History and fun come alive in Williamsburg, Virginia

Once the seat of the first American government, Williamsburg, Virginia is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States. Its proximity to the Chesapeake Bay and larger cities like Washington, DC, and Virginia Beach also attract many people looking for a new home to raise a family or to retire. In the summer months, however, the city provides ample opportunities for families to explore the roots of our nation’s history and culture, as well as have fun.

Situated at the edge of the booming Hampton Roads metropolitan area, Williamsburg forms one point in a triangle of historic sites (the others are Yorktown and the Jamestown settlement) that attract thousands of tourists annually. It’s easy to find, just a short trip off I-64 and accessible via the local AmTrak station. At most, Williamsburg is within an hour’s drive of three airports: Richmond International, Williamsburg/Newport News, and Norfolk International.

In Williamsburg, visitors can experience the lives of our ancestors with a walk through the streets of the Colonial District. Entering the cobbled streets takes you back in time as costumed people demonstrate the traditions and vocations of the time. The gardens are cultivated for the beautiful flower arrangements that decorate each door, the village blacksmith canvases to forge ironwork, and the many shopkeepers bustle to serve their customers with handmade soaps, candles and table linens.

While many of the buildings located along Duke of Gloucester Street do not charge admission, some sites in the Colonial Preserve area are part of a larger tour that requires passes that can be purchased at the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation. Among the buildings that people can explore free of charge are Bruton Parish, one of the oldest Anglican congregations in the country, and the Wren Building, the oldest academic structure in the United States. The Wren Building is part of the College of William and Mary, which adjoins the Colonial District.

History buffs will be interested in Williamsburg’s latest attraction, President’s Park. Located just outside the city, President’s Park is a large open-air museum featuring giant busts of every US president. From George Washington to George W. Bush, visitors can learn about each presidency while viewing replicas larger than life leaders of our nation.

Visitors looking for a little excitement will want to stop at nearby Busch Gardens Europe, a seasonal amusement park spaced out to celebrate the different cultures that shape our nation. Spine-turning roller coasters, three-dimensional rides and the best entertainment delight thousands of visitors each year. When the sun is especially brutal, the complementary Water Country USA park offers respite in the form of water slides and a giant wave pool.

For lovers of culinary delights, Williamsburg is home to some of the best restaurants in the state. Virginia ham, Chesapeake crabs, and classic colonial peanut butter are just a few of the items one can find in the city’s taverns and restaurants. Williamsburg is home to The Trellis, made famous by the decadent Death by Chocolate dessert that’s so big it has to be shared.

For visitors interested in things less touristy, Williamsburg also offers opportunities to relax. Nestled among the looming pines on the north end of town is Waller Mill Park, a favorite with locals and tourists alike for its many walking and biking trails. Cyclists especially enjoy riding Colonial Parkway for stunning views of the marsh and Chesapeake Bay. For golfers, there are three PGA-rated courses within the city limits.

Williamsburg is a haven for golfers, history buffs, and anyone looking to recover from the bustle and traffic often found in DC and Northern Virginia. Because Williamsburg’s draw is seasonal and spread out, the area also allows for a sense of seclusion and peace without being inaccessible. So if you’re considering Virginia for your next vacation, be sure to set aside a few days for Williamsburg. You won’t be disappointed.