspeople who stay in character with surprising conviction. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a first-time visitor, the scale and quality of what’s been preserved and recreated here is genuinely impressive. Spend a full day, easily.
A short drive from Colonial Williamsburg, Historic Jamestown is the site of the first permanent English settlement in America. Standing at the edge of the James River among the archaeological remains of the original fort, it’s one of those places where American history suddenly stops feeling abstract. The museum and archaeological dig sites are excellent, and the grounds are peaceful and beautifully maintained. It’s a natural complement to a Colonial Williamsburg visit — together, they paint a vivid picture of early American life.
If you’re visiting with family or simply want a day of adrenaline and fun, Busch Gardens Williamsburg consistently ranks among the best theme parks on the East Coast. It’s a legitimately great park and worth a full day of your trip if you like rollercoasters and rides.
For a dose of the outdoors, York River State Park is a wonderful escape from the bustle of the historic district. Sitting along the tidal marshes and shoreline of the York River, it’s a beautiful spot for hiking, kayaking, and — especially — birding. The park’s varied habitats attract a wide range of species, making it a rewarding stop for birdwatchers of any level. I use the AllTrails app to find and navigate trails in the area, and it’s an invaluable resource for planning walks and hikes around Williamsburg more broadly. One practical note: depending on the time of year, the Williamsburg area can have a significant mosquito presence. Pack bug spray — you’ll thank yourself later.
Another great activity for outdoor enthusiasts is the Virginia Capital Trail. This 52-mile paved trail connects Richmond with the Jamestown Settlement, passing through historic sites and rolling countryside. The Williamsburg end is mostly flat and accessible for a wide range of fitness levels — even a short out-and-back ride makes for a rewarding half-day outing. Pack water and snacks, as amenities along the route are limited.
Book Tours & Experiences via Viator
Williamsburg has no shortage of ways to experience its history, and Viator is one of the best resources for booking them. From ghost tours after dark to romantic carriage rides through the historic district and guided tours of the surrounding battlefields, there’s something for every kind of traveler. I’ve found Viator to be reliable for booking activities in destinations around the world, and Williamsburg is a particularly good city to use it — the guided experiences here genuinely add context and depth that you won’t get on your own.
Where to Eat
During my most recent visit to Williamsburg, my husband and I had appetizers and beer at The Precarious Beer Project. This craft brewery has an arcade-style, laid-back vibe that somehow feels exactly right for Williamsburg. We had their beers — which were excellent — along with appetizers that were way better than bar food has any right to be. The energy in here is fun and unpretentious, with retro games and a chill vibe. Plus, it’s conveniently located for exploring Colonial Williamsburg.
One of those restaurants that immediately makes you feel like a local for having found it, Casa Pearl is set inside a converted gas station — and the transformation is charming. The food is creative, fresh, and very good. My husband and I ate here with my father and brother and we all walked away impressed. If you’re looking for something a step outside the expected in Williamsburg, this is it.
A warmly lit, genuinely welcoming gastropub in the heart of the city, The Amber Ox Public House is an ideal spot for a relaxed dinner with a well-curated drink menu to match. The kitchen puts care into its food in a way that elevates it above standard pub fare. A great choice for an easy, satisfying evening out.
No trip to Williamsburg is complete without a stop at Wythe Candy & Gourmet Shop, a beloved institution tucked in the heart of Merchants Square. This full-line candy store has been a Williamsburg staple for over 50 years — and for good reason. Hand-dipped chocolates, specialty caramel apples, a wide selection of fudge, fine confections, and gourmet foods fill the shop. Whether you’re picking up a gift or just treating yourself mid-afternoon, it’s the kind of place that’s hard to leave empty-handed.
For fresh baked goods and a cup of coffee in Colonial Williamsburg, stop by the Raleigh Tavern Bakery. Tucked behind the historic Raleigh Tavern, the bakery fires up its signature Ginger Cakes daily in wood-burning ovens — and the warm, spiced aroma alone is worth seeking out. Grab something to nibble on and settle into the outdoor picnic area before continuing your explorations. It’s an immersive experience that makes you feel like you’re in Colonial times.
Where to Stay
If you’re looking to fully immerse yourself in the Colonial Williamsburg experience, the Williamsburg Inn is the gold standard. Elegant, gracious, and impeccably maintained, this iconic property is a top choice for a more luxurious stay. The service is extraordinary and the setting — right in the heart of the historic area — can’t be beat. It’s a splurge, but a memorable one.
Colonial Houses — Historic Lodging
For something more intimate and genuinely unique, Colonial Houses offers overnight accommodations inside authentic 18th-century homes within the historic area itself. Waking up inside the living history museum, before the day visitors arrive, is an experience you simply cannot replicate anywhere else. These are popular and book up well in advance — plan accordingly.
Marriott’s Manor Club at Ford’s Colony
For families or larger groups who want more space than a standard hotel room provides, Marriott’s Manor Club at Ford’s Colony is an excellent option. Set in a quiet, wooded residential community, the property offers villa-style accommodations with full kitchens, separate living areas, and plenty of room to spread out — a real advantage if you’re traveling with kids or a group. It’s a more relaxed, residential feel compared to the Colonial Williamsburg properties, and a great base if you’re splitting your time between the historic sites, Busch Gardens, and the outdoors.
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