35 Things To Do in Williamsburg

Williamsburg, Virginia, is a town steeped in history and culture, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the past. With its blend of 18th-century Colonial architecture and modern conveniences, it caters to a wide range of interests.

Visitors can delve into the town’s rich history or enjoy outdoor activities in the surrounding areas. The charm of Williamsburg lies in its ability to provide a captivating experience for all who visit. It’s a destination that leaves a lasting impression.

Jamestown Settlement

Our Rating: 9.1/10

Here, you can explore interactive exhibits and discover how the first permanent English colony in America began in 1607. Visitors can wander through re-creations of the colonial fort and Powhatan village, offering a glimpse into early American life.

Inside the museum, the engaging “1607: A Nation Takes Root” film sets the stage for exploring the struggles and triumphs of the settlers. The gallery displays shed light on the diverse cultures and people of 17th-century Virginia.

Colonial Williamsburg

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Visitors can explore 301 acres of meticulously restored buildings, homes, and government sites, many of which are on their original foundations. The museum recreates the colonial capital of Virginia, featuring costumed interpreters who portray key historical figures such as Thomas Jefferson, George Washington, and lesser-known individuals like Gowan Pamphlet, a Black Baptist preacher.

The museum’s programming goes beyond just political history, diving into the diverse lives of enslaved people, free Blacks, women, and Native Americans. With activities like historical trades demonstrations, musket shooting, and carriage rides, Colonial Williamsburg brings history to life in a way that is both educational and engaging.

Busch Gardens Williamsburg

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Known for its world-class roller coasters and immersive experiences, this theme park offers endless excitement. One of the highlights is the Sesame Street Forest of Fun, where kids can enjoy rides like Grover’s Alpine Express and meet their favorite furry friends.

Beyond the rides, the park also offers special seasonal events and animal encounters that bring extra magic to your visit.

Historic Jamestowne

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Historic Jamestowne is where America’s first permanent English settlers called home. This fascinating site boasts an active archaeological dig at James Fort. Visitors can watch archaeologists uncover history right before their eyes.

The Archaearium museum offers intriguing artifacts and interactive exhibits that paint a vivid picture of 17th-century life. Guided tours by costumed interpreters add a lively touch to the historical journey.

Water Country USA

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Water Country USA is Virginia’s largest water park, featuring over 40 rides and attractions. Families can enjoy thrilling slides or relax on lazy rivers. With resort-style amenities, this park promises a cool summer day packed with fun and adventure for everyone.

Located in Williamsburg, Water Country USA offers excitement for all ages. Brave the high-speed water slides if you seek thrills, or float along the soothing river for a peaceful retreat. The kids can splash and play in designated areas designed just for them.

Merchant’s Square

Our Rating: 8.7/10

With over 40 shops and restaurants, it offers a delightful mix of experiences. Aromas Café tempts visitors with its rich coffee and fresh pastries. Ideal for a cozy morning start.

The Cheese Shop provides a range of specialty cheeses, perfect for pairing with selections from the nearby wine tasting room. The local bakery is a must-visit for sweet treats.

Great Wolf Lodge

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Kids and adults here can splash around in wave pools and zoom down slides. Imagine a wild river ride that keeps you laughing and cheering! There are more adventures outside the water. The resort offers themed activities, like arts and crafts, scavenger hunts, and story time by the fireplace.

Each event is designed to make memories with family. Dining options range from casual bites by the pool to cozy family dinners, ensuring everyone finds something they love.

Williamsburg Winery

Our Rating: 9.1/10

With 40 acres of thriving vines, this is not just a place for wine lovers. It’s an escape into serene beauty and delightful indulgence. Visitors are treated to tastings of exquisite wines while exploring the scenic surroundings. The experiences are both refreshing and enriching, offering splendid selections for every palate.

Dining at the winery is a delight, with Café Provençal and The Gabriel Archer Tavern serving delectable dishes that pair perfectly with their wines. Guests can also enjoy leisurely strolls in the expansive on-site gardens, blending moments of relaxation with touches of elegance.

Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum

Our Rating: 8.5/10

This museum, the oldest of its kind in the United States, offers a colorful array of unique paintings, sculptures, and handmade objects crafted by self-taught artists. Visitors will find vibrant displays showcasing cultural diversity and artistic creativity.

The collection spans centuries and features pieces that reflect everyday life in different times and places. Art lovers and history buffs alike will be enthralled by the museum’s offerings.

Kingsmill Resort

Our Rating: 9.0/10

Kingsmill Resort combines casual elegance with a peaceful retreat. Families love the onsite kids’ camp and thrilling waterslide, providing endless fun for little ones. Golf enthusiasts can channel their inner pro on stunning courses. For those seeking relaxation, a top-notch spa awaits. It offers rejuvenating treatments that melt stress away.

Guests can also enjoy invigorating fitness classes in their state-of-the-art facility. Complimentary shuttles make exploring area attractions a breeze.

Waller Mill Park

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Waller Mill Park features a 360-acre lake perfect for water enthusiasts. Visitors can rent boats, pedal boats, and kayaks to explore the serene waters. Nature lovers will enjoy the scenic hiking trails. Each path offers a unique view of the surrounding landscape.

The park also has a disc golf course for those looking to try something new. There are multiple wooden piers for relaxing afternoons of fishing. Picnic areas and playgrounds make it an ideal spot for families to enjoy a day outdoors.

Bruton Parish Episcopal Church

Our Rating: 8.6/10

Visitors are invited to step inside and explore this architectural gem built between 1711 and 1715. The church’s historical significance and beautifully preserved design captivate the imagination. Guests can attend worship services on Sunday mornings or enjoy daily open hours for tours. The warm atmosphere and friendly community welcome all, offering a glimpse into the Anglican tradition.

The church hosts concerts, filling the air with enchanting music. On Saturdays, Tuesday, and Thursday nights, melodies weave through the historic walls, creating a serene experience.

Muscarelle Museum of Art

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Muscarelle Museum of Art serves as both a cultural treasure and an educational resource. The museum showcases exhibitions from various cultures and time periods and often hosts traveling exhibitions. Visitors can explore over 7,000 pieces of art, enjoying everything from classical pieces to modern artwork. The collection includes significant works from painters, sculptors, and photographers.

The museum’s engaging exhibits make it a dynamic place to spend an afternoon. With free admission, it’s a perfect stop for art enthusiasts and curious explorers alike.

Ripley’s Believe It or Not!

Our Rating: 8.6/10

Ripley’s Believe It or Not! is where the strange meets the astonishing. One step inside reveals a world of over 350 unique exhibits. Visitors love the interactive displays and can navigate through the jaw-dropping Vortex Tunnel.

The thrill continues with Virginia’s only Impossible LaseRace, where fans of challenges will find the perfect test of skill. For some visual fun, check out stunning 4D movies. After exploring, the candy shop, with over 150 flavors, offers a colorful treat.

Williamsburg Premium Outlets

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Williamsburg Premium Outlets is a shopping paradise for those on the lookout for great deals and stylish finds. Shoppers can dive into a wide variety of stores, from designer brands to more affordable options. With more than 120 stores, visitors can explore popular brands like Adidas, Michael Kors, and The North Face. Each shop offers something unique, ensuring a thrilling shopping adventure.

The outdoor layout makes it enjoyable to stroll around while discovering hidden gems and snagging bargains. Its location near Williamsburg adds to the charm, making it a perfect stop during a visit to the area.

Virginia Musical Museum

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Home to antique harpsichords, music boxes, and vintage phonographs, it’s a treasure trove for music lovers. Visitors can marvel at Patsy Cline’s hand-made scarf and Ralph Stanley’s gold-plated banjo.

See the outfits of legendary artists like Ella Fitzgerald and imagine the stories these garments can tell. This museum celebrates the rich musical heritage of Virginia with written letters and photographs from over 24 famous musicians.

Williamsburg Botanical Garden

Our Rating: 8.0/10

This two-acre gem is rich with diverse habitats. Visitors stroll through paths that wind among native plants of the Virginia Coastal Plain. These plants create a vibrant tapestry that supports local wildlife and pollinators.

The garden showcases 18 unique habitats. Each area presents colorful blooms and lush greenery. Birdwatchers will enjoy spotting native species fluttering among the treetops. Photographers find endless opportunities to capture nature’s beauty.

Glasshouse of 1608

Our Rating: 8.3/10

Visitors to Williamsburg shouldn’t miss the Glasshouse of 1608. This historical spot offers a glimpse into early American industry with artisans showcasing glassblowing techniques used over 400 years ago. Curious onlookers can watch as craftsmen deftly shape molten glass into beautiful creations. The vibrant glow of the furnaces adds to the spectacle.

After observing the artists, guests can stop by the gift shop. Here, unique glass pieces—both historical reproductions and contemporary designs—are available for purchase, providing a perfect memento of this journey through time.

Veterans Park

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Veterans Park is a hidden gem where nature and history converge. Majestic trees line the park’s winding trails, offering a shady retreat for leisurely walks or morning jogs. The park’s crown jewel, the iconic Kidsburg playground, is a dreamland for children, featuring sprawling wooden castles, slides, and climbing structures that spark imagination.

Beyond its recreational charm, Veterans Park honors the nation’s heroes with a quiet dignity that resonates throughout its landscape. Thoughtfully placed memorials pay tribute to those who served, offering visitors a moment of reflection amid the park’s lively energy. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy well-maintained courts for basketball and pickleball, while dog owners delight in the expansive dog park where furry friends can roam freely.

Captain George’s Seafood Restaurant

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Captain George’s Seafood Restaurant offers an unparalleled dining experience for seafood aficionados. Their renowned all-you-can-eat buffet boasts over 70 delectable items, including succulent Alaskan snow crab legs, freshly shucked oysters, and perfectly seasoned shrimp. Each dish is meticulously prepared, ensuring a feast that delights the senses.

The ambiance at Captain George’s is as captivating as its cuisine. The main dining room features a stunning twelve-foot waterfall and a meandering three-hundred-foot stream, creating a serene atmosphere that complements the maritime theme. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a seafood craving, this establishment promises an unforgettable experience.

The Spice & Tea Exchange

Our Rating: 8.5/10

The Spice & Tea Exchange is a charming store that offers a sensory adventure. Visitors can explore a vast array of custom spice blends, exotic teas, and flavored sugars like blueberry and strawberry. The small, cozy space is packed with rich aromas.

Shoppers can discover specialty salts and unique vanilla beans, adding flair to their culinary creations. Enthusiastic cooks and tea lovers alike will find something to pique their interest here. Each visit is an opportunity to taste and smell the products firsthand.

Williamsburg Antique Mall

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Williamsburg Antique Mall offers vintage delights that spread across 45,000 square feet. With over 300 dealers, this mall presents a diverse collection of antiques and collectibles. It’s a paradise for those hunting for unique items, from jewelry and pottery to historical memorabilia.

Visitors can explore aisles filled with intriguing artifacts. Each booth showcases different eras and styles, enticing guests with every turn. The well-organized displays make it easy to browse and discover hidden gems. For antique enthusiasts and curious travelers alike, this mall promises a unique shopping experience.

Go Ape Zipline & Adventure Park

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Go Ape Zipline & Adventure Park

In Williamsburg, Virginia, there’s a unique way to explore the great outdoors. Guests of all ages can enjoy soaring through the trees on exciting ziplines. Adventurers are thrilled by the over 35 unique treetop crossings and obstacles, some as high as 40 feet.

Visitors can try skills like axe throwing or test their wits in an outdoor escape room. It’s a thrilling mix of fun and challenges for everyone.

Williamsburg Pottery Factory

Our Rating: 8.0/10

Established in 1938, it began with a focus on traditional pottery. Today, it has expanded into three charming marketplaces, each offering something unique. Visitors can explore the Gourmet Kitchen marketplace, where cooking enthusiasts find a variety of culinary delights. Home Essentials carries everything for decor lovers, from stylish furnishings to unique home accessories.

Outdoor Living is perfect for those who enjoy gardening or decorating their outdoor space. With a mix of international and USA-made items, there’s always something intriguing to discover.

Lake Matoaka Amphitheater

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Lake Matoaka Amphitheater offers a picturesque setting for music lovers. This charming outdoor venue provides an ideal backdrop for concerts and performances under the stars. Visitors can enjoy free events such as the Virginia Symphony Orchestra’s “Symphony Under the Stars.” The magic of live music unfolds here, enhancing any evening with symphonic beauty and the natural acoustics of the lake.

Guests are encouraged to take a leisurely walk through the wooded paths to the amphitheater, enhancing the experience with the tranquility of nature.

Kimball Theatre

Our Rating: 8.6/10

Located in the quaint Merchant’s Square, it has been entertaining guests for decades. The theatre is known for its live performances, ranging from plays to dance and musical shows. Visitors can enjoy an evening immersed in art and culture.

With a seating capacity of 400, the theatre offers an intimate experience. Its classic architecture and charm make any show a pleasure to watch. The Kimball Theatre also hosts unique seasonal events, creating a lively atmosphere that draws both locals and tourists.

Bassett Hall

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Bassett Hall is a charming historic site set on 585 acres of serene gardens and woodlands. Visitors can explore the stunning 18th-century white frame house, originally built by Philip Johnson.

Inside, the interiors shine with early American art and antiques. The house, thoughtfully furnished by Mrs. Rockefeller, offers a glimpse into America’s past, enhancing the visit with stories that captivate history enthusiasts.

William & Mary Bookstore (Barnes & Noble)

Our Rating: 8.2/10

The William & Mary Bookstore, operated by Barnes & Noble, is more than just a place to buy textbooks. It offers a variety of William & Mary merchandise, stretching from sweatshirts to mugs. Shoppers can also explore a selection of general books in this vibrant store.

The atmosphere inside is welcoming, inviting visitors to browse or take a break at the outdoor seating area. Customers can enjoy the convenience of free parking, making it a hassle-free stop during a busy day of sightseeing around Williamsburg.

The Virginia Beer Company

Our Rating: 8.5/10

This craft brewery and taproom welcomes visitors with a range of refreshing pints. Tucked between Colonial Williamsburg and other attractions, it’s an ideal spot to unwind. Guests can explore the spacious beer garden or relax indoors. The lively atmosphere makes it a fun place to spend an afternoon or evening.

The diverse beer selection caters to all tastes, from light brews to rich, flavorful ales. Their events often feature local music and food trucks, adding to the lively atmosphere.

Eagle Landing Golf Club

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Eagle Landing Golf Club is nestled between scenic landscapes and lush greenery. It offers a blend of challenging play and beautiful views. Golfers can test their skills on fairways lined with old trees, while the calm atmosphere enhances concentration and enjoyment.

Visitors can also relax at the clubhouse, which provides snacks and refreshing drinks. The welcoming ambiance makes it a perfect spot for winding down after a day on the course.

Eco Discovery Park

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Eco Discovery Park invites visitors to explore scenic trails and waterways. Bikes and kayaks are available for rent, allowing for a tranquil journey through nature. Paddle through waterways rich with history or cycle along paths once traveled by America’s founders.

The park’s marina serves as an ideal spot to begin these exciting voyages. Engaging with nature here creates lasting memories for adventurers and history enthusiasts alike.

Liberty’s Ice Pavilion

Our Rating: 8.5/10

The rink is set on the picturesque Duke of Gloucester Street. Skaters glide on the ice surrounded by the warm glow of twinkling lights and the scent of holiday treats. Families and friends can enjoy seasonal music that fills the air as they spin, twirl, or simply skate hand in hand.

Nearby, inviting fire pits offer a place to warm up and sip on hot cocoa, making this a festive outing in the winter months. For those planning a visit, the pavilion is open from mid-November to late February.

Go-Karts Plus

Our Rating: 8.3/10

Go-Karts Plus in Williamsburg is the ultimate destination for thrill-seekers and families alike. Here, visitors can experience four different go-kart tracks designed for all skill levels, from rookies to seasoned pros. Each track offers unique challenges that bring out the racer’s competitive spirit.

Beyond the tracks, visitors can enjoy a range of exciting rides and attractions. The site features bumper cars, blaster boats, and a thrilling Disk’O ride. For the little ones, there’s a charming mini-golf course and a dedicated toddler play area.

Virginia Living Museum

Our Rating: 8.5/10

This place offers a thrilling mix of adventure and discovery. Visitors can explore the wonders of a native animal sanctuary, where they can see animals like red wolves and bald eagles up close. The museum showcases a captivating planetarium. Here, the magic of the universe unfolds with stunning shows about stars and galaxies. It’s a treat for both young and older visitors who want to explore the night sky.

The indoor exhibits feature aquatic life. Discover a vibrant underwater world with various species from rivers and coastal areas. This engaging museum invites everyone to connect with nature in the heart of Virginia.

Williamsburg Farmers Market

Our Rating: 9.0/10

Every Saturday, locals and visitors gather at the Williamsburg Farmers Market to explore a vibrant selection of fresh, seasonal delights. The market’s new location on the 300 block of Duke of Gloucester Street offers an array of local produce, meats, and gourmet items. This bustling hub promises a flavorful journey through Virginia’s finest offerings.

With live music gracing the streets, the atmosphere is lively and engaging. Shoppers can stroll between stalls filled with colorful fruits, handmade soaps, and artisanal cheeses. Enjoy the sweet aroma of baked goods that fills the air, inviting everyone to savor the local flavors.

Williamsburg combines history, charm, and modern amenities to create an unforgettable destination. Visitors can enjoy exploring the town’s Colonial landmarks and engaging in outdoor adventures. The town offers a well-rounded experience for travelers of all kinds, from history lovers to those seeking relaxation.