Things to do in Williamsburg, Virginia
- Williamsburg was the site of the first English-speaking hospital in North America, established in 1773 to treat the 'mentally ill'.
- The city served as the capital of the Virginia Colony from 1699 to 1780 before the seat of government moved to Richmond to be less vulnerable to British naval attacks.
- William & Mary, located here, is the second-oldest institution of higher education in the United States, chartered in 1693.
- The city's historical district remains one of the largest living history museums in the world, requiring ongoing archaeological oversight to maintain authenticity.
About Williamsburg, Virginia
Williamsburg serves as the heart of the Historic Triangle, functioning as a primary site for early American colonial history and preservation. Visitors explore the meticulous reconstructions at the Jamestown Settlement and witness the political seat of the 18th-century colony at the Capitol. Beyond its historical roots, the area accommodates modern leisure seekers at Busch Gardens Williamsburg. The local landscape integrates significant academic presence with dense colonial-era architectural sites, such as the Governor's Palace.
Highlights of Williamsburg, Virginia
The places our editors single out — and why they're worth your time.
Amusement parks
This European-themed park offers world-class roller coasters and seasonal cultural festivals.
Museums
Living history exhibits recreate the 1607 arrival of English colonists with full-scale ship replicas.
Historical places
This site served as the royal representative's residence and the formal epicenter of colonial Virginia power.
Museums
Walk through the site of the original legislature where influential early American politicians debated colonial law.
Museums
Observe traditional glassblowing techniques demonstrating a primary industry of the original Jamestown colony.
Amusement parks
Experience a floorless dive coaster that ranks among the most intense thrill rides in the regional park system.
Museums
This museum houses a significant collection of American folk art including weather vanes, quilts, and painted furniture.
Places of interest
Legend suggests that crossing this campus bridge with a partner guarantees lifelong romance.
Top things to do in Williamsburg, Virginia
The 66 highest-rated places in Williamsburg, Virginia, ranked by travellers.
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Amusement parks
Busch Gardens Williamsburg is a 383-acre amusement park organized into distinct villages based on European countries inc...
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Museums
Jamestown Settlement is a living-history museum operated by the Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation focusing on the 17th-centu...
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Parks
Water Country USA is the largest water park in Virginia, situated on a 43-acre site in Williamsburg. The park features o...
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Historical places
The Governor's Palace served as the official residence for seven royal governors and the first two elected governors of...
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Museums
Historic Jamestowne is the archaeological site of the first permanent English settlement in North America, established i...
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Williamsburg, Virginia on the map
Top attractions plotted across the city.
Plan your visit to Williamsburg, Virginia
April to June or September to October, when mild temperatures facilitate walking tours and outdoor activities without peak summer humidity.
3-4 days, allowing time for both the extensive colonial historical sites and the regional theme parks.
The historic area is highly walkable, while regional shuttle services and personal vehicles are necessary to reach outlying attractions like Busch Gardens and Jamestown.
Stay in the Colonial Williamsburg area for immediate access to historical sites or near Richmond Road for a wider range of mid-range hotel options.
Mid-range; historical sites typically require ticketed admission, and major theme parks represent a significant portion of visitor expenditure.
Frequently asked
Aventuro lists 66 curated attractions in and around Williamsburg, Virginia, ranked by traveller ratings.
Busch Gardens Williamsburg is the highest-rated place to visit in Williamsburg, Virginia right now.
The largest category is museums, with 18 places to explore.
Travellers also explore Bayonne, New Jersey, Downtown Los Angeles, Washington, D.C..
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