Top 15 Activities to Explore in Williamsburg, Virginia
Hittin' up Williamsburg ain't just about the ol' colonial days, buddy! This tidy Tidewater town in Virginia offers a whole heap of modern fun. From shoppin' and eatin' to golfin' and sippin' on some local vino, there's a truckload of ways to pack your getaway weekend.
So, let's dive in and explore the top things to do, eat, and see in this friendly southern town known for livin' up the good life.
What to Do
Check Out Colonial Williamsburg
You can't visit Williamsburg without payin' a visit to the ol' Colonial district. This historic hub is the biggest living history museum around, baby! Wander around and check out reenactments from silversmithin' to basket makin', join a tour of the Governor's Palace, or swing by the newly opened Bray School—one of the first institutions to educate Black students, back in the day. The spring flowers are a sight to behold, but the Christmas season is pure masterclass in festive decorations.
Jet to Sweethaven Lavender Farm
Just a hop, skip, and a jump outside of town, you'll find the idyllic Sweethaven Lavender Farm. Take a stroll through the fields, pick your own lavender (if it's in season), and chill with a scoop of lavender ice cream. Basically, it don't get much more relaxed than this.
Get Shoppin' in Merchants Square
Shopaholics, we haven't forgotten you! Head on over to Merchants Square, right outside the Colonial district, to shop till you drop. Hit up retro, modern, and historic retailers alike along Duke of Gloucester Street. Grab some souvenirs, or just admire the local art and goodies.
Swing by One (or More!) of Williamsburg's 24 Golf Courses
Got the golfin' itch? You're in luck! Williamsburg is home to a whopping 24 golf courses. Check out some of the best public courses around, like the Golden Horseshoe Golf Club, designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. It even boasts an island green.
Get Schooled at the DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum
You antique and historic home enthusiasts, better set your sights on the DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum. This museum holds the world's largest collection of Southern furniture, plus an impressive stack of British ceramics. You'll get yer fill of Southern charm and history here.
Wander the College of William & Mary's Scenic Campus
This campus has been educatin' young minds since 1693, second only to Harvard! Take a leisurely stroll around its Georgian-style grounds and check out the Wren Building and the Sunken Garden, the school's quad.
Treat Yo' Self to a Spa Day
After a long day of explorin', you deserve some pamperin'! Indulge yourself by bookin' a service at The Spa of Colonial Williamsburg. They offer mostly modern services, but there are a few options like the 17th Century Replenish or the 19th Century Relinquish that'll transport you back in time. For an extra unique experience, give the Williamsburg Salt Spa a try.
What to Eat
Get Ya' Sandwich Fix at The Cheese Shop
One of the favorite spots for locals, travelers, and William & Mary students alike is The Cheese Shop, located in Merchants Square. This joint is busy at lunchtime, but their delicious sandwiches are worth the wait. Don't forget to snag a jar of their signature house dressing while you're there.
Get the Ham Sampler at The Amber Ox Public House
If you're a fan of Southern-inspired fare, then The Amber Ox Public House is your new best friend. They brew their own beer, offer up scratch-made food, and have a speakeasy for post-dinner drinks. Don't leave without tryin' the ham sampler—it's a taste of the Old Dominion State at its finest.
Indulge in French Dining at Le Yaca
This classy French eatery has roots in the French Alps and brings its elegant dining to unassuming Williamsburg. You'll find yourself transported to a cozy, authentic atmosphere with upscale dishes.
What to Drink
Taste Local Wine at Williamsburg Winery
Established in '88, the Williamsburg Winery has been leadin' the charge on Virginia wines. Swing by their tasting room for a pour (or two!), and pair it with some delicious grub at their restaurants onsite.
Sip On Award-Winning Whiskey at Copper Fox Distillery
If something a bit stronger is more yer speed, drop by Copper Fox Distillery. They make whiskey with locally-grown barley, and their speakeasy and fire pit make for the perfect atmosphere for settlin' in for the afternoon.
drinkinghistory at 8 Shires Coloniale Distillery
If you're good and ready to learn about the history of drinkin' while you're drinkin', then head to 8 Shires Coloniale Distillery. Their focus is on preservin' the methods used in Colonial America while still appealin' to the modern drinker.
Where to Stay
Sleep in Luxury at the Williamsburg Inn
This inn cleaned up nice since Queen Elizabeth stayed there. The Williamsburg Inn offers luxury accommodations, maintainin' its historic charm along with some modern updates. It's right in the heart of Colonial Williamsburg, but it'll feel like yer a few centuries away while you're chillin' by the pool or dinnerin' in the Terrace Room.
Kick Back at The Rochambeau Roadside Inn
Lookin' for a more laid-back stay? The Rochambeau Roadside Inn is a completely renovated '54 roadside motel, bringin' back all the nostalgia but with a stylish, updated edge. They even got bunk rooms for those travelin' with a group.
- A must-visit in Virginia's friendly southern town of Williamsburg is the Williamsburg Winery, offering tastings and meals alongside their award-winning local wines.
- The Cheese Shop in Merchants Square is a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike, known for their delicious sandwiches and signature house dressing.
- For a taste of the Old Dominion State at its finest, head to The Amber Ox Public House in Williamsburg, offering Southern-inspired fare, brewed beers, and a speakeasy.
- Le Yaca, a classy French eatery with roots in the French Alps, brings its elegant dining and upscale dishes to unassuming Williamsburg.
