Things to Do in Colonial Williamsburg: History and Family Fun Await
Colonial Williamsburg, once the capital of the Virginia colony, has long been known as a living history site, but it offers plenty of other activities, including theme parks, wine tasting, and more than six golf courses. Here's a taste of what to expect on a visit there.
Living History in Colonial Williamsburg
For adults and kids alike, a walk down Duke of Gloucester Street in Colonial Williamsburg will immerse you in 18th-century life — you can see folks in period costumes going about their day, hear the sounds of horses pulling carriages, and peek in the windows of the period-style tavern or apothecary.
Interpreters in hand-sewn costumes mingle throughout the historical area to talk about the politics and culture of the Colonial era. On any given day you might meet a blacksmith forging hinges, a Native American woman describing her daily life, or a soldier inviting you to learn to fire a musket.
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While you can stroll the streets of Colonial Williamsburg without a ticket, you'll need to purchase a pass to enter any of the historic buildings. The most elaborate building of its time was the Governor's Palace, home to nine Virginia governors, the last of whom was Thomas Jefferson.
Located next to Colonial Williamsburg is the College of William and Mary, the second-oldest institute of higher learning in the United States. The school has educated from Jefferson and Supreme Court Chief Justice John Marshall to actress Glenn Close and comedian Jon Stewart.
The Original Farm to Table Experience
The taverns of Colonial Williamsburg offer traditional Virginia staples inspired by Colonial recipes, like Brunswick stew, chicken hash, fish pie, and salamagundi, a type of chopped salad.
Be sure to make dinner reservations in advance, especially during summer and school breaks. Most eateries are first come, first served at lunchtime.
Historic Jamestown
At the Jamestown Settlement, you'll learn about the beginnings of American history with an exploration of the communities of people who lived in Virginia in the 17th century — the indigenous peoples who had lived in the area for hundreds of years, the English who arrived in 1607, and the enslaved West African people who were brought against their will.
Costumed interpreters give context to the recreations of the town, fort, and ships that arrived in the port at Jamestown.
Nearby, you can visit the active dig site where archaeologists are still uncovering the original settlements at Historic Jamestowne. Budding archaeologists can observe excavations in progress and ask questions of the researchers. At the Ed Shed, you can sort through actual objects found at the site.
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American Revolution Museum at Yorktown
For additional insights into 18th-century life, you can check out the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown, where a re-created Continental Army camp shows you how the troops lived and a nearby farm depicts life for those away from the front lines.
Busch Gardens and Water Country USA
When it's time for a change of pace, you can head to Busch Gardens® for an amusement park experience with an old-world theme, including sections celebrating Italy, France, Germany and Ireland. Try out the DarKoaster™ — billed as North America's first all-indoor straddle coaster. Nearby Water Country USA is Virginia's largest water park, featuring some 20 rides and attractions.
Williamsburg Winery
For refreshment in a glass, you may want to stop by the Wessex Hundred farm, home to Williamsburg Winery, one of eight wineries in the region. Here, you can tour the vineyard, taste flights of wine and have brunch, lunch, or dinner at a farm-to-table-style restaurant. There's also a satellite tasting room on Duke of Gloucester Street in town.
Want To Go?
Marriott’s Manor Club at Ford’s Colony
Vacation in style at a Williamsburg resort that brings the best of Virginia to your doorstep. Experience the true beauty of the outdoors in this relaxing villa set within an award-winning private community. Take a scenic walk or bike ride to experience the beautiful colors of nature. Or, as they say, “spoil” a good nature walk with a game of golf at one of three championship-level courses.
Spend time in the resort for a relaxing way to begin and end your day. Your villa is spacious enough to accommodate all members of your family. And with a fully equipped kitchen and washer/dryer, you’ll feel like you’re right at home. Get in the water and have some fun no matter the weather outside with a heated indoor pool or enjoy the summers of the South with a visit to the outdoor pool or splash pad.
When the dinner bell rings, head to Bistro 1699. This family-friendly bistro features gourmet foods as well as cool drinks and cocktails. During the warmer months, enjoy a poolside snack or drink at Splash Grille & Pool Bar.
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Marriott Vacation Club International and their respective affiliates and subsidiaries make no warranty, express or implied, as to the condition, capacity, performance, or any other aspect of the activities, events, or service providers listed herein. No inquiry has been made into the activities or events, or the qualifications or the quality of services offered by the providers. Do not consider this an endorsement of or recommendation for any of the activities, events, or providers. Hours of operation and offerings of any service providers are subject to change.