One of America’s first planned cities, the birthplace of Pocahontas, home of the world’s fastest multi-launch roller coaster, and the original capital of Virginia, Williamsburg is a worthy road trip rich in history and amusement.

Located about 90 minutes southeast of Fredericksburg, you won’t have to travel far to reach this destination, making it ideal for a day trip or weekend getaway.

Boasting 6-8 million visitors a year, there is no shortage of lodging, retail and dining establishments in this small town, many of which are located along Williamsburg’s main thoroughfare, Richmond Road.

Take a Step Back in Time

Colonial Williamsburg, where “the future may learn from the past,” is over 300 acres of living history and the world’s largest U.S. history museum. Talented interpreters reenact the lives of 18th-century settlers who came to America in search of a better existence; the indigenous people whose lives and land were forever changed by the arrival of these strangers; and the stories, struggles and impact of those captured and brought here by force.

Visitors can explore the tales of those who built America and learn how these figures from varying backgrounds helped shape the country.

Step even further back in time at Jamestown settlement, a 17th-century re-creation of America’s first permanent English settlement.

There, one can catch a glimpse of indigenous life at Paspahegh Town, tour three ships representing the ones that sailed to Virginia in 1607, and explore a recreated English fort. Just a quick drive from Jamestown Settlement is Historic Jamestown, the actual location of the original settlement and an active archeological site.

Adventure Awaits

Once you’re done soaking up the town’s historical offerings, go on a different type of adventure at one—or both!—of Williamsburg’s award-winning theme parks.

Busch Gardens Williamsburg, voted the world’s most beautiful theme park since 1999, is divided into nine sections and represents six different countries. Enjoy award-winning shows, an array of games, shopping and dining options, and of course the main attraction—the rides!

The park includes ten roller coasters/thrill rides, water rides, and other classics like bumper cars and the carousel. The littlest guests will find lots to do at Sesame Place and Land of the Dragons.

Water Country USA is a USA Today’s Top 3 outdoor water park. Water slides, the wave pool and lazy river are fun ways to stay cool if you’re traveling in summertime.

Shop Til You Drop

Spend the day shopping your heart out at the Williamsburg Premium Outlets. There are over 120 stores, including Nike, The North Face and Coach.

If you’re looking for local-made goods and souvenir options, the Williamsburg Farmers Market takes place every Saturday morning in Colonial Williamsburg’s Merchant Square. Vendors offer high-quality and unique products such as local honey, pastries, artwork, jewelry and plants. Along the perimeter are brick-and-mortar shops with even more unique items to take back home with you.

For an iconic Williamsburg souvenir, stop by Williamsburg Jewelers for one of their original c-shaped cuff bracelets. Silversmith Jimmy Curtis has been crafting these legendary pieces since 1965, and every local either owns one, wants to own one, or at the very least knows about them.

 

Fun fact: The Williamsburg Inn has been hosting famous guests for decades. Queen Elizabeth ll visited in 1957 and again in 2007, and the suite she stayed in has since been named after her. Guests can stay in “The Queens Room” or other themed rooms named after famous guests, such as “Churchill Suite” or “Rockefeller Suite.”