Looking for some unique things to do in Williamsburg?
There are so many different things you can do in Williamsburg! From historical reenactments to brewery tours, I’ll share my top 25 list of unique things to do in Williamsburg, VA, from someone who’s lived in Williamsburg.
I think there’s a common misconception that all there is to Williamsburg is Colonial Williamsburg. While that’s certainly a large attraction in the area, there are plenty of other exciting things you can do in this historic town!
Here are my top 25 things you can do on your next visit to Williamsburg, VA.
Short on time?
No time to read the full list? Here are a few of my favorite unique things to do in Williamsburg:
- Take a Colonial Williamsburg ghost tour
- Explore the historic area
- Visit the original Jamestown Settlement
- Stroll through the Governor’s Palace Gardens
- Take a full-day tour of Yorktown
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25 Unique Things to Do in Williamsburg, VA
From scenic gardens to ghost tours, here are the must-visit places and activities to do in Williamsburg:
1. Try a Colonial Williamsburg Ghost Tour
One of the best things to do in Williamsburg is a Colonial Williamsburg ghost tour. You get to learn all about the history of Colonial Williamsburg in a really fun way, and there are even some tours that teach you how to take photos of the ghosts!
Most ghost tours in Colonial Williamsburg last anywhere from 60 to 90 minutes. This is my all-time favorite colonial Williamsburg ghost tour. The tour is also super affordable, interactive, and you really feel taken care of by your tour guide. They’re very accommodating to all ages and accessibility levels too, and the tour doesn’t feel forced or staged (unlike some other Williamsburg ghost tours that lean heavily into the acting side).
And if you’re someone who’s looking for a good balance of history and a bit of creepy stories, you’re going to have a great time on the tour I recommended earlier in this post. A lot of people like this tour because it balances spookiness with historical information – it makes for a fascinating tour!
➡️The Best Ghost Tour in Colonial Williamsburg
2. Explore Colonial Williamsburg’s Historic Area
When most people think of Williamsburg, Virginia, they think of Colonial Williamsburg. And rightly so – there is a lot to see and do here! This 301-acre living history museum showcases life in the 18th century with over 40+ landmarks and tours.
It’s really cool to see people dressed in costume and the cannon-firing demonstrations are in a league of their own – not something you see every day!
Keep in mind that some buildings require tickets for entry. You can also join a Colonial Williamsburg tour that includes access to these buildings. If you’re short on time but still want a guided experience, you can book this one-hour tour.
And, the beautifully restored buildings, costumed interpreters, and cobblestone streets make for stunning photos, especially during golden hour!
➡️ Take this Colonial Williamsburg Tour with access to 18th-century buildings!
3. Enjoy a Glass of Wine at the Williamsburg Winery
The Williamsburg Winery is a gorgeous weekend getaway. You can try their wines, dine at their restaurant (which has some incredible shrimp and grits), and stay overnight for a picturesque, quiet escape. The staff is very friendly and they can tell you all about the wines they offer, made from local area grapes.
The Williamsburg Winery is less than 10 minutes from Colonial Williamsburg and an exit away from Busch Gardens. It’s definitely worth a visit if you’re looking for a fun and relaxing couple activity in Williamsburg!
4. Visit the Original Jamestown Settlement at Historic Jamestowne
A short drive from Williamsburg, Historic Jamestowne is a fascinating active archaeological site. You can learn about the birthplace of the American colony, with its ruins, historical artifacts, and the scenic James River in the background.
It’s the original site of the 1607 Jamestown settlement, including the ruins of a 17th-century church tower.
There’s so much to see and do here, from the museum to the outdoor exhibits on the indigenous people who lived in the region before the colonists.
I recommend walking the boardwalk trail to the old fort and paying the entrance fee there. It’s around $15, but well worth it!
There’s also this tour that gives you access to the Jamestown Settlement and the American Revolution Museum for 7 days! This way, you can explore at your own pace! Parking and all entrance fees are included.
➡️ Access the Jamestown Settlement American Revolution Museum for up to 7 days with this ticket!
5. Snap Some Cute Photos near the Crim Dell Bridge
The Crim Dell Bridge is an old wooden bridge that’s inside the campus of the College of William & Mary. It’s a gorgeous bridge, and rumor has it that walking across it with your loved one means that you will be together forever. How sweet is that?
You can go for a cute stroll across the bridge, but DO NOT go near the water!! When I was at William & Mary, they warned us not to swim in the water, due to the semi-dangerous algae population that lives there (they’re still researching it, from what I’ve heard…)
But other than that, the area around the Crim Dell Bridge is a beautiful place for a quiet walk or picnic, and you can snap some nice photos while you take in the scenery.
6. Ride Rollercoasters at Busch Gardens Williamsburg
Busch Gardens is a popular theme park in Williamsburg. The park is organized into different countries and cultures, and they even have a Disney-themed part of the park, which is really cute.
The theme park is beautiful, well-maintained, and boasts some of the smoothest roller coasters on the East Coast (excluding the InvadR, which gets pretty intense).
Keep in mind that your experience in the park depends on the season and the size of the crowds. Like most theme parks, I recommend visiting during the off-season to make the most of your visit. Either way, Busch Gardens is a must-see for people who love roller coasters and theme parks!
7. Explore The Governor’s Palace Gardens
The Governor’s Palace Gardens are an absolute must-see when you visit Colonial Williamsburg. You can even go into the basement from the outside to see how they stored food in the 18th century!
The building is in great condition, and the grounds are well-kept. The colorful flowers, classical statues, and serene atmosphere make this one of Williamsburg’s most picturesque locations.
You’ll need to purchase tickets in advance at the visitors center in order to attend this building and the tour. I recommend buying a ticket that includes a visit to the governor’s palace and other spots in Colonial Williamsburg!
8. Get a Blast From the Past at the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum
This museum is a hidden gem for both art lovers and photographers and houses an impressive collection of American folk art. There are so many things to see and take photos of, from the musical instruments and furniture restoration displays, you can easily spend an entire afternoon here!
It’s fascinating to see the craftsmanship and art from the early American settlers – the quilts and china they have on display are really beautiful!
9. Shop and Dine at Merchants Square
Located just outside Colonial Williamsburg, Merchants Square is a great place to walk around. There are so many spots for dining, shopping, and people-watching!
You can visit the Peanut Shop, where they offer free samples of sweet and salty Virginia Peanuts (Virginia is famous for its peanuts), or try a caramel apple and some homemade fudge at Kilwins.
Merchants Square was one of my favorite spots to explore when I was studying at William and Mary. In the fall months, you can explore the Saturday farmer’s market, and in the winter you can go ice skating at the rink they set up. There’s so much to do in Merchant’s Square!
10. Catch a Show at the Kimball Theatre
The Kimball Theatre is a beautiful theater in Merchant’s Square. The inside is very historic and beautifully refurbished, and there is lots of parking nearby.
I recommend grabbing dinner at one of the many restaurants in Merchant’s Square and walking to the Kimball Theatre to see a show! Be sure to visit their website for upcoming performances.
11. See an Old Powhatan Indian Village at the Jamestown Settlement
The Jamestown Settlement is different from Historic Jamestowne – the Jamestown Settlement features a recreation of a historic 1610s fort, Powhatan Indian village, and three ships that came ashore in 1607.
The museum is completely hands-on, open-air, and interactive. You can sit inside the ships, walk through huts and cabins, and read all about the time period through digital displays!
12. Walk Along The College of William & Mary Campus
The College of William & Mary is the second-oldest university in the U.S. and offers some nice scenery for a walk. You can stroll along the cobblestoned street campus or kayak at Lake Matoaka.
There are plenty of spots to relax and take in the scenery. I recommend visiting the college’s website to book a tour or learn more about the campus’ history online!
13. Walk Along the Trails at the Williamsburg Botanical Garden
Visiting the botanical garden is one of the best free things to do in Williamsburg, and it’s open every day of the year from 7 AM to sunset.
Keep in mind that some programs require registration due to limited seating, so be sure to visit their website for more information before you visit on what’s available and what isn’t.
The Williamsburg Botanical Garden is entirely supported by the generosity of local area residents and businesses, and it’s a beautiful area to explore! There are lots of trails to walk and benches to sit down and rest.
The garden is especially beautiful in the spring time, when you can snap photos of butterflies resting on beautiful vibrant flowers. Definitely worth a visit!
14. Visit the Yorktown Battlefield and National Park
One of the most historically significant sites in the U.S., the Yorktown Battlefield is where the American Revolution ended. The park’s lush green fields, historic markers, and monuments offer excellent opportunities for some incredible photos.
The visitor center has a lot of good things to see, including a movie about the final battle and a piece of the original tent George Washington used during the battle.
If you want a guided experience, you can join this full-day Yorktown tour, which includes the battlefield, the American Revolution Museum, and Jamestown Settlement!
➡️ Take this fun and educational full-day tour of Yorktown!
15. Snap a Photo at the Yorktown Victory Monument
Part of the Yorktown Battlefield, this iconic monument celebrates the American victory at the Battle of Yorktown.
The Victory Monument provides dramatic shots, especially when framed against the setting sun or surrounded by the lush greenery of the surrounding park. Be on the lookout for some cannon demonstrations! The cost is $15 per adult, but kids 15 and under visit free!
16. Buy a Unique Souvenir at Wallace’s Trading Post
Wallace’s Trading Post has some colorful gifts (and a lot of fun photo opportunities, from the colorful van outside to the monkey in front of the building!).
They have everything from sword replicas, hats, dresses, keychains, and so much more. They also have a chocolate shop inside where you can buy homemade fudge and other Virginia treats.
There are so many unique gifts here, you’ll definitely find something fun to take home!
17. Have a 1766-Style Dinner at the King’s Arms Tavern
For a taste of Williamsburg’s colonial past, visit the King’s Arms Tavern. This recreated 18th-century tavern offers a cozy, rustic atmosphere and a delicious period-inspired Southern menu. The waiters are all dressed in period costumes too!
If you’re looking to experience traditional colonial fare, the King’s Arms Tavern is the best traditional tavern in the area. Their peanut soup is really unique and delicious, and their Chicken Pottage Pie is the ultimate comfort food. Highly recommend!
18. Rent a Canoe at Waller Mill Park
Waller Mill Park is a scenic park featuring a large reservoir, hiking trails, fishing, and cornhole games. You can rent a canoe for $14 and parking costs $2. It’s a beautiful park to capture serene water scenes or peaceful nature shots. There’s a great dog park and some nice picnic and grill areas!
19. Learn How to Make Whiskey at Copper Fox Distillery
Copper Fox Distillery is very friendly and accommodating, and serves some delicious eats in addition to quality whiskeys!
There are so many fun games you can play while you learn about different whiskeys and how they’re made, and you can take a guided tour for a behind-the-scenes look at the distillery. It makes for a fun date-night activity!
20. Take a Day Trip to the James River Plantations
There is so much history at the James River Plantations. These plantations and farms were established in 1619, and they have withstood the test of time, surviving the Revolutionary War, the War of 1812, and the Civil War.
Today, you can tour the county’s manor homes, which are now all privately owned and preserved. I recommend choosing between Historic Westover, the Sherwood Forest Plantation, and the Shirley Plantation, which was Virginia’s first plantation, for your visit. These historic estates will teach you more about American history!
21. See Some Weird Exhibits at Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Williamsburg
Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Williamsburg is a fun, family-friendly stop. The museum is full of weird and bizarre exhibits, and stories of pop culture, people, and places that are hard to believe but true!
The laser maze is especially fun, and they have a snack machine full of bugs, if that’s your thing…. it makes for a fun activity!
22. Walk Along The Freedom Park Interpretive Trail
Freedom Park is a beautiful park with a rich historical background dating back to the 1650s. The park is the site of an 18th-century cemetery and was also home to one of the nation’s earliest Free Black Settlements in America from 1803 to 1850.
There are some historically accurate recreated cabins in the park, which are furnished with items according to the time period.
There are also plenty of mountain bike trails and forested paths that take you through the historic sites of this beautiful park! It makes for a nice, relaxing afternoon.
23. Have a Relaxing Ride on the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry
You can take a scenic boat ride across the James River on the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry. The Ferry takes you on a beautiful 20-minute boat ride with sweeping views of the river and surrounding landscapes. It’s a FREE, peaceful, picturesque experience for anyone looking to capture beautiful water and sky shots, or just relax along the river.
24. Explore One of America’s Oldest Operating Farms at Chippokes Plantation State Park
Chippokes is one of America’s oldest operating farms, and has a beautifully restored mansion, farm museum, and picnic shelter you can explore.
There are plenty of campground sites, cabins, and equestrian trails along the James River, and you’ll see marine fossils all across the beach! The park grounds are open from dawn to dusk daily, and there are lots of biking and hiking trails.
25. Have a Quiet Picnic at Quarterpath Park
Quarterpath Park is a 23-acre park with picnic shelters, all-weather tennis courts, and a peaceful pond and wooded area.
It’s a quieter spot, generally less crowded than other parks in the area, and is the perfect park for you if you want to get away from it all!
Where To Stay In Williamsburg
Williamsburg has a lot of different accommodation options. Here are just a few of my personal favorites:
📍Budget Option: If you’re traveling on a budget, The Williamsburg Lodge offers great value while still providing comfort and proximity to Colonial Williamsburg. It’s perfect for those who want to be close to all the action without breaking the bank.
📍Mid-Range Option: For a more comfortable stay, the Griffin Hotel combines Southern charm with modern amenities. Located in the heart of Williamsburg, it offers easy access to the historic district while providing a relaxing, upscale experience.
📍Luxury Option: If you’re seeking a luxury experience, the Kingsmill Resort is a fantastic choice. Nestled along the James River, the resort offers beautiful rooms, a golf course, spa services, and stunning views, all with a dose of Southern hospitality.
Getting Around Williamsburg
Williamsburg is a very walkable town, especially in the historic district, but there are also convenient public transportation options.
The Williamsburg Area Transport (WAT) offers bus services around town, and the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry is a great way to explore the nearby areas by water. Many visitors also enjoy biking or renting a car for easier access to attractions outside the city center.
➡️ Visiting from out of town? I recommend this car rental company to help you see more of Virginia!
FAQs
Questions about visiting Williamsburg, Virginia?
How to spend a day in Williamsburg, Virginia?
To make the most of one day in Williamsburg, I recommend starting with a morning stroll through Colonial Williamsburg, where you can explore the historic buildings and enjoy the interactive exhibits.
Afterward, head to Merchants Square for lunch and a bit of shopping, then visit the Governor’s Palace Gardens or take a quick drive to Historic Jamestowne. Finish the day with a fun ghost tour that helps you take photos of real ghosts!
What is Williamsburg, Virginia famous for?
Williamsburg is famous for its rich colonial history and is home to Colonial Williamsburg, the largest living history museum in the United States.
Visitors come to Williamsburg to step back in time and experience life as it was in the 18th century, exploring restored homes, trade shops, and iconic landmarks like the Governor’s Palace and Bruton Parish Church.
Can I walk in Colonial Williamsburg for free?
Yes, you can walk through Colonial Williamsburg for free! Just keep in mind that some areas like the historic buildings and museums require a ticket, so it’s better to book an admission ticket in advance if you want to see all of the buildings in Colonial Williamsburg.
You’re always welcome to wander through the streets, visit the shops, and enjoy the outdoor spaces without any cost. It’s a great way to explore the area on a budget.
How many days are needed for Colonial Williamsburg?
To fully explore Colonial Williamsburg, I recommend spending at least two days. This will give you time to visit the main attractions, attend interactive programs, and really immerse yourself in the history of the area.
If you’re also interested in other historical sites nearby like the Jamestown Settlement or Yorktown, consider extending your stay.
Final Thoughts
There are so many unique things to do in Williamsburg VA, outside of Colonial Williamsburg. I hope this guide helps you come up with your next weekend activity, whether you’re snapping photos of historical landmarks or riding roller coasters at Busch Gardens.
Happy travels!
Williamsburg Recommended Tours
I’ve done most of these tours myself, and have heard great things about them from friends! Highly recommend.
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!
