Situated in southern Virginia’s Tidewater region, where some of the first European settlers came ashore, Williamsburg remains a town that is suspended in the colonial times of the 1700s. The undeniable fascination of this location is its amazing Historic district that rivals any of the world’s preserved cultural areas. Colonial Williamsburg is not just a collection of restored buildings but a living museum that will keep visitors entertained for days.
The main reason why visitors come to Williamsburg is to discover the fantastic Historic district. This nationally protected area is an impeccably restored version of the city as it existed in the 18th century when it was the very first capital of the newborn nation of America. Here, the workers dress in period garments and engage in traditional crafts in authentic shops, while the taverns offer fare which was in fact on the menu some 300 years ago.
However, if you need a pause from the colonial era, two of Virginia’s largest and most excellent family amusement parks are located close by; Bush Gardens and Water Country USA provide great distractions from the more serious atmosphere of Colonial Williamsburg. Aside from this, there is little else to do here except some shopping in the countless outlet shops flanking the highway out of town.
Highlights
Colonial Williamsburg: this unique area is one of the largest and most captivating living museums in the world where visitors can witness firsthand life in 18th century Virginia.
Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum: the wonderful museum presents over 2,600 folk art items, sculptures and paintings related to colonial America.
DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum: this enormous museum is home to over 10,000 decorative art objects from America and England dating from the 17th to 19th centuries.
Busch Gardens: the huge family entertainment park features six fanciful but genuine 17th century villages from European countries as well as some exciting roller coasters and water flumes.
Water Country USA: Virginia’s biggest water-oriented fun park offers families thrilling water rides, slides and entertainment and is an excellent place to cool off during the hot summer months.