Things to Know Before You Visit Colonial Williamsburg
In celebration of the New York Times listing Williamsburg as the number 12(!) place to visit in 2019, we want to answer some of the most common questions about Colonial Williamsburg we hear from visitors. Planning a trip to Colonial Williamsburg this year? This one’s for you!
Disclaimer: As Coastal Virginia natives, all of us at The Vacation Channel have had serious FUN at these attractions. That said, these are affiliate links and The Vacation Channel may earn a commission on purchases made via these links at no additional cost to you.
Is Colonial Williamsburg fun?
Of course! Colonial Williamsburg has plenty of fun things to do for kids and adults alike. For history lovers, its definitely a bucket-list attraction, but with a musket range, axe-throwing, interactive performances, archaeology demos, and more, there really is something for everyone!
If this doesn’t look like a day of fun, I don’t know what does:
Do people dress up at Colonial Williamsburg?
Yes, that’s part of the fun! Colonial Williamsburg is full of historical interpreters that engage with visitors adorned in period costume, creating an immersive experience for guests. Sometimes enthusiastic visitors—kids and adults—will even don colonial wear. Let loose!
What age is free at Colonial Williamsburg?
Children ages 6 years old and under are free and do not require an admission ticket. Colonial Williamsburg also offers discounted ticket rates for kids ages 6 to 12, while those 12 years and older pay the standard admission rate.
Can you leave Colonial Williamsburg and come back?
Single day or multi-day passes allow guests to come and go as they like. So if you need a quick break from the 18th century, feel free to hit a few shops or grab a bite down DoG Street, and catch an evening program later that night!
If you’re looking for a restaurant, check out the Williamsburg Area Restaurant Guide:
What is the Historic Triangle?
The Historic Triangle of Virginia describes three landmark, colonial cities: Williamsburg, Jamestown, and Yorktown. Together, the cities form a triangle on a map, and are connected by way of the Colonial Parkway. Each city has its own set of engaging, interactive museums and attractions to discover.
Watch this video to learn more about the Historic Triangle and why you should make time for all three cities during your trip:
Is Colonial Williamsburg open in the rain?
Colonial Williamsburg is open, rain or shine. In fact, some of CW’s best activities are indoors. You can still visit any of the trade shops, their award-winning art museum, The Governor’s Palace, the Capitol, interactive dramas, restaurants, shopping, and more!
Which historic figures can I meet at Colonial Williamsburg?
Some figures visitors can run into on their visit to Colonial Williamsburg include George Washington, Martha Washington, James Madison, Patrick Henry, Thomas Jefferson, George Mason, James Armistead Lafayette, and more. There is even an app that guests can use to track their location while they are inside CW.
What is there to do at Colonial Williamsburg at night?
Depending on the season, Colonial Williamsburg has an abundance of rotating evening exhibits. Night time attractions can include ghost tours, period concerts, escape rooms, and an array of interactive 18th century courtroom dramas, where guests help to decide guilt versus innocence.
Which of these programs do you want to see the most? Leave us a message in the comments below!
Can residents visit Colonial Williamsburg for free?
Residents of Williamsburg and its neighboring counties are eligible for a year-long Good Neighbor Pass for $10. Military personnel living in the area, area municipal employees, and teachers working for the local school system are eligible for a free pass with proof of residency or local employment.
Is Williamsburg a crowded city?
Generally, no. In the summer, however, Williamsburg can get crowded, particularly around major holidays like 4th of July, Memorial Day, and labor day. There’s plenty of hotel accommodation in the area, however, so there’s never a bad time to visit.
How close is Colonial Williamsburg to the beach?
If you’re planning to stay at the Oceanfront or just thinking about a day trip down to the shore, Colonial Williamsburg is only a 1 hour drive from the Virginia Beach boardwalk. In fact, all of Hampton Roads is very drivable—there’s plenty of family-fun to be had all the way down the coast!
What else is there to do once I’m there?
Plenty! Check out all the best stuff to see and do, from Williamsburg to Virginia Beach, with our handy trip-planner. Start planning your trip today!
What are you most excited for on your upcoming trip? Drop us a message in the comments below.
Martin Walsh is an owner of The Vacation Channel, and filmmaker with over a decade of experience making engaging travel content. He’s on a mission to make sure your family has fun this year with a trip to Coastal Virginia. If you would like a local’s opinion, you can always send him a question via email. Now get outside and go have an adventure!