Very cool historic site that has much more to offer than I was able to enjoy in a day. I'm not a huge historian, but it was quite remarkable to see the part of the country that has been preserved and restored to match the original colonies. We got to see a barrel being made, a cannon being fired (dry fired), a court session, and lots of buildings and other historical items. The person I was with has been here a few times and said they have options to stay on site and also there are several very good places to eat. Would be a great place for the family or yourself if you want a piece of Americas history. read more

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Colonial Williamsburg should be so much easier to visit than it is. We visited as a family and were really looking forward to the experience, but left disappointed largely because the wayfinding is so poor. The printed map is surprisingly difficult to use, directional signage is inadequate, and it is often unnecessarily hard to work out where you are and how to get to the next attraction or program. And it wasn't just us. I lost count of how many visitors we saw standing staring at maps, apparently trying to figure out where to go next. This was especially frustrating because someone in our party has limited mobility following recent surgery. Walking several hundred yards in the wrong direction isn't just an inconvenience in that situation. In 2026, a major attraction covering an area this large should have proper smartphone navigation. You should be able to select "Governor's Palace," a particular program, restaurant, restroom, or bus stop and get GPS walking directions from your current location, along with distance, accessibility information, and estimated walking time. Better physical directional signs are badly needed as well. There is so much history here and clearly an enormous amount of work goes into preserving and interpreting it. The problem is finding it. Colonial Williamsburg could be a wonderful visitor experience. Unfortunately, today we spent far too much time trying to figure out where we were and where we were supposed to go. This is a very fixable problem, and I hope they fix it. read more

From a historical perspective, this is a great place to visit. (5 Star) But I would have to say I was very disappointed in the visitor center. There's a lot of space and opportunity and they really miss the mark providing no real historical experience within the center itself. The outside structure of the visitor center is a C at Best. Gutters are falling off flashing is missing tiles need to be replaced. It's very tired compared to the visitor center down at Jamestown. I was disappointed that the plantation exhibit along the walkway looks to be overgrown and not often for public viewing. It used to be such a great experience to show what life was like for slaves and owners. The colonial town and structures were great to visit, but even several of those structures need more care... gardens and landscaping are mostly weeds and unkept. I would've thought the location would be in pristine condition. Getting ready to celebrate 250 years. (2 Star) read more

This was our first visit to Colonial Williamsburg. I had a great time. We stayed at a hotel on-site, which made the trip very convenient. They offer a nice bus that stops all day throughout the historical site. The employees are very knowledgeable and were fun to talk to. It takes a few days to see everything. We toured many of the main buildings and also were treated to some fun surprises. The historic restaurants are great, as well as the ones on Merchant's Square. read more

Our favorite place to go here in Virginia! So many beautiful and historic buildings. The food and shops are fantastic. We always bring family here when they visit us. Favorite things in CW: - Walking down the historic downtown - Seeing the gardens and horses - Visiting the shops - Lunch at the cheese shop - The liberty lounge - Soups and snacks at the bakery (raleigh tavern i believe at the end of the street) read more

Colonial Williamsburg - Tours Near Me - Williamsburg, Virginia

Because we were on a very tight schedule we were only able to walk around this beautiful historic living museum for a few hours. For that reason, we opted not to buy the tickets that are needed to go into many of the historic buildings, but still had a great time interacting with the people in character who always did a great job of answering questions and making suggestions on how to best spent what little time we had here. There's plenty of stuff to do for free and we had a great time just taking in the rich history and outdoor entertainment, while also ogling the exterior of so many beautiful buildings. There's also plenty of shopping and dining venues. Wear comfortable shoes because seeing the village involves lots of walking. read more

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Even after living here for years, Colonial Williamsburg never loses its charm. As a longtime local, one of my favorite ways to spend the day is simply strolling through the historic streets, taking in the beauty and rich history that surrounds you. No matter the season, this town has a peaceful, almost magical atmosphere. From blooming gardens in the spring to candlelit evenings during the holidays, there's always something special to see and experience. Whether you're visiting for the first time or have been coming for years, Colonial Williamsburg has a way of making you slow down, breathe a little deeper, and appreciate the past in a very real and beautiful way. read more

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There are very few things in this area that you can do for free. One of them happens to be walking along the Duke of Gloucester street. It is a great place to walk your dog if you live in the area. Your dog can revel in the glory of all the attention dogs get, have the fun of barking at the carriages as they go by, snuffling at the sheep and other animals, and did I mention the love? I am here about once a week with my mom's dog. Most of the actors recognize Gilbert and come to say hello. The guy that plays Washington rides by and chuckles as this tiny dog barking at his enormous horse. Sometimes he dismounts to chastise Gilbert and remind him that his horse could crush him. It's a hoot. Then there are the obligatory statues. It's fun to capture your pooch in silly pics(see attached). If it's a beautiful day and you are in the area, it's free and it's a lovely walk. read more

Colonial Williamsburg - Jefferson walks Gilbert - Tours Near Me - Williamsburg, Virginia

My first time visiting, maybe I went once as a kid but can't remember! Anyway, the vibe in the colonial area itself is pretty immersive, even without any re-enactments going on. We did manage to catch an acted scene or two out on the main street. We went during Halloween as well and caught a ghost tour that night. I didn't find it all that spooky, but it was fun and interesting nonetheless. It's an important time to learn about our nation's history, and they did a great job at telling an unbiased account of it. read more

This was an awesome stop. We were pushed back into the time of the continental congress. As the crowd moved thru the town there were little historical skits for us to watch an in some cases take part in. We moved down the street to where the congress was meeting to have speakers from the window balcony. We followed along down to what I would call a little amphitheater where the folks took center stage to compete the show. You can do as much as you want or as little. We had the opportunity to check out some of the establishments to see how things were done. There was also places to eat plus lodging at the different inns. We even got a haunted walk in later in the evening. Was a great stop. read more

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Colonial Williamsburg is a treasure! Take yourself back to the 18th century, where the revolution is ready to take place. Listen to knowledgeable interpreters who will transport you back to that time period and show you how life would have been. You will encounter the armory, where there is a blacksmith and a gunsmith sharing. Check out the apothecary that will give you insight on pharmaceuticals and medical practices performed in that time period. Visit the Capitol building and hear about what happened in the highest court in the land and how the laws were passed (similar to Parliament). Step into the opulence of the Governor's Palace where the Governor (appointed by the King of England) lived. Step into the Coopersmith and the Wheelright trades shops to learn about how "containers" and wagons (and coaches) were made. Learn about enslaved and indigenous peoples and how they helped shape what America is today. So grateful to have this experience that gives me a glimpse into American history in the 1700s. Be sure to visit Jamestown before this and the American Revolution Museum after. They are all pretty amazing in their own right! read more

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Didn't go to Welcome Center. Highlights of two day trip: Enjoyable for all ages, nationalities, and disabled friendly. Great bus service: never a long wait, drivers were pleasant and helpful. Retro diner had awesome crab cake sandwich, prices, and service!!!!! Events were authentic and we all learned a lot! George Washington, Capital, and Governor's mansion were superb. George Washington was our favorite. He knew his history, answered hard questions as GW would have! Authentic shops were interesting and shopping was a pleasure! Kids aged 8, 10, n 13 all enjoyed muskets demonstrating immensely. Each person working in various places, (shops, venues, greeters on street) were helpful, pleasant and authentic! My personal favorites were the blacksmiths and sewing read more

One of my favorite things to do in Virginia is tour Colonial Williamsburg. Time stands still as you walk down Duke of Gloucester and see the many actors portraying life in the 1700's. This is a family fun adventure that you will return to. I have been coming to CW for over 30 years. Cannot recommend enough. read more

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Colonial Williamsburg, VA is a must visit. It's a beautiful old Historic town with buildings from the 1700's. Many of the buildings were turned into museums. You can spend all day walking around the historic town and checking out the re-enactment's, museums and shops. You can also tour the town in a horse carriage. I definitely recommend starting your tour as soon as the Visitor Center opens. There's all day parking for $10 and also a charge for pass to go inside the mansions and museums for $49 they offer military discounts. Free admission to walk around historic town. The town has colonial style restaurants. Colonial Williamsburg is a must visit when in the area! Happy Yelping :) read more

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This was a really good experience coming here. It was pretty hot that day so I didn't stay very long but I need to take another trip here for sure. There is so much to see and discover. I found Colonial Williamsburg to be very interesting. You probably need a whole day here. read more

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This was a great experience learning all about the history of the area! We enjoyed touring some of the top locations and seeing inside of the buildings. Walking along the streets we were able to experience a show were muskets and a cannon were fired, and even enjoyed a well done play that explained the Gun Powder Incident. Staff was dressed to replicate the times and were full of knowledge when asked questions. This location had so many things to see and was spread out among many acres of beautiful land! You do have to pay per person to get in to experiment the buildings but can walk around the area without a ticket. However you do also have to pay about $10 to park for the day. There is so much to see and do. If walking and history are your interests, then you should definitely check this place out! It definitely has inspired me to educate myself more on local history. read more

Overall a good experience, only had a few hours to visit. Bus ride down to the historic spot, walk around the town, see how everything was done by period correct costume characters. Would recommend a full day here read more

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So when I was a kid my parents brought my brother and I here. I recall having a lot of fun, but what I remember most is Chowning's Tavern. Why? I thought I had eaten the most delicious, and exotic dish in my life: Welsh Rabbit! As a young child, I told this story for years. Now, as an adult, I know what I had was really "Welsh Rarebit", which of course contains no rabbit at all, just cheese! If you are intrigued, head over to Chowning's Tavern, and maybe Josiah still works there. He was great, and laughed at my story. There are lot of other things to explore and do here, so plan a good part of the day. So what I didn't remember as a child visiting, is that is costs money to get in. Maybe it wasn't always that way, but it is now. From: https://www.colonialwilliamsburg.com/tickets We offer several admission options and special offers to customize your visit. Tickets can be purchased online and redeemed at the Colonial Williamsburg Regional Visitor Center, which is where your Williamsburg experience begins read more

We have come to colonial Williamsburg a few times over the years and it is always great! The property is large so we are always seeing new things we haven't seen before. I love how they preserve the buildings but also let you know which ones had to be restored. The staff is so knowledgeable when asked questions and truly do a great job remaining in character for the colonial times. It is a great time to go during the Thanksgiving holiday! read more

Planned my return visibased on my experience 20+years ago. What a disappointment. Many places were closed, only a few had tours and some artisan works. Instead of artisan wares many shops sold kichy stuff. SerI woukd rather oay mk eynfor authentic stuff than mass produced junk. No reenactment, there were some some speeches, which were very good. It really just felt dull and ghosttown vibes. Seriously CW go back to how you were. This was just like walking down a street in an old town, nothing exciting read more

A beautifully restored/curated colonial village that's an actual working village, just like it would have been back at the beginning of this great country. The attention to detail is great and the common areas are beautiful and family-friendly spaces. Plenty of walking areas, shopping, dining, etc going on here too. Definitely would like to return, maybe in the fall. read more

The Native American encampment is amazing. The people there are not interpreting from the past, they are telling their story. It is so rich and genuine. I was so thankful to be able to see Rachel for 2 years in a row. She is a treasure. read more

This is at least our third visit to Colonial Williamsburg and, in our opinion, it is one of the premiere historical sites on the east coast. It's a "must see" for visitors. Williamsburg was the capital of Virginia from 1699 to 1780, and the city housed persons who lived and worked there by choice or were enslaved. The Historical Area includes 89 original 18th-century buildings, as well as hundreds more reconstructed based on historical records and archaeological research. (Not all are open to the public). One can wander the outside streets without a ticket, but to participate in the tours & programs, snd to see demonstrations of historical trades, you'll need a ticket. Tickets were $49.99 each (April. 2024) but we were able to get them for $42.50 each with a AAA discount. There are discounts for military, but not for senior citizens. On this particular visit, there were four of us -- two adult visitors from Asia and my husband/me who live in central Virginia. We particularly enjoyed watching the fife and drum corp that performed/marched in the late afternoon, and demonstrations and conversations with various artisans of colonial trades and crafts. Suggestions for improvements: 1. Offer an overview film in the auditorium to set the historical context of Williamsburg. 2. Offer more discounts - for instance, for senior citizens and/or locals. Many years ago, we lived in Hawaii, and many local attractions such as the Polynesian Cultural Center offered discounts to those with a Hawaii drivers license. This encouraged us to take guests from out of town to these attractions. Also, offer a discount if patrons won't be there for a full day. 3. Some of the programming was far too long. For instance, one program was conducted in court where at least three cases were heard. One or maybe two would've been sufficient. It took time away from our ability to see other attractions. 4. More benches are needed, especially to allow rest between sites on hot days. read more

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I loved our trip here! I didn't quite understand how Colonial Williamsburg worked, because I thought it was a theme park with designated entrances. It's not -- you don't have to buy a ticket, you can just walk around the area. The reason for the ticket is to go into the historic buildings and take the tours. Quite a few hotels offer admission with your hotel reservation as well. We stayed walking distance from the Colonial Williamsburg town, and took a nice stroll "back in time." We went mid-May, which I think was the perfect time. The weather was amazing and it wasn't very crowded. Our hotel gave us a map and programming for the week, so we had some activities mapped out. We took the archeology tour and the horticulture tour, which were both pretty good. Then we went into areas like the palace, Capitol, court house, black smith, and Raleigh tavern. Our tour guide at the Raleigh tavern was amazing, so I think I liked that the best. It definitely gets you thinking about how wild people were back then. read more

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What a great experience! I walked the entire property! So many interesting places to visit. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable. Definitely worth seeing. read more

My family and I decided to visit because we both have a genuine love for history. We were excited to explore and learn, and we paid $60 for the two of us after using my military discount. Unfortunately, the experience didn't live up to our expectations. We were only able to see two or three buildings, as everything else was closed -- which was very disappointing. The site closes at 5 PM, yet the shuttles run until 9 PM, which felt confusing and unnecessary given how little was available to see later in the day. We were also hoping to see historical reenactments, but instead, we only saw a few staff in costume with no interactive or immersive experiences happening. It felt more like a photo opportunity than a true step back in time. I really wanted to enjoy it, but overall, it didn't feel worth the cost or time. I hope improvements can be made, as the potential is certainly there. read more

Going backwards in time? My crowd trying to leave and return to the 21st century I'd have titled "Misery"'! When we arrived, I asked the lady at the information desk for just that, information. She looked at my annual ticket barcodes and said I had to wait in another line to get them printed. Ummm, I'm pretty sure when we bought them that it didn't say that, and having a printer at home, would have done so there. Oh, well, on to the long line to get that done. Guess what? She was wrong! We got lanyards with cards inside, and I rented a manual wheelchair for myself. I don't care how easy those people in the hospital make pushing one of those look, but don't bother. Someone has to push you the entire time, OR you'd have to try to wheel yourself. Don't even think about this unless you've got the biceps of the Rock! Either rent the scooter from the private company or just do your best to walk. Wondering WHY I got the wheelchair? I've needed my hip replaced for several years and if you don't have that problem, you cannot understand. However, there is a LOT to see. You really have gone back in time, and there were some actors talking and explaining things. Did I mention it was around 35 degrees and windy and I'm NOT a fan of the cold weather at all? We got the tickets Cyber Monday when the year pass was the price of a daily, so we plan to return...........when my hip is fixed and when it's not cold enough to freeze you! Be forewarned, there is a good bit, and I mean by that, a ton of walking. My autistic grandson seemed out of sorts and his father had to carry him most of the time, he would occasionally let his oldest sister hold his hand and walk with him. I think she had the best time of all, because they are studying this time in school. Not one complaint, and that's saying a lot with her. Wear comfy shoes. Take your time. Rent a scooter if walking is difficult. Oh, they will tell you of a shuttle bus, but I only ever saw it pick up and/or drop off at ONE location. Don't rely on catching it, because I watched it drive away as I headed towards it. See you again...in warm weather without my bad hip! read more

We "popped-in" as we were in the area and saw as much as we could like the fountain and the theatre. The ladies at the front desk were very nice and understanding. It's a historical site to visit for a whole day; so plan your visit. The souvenir shops are lovely, as well! I'm definitely going back the next time in town. read more

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Today, I went to Colonial Williamsburg. I grew up in Williamsburg. I've been to Colonial Williamsburg more times than I can count. CW (as the locals call it) is a beautiful place to walk around with friends, visit the Cheese Shop or Aroma's, and maybe play Pokemon GO. Outside of the annual elementary school field trip, I had never visited inside the buildings or spoke to the artisans and merchants. Those are traditionally paid experiences, and a local like myself already knew everything there was to know about the colonial past.  Today, I went to Colonial Williamsburg with a paid ticket in hand, a new experience. My mother (who's lived in Williamsburg decades longer than myself) and I walked through the city in a fresh way. First, we stopped at the cabinetmakers'. I've stood outside that building dozens of times. It is a quaint cottage over a small stream, perfect for photos and rest. I've never been inside before. Three artisans were caving wooden legs, carving designs, and planing lumber. When we entered, one stopped to greet us and explain their work. He spoke about colonial woodworking, CW's records of this shop, and the nature of being a cabinetmaker. There was also a record of a harpsichord being sold at the shop in the colonial era, so the modern artisans also learned to craft and repair the instrument. It was beyond impressive. Next, we went to a lumberyard where two other artisans were working. One explained the work of constructing colonial buildings. Each new building was constructed in the lumberyard, disassembled, and then transported (mostly by oxen) to its final destination to be rebuilt. The artisan also showed us the original foundation of a colonial building right under our feet. She explained how CW could study and infer information from a building's foundation. A thicker foundation housed a two or three-story building. Wear in a specific area might show where a door was. Sometimes items were even found under the foundation, like a barrel beneath the Bray School. We then walked over to the colonial farm, marked by a large windmill held up above the ground by posts. The farmer was my favorite tradesman. He explained how the farming habits of the colonists differed before and during the Revolutionary War. He had us separate cotton seeds by hand as he told us about everything from tobacco to linens. In the colonial era, when times were good, people could afford to buy clothing made from flax, soft, durable, and often dyed. When tobacco wasn't selling well, like during the war, farmers had to grow cotton to make their clothes. We also learned more about the role of enslaved people in the colonial capital.  We met two individuals, historians maybe, outside the Bray School. The Bray School was a school for free and enslaved black children in colonial Williamsburg. CW has been working with William and Mary to discover more about the school and its students, but in its time it taught a couple hundred kids, mostly enslaved. The school was free, and one of its primary purposes was to teach the children to read the Bible. It also taught the children "their place," making sure to teach all the scriptures permitting slavery. We got to see the copies of primary sources, but the school was still being reconstructed, so we couldn't go inside.  We stopped at Merchants Square for lunch. (I recommend the prosciutto, provolone & roasted tomato sandwich at the Cheese Shop and a hot chocolate from Kilwins.) Our last stop at CW was the courthouse. A mock trial was being held and I was appointed the bailiff and had a speaking role! A court of 11 volunteer jurors heard three real colonial cases (more volunteers from the crowd). The court clerk spoke between the cases, explaining the colonial law and how it applied. It was super interesting to hear actual cases brought up by men and women hundreds of years ago.  Overall, I really enjoyed the experience. As someone who has grown up a few miles from the historic sight, I can honestly say this trip was a wholly unique experience. I recommend Colonial Williamsburg not just to tourists but to locals as well. Colonial Williamsburg has dozens of different historic trades, shows, and demonstrations, and we only got to see a few. I will definitely be going back to see more. read more

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Colonial Williamsburg was a neat experience to visit once but overall it is such a tourist trap- there are to many overpriced retail shops and it feels like the focus is selling Knick knacks verses history. Many of the buildings are not original or are but have so many things added it takes away from the history. I wish this could be operated by NPS instead to keep it truly history instead it feels like a historical theme park The city hall building also had an incredibly rude tour guide who yelled at guests and told them because there was so many in the group (15) he was wearing a face mask inside in 2024 and it was non negotiable- he just had a horrible attitude that showed he did not want to be at work read more

Been going to Williamsburg for years and this trip was different. I was most disappointed when we went to tour the new school exhibit and the interpreter accepted a $20 cash tip from someone touring the building. Kinda cheapened the entire experience. read more

My wife and I just finished a two night visit, and had a lovely time. The buildings and grounds are beautiful (and well maintained), there are plenty of very interesting activities (including talks by very talented and entertaining actors playing historical figures, and demonstration workshops featuring period silversmiths, weavers, carpenters, blacksmiths, etc.), a period marching band, delicious food, etc. Very fairly priced, and I believe entrance is free (you need a ticket or pass to enter some buildings, and see many of the performances). read more

Wow, cute little place FULL of history! Very cute local shops. If you stop by here get yourself some delicious peanut brittle! read more

Colonial Williamsburg is a living-history museum and private foundation that opened in Williamsburg, Virginia in 1934. It was founded by Reverend Dr. W.A.R. Goodwin with the assistance of wealthy philanthropist John D. Rockefeller Jr. and his wife Abby Aldrich Rockefeller. The city of Williamsburg originally functioned as the capital of the Colony and Commonwealth of Virginia from 1699 to 1780. Many years later, in 1903, Reverend Goodwin became rector of the Bruton Parish Church. He oversaw the restoration of the church and soon public interest began to grow around the concept of restoring the surrounding historic district. Goodwin contacted and obtained the support of the Rockefellers to finance the project which began in 1928. 720 buildings that postdated 1790 were demolished in order to return the historic area to the way it looked during the 18th century. Today, visitors can explore the 173 acres which contain about 500 historical buildings. Historical reenactors explain and demonstrate aspects of daily life from the period. My family and I visited Colonial Williamsburg this past summer while we were on a road trip. This was a bucket list visit for me; I've wanted to visit since I was a young boy. My wife and I were worried that our two toddler sons wouldn't appreciate the more museum elements of Colonial Williamsburg at their current age. Fortunately, visitors can explore the grounds and a handful of the buildings without having to purchase any tickets. This was fine for us because our sons seemed to enjoy the outdoor events much more anyway. They especially enjoyed seeing all of the costumed reenactors. Some of the highlights of our trip included seeing farm animals, horse-drawn carriages, musket and cannon demonstrations, and a fife and drum corps marching around the grounds. We had a fun visit to Colonial Williamsburg and hope to visit again when our boys are older and can appreciate the full experience. read more

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The visitor center is nice. It has snacks, a movie, parking for $10, free shuttle to the village and park tickets. I planned to just use the kiosk and skip the ticket line. However the kiosk only sells multi day and after hours tickets. Why is that? I could have been on my way in 3 minutes. You can do online but you need to show your ticket at every building. I will suggest if you have to wait in line have the ticket seller mark up a map. It is very hard to find the open building without it . The tours inside the houses was very thorough and professional. The bus service was on schedule. read more

This is a must visit for anyone who is a US citizen or an aspiring one. There is a lot to see and lots of history to take in. There are a multitude of ticket options ranging from a day or more and ones that include Jamestown and Yorktown. You'll park at the visitor center and get your tickets and either walk about a half mile to the grounds or take the free shuttle. We decided to walk in, and I am glad we did because the first property we toured was the Randolph mansion, and it was beautiful! We also got to visit the governor's palace, capitol, weaver, wig maker, apothecary and Raleigh Tavern. All of the field guides in the living history museum were very friendly and highly informative. One cool fact I learned was that the term "pig pen" came from George Washington, wanting property owners to contain their pigs in a "pen" You will walk quite a bit here, so be ready! There is also a large museum to tour with lots of period art and home furnishings to browse. If you are looking to do a carriage ride you must get those early or possibly online because they sell out quickly. read more

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Everyone should go and have fun ‼History enjoyment for the whole family. Never a dull moment. Amazing ‼

I remember my middle school class were going to Colonial Williamsburg for a school field trip but I got sick so I never went. Not giving my age but years later, I'm on a field trip with my family! HAHAHA!!! It's a nice walk around the "plantation" and a lot of history. They bring the experience to life by having the staff dressed up like the olden days. Think of 1800's early 1900's, you know how we used to dress back then LOL!! Fun fact, some of the houses are actually houses people bought and are living in. So some houses are not open to the public because there's real family living in them. I wonder if these see ghosts at night? Hmmm.... The only thing I missed out on was the carriage ride. They said they usually sell out in minutes. You have to get there as soon as the window booth open and buy your time in advance. So another field trip is in the future.... read more

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Even though I piss, bitch and moan a lot about the CW of now versus what I remember as a kid, I was pleasantly surprised during two brief visits this Spring and Summer about certain things. Let me start by saying that for the better part of the last twenty years I've had one of the annual passes. Technically for another week and a half I still am a passholder even though I'm going to let it expire because I simply don't see in the near future any chance to make substantive visits. From a planning standpoint the one big change is that they revamped their website map to actually reflect everything that is currently offered including the Colonial Houses you can stay in. Previously it was basically a state secret as to where these were located and the only way, I knew of, to get a solid map was to reserve a house and then you got a map at check in that showed where all are located. Yet, there are still tickets for certain events/daily programming that can only be reserved by calling the 800#. Why make it so hard and not fully transparent? www.colonialwilliamsburg.org/map/ Two things that I'm still not thrilled about are the trade schedules and the food. Many, many reviews in different forms talk about the frustration of how things even at the height of the summer tourist season, are not open daily but on irregular schedules that seem to have no rhyme or reason. Of course, all of the merch shops are open seven days a week, but the things that could provide a deeper sense of interpretation and understanding are not. Original buildings like the Geddy House, Robert Carter House and the Everard House need to be open more than seasonally, the 12th of never, once in a blue moon or occasionally. Don't even get me started with what they did by closing the Benjamin Powell House.... The food to me is also another sore spot. Small menus at the taverns, very high prices and quality that is sketchy at best. If I'm not mistaken, CW farmed out their F&B a few years ago and honestly, I don't think it's doing them any favors from a guest perspective. Prices need to come down or variety and/or quality needs to come way, way up to justify what they're charging. I usually spend a fair amount of time talking with the interpreters both on and off the record and two in particular remember me from prior visits, so we speak more informally. For the first time in a long time, some are speaking optimistically about the future with Cliff Fleet as CEO as someone "who gets it" versus as one called it, "The Dark Years" of Mitchell Reiss who, in their perception, only managed via a spreadsheet. There is still value to be had by visiting here. A lot of people who staff the trade shops are fantastic in every way and are very generous with their time. In particular the Foundry, the Brickyard and the Carpenter. The museums are also first rate and some of the night programs (not the ghost tour - more like To Hang a Pirate) are entertaining enough to justify the additional expense. Take part in as many of the reenactments & tours as they offer but also leave time for simpler things like hanging out in the gardens behind The Palace or walking the streets at night when it's completely quiet. Going forward I would like to see better quality F&B choices in the taverns, more "behind the scenes" tours and a greater focus on creating better value for guests versus simply monetizing things the way how it was done during the Reiss era. If you've never been, do your research on their website and on their calendar page. In the summer there is a lot to see and do here let alone if you combine it with visits to Busch Gardens, Yorktown and Jamestowne. In the off season the crowds go away, and things become more approachable (hotels prices plummet), but the amount of programming here also decreases. Either way, there is nothing like CW and it should be on everyone's bucket list to try at least once. If done right, chances are, you'll be back. read more

A great place to visit and learn about Colonial America in the place it actually happened. Colonial Williamsburg is a wonderful place to visit that really brings American history to life. It offers visitors a unique glimpse into 18th-century America with real shops, people dressed in period costumes and buildings maintained as they would be in Colonial times. Located in Williamsburg, Virginia, this living history museum spans over 300 acres and includes restored buildings, interactive exhibits, and costumed interpreters. The site is an immersive experience where you can walk along cobblestone streets, interact with blacksmiths, shopkeepers, and even participate in colonial-era activities.. I would recommend starting your experience at the Colonial Williamsburg Visitor Center. It is modern, spacious, and well-organized. There is plenty of parking in parking garages along the outer streets or at the visitors center parking lot. The center offers detailed maps, helpful staff, and a gift shop filled with unique colonial-themed items. There's a café for a quick bite before heading out. Shuttle buses run from the visitor center, regularly, to the main historical area, making it easy to access without worrying about parking downtown. Once inside the city I would definitely suggest seeing the Governor's Palace, the Capitol, and whatever trade shops are open. The shops are where skilled artisans demonstrate their crafts. I got a chance to see the bookbinder, weaver, armourer, blacksmith, and cobbler. OVerall, it was a wonderful visit with more to see than can be accomplished in one visit. I think a visit to Colonial Williamsburg is ideal for families, history buffs, or anyone seeking an educational yet entertaining experience. It's truly a gem worth exploring when in Virginia. read more

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