Weekend Trip to Colonial Williamsburg

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If you are looking for a quick and fun getaway from the North East, Colonial Williamsburg might just be the place you are looking for.

We live in northern/central New Jersey so when we decide we want a quick getaway we aim for destinations within 6 hours of us which thankfully Colonial Williamsburg was just that.

Ironically both of us have been to Williamsburg before, myself more than Peter as this was a normal family vacation location for me growing up. However, we had never been as a couple which made this adventure feel like a full circle.

Things to do in Williamsburg Virginia

When you think of Williamsburg you might think it’s only dedicated to the historical district and Busch Gardens. But as we explored the area we found so many new and interesting opportunities.

1. Colonial Williamsburg

Colonial Williamsburg is located on the eastern side of Virginia. It was founded in 1699 and was one of the first planned cities within colonies.

The town was restored in 1926 by John D. Rockefeller Jr. to what it is today. Check out the restoration photos here.

We spent a long weekend exploring the historical town, taking guided tours, speaking with historical actors, and more. Starting with the Governers Palace we set out to explore as much within this location on our first full day in Williamsburg by using their flag system as a guide to prevent a lot of backtracking.

Check out our 3-day Colonial Williamsburg tour here.

Cost of Colonial Williamsburg

Cost of the multi-day pass was $119 for the two of us, but depending on the time of year you plan on visiting the cost might change. Check out their website for more details.

Parking

One of the great parts about visiting the historical town is that there is free parking available at the visitor center and a few parking lots near William & Mary.

You can take the bus/shuttle around the town as well, making it easier for those with limited mobility or children. And yes, the buses are able to accommodate wheelchairs!

2. Jamestowne and Yorktown

During our 3-day trip, we didn’t get a chance to explore Jamestowne and Yorktown, but the majority of these locations are free to the public except for Yorktown Battlefield which is currently $15 per person.

Jamestowne

Jamestowne is the first permanent English settlement in America when English settlers landed in May 1607. The area today is dedicated to archeology research and preserving the history of the events that happened in the early days of the settlement.

Here you can learn about Powhatan Indians, the English settlers, and the history of America’s birthplace.

Yorktown

Yorktown battlefield is the place that ended the Revolutionary War when Lord Cornwallis surrendered to George Washington’s army. You can explore the battlefield and learn about this historical event, then check out the American Revolution Museum.

3. Busch Gardens

Busch Gardens is the main amusement park in Williamsburg.

With over 50 rides there is definitely something for everyone!

Is Busch Gardens plus-size friendly? Check out this post about my experience.

4. Brewery Tours

With 10 breweries in the area, you can definitely grab a quick drink or make a day out of exploring each one.

We visited one or two breweries to our agenda after spending a few hours walking around the colonial town. It was a great way to unwind, feel more like a local, and just relax.

5. Shopping

Williamsburg has a great outlet mall along with many other smaller local stores, but you definitely don’t want to miss out on the shops within Colonial Williamsburg.

6. River Front Activities

One of our favorite memories of this trip was drinking a beer on the James River waterfront while listening to music as Billsburg Brewery.

But if that isn’t your speed, there are other opportunities like tubing, boating, shopping, and more.

7. Museums

Colonial Williamsburg is known as “The World’s Largest Outside Museum” but there are so many more museums within Williamsburg, VA that are worth checking out.

• Muscarella Museum of Art
• Virginia Musical Museum
• Watermen’s Museum
• Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum
• Dewitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum
• Ripley’s Museum
• Linda Matney Fine Art Gallary
• And more

8. Outdoor Activities

From ziplining to exploring the historical area, Williamsburg VA offers numerous different outdoor activities.

Rent a kayak, grab a round of golf, walk the numerous trails in many of the parks… there are so many options.