In most historic towns across America, preserved buildings and artifacts help teach citizens about the past. But in Williamsburg, Virginia, Colonial America can be experienced first-hand.
Located about 50 miles southeast of Richmond, Colonial Williamsburg covers over 300 acres of land, including 88 original 18th century buildings. Not only does this family-friendly vacation spot have a great historical aspect, but it includes other features such as shopping, spas, and theaters.
To get the full experience of Colonial Williamsburg, various museums are located throughout the town. Some of these include the Dewitt Wallace Decorative Art Museum and the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum, featuring items from furniture and art to musical instruments and currency. Other buildings to visit include the Governor’s Palace, the Courthouse, and the Capitol.
In these buildings, besides learning about the history of America, you can experience it while attending a street-theater scene and meet the costumed interpreters of our nation’s builders, such as George Washington and Thomas Jefferson who have “undertaken years of study to render the founding fathers in first person every day.”
Williamsburg also offers other daytime options like the shops at Merchant Square, the film “The Story of a Patriot” featured in the Visitor Center, and programs held in Kimball Theatre.
During the evening, live entertainment and films are offered at the Kimball Theatre as well as concerts, tours, and other exclusive weekend events.
Try out the Spa of Colonial Williamsburg. With the motto “a continuum of wellness,” this spa takes a unique approach, offering healing and relaxation methods from each of the last five centuries.
As far as dining and lodging in Colonial Williamsburg, there are many choices. Pick from hotels like the Williamsburg Inn, Williamsburg Lodge, Providence Hall, Colonial Houses, Woodlands, and the Governor’s Inn, all located within walking distance of each other.
The restaurants allow for 18th century dining and include Christiana Campbell’s Tavern, King’s Arms Tavern, Shields Tavern, and Chowning’s Tavern. More modern restaurants can be found at the Williamsburg Inn’s Regency Room, the Terrace Room, and the Williamsburg Lodge.
Taylor Schafer can be reached for comment at [email protected].