Things To Do
in Williamsburg
Williamsburg, Virginia, sits in the heart of the Historic Triangle along the James River and blends living-history with modern charm. It is home to the College of William & Mary, the oldest higher education institution in the United States. Visitors wander the immersive Colonial Williamsburg, explore Jamestown and Yorktown, and enjoy dining, shopping, and riverfront scenery in a compact, walkable town.
Whether you seek history, family-friendly attractions, or leisurely day trips, Williamsburg offers education, culture, and Southern hospitality in equal measure.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic Colonial Williamsburg, where you can stroll through the beautifully preserved streets and admire the colonial architecture. Engage with costumed interpreters who bring the 18th-century to life, sharing stories of daily life and historical events. Don't forget to stop by the Raleigh Tavern for a hearty breakfast steeped in history.
In the afternoon, delve deeper into Williamsburg's past by exploring the Governor's Palace, the former residence of Virginia's royal governors. Take a guided tour of the expansive gardens and learn about the significance of the grounds in colonial society. Afterward, visit the nearby Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg to view an impressive collection of American decorative arts.
As the sun sets, enjoy a delightful dinner at a local tavern, where traditional dishes are served in a historical setting. After your meal, take a leisurely evening stroll through the candlelit streets of Colonial Williamsburg, where you might catch a live performance or reenactment. End your night with a visit to the nearby Bruton Parish Church, a serene place to reflect on the day’s experiences.
Begin your day at the Jamestown Settlement, where you can explore the replica ships that brought the first settlers to America. Participate in interactive exhibits that detail the challenges faced by the early colonists and their interactions with the Powhatan Indians. Don’t miss the chance to engage with historical interpreters who share insights into daily life in 1607.
After lunch at the settlement's café, head over to the nearby Historic Jamestowne to see archaeological excavations that continue to uncover artifacts from the original colony. Walk the grounds where the settlers first established their foothold in the New World, and visit the impressive Archaearium to view the artifacts found on-site. The combination of history and archaeology provides a compelling narrative of early American life.
For dinner, treat yourself to a meal at a local restaurant that features regional fare. Savor dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, and perhaps try a Virginia wine to accompany your meal. After dinner, consider enjoying a nightcap at a pub that reflects the colonial atmosphere, complete with period-inspired decor.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍽️Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🏨Hotel (mid-range) per night | $120-250 |
| 🚌Local transit pass (weekly) | $15-40 |
| 🎟️Attraction tickets (per person) | $25-90 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history with authentic Colonial Williamsburg experiences
- Compact, walkable downtown with diverse dining and shopping
- Can be crowded in peak season; some attractions are pricey
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities; activity hours vary by season
Places to Visit in Williamsburg
Visit one of these nice places.
Cobbled streets, period architecture, and reenactors provide timeless photo opportunities throughout the district.
Formal gardens and tree-lined avenues with a regal backdrop for portraits and wide-angle shots.
Riverside scenery, historical structures, and wide waterfront vistas ideal for landscape photography.
Sunset views over the river, historic monuments, and a relaxed harbor atmosphere for evening photography.
Food in Williamsburg
Williamsburg Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Pan-seared crab cakes with a light remoulade, a seafood staple found at many waterfront and market eateries.
Must-Try!
A regional favorite featuring salt-cured ham served on soft bread with pickles or slaw.
A hearty Virginia stew with beans, tomatoes, and shredded meat, commonly offered in local taverns and family restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering local produce, baked goods, cheeses, and artisanal products in a lively outdoor setting.
Coastal-style market with seafood, produce, crafts, and prepared foods along the York River on certain weekends.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly hello and please/thank you are appreciated. Small talk about weather or history is common and well-received.
Treat historic sites and reenactments with respect; follow guides’ instructions and avoid blocking exhibits during demonstrations.
Safety
Tipping in Williamsburg
Ensure a smooth experience
Standard US practice applies: 15-20% at restaurants; $1-2 per drink at bars; 10-15% for taxi or rideshares; check if a service charge is automatically added for large groups.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments and mobile wallets are common; cash is useful for farmers markets and some small vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and fresh blooms. Great for walking tours and outdoor markets; expect moderate crowds as schools resume activities.
Warm to hot days with high humidity. Peak attraction hours are in the morning and late afternoon; stay hydrated and seek shade.
Pleasant temperatures and fall colors. Ideal for walking the Historic District and riverfront vistas.
Cool to cold with potential rain. Some outdoor venues have reduced hours, but indoor museums and taverns provide cozy experiences.
Williamsburg at Night
Hiking in Williamsburg
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short, scenic trails around the island with water views and historical context.
Riverside trails near the York River with interpretive stops and views of historic sites.
Wooded trails along the York River offering varied elevations and birdwatching opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Williamsburg by plane.
The closest commercial airport with seasonal and regional flights; about 25-40 miles from central Williamsburg.
Major hub with extensive domestic connections; about 50-70 miles from Williamsburg by car, depending on route.
Larger airport serving the region with many options, roughly 85-100 miles away.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many visitors are families with children exploring the living-history sites, museums, and kid-friendly attractions.
The presence of the College of William & Mary adds a youthful, educational, and cultural dimension to the town.
A mix of history enthusiasts and travelers seeking relaxed riverfront experiences and shopping.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football, basketball, and other collegiate events draw local fans and visiting families.
The James River and nearby waterways support sailing and water sports popular with residents and visitors.
Several public and resort-style courses in and around Williamsburg offer scenic play.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Williamsburg.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most menus offer salads, veggie burgers, pasta, and grain bowls. Inform the staff about any dairy or gluten restrictions; many places can accommodate dietary needs with advance notice.