History buffs may be tempted to begin exploring Williamsburg just as the first settlers did—charging in with wide-eyed naivete. However, we recommend starting your experience by viewing the orientation film at the Colonial Williamsburg Visitors Center—it will give you an idea of which sights you want to see most. Another option is to locate an About Town guide (clad in colonial attire) who can recommend the best way to get around. Take time to stroll the streets—it costs nothing to walk around the area, but you'll need to purchase tickets before entering the buildings and museums. One-, two- and multiple-day passes are available.
Along the historic streets of Colonial Williamsburg are more than 80 restored buildings, including a jail, an apothecary shop and the governor's palace. About 100 gardens and green areas add to the town's scenic beauty. Elaborate carriages, horse-drawn wagons and street theater—including military parades and musicians—fill the roads.
But save some time for related sights near the historic district. Bassett Hall, built in 1760, was the family home of John D. Rockefeller Jr. for 40 years. Items from his wife's American folk-art collection are on display at the house, as well as at the nearby Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Center.
Other local attractions include the picturesque College of William and Mary campus. For thrill seekers, there's Busch Gardens Williamsburg and Water Country USA, which combined have roller coasters, water rides, space-flight simulators and high-tech entertainment.
| Historic Sites | Top  |
This 18th-century frame house was once the home of the man who started the restoration of Williamsburg—John D. Rockefeller Jr. A film and tour of the home (including the seasonal gardens) provide a glimpse of Rockefeller family life. Daily except Wednesday 9 am-5 pm. US$9 (includes the Folk Art Center, the Public Hospital and the DeWitt Wallace Gallery). 522 E. Francis St., Williamsburg. Phone 757-229-1000. http://colonialwilliamsburg.com/history/museums/bassett_hall.
Built in 1715, this is one of the oldest Episcopal churches in the U.S. Among its early parishioners were George Washington, Thomas Jefferson and James Monroe. The churchyard holds a number of 18th-century graves and an impressive tower. An active parish, the church also offers historical tours and occasional candlelit concerts. Guided tours Monday-Saturday 9 am-5 pm, Sunday 1-5 pm. October-April 10 am-4 pm. Hours may vary. Free. Duke of Gloucester Street, Williamsburg. Phone 757-229-2891. http://www.brutonparish.org.
Originally known as "The College," this pristine campus is the second oldest in the country (Harvard University is older). Stop off at the Sir Christopher Wren Building (a treasure in itself) for maps and information on self-guided tours. Romantics will want to follow the footpaths through the Sunken Garden and Crim Dell, where you may spy a wedding proposal by the pond. Self-guided walking tours are permitted on weekdays only. Free. Duke of Gloucester Street (between Jamestown and Richmond roads), Williamsburg. Phone 757-221-4000. http://www.wm.edu.
The world's largest living-history museum covers more than 300 acres/120 hectares with re-created American heritage. Costumed interpreters, impromptu dialogues (feel free to participate), countless re-enactments and a marching fife-and-drum corps add to the authentic display of pre-Revolutionary life. Don't expect to see the place in an afternoon: It can take two or three days to explore the grounds and 500 buildings. For a richer experience, attend evening performances, watch the mock witch trials, visit artisans, stroll the galleries and tour the immaculate gardens, country churches and archaeological digs. When your feet get tired, head to the taverns for an 18th-century drinking and dining experience.
The Capitol Building: You can almost hear the debates that formed U.S. democracy in this building, which is a reconstruction of the earliest 18th-century Capitol. It has a dramatic facade with arched windows. Once a year, a naturalization ceremony is held there, during which a new group of immigrants becomes U.S. citizens.
The Courthouse: It was on the steps of this courthouse that citizens gathered to hear the Declaration of Independence and to celebrate the Treaty of Paris and the end of the Revolutionary War. During the Civil War, it served as a hospital. Now renovated to its 18th-century grandeur, the courthouse is the place to witness mock trials—the cases are taken from historical records. Don't miss an opportunity to serve on a jury.
Governor's Palace: In its original incarnation, this elegant mansion was home to governors appointed by the British crown. After the revolution, it was the home of Virginia's first two governors—Patrick Henry and Thomas Jefferson. Destroyed by fire in 1781, it was reconstructed with the aid of drawings Jefferson had made in 1779. The terrace hosts special galas, and its kitchen is used for culinary-arts demonstrations. Kids of all ages will have fun going through the maze in the back garden. Not included in the basic one-day pass, but can be added for US$6.
Pasteur & Galt Apothecary Shop: View the raw materials—chalk for heartburn, cinchona bark for fevers and Keyser's Pills for giddiness—that two apothecary surgeons once used to treat ailments. Tools for extracting teeth and setting broken bones are on display, too. Visitors can explore traditional medications and folklore, as well as shop for cooking spices, oils and candles.
The Public Hospital: Officially known as The Public Hospital for Persons of Insane and Disordered Minds, this institution opened in 1773—it was the first in the U.S. to treat mental illness. Destroyed by fire in 1885, the building was reconstructed after archaeologists uncovered the ruins of its foundation. The current structure opened in 1985. Replicas of six patient cells can be viewed on the ground floor of the east wing. An underground concourse from the west wing leads to the DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum. Not included in the basic one-day pass, but a combo ticket including Bassett Hall, the Folk Art Center and the DeWitt Wallace Gallery can be purchased for US$9.
Colonial Williamsburg is open daily 9 am-5 pm. Admission to the grounds is free. Entry fee required for various sites. US$37 adults, US$18 for children ages 6-17 for a one-day pass covering admission to many buildings and exhibits, an orientation walk, shuttle bus through the historic area, the movie Williamsburg: The Story of a Patriot, and free parking. Multiday options and other packages are also available; see Web site for prices and details. 102 Information Center Drive, Williamsburg. Phone 757-229-1000. Toll-free 800-447-8679. http://www.colonialwilliamsburg.com.
This renowned collection of American folk art (some dating back to the 1730s) was donated by the wife of John D. Rockefeller. Exhibits include quilts, painted furniture, wood carvings and needlework. Daily 10 am-7 pm (January-mid March 10 am-5 pm). US$9 (includes DeWitt Wallace Gallery, the Public Hospital and Bassett Hall). 325 W. Francis St., Williamsburg. Phone 757-220-7693. http://www.history.org/history/museums/abby_art.cfm.
Even if you're not a fan of American and British antiques, you'll be impressed by this stunning collection of Colonial Williamsburg's past. Inside you'll find jewelry, maps, weapons and rooms of decorative ceramics, furniture, textiles, costumes and prints. Daily 10 am-7 pm (January-mid March 10 am-5 pm). US$9 (includes Folk Art Center, the Public Hospital and Bassett Hall). 325 W. Francis St., Williamsburg. Phone 757-229-1000. http://www.history.org/history/museums/dewitt_gallery.cfm.
Easy to spot from Jamestown Road, this colorful and well-lit museum houses a permanent collection of works by European old masters and contemporary 20th-century artists. The museum also hosts traveling exhibitions that feature works by such artists as Picasso, Georgia O'Keeffe and Winslow Homer. There is a good collection of colonial portraits, too. Tuesday-Friday 10 am-5 pm, Saturday and Sunday noon-4 pm. US$5. Jamestown Road (on the campus of The College of William and Mary), Williamsburg. Phone 757-221-2700. http://www.wm.edu/muscarelle.
| Parks & Gardens | Top |
This one-of-a-kind playground is a child's dream come true. Miniature versions of Jamestown, colonists' ships and the local George P. Coleman Memorial Bridge are smartly designed for a fun and educational play experience. Open daily sunrise-sunset. Free. Mid County Park, 3793 Ironbound Road, Williamsburg. Phone 757-229-1232.
Take a walk in a park populated with gigantic busts of U.S. presidents. The 20-ft/6-m sculptures are the focus of this (slightly surreal) outdoor exhibit. The grounds include a large museum center with a gift shop, cafe, classrooms, and meeting and banquet space. Daily September-November 9 am-5 pm, November-March 9 am-4 pm, April-August 10 am-6 pm. US$13.75 adults, US$8.50 children ages 6-17, free for children 5 and younger. Self-guided tours are included with admission, but guided tours cost US$2.25 per person. 211 Water Country Parkway, Williamsburg. Phone 757-259-1121, ext. 107. Toll-free 800-588-4327. http://www.presidentspark.org.
This 2,700-acre/1,093-hectare park is built around a reservoir. The lake has a tunnel connecting the upper and lower portions and offers fishing, boating, pedal boating, canoeing and kayaking. Facilities also include picnic tables with shelter areas, hiking trails, a 2-mi/3-km bike path and a dog park. Daily November-February 8 am-5 pm; March 7 am-7 pm; June-August 7 am-8 pm; September-October 7 am-7 pm. 901 Airport Road (between Interstate 64 and Route 60 West, near the Camp Perry exit), Williamsburg. Phone 757-259-3778. http://www.williamsburgva.gov/dept/rec/parks.htm#waller.
If you want to avoid the crowds, head to this park 11 mi/18 km west of Williamsburg, with more than 2,500 acres/1,010 hectares of hiking, biking, boating and fishing amenities. The park is a great place to get a closer glimpse at marsh and river wildlife. Canoe, kayak, paddleboat and bicycle rentals are available April-October. Daily 8 am until dusk. Monday-Friday US$2 per car, Saturday, Sunday and public holidays US$3 per car. 5526 Riverview Road, Williamsburg. Phone 757-566-3036. http://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/yor.shtml.
| Amusement Parks | Top |
Home to a number of gravity-defying roller coasters and high-tech flight simulators, this pretty, tree-lined theme park has an old-world flair. Jugglers, Clydesdale horses, riverboat rides and German bands add to the festive feel in each themed village. Take the Aeronaut Skyride or covered trains when your feet get tired, or try out Ireland's show,
The Emerald Beat. Hours vary by season. US$56.95 adults, US$49.95 children ages 3-9. Other combo tickets are available. 1 Busch Gardens Blvd. (off U.S. Highway 60), Williamsburg. Toll-free 800-343-7946. http://www.buschgardens.com.
This water extravaganza is a splash for all age groups and swimming abilities. The park has a giant wave pool, four-person water tubes, river-rafting adventures, breathtaking hydro chutes and water-themed shows. Get there early to avoid the crowds, and make sure to brave the Peppermint Twist (a fast and spinning plunge ride) at least once before calling it a day. Open daily May-Labor Day. Hours vary according to season. US$39.95 adults, US$32.95 children ages 3-9. Combined admission passes are also available with Busch Gardens. 176 Water Country Parkway (on Highway 199), Williamsburg. Toll-free 800-343-7946. http://www.watercountryusa.com.
| Wineries, Breweries & Distilleries | Top |
With more than 50 acres/20 hectares of vineyards, as well as striking 18th-century architecture, this is a pleasant place to spend an afternoon. An educational tour gives visitors a chance to sample 20 different wines (along with a score card to mark your favorites). If you get hungry, stop for a bite to eat at Gabriel Archer Tavern, the cozy little bistro that overlooks the vineyard. November-March Monday-Saturday 10 am-5 pm, Sunday 11 am-5 pm. April-October Monday-Saturday 10 am-6 pm, Sunday 11 am-6 pm. US$8 for tour, tasting and a souvenir glass; free for guests who are not tasting or are younger than 21 (they may not taste the wine). 5800 Wessex Hundred, Williamsburg. Phone 757-229-0999. http://www.williamsburgwinery.com.
| Other Options | Top |
This scenic highway does more than just link the Historic Triangle (Williamsburg, Yorktown and Jamestown). The well-manicured route meanders through 23 mi/37 km of the Colonial National Historical Park. It's a relaxing way to view untouched wetlands, shorelines and native wildlife. Access the parkway by taking Highway 199 when traveling eastbound or Highway 17 when traveling westbound.
A ride on one of the four James River ferries is a fun (and free) way to see the area from the water. Catch one every half-hour at Glass House Point in Jamestown. The 15-minute ride connects you to sights in Surry County. http://www.virginiadot.org/travel/ferry-jamestown.asp.
The natural beauty and historic charm of Williamsburg create a number of unusual recreational pursuits. From jogging along the streets of Colonial Williamsburg (go early to beat the crowd) to biking the Colonial Parkway, you'll enjoy well-preserved and relatively flat terrain. Parks throughout the city and the surrounding area offer fitness trails, canoe rentals, primitive camping and endless fishing opportunities. Mountain bikers will love the Dogwood Bike Trail, a 4-mi/5-km loop at Waller Mill Park. Those looking to get wet will find the Chickahominy Riverfront Park to be the perfect spot for swimming and boating.
With a number of scenic rivers and waterways nearby, Williamsburg offers some of the best fishing, bird-watching and wildlife exploration in Virginia. Try the Powhatan Creek Water Access for unspoiled views of the saltwater marshes and endangered animals that make their home around Jamestown Island. For some added excitement, take the short drive over to Yorktown Waterfront Park and throw out a crab pot to see what you can catch for dinner. The park offers unparalleled views of the river, making it an ideal place to wind down after braving the crowded tourist spots nearby.
Only an hour's drive from Williamsburg is the resort city of Virginia Beach. There are 28 mi/45 km of beaches in the city, a boardwalk with a variety of restaurants and shops, and plenty of beachfront hotels. Heading to the beach for some sun and sand is the perfect way to relax. Beware of the crowds and highway congestion in Norfolk, Hampton Roads and Virginia Beach during the busy tourist season Memorial Day-Labor Day.
| Boating & Sailing | Top |
Williamsburg and James City County nestle along the James and York rivers, both inland tidal rivers that empty into the Norfolk/Hampton harbor and the Chesapeake Bay. Boating, fishing and waterskiing are popular in this scenic area, known to locals as the Upper Peninsula. An abundance of land along the James River made it pragmatic for early colonial settlers to make their home there. Trade and transportation occurred by boat in the colonial era, and the James is still used for these purposes, as well as for watersports and boating, to this day.
The Jamestown Yacht Basin is situated on Powhatan Creek, just a few minutes by boat from the James River. Speedboats and Jet Skis may launch from there. Even with 125 wet slips, this marina is usually booked. Phoning ahead is recommended.
Note: If traveling with a boat on a trailer along Colonial Parkway, remember there is a 12-ft/4-m height restriction because of Parkway tunnels. 2054 Jamestown Road (access the Yacht Basin across the parking lot from Jamestown Settlement), Williamsburg.
Kingsmill, one of the first gated communities built in Williamsburg, has a marina open to residents and visitors. The marina has facilities for docking and dining and provides 15 transient boat slips with water and power included. Full-service dockside fueling is also available. The Deck at the Marina provides food and entertainment with a view of the James River. The marina store stocks boating and fishing supplies and other provisions. Kingsmill Resort and Spa, 1010 Kingsmill Road, Williamsburg. Phone 757-253-3919. http://www.kingsmill.com/recreation/marina.asp.
This marina's location provides the perfect getaway in a protected, private harbor close to the intersection of the James River and the Chickahominy River. The 100 boat slips and eight transient slips include water, electricity and boat dock boxes. Call ahead for availability. Boats have a maximum size of 50 ft/16 m. Amenities include: boat launching ramp, fueling service, an office, shop, laundry, bathroom, showers and ice. 1636 Harbor Road, Williamsburg. Phone 757-258-4653. http://www.governorsland.com.
The mouth of the Chickahominy River is a spectacular expanse of waterway near Williamsburg. Visitors can fish, boat, camp, swim or golf. Launch your own boat from the boat ramps or rent one. John Tyler Highway, Williamsburg. Phone 757-258-5020. http://www.jccegov.com/recreation/chickahominy_park.html.
As a public boat launch, Diascund Landing is managed by the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries and is best known for bass fishing. (From Williamsburg, take Route 60 West to the intersection with Route 603 North. A boat launch is less than 1 mi/1 km away on the right.)
A tree-lined course located in a challenging tidal marsh setting, the Colonial Golf Club's design provides flexibility for golfers with varying abilities. (Golfers may choose from five sets of tees.) For the visitor looking to keep golf techniques fresh, a public three-hole regulation practice course is available for US$18 without a reservation. Diascund Road, Providence Forge. Phone 757-566-1600. http://www.golfcolonial.com.
John LaFoy designed this course with the objective of combining the best elements of playability and aesthetics. This course is excellent for shorter hitters and knock-down shots. Signature hole No. 11 is a challenge with water on three sides. 8401 Club Drive, Williamsburg. Phone 757-566-2200.
Colonial Williamsburg has three golf courses. The Gold Course has been open since 1963 and has been the site of many golf outings. Robert Trent Jones Sr. designed the 18-hole course, and it remains one of his best design examples. The Green Course was designed by Rees Jones (son of Jones Sr.). This 18-hole course is less challenging than the Gold Course, although it is made of the same terrain. The Spotswood Course is a nine-hole course named for a former governor of colonial Virginia, Alexander Spotswood. The 1947 design was renovated in 1963 by Jones Sr. on the Williamsburg Inn's property. 401 S. England St., Williamsburg. Phone 757-220-7696. http://www.goldenhorseshoegolf.com.
One of the top 10 courses in Virginia, Williamsburg National Golf Club has the original Jamestown course—an 18-hole design that is picturesquely lined with trees along the fairways. Golfers find a good selection of the holes challenging, and the wetlands provide numerous natural obstacles. The Yorktown course is more straightforward. Call for greens fees. 3500 Centreville Road, Williamsburg. Toll-free 800-859-9182. http://wngc.com.
| Hiking & Walking | Top |
Located behind Jamestown High School on Route 5 (John Tyler Highway), this 3-mi/5-km trail is lovely every season of the year. A boardwalk crosses a marsh and a beaver pond at the beginning of the trail, which is composed of three interconnecting loops. More than 200 species of birds have been seen there, and hikers can view the area as Native Americans and early colonists did when they arrived.
This site has a loop drive perfect for walking or biking. It goes to Black Point, the site of an old Native American settlement on the James River. Choose a short or long loop with lots of small bridges over marshes and swamps. The drive is especially nice in the summer and is a favorite exercise spot for locals. Entrance station open daily 8:30 am-4:30 pm; visitor information center open daily 9 am-5 pm. US$10 adults (seven-day pass), free for children 15 and younger. The pass also includes entrance to Yorktown Battlefield. (Take Colonial Parkway toward Jamestown or follow Route 31 South, make a right, pass Jamestown Settlement and follow signs to the National Park Service original town site). Phone 757-229-1733. http://www.nps.gov/jame/index.htm.
If you didn't get enough of Colonial Williamsburg's patriotic theme during the day, you're in luck: Many of the local bars and taverns play up the 18th-century act—making for a rather distinctive scene. Most people won't want to miss the chance to hoist a brew in an authentically decorated alehouse, some of which were actually frequented by George Washington and Patrick Henry. Colonial tavern games (called gambols) often have participants blushing by night's end. But be prepared—the taverns are sometimes gimmicky and long lines are common.
If you've had your fill of colonial times and tavern sing-alongs, check out some live music. Keep in mind that Williamsburg is a college town and you may see crowds of students in the bars.
| Bars, Taverns & Pubs | Top |
In addition to the dozen billiard tables, this pool hall houses a full-service bar and restaurant and has become a favorite late-night destination for locals. Live jazz on Thursday nights and, during the warmer months, there's live entertainment on the patio. Open Sunday-Tuesday until 1 am, Wednesday-Saturday until 2 am. 4805 Courthouse St., Williamsburg. Phone 757-220-0808.
A lively, local tap house with multiple personalities. During the day it's a great low-key lunch place for sandwiches, pizzas and burgers. At night, it can get a little rowdier thanks to its across-the-street neighbor, the College of William and Mary. The students are drawn to the 30 beers on tap and the warm, neighborhood pub feel. Open since 1974, this is the place where Grammy-winning singer Bruce Hornsby paid his dues. Open daily from 11 am. 765 Scotland St., Williamsburg. Phone 757-220-3405. http://www.greenleafe.com.
This is the place for live jazz, blues and classic rock. The music varies almost nightly. It's one of the few venues in town with a full weekly schedule of live music, but it fits the bill nicely. You'll find plenty of barstools and little dark corners if you want to enjoy late-night libations and private conversation. Open daily for lunch and dinner, and the menu is available until 1 am. 4854 Longhill Road, Williamsburg. Phone 757-259-0406. http://www.jmrandalls.com.
| Performing Arts | Top  |
Fans of the performing arts will find more than colonial re-enactments in Williamsburg. The Williamsburg Players and the College of William and Mary both maintain a busy schedule of theater productions. Those hungry for classical drama shouldn't miss the Virginia Shakespeare Festival (July and August). Music lovers should check the Dewey Decibel Concert Series schedule for one of its nightly performances.
This nightly concert series features local, national and international musicians. Performances include folk, bluegrass, a cappella and jazz. Season runs September-June. Ticket prices vary; some concerts are free. Williamsburg Library Theatre, 515 Scotland St., Williamsburg. Phone 757-259-4070. http://www.wrl.org/programs/concerts.html.
Pi Beta Kappa Hall hosts a variety of concerts, plays and dance performances, including the Virginia Shakespeare Festival. 601 Jamestown Road, Williamsburg. Phone 757-221-2674. http://www.wm.edu/theatre.
This troupe performs an eclectic mix of classic off-Broadway material and contemporary favorites. 200 Hubbard Lane, Williamsburg. Phone 757-229-0431. http://www.williamsburgplayers.org.
| Ticket Brokers | Top |
Local Ticketmaster outlets include the Farm Fresh Supermarket at 455 Merrimac Trail and Ukrop's Supermarket at 4660 Monticello Ave. For Ticketmaster event information, call 757-872-8100. http://www.ticketmaster.com.
This nondescript brick building among the shops and restaurants of Merchant's Square looks more like a bank than a cultural mecca. But in any given week, the theater is host to a fantastic collection of lectures, poetry, music and alternative films. 424 Duke of Gloucester St., Williamsburg. Phone 757-565-8588. http://www.kimballtheatre.com.
| Spectator Sports | Top |
Sports fans looking for excitement in Williamsburg will have to be content with the athletic offerings of the College of William and Mary. You can get all the information you ever wanted to know at http://www.tribeathletics.com.
The Michelob Ultra Open, a major LPGA golf tournament, takes place every spring at Kingsmill Golf Resort along the James River.
| Horse Racing | Top |
This horse-racing track lies just 30 minutes west of Williamsburg in New Kent County. Thoroughbred racing: June-August Friday-Tuesday. Harness racing: September-November daily except Monday. Call for specific dates and times. US$2 adults, children age 12 and younger free. 10515 Colonial Downs Parkway (take Interstate 64 to exit 214; Colonial Downs is less than 1 mi/1 km from exit ramp), New Kent. Phone 804-966-7223. http://www.colonialdowns.com.
Some visitors contend that shopping in Williamsburg is as much of a draw as the living-history exhibits and the theme parks. This retail enthusiasm dates to the late 1930s, when 90-year-old Jimmy Maloney set up a stand to sell handmade pottery along Highway 60, just outside of town. That humble stand eventually grew into the Williamsburg Pottery Factory, a 200-acre/80-hectare factory outlet. A handful of equally large outlets (offering everything from clothing to wine and appliances) have sprung up over the years along the outskirts of the city.
Several more refined shopping districts can be found in the center of town, near Colonial Williamsburg. Merchants Square, adjoining the historic area along Duke of Gloucester Street, mixes such well-known draws as Williams-Sonoma with gourmet cheese shops, chic boutiques and romantic cafes. Other shops in the historic district stock everything from mouth harps and penny whistles to antique furniture and colonial costumes. If you're looking for charm, you'll be content spending a good portion of time in this (sometimes pricey) part of town.
A handful of shopping villages near the theme parks and resorts have a European feel, with only a hint of Williamsburg's colonial past. The Village Shops at Kingsmill (along Pocahontas Trail) includes a collection of quality boutiques mixed with elegant restaurants.
| Antique Stores | Top |
It may look like a disorganized mess on the outside, but once buyers begin digging through the merchandise, they can make some great finds in Continental antiques, stonework and ironwork. Thursday-Monday 10 am-5 pm, Sunday noon-5 pm. 7766 Richmond Road (15 minutes west of Williamsburg on Route 60), Williamsburg. Phone 757-566-8300.
This truly unique shopping experience transports you to an 1880s Victorian house overflowing with old treasures. In fact, it overflows into 10 other buildings and barns on the property. You'll feel as if you're scavenging through a private estate as you sift through the collections of fine glassware, old farm tools, wagons and 1930s kitchenware. Open Friday-Sunday 10 am-5 pm. 9162 John Clayton Memorial Highway, Gloucester. Phone 804-695-1146.
With 45 dealers in this spacious antiques mall, shoppers will find a large variety of tools, glassware, coins, bottles and furniture. Monday-Saturday 10 am-5 pm, Sunday noon-5 pm. 7003 Richmond Road, Williamsburg. Phone 757-229-8759.
For antiques lovers, the 45,000 sq ft/4,180 sq m of shopping and 400 dealers makes this place heaven. But don't expect to uncover any great steals—these folks know what they're doing. Head to the tearoom for snacks and desserts if you get tired. Monday-Saturday 10 am-6 pm, Sunday noon-5 pm. 500 Lightfoot Road, Williamsburg. Phone 757-565-3422. http://www.antiqueswilliamsburg.com.
| Factory Outlets | Top |
One of the bigger outlets in the area, this place features more than 90 stores of slightly higher-end merchandise. You'll find familiar names such as Nike, Nine West, Nautica and Timberland. Parking spaces are at a premium on weekends, especially during holiday shopping season in November and December. Monday-Saturday 10 am-9 pm, Sunday 10 am-7 pm. 5715-62A Richmond Road, Williamsburg. Phone 757-565-0702. http://www.primeoutlets.com.
With more than 40 stores, this enclosed mall is the place to go in bad weather. You'll find familiar names such as Healthtex, Vanity Fair, Black & Decker and Casual Male Big & Tall. Includes two eateries. Monday-Thursday 10 am-8 pm, Friday and Saturday 10 am-9 pm, Sunday 10 am-6 pm. 6401 Richmond Road, Williamsburg. Phone 757-565-3378. http://www.williamsburgoutletmall.com.
The Pottery, as it is known, stands in a class by itself. It's a must-see collection featuring pottery, glass, baskets, plants and other items. Plenty of refreshments on-site, but dress comfortably because those 200 acres/80 hectares can wear you out. Open daily, specific hours vary seasonally. 6692 Richmond Road, Lightfoot. Phone 757-564-3326. http://www.williamsburgpottery.com.
Right in the thick of things, this warm gallery will leave you feeling like you just browsed through someone's exquisite personal collection. There is a nice mix of contemporary and classic paintings, maritime art, sculpture and garden-inspired crafts. Daily 10 am-6 pm. 440A Duke of Gloucester St., Williamsburg. Toll-free 888-564-1787. http://www.galleryonmsq.com.
Stop by this all-volunteer gallery situated in a restored 1920s house. Featuring contemporary local, regional and national paintings, sculpture and crafts, it offers a welcome respite for those overloaded by colonial art and antiques. 219 N. Boundary St., Williamsburg. Phone 757-229-4949. http://www.thiscenturyartgallery.org.
This market brings together the best farmers, fishermen, bakers and growers in the Williamsburg area and offers live music, great food and lots of fun for the whole family. Open May-October Saturday 8 am-noon, June-August Tuesday 3-6:30 pm. Phone 757-259-3768. http://www.williamsburgfarmersmarket.com.
| Shopping Areas | Top |
This shopping area sits not far from downtown and has a grocery store and a variety of other shops and restaurants. 4600 Monticello Ave., Williamsburg. Phone 757-565-0845.
| Specialty Stores | Top |
If you'd like to re-create some of the charm of Williamsburg in your own home, this is the shop to visit. It specializes in excellent reproductions of 18th-century home furnishings from tableware to bedding to furniture. Monday-Friday 8 am-10 pm, Saturday 8 am-5 pm. Merchants Square, 402 W. Duke of Gloucester St., Williamsburg. Phone 757-220-7747.
For handmade quilts and authentic reproductions of colonial clothing, this store can't be beat. Virginia gifts and home accessories are also sold there. Sunday-Wednesday 9:30 am-6 pm, Thursday-Saturday 9:30 am-9 pm. 110 S. Henry St., Williamsburg. Phone 757-253-8700. http://www.quiltsunlimited.com.
Keeping the art of pewter craft alive, this shop features handmade pewter objects crafted in Williamsburg. Shirley Pewter also sells pewter items from 55 other companies. Monday-Saturday 9:30 am-6 pm, Sunday 10:30 am-6 pm. 417 Duke of Gloucester St., Williamsburg. Toll-free 800-550-5356. http://www.shirleypewter.com.
For the collector of Christmas ornaments, this Christmas store is a find. It claims to have the widest selection of Williamsburg ornaments available. Daily 10 am-6 pm. 415 Duke of Gloucester St., Williamsburg. Phone 757-229-2514. http://www.christmasshopwilliamsburg.com.
A Williamsburg classic and a must-see even if you aren't visiting with children. The shelves have the power to mesmerize even the most stoic grown-up. Relive childhood memories as you browse the two floors of classic and modern toys. Monday-Saturday 9:30 am-6 pm, Sunday 10 am-6 pm. Merchants Square, Duke of Gloucester Street, Williamsburg. Phone 757-229-5660. http://www.toymakerofwilliamsburg.com.
Don't limit yourself to the many tourist attractions in Colonial Williamsburg—there is more to see in this historic region. Hop on the Colonial Parkway for a 10-minute drive to the other two parts of Historic Triangle.
To Jamestown. Considered the first permanent English settlement in North America (after the early demise of the Roanoke Island colony), Jamestown is now part of the Colonial National Historic Park. (The settlement celebrated its 400th anniversary in 2007.) Today's visitors will find two Jamestowns: Jamestown, the original site (where the colony was actually located), and Jamestown Settlement, a replica that was built next to the original site in 1957. History buffs and budding archaeologists will find the excavations under way at the original site fascinating (especially the original 1607 fort and the skeleton of a settler by the river at the Dale House). At the replica site, visitors can watch Native American interpreters prepare 17th-century dishes (using bear fat), participate in glass-blowing demonstrations and tour models of the first three English ships to dock along the island's banks. When you've seen the main sights, take a drive around the island: The 5-mi/8-km road takes you past points of historical interest. Jamestown is about 7 mi/11 km south of Williamsburg, along the Colonial Parkway and Highway 31.
To Yorktown. This small village overlooking the York River is the site of the British surrender that ended the Revolutionary War. Visit the Yorktown Battlefield and follow the trail to the Victory Center for re-enactments and exhibit galleries. Stroll around Main Street, where you'll discover a mix of historic structures open to the public and private homes. Take your swimsuit for a dip at the public beach along Water Street, or spend the night in one of the area's old inns. http://www.yorkcounty.gov/tourism. Yorktown is about 14 mi/22 km northeast of Williamsburg, along the Colonial Parkway and Highway 238.
To Virginia's James River plantations. Throughout the James River region are a number of historic plantations that are home to architectural treasures dating back to the 17th century. From Berkeley Plantation, site of the first official Thanksgiving in 1619, to the early log architecture of Piney Grove, these sites are meticulously preserved monuments. Some operate as bed-and-breakfasts, others offer educational programs, and some are just impressive to look at. Nature lovers will want to check out Virginia's Birding and Wildlife Trail Plantation Loop. The trail incorporates the plantations as well as the natural beauty of areas along the James and Chickahominy rivers. http://www.jamesriverplantations.org. The plantations are about 10 mi/16 km west of Williamsburg along Route 5 in Charles City County.
To Norfolk. Home to the world's largest naval base, Norfolk is truly a nautical city with many activities and attractions on or near the water. Its restored neighborhoods, historic walking trails and waterfront festivals are just a part of what the city has to offer. Nauticus, an aquatic science museum, has many interactive learning exhibits, including a shark petting zoo. Contact the Norfolk Convention and Visitors Bureau toll-free at 800-664-6620. http://norfolkcvb.com/index.cfm. Norfolk is about 45 mi/72 km south of Williamsburg off Interstate 64.
Private walking tours of Williamsburg and the surrounding area, including Jamestown, Yorktown and the plantations. This private touring company (not associated with the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation) accommodates families and groups. The owner grew up in historic Williamsburg and offers a comprehensive list of historical tours of the area. US$50 per hour for groups of up to eight people. Phone 757-897-9600. http://www.williamsburgprivatetours.com.
Walk through Colonial Williamsburg by candlelight and hear tales of ghosts that haunt the streets. Tours are held every evening at 8 pm, and a second tour is added June-August at 8:45 pm. US$10. Age 6 and younger, free. Tours depart from 345 W. Duke of Gloucester St., Williamsburg. Phone 757-253-1058. http://www.theghosttour.com.