Colonial Williamsburg Vacations – Williamsburg, Virginia

I can’t believe we’ve already been to Williamsburg, Virginia so many times without delving into the main attraction: Colonial Williamsburg. Honestly, who writes this thing?

Well, it’s finally summer, and that means Colonial Williamsburg vacations are just getting into full swing. Time to start planning that summer family vacation of your own.

Colonial Williamsburg is the historic district of Williamsburg, Virginia, which isn’t to say it’s remotely like that historic district you’ve got back home. You know, the one with the antiques shops, tea rooms and hip gastropubs? Strangely, Colonial Williamsburg has grown unique by staying the same. Many of the buildings that once housed Virginia colonists and indeed formed the colonial capital back in the mid-1700’s are still standing today.

Obviously, the world around has changed since the 18^th century, but once you step onto the streets of Colonial Williamsburg, only the occasional camera-snapping, fanny-pack-wielding eye sore should give it away. A respect for history and a hunger for authenticity definitely elevate the quality of the attractions.

What attractions? Think of Colonial Williamsburg as a living history museum. Historic interpreters, in full costumed get up, walk the streets and live their lives as a colonist might have nearly three centuries ago. Of course their proud to do their work, but don’t be afraid to ask a question or ten, you’ll find them quite talkative (and the information spot on). If you’ve had your fill badgering the locals on the streets, head to one of the historic buildings or shops. Each one has been dutifully restored to represent their once-real counterparts as accurately as possible, whether it’s a wig-making shop, carpenter’s studio or general store.

Shows are another major attraction. The historic reenacters host daily performances in a larger program called “Revolutionary City”. Presenting a slice of life from various perspectives and time periods throughout the American Revolution, these sprawling, multi-venue shows are unlike anything I’d seen before. Despite being hosted in the open, however, Revolutionary City is a ticketed event. General admission is required (which you should have anyway).

If it can only be one, catch the “Citizens at War” show, currently playing Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. It’s the easy favorite.

There’s more – workshops, kid’s programs, colonial music, walking tours, animal tours, museums – so don’t worry about not having enough to do. You can fill a day, no problem.

The grounds of Colonial Williamsburg are open to the public; however most events, programs and buildings require a general admission to enjoy. They’re currently offering an online discount on “Governor’s Key-to-the-City” passes, which includes general admission, a tour of the Governor’s Palace and a second day free. Learn more about everything here.

It’s always done us well in the past, so for hotels in Williamsburg, Virginia we always use the Crowne Plaza Williamsburg Hotel at Fort Magruder. It’s especially great for this trip, because you can walk to the historic district. With a place like Colonial Williamsburg, walking there just feels right.

Oh, and if you need something to do on day two or three, consider Busch Gardens.

View more vacation ideas at our Summer Family Vacation Guide.

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