Williamsburg, Virginia Attractions & Things To Do

Historic Williamsburg

Explore 301 acres packed with 18th century structures, fully-restored homes, public buildings and lush gardens and landscapes. Historic Williamsburg was once the center of commerce and government when the area served as the capital of the Virginia Colony.

The site is now a living history museum where dressed characters recreate life in the Colonial-era. Start your visit at the Williamsburg Visitor's Center, followed by a carriage ride or interactive walking tour around town. Points of interest include the Governor's Palace, Courthouse, Bruton Parish Church and the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum. Shopping at Merchants Square is a must-do. For more information, visit http://www.history.org.  [top]

Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum

The museum features a prominent collection of folk art including carvings, furniture, toys, needlework and paintings. Also featured are fascinating rotating exhibits and educational programs. Access to the museum is through The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation. For more information, visit http://www.history.org/history/museums/abby_art.cfm.  [top]

Appomattox Court House

In 1865 Confederate General Robert E. Lee surrendered to Union commander Ulysses S. Grant in Appomattox Court House, thereby ending the American Civil War. Today, a visit to Appomattox Court House National Park is a step back in time.

Explore 1,700 lush acres in rural Southern Virginia, west of historic Williamsburg and discover the McLean House, the original site of the surrender. History buffs can also tour original historic structures and reconstructed buildings, catch a documentary at the 70-seat theater or view one-of-a kind Civil War artifacts at the park's museum. For more information, visit http://www.nps.gov/apco/index.htm.  [top]

Bassett Hall

Eighteenth century heritage meets twentieth century life at Bassett Hall. This frame house on 585 acres was built between 1753 and 1766 and was fully restored in the 1930's and 40's by the Rockefeller family. A visit to Bassett Hall means exploring the ground's lush gardens, lawns and picturesque woodlands. For more information, visit http://www.history.org/history/museums/bassett_hall.cfm.  [top]

Bruton Parish Episcopal Church

The Bruton Parish Episcopal Church was built in 1674 and is located in the heart of historic Williamsburg on the Duke of Gloucester Street. Visitors can tour the tower house and West gallery or attend one of the 120 recitals and concerts programs held throughout the year. The church is open daily for visitors. For more information, visit http://www.brutonparish.org/.  [top]

Busch Gardens

All the heart pumping thrills and action-packed family adventures are at Busch Gardens. Come explore 350 acres offering over 50 exhilarating rides and attractions, including Griffon, the world's tallest dive coaster. You'll discover a distinct European flair as you discover lively dance shows, live performances, concerts and other spectacular special events. For more information, visit http://buschgardens.com.  [top]

Duke of Gloucester Street

Take a stroll back in time on historic Duke of Gloucester Street, a one-mile stretch of road located in historic Williamsburg. Browse 18th century shops, apothecaries, silversmiths and cozy taverns. Stop by historic sites like the Governor's Palace, Bruton Parish Episcopal Church, the picturesque Palace Green, bustling Market Square and Weaver's Shop. For more information, visit http://www.history.org/almanack/places/hb/hbduke.cfm.  [top]

Governor's Palace

The Governor's Palace is an impressive three-story structure, originally built in 1722 as the official residence of the governor of the Virginia Colony. The Governor's Palace was rebuilt in the 1930s and is considered one of the largest buildings in historic Williamsburg.

Tour its fashionable rooms complete with 18th century furnishings and Colonial Revival-style architecture, or explore the stunning palace gardens and maze. Access to the palace is through Duke of Gloucester Street. For more information, visit http://www.history.org/almanack/places/hb/hbpal.cfm.  [top]

Jamestown Settlement

Settled in 1607 by English settlers, Jamestown was sponsored by the Virginia Company of London. They landed on the banks of the James River and established the first permanent English colony.

Visitors can tour this historic landmark, recreated to look just as it did when the settlers arrived. Explore three replica ships, a Powhatan village and the Riverfront Discovery area to learn even more about life along the James River. For more information, visit http://www.historyisfun.org/jamestown-settlement.htm.  [top]

The Courthouse

History lives at this historic Georgian-style building. The Courthouse is the site where Benjamin Waller read aloud the Declaration of Independence in 1776 and where the Treaty of Paris to end the Revolutionary War was announced. Tour this quaint brick building complete with white wooded trim-boards and white shuttered windows. For more information, visit http://www.history.org/almanack/places/hb/hbcourt.cfm.  [top]

Water Country U.S.A.

Enjoy sun splashed adventures and thrills at this exhilarating Williamsburg water park. Enjoy a full day experiencing adrenaline-pumping inner tube rides, body slides and raft rides. Drift along the lazy river or dare to challenge the Jet Scream, Malibu Pipeline or Rampage. Rock n' Roll Island is jam packed with twisting slides and flumes that ensure you get soaked. For more information, visit http://watercountryusa.com.  [top]

Williamsburg Winery

The beautiful Williamsburg Winery is the largest winery in Virginia and accounts for 20% of the state's wine production. Explore the 33-acre vineyard and grounds designed to resemble an Old World-style village.

Enjoy a guided tour of the winery or reserve an afternoon of tasting full-bodied premium, reserve and specialty wines. A lunch or dinner at the beautiful Gabriel Archer Tavern is a must. For more information, visit http://www.williamsburgwinery.com.  [top]