Are you looking for a quick getaway for the family that offers activities that are both fun and educational? Look no further than Williamsburg, VA. Originally the capital of the Virginia colony, Williamsburg was established in 1699 and named after the then reigning monarch of England, King William III. The historical significance of the area is unsurpassed and to this day, it’s known worldwide as the center for preservation of the colonial history of the United States. Here are the top five sites to visit.

Jamestown Settlement

Take a step back in time while visiting America’s very first colony. Established in 1607, Jamestown was settled on the banks of the James river. Today you can explore replicas of the ships that brought the settlers there, replicas of their military fort, and a Powhatan Village. The three ships are docked at the pier and are open for you to tour. The military fort is home to the colonists’ residences, an Anglican church, a governor’s house, and blacksmith shops with actors recreating the happenings of everyday life during that time. And lastly, the Powhatan Village will allow you to learn about the world of Pocahontas as well as the American Indian culture. The historical recreations are sure to interest the entire family.

Colonial Williamsburg

Colonial Williamsburg is like walking into a museum where the historical figures in the portraits can actually talk to you, answer your questions, and explain what their life was like in colonial times. Spanning over 300 acres, this historic area includes political sites, historic homes, art museums, Great Hopes Plantation, and so much more. During your tour, you’ll meet political figures such as George Washington and Thomas Jefferson, as well as many tradesmen who have actually learned and mastered the trades of yesteryear. Discover the world of blacksmiths, cobblers, carpenters, silversmiths, and tailors, all prepared to answer any questions you may have about their trade. You’ll have the ability to tour many historically accurate sites whose architecture is stunning such as JD Rockefeller’s Bassett Hall, the Governor’s mansion, Market Square, and Raleigh Tavern. Kids will also have the opportunity to dress up in colonial costumes while meeting their forefathers. Passes are sold as one day, three days, or seven days, but honestly, you can’t see it all in just one day.

Ripley’s Believe It Or Not!  Museum Williamsburg

Ripley’s Believe it or Not! is not your typical museum. There are over 350 exhibits to peruse, some interactive, some mind blowing, some genuinely strange, and some that are just amazing.  See actual shrunken heads, a 500 pound gorilla made from hardware, a spooky graveyard, a reproduction of the Millennium Falcon, and more. In addition to the plethora of oddities to explore, Ripley’s also has a 4D theatre with rotating movies on topics such as dinosaurs and the deep sea. Make sure to spend some time in the last stop of the museum, a good old fashioned candy store with sweets galore.

Busch Gardens Williamsburg

Who doesn’t love a thrilling roller coaster ride? With that said, Busch Gardens Williamsburg offers much more than stomach dropping rides and cotton candy. Explore Europe while in Virginia at Busch Gardens Classic European Adventure. Wander through nine European villages and discover the architecture, landscaping, and ambiance of each region. This European tour also meets the expectations of theme park goers with rides of all kinds, food, and live entertainment. The rides vary and there’s definitely some for the brave thrill seekers and those that prefer a mild experience. Keep an eye out for concerts in the park and take a tour of their wildlife sanctuary named Jack Hanna’s Wild Reserve.

Miss Hampton II Harbor Cruise

Touring the area by land isn’t your only option when visiting Williamsburg – book a harbor cruise on the Miss Hampton II for a tour through the Chesapeake Bay, Hampton Roads Harbor, and the naval base in Norfolk. The tour docks at the civil war island of Fort Wool where you’ll take a 45 minute tour of the island and its history. Other tour highlights include Blackbeard’s Point, Old Point Comfort Lighthouse, and the Site of the Battle of the Ironclads, Monitor & Merrimac.  Spend a day on the water and tour the waterways of Williamsburg.

 

 

Williamsburg is full of history, providing locals and visitors alike the opportunity to experience life in the colonial era. Children and adults alike will enjoy all it has to offer!