Looking for some fun, free activities in Williamsburg?
There are so many ways to enjoy beautiful Williamsburg without breaking the bank. I spent a lot of time exploring Williamsburg, Virginia as a broke college student, and you can get really creative and find some fun, free things to do in Williamsburg VA!
There are so many quiet spots to relax, explore, and take in the beautiful surroundings. You can soak in the charm of the downtown area or discover hidden gems in the surrounding parks. And best of all, these activities are completely free!
I’ve put together a list of the top 10 free things to do in Williamsburg VA, to help you plan your next visit.
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10 Free Things to Do In Williamsburg, VA
From strolling through the historic streets to enjoying scenic views, here are 10 of the best free things to do in Williamsburg, VA, that you won’t want to miss.
1. Walk around Colonial Williamsburg
There are a lot of free activities in Colonial Williamsburg! This 301-acre living history museum brings the 18th century to life, with over 40 historic landmarks and tours to check out. You can see people in period costumes, and the cannon-firing demonstrations are free to watch!
Many of the historic buildings are free to visit, which is great. Just remember that if you do want to have the whole Colonial Williamsburg experience, you’ll need to buy a Colonial Williamsburg admission ticket that includes access to these buildings in advance. You can also book a tour.
But you should be able to see most of the attractions and visit the shops for free!
2. Explore the College of William & Mary
The College of William & Mary is the second-oldest university in the U.S., and it’s a fun way to learn about the college and the surrounding area.
You can walk along the charming cobblestone streets of the campus for free, step inside some of the buildings, or take a walk down to Lake Matoaka. There are plenty of places to unwind and enjoy the historic campus!
I recommend visiting the college’s website to book a tour (most of these are free) to learn about the rich history of the campus!
3. Have a picnic near the Crim Dell Bridge
The Crim Dell Bridge is one of the most scenic spots in Williamsburg for a cute picnic. Just a short stroll from the College of William & Mary, the bridge is nestled in a quiet location, surrounded by a beautiful forest and a tranquil pond.
There’s a nice bench hidden in the trees, making it the perfect spot for couples who are looking for some fun activities in Williamsburg. It’s the perfect spot for a romantic picnic, and according to local legend, couples who cross the bridge together are destined to stay together forever!
4. Visit the Williamsburg Botanical Garden
Strolling through the Williamsburg Botanical Garden is one of the best things to do in Williamsburg. It’s free to visit and open every day from 7 AM until sunset.
The garden thrives thanks to the generosity of local residents and businesses, and it’s a lovely, free spot to explore in Williamsburg.
There are plenty of walking trails and benches where you can relax and take in the scenery. The garden is especially beautiful in the springtime when the vibrant flowers attract butterflies. It’s definitely a spot worth checking out!
5. Explore Waller Mill Park
This beautiful park has something for everyone, with a large reservoir, hiking trails, fishing spots, and even cornhole games. You can rent a canoe for just $14, and parking is only $2, but you’re more than welcome to just walk around and explore the trails for free.
Waller Mill Park is a great place to snap some peaceful water and nature photos. There’s also a fantastic dog park, plus picnic areas with grills where you can relax and enjoy a meal.
6. Ride along the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry
Hop on the free Jamestown-Scotland Ferry for a scenic boat ride across the James River. The 20-minute trip offers stunning views of the river and the surrounding landscape.
It’s a perfect way to relax along the river, and you can snap some beautiful shots of the water and sky, or just unwind and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
7. Spend a Day at Chippokes Plantation State Park
Chippokes Plantation State Park is one of the oldest working farms in the U.S. and is home to a beautifully restored mansion, a farm museum, and a picnic shelter to enjoy.
You’ll find plenty of campgrounds, cabins, and equestrian trails along the James River that you can walk through for free, plus marine fossils scattered across the beach!
The park is open daily from dawn to dusk, and there are lots of biking and hiking trails to explore, for free.
8. Explore Merchant’s Square
Just outside Colonial Williamsburg, Merchants Square is a fantastic place to stroll around. It’s packed with great spots for dining, shopping, and people-watching.
Don’t miss The Cheese Shop for some delicious sandwiches and free cheese samples. You can also sample delicious sweet and salty Virginia peanuts for free at The Peanut Shop (Virginia is known for its peanuts!), or stop by Kilwins for a few free fudge samples.
In the fall, you can check out the Saturday farmer’s market, and in winter, they set up an ice skating rink. There’s always something fun to do at Merchants Square!
9. Visit Freedom Park
Freedom Park is a beautiful spot with a fascinating history that stretches back to the 1650s. It’s home to an 18th-century cemetery and was also the site of one of the country’s earliest Free Black Settlements, which existed from 1803 to 1850.
The park features some historically accurate recreated cabins, furnished with items from the time period, giving you a glimpse into the past.
In addition to its rich history, the park offers plenty of free mountain bike trails and forested paths that wind through the historic sites, making it a great place to explore both nature and history, without spending a dime!
10. Stop by the Williamsburg Antique Mall
The Williamsburg Antique Mall is full of fun, unique finds and has rows and rows of old trinkets. Even if you’re not into antiques, you’ll be impressed by the quality of the items. It’s fun to look around, even if you’re not going to buy anything!
You can spend hours browsing through their collection, and the prices are reasonable. The space is well-organized and brightly lit, and the staff is friendly and helpful. It’s fun to look at the different antiques for sale if you’re looking for new ways to spend an afternoon!
Getting Around
Williamsburg is a very walkable city, with many of its attractions just a short stroll from each other.
If you’re looking to explore beyond the city or visit nearby areas, renting a bike or car is a good idea. You can also take a taxi and ride-share service if you need to get a little bit outside of town.
➡️ Visiting from out of town? I recommend this car rental company to help you see more of Virginia!
Where to Stay in Williamsburg
Here are some of my top hotel picks in Williamsburg:
📍 Budget Option: Holiday Inn Express Williamsburg Busch Gardens Area
Prices range from $90 to $120 per night, depending on the season. This hotel is one of my favorites in Williamsburg – it’s just 2 miles from Colonial Williamsburg, tucked away in a peaceful, tree-lined area.
The property is clean and well-kept, and offers free parking and breakfast. Plus, kids stay free!
📍 Mid-Range Option: Williamsburg Woodlands Hotel & Suites
For a convenient stay, consider Williamsburg Woodlands Hotel & Suites, which offers spacious rooms. It’s an official Colonial Williamsburg Hotel and is only a 5-minute walk from the colonial city!
Parking is extremely convenient (and free). It’s family-friendly, and kids can play at the splash park!
📍 Luxury Option: Williamsburg Inn
For a splurge, the Williamsburg Inn is hard to beat. This stunning, Forbes Four-Star-rated resort has hosted some notable guests, including Queen Elizabeth II, Winston Churchill, and Henry Ford.
It’s an elegant, luxurious stay, and if you choose to stay here, you’ll be treated to an unforgettable experience.
FAQs
Some frequently asked questions to help you plan your visit to Williamsburg, Virginia:
Is anything free at Colonial Williamsburg?
Yes! There are lots of free things to enjoy at Colonial Williamsburg, like strolling through the historic streets, visiting the public gardens, and attending some of the outdoor events and demonstrations. You can also explore many shops and historic buildings for free.
How to spend a day in Williamsburg, Virginia?
To make the most of your day, start with a visit to Colonial Williamsburg, where you can explore the 18th-century streets, enjoy a guided tour, and watch live demonstrations. Afterward, head over to Merchants Square for some shopping and dining, or enjoy the natural beauty at Freedom Park or the Williamsburg Botanical Garden.
Where can I park for free in Williamsburg?
There are several free parking options in Williamsburg, especially in the downtown area. For Colonial Williamsburg, you can park for free at the Visitor Center, which offers easy access to the historic district via shuttle or a short walk.
Does it cost to walk through Colonial Williamsburg?
Walking through Colonial Williamsburg itself is free, but access to most of the historic buildings and museums requires an admission ticket. You can still enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, public gardens, and some outdoor demonstrations without spending a dime.
So, Can I Spend the Day in Williamsburg Without Spending Money?
The answer is yes! Williamsburg offers plenty of free activities that let you experience the charm and history of the area without spending a lot.
Feel free to explore the historic area, enjoy the outdoors, or simply relax in one of the beautiful parks. You can do a lot in Williamsburg to free, and still get a feel for the historic town!
Happy travels!
About the Author
Sasha is the founder of Little Happy Travels, a blog with tips and inspiration for combining work + travel and living the digital nomad lifestyle. As a business coach and remote worker, she’s spent the last few years traveling the world while helping others do the same. Follow for guides, tips, and personal stories on working from anywhere!
