Williamsburg, Virginia

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Williamsburg, Virginia

Historic pride and natural beauty - Williamsburg seems to have the best of both as millions of travelers visit the city every year for its timeless attractions and verdant landscapes. Colonial buildings, museums, hotels and taverns are favorites of locals and vacationers alike, with Revolutionary reenactments and interpretations spanning the hillsides and battlefields. Take to the waters with Old World schooners, sailing with the Virginian breezes that were once navigated by legendary figures like George Washington and John Smith.

The City

Williamsburg most certainly takes after the majesty of its state in Virginia, with lush forests, sprawling fields, and rolling rivers. Even more spectacular is the history that accompanies the lands: extending as far back as four centuries, it would seem Williamsburg was always meant to be. Powhatan Indians had made the area their home long before Europeans crossed the Atlantic Ocean to land on the east coast. The arrival of the British occurred in 1607 when English explorers claimed the township of Jamestown, which would become Williamsburg. English settlements would sprout along the Virginian peninsula for the next thirty years. The city was a flagship for America’s first hospital dedicated to the treatment of mental illnesses in 1773, and General George Washington chose to amass the Continental Army here in 1781. Aside from being a strategic location for the Revolutionary War, Williamsburg also rose as a region for higher learning. The College of William & Mary, founded in 1693, educated individuals of historic prominence: Thomas Jefferson, John Tyler, and James Monroe are just several political leaders who strolled through its halls. Williamsburg is now known around the world for its stellar preservation of the aforementioned history and landmarks. Imperative pieces of American and Colonial history reside in the city, and people are welcomed year-round for its exploration.

Do & See Dining Cafés Bars & Nightlife Shopping Tourist Information

Do & See

Williamsburg's attractions are dressed in the historic appeal of revolutionary and colonial times. Many of the original buildings of the era are still intact and restored for people to explore. Adventure parks are also popular, along with nature parks and trails.

Historic Jamestowne

Historic Jamestowne is the site of America’s first permanent English settlement. The area is now preserved and protected, allowing for the continuation of Jamestowne’s historic relevance and magnetism. The site now features various facilities, interpretive experiences and programs for visitors, promoting the history of America's birthplace. People from all around the world come to …

Wren Building

Among the wealth of Williamsburg's attractions is the Wren Building, located on campus of William & Mary College. Built between 1695 and 1700, the Wren Building is both the oldest college building in the United States and the oldest of Williamsburg's restored public buildings. The building is open for visitors to explore a part …

Yorktown Sailing Charters: Schooner Alliance

Experience the beauty of the Virginian coast with Yorktown Sailing Charters. Sailing tours launch from Yorktown port to take passengers along the York River as the crew immerses you in the fabulous history of the area. Sail past the battlefield where America earned its independence and gaze over the waters for dolphins and osprey. …

Busch Gardens

Visit Europe without ever having to leave the United States at Busch Gardens! The park combines the charm and excitement of England, France, Italy, Germany, Scotland, and Ireland in one adventure land. In addition to over 100 thrilling rides and attractions, there are live shows, shopping centers, and dining …

Water Country USA

Water Country USA is perfect for Williamsburg's warm spring and summer days. The whole family can splash about at slides and rides like the Jet Scream, or discover the world's largest special effects raft ride down the Aquazoid. Because the hours change according to season, be sure to check the website for …

Colonial Williamsburg

A trip to Williamsburg is not complete without a visit to Colonial Williamsburg. Exit the 21st century and step into the 1700s, where you can explore period homes, town buildings, and craft stores that have been restored for guests. Reenactments take place daily, from court sessions to the battlefield. Families are invited to watch …

Golden Horseshoe Golf Club

The Golden Horsehoe Golf Club has been one of Williamsburg's finest gems since 1963. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. himself, the course has a par of 71 and a slope rating of 144. The course spans 6,817 yards and offers terrain for every type of golfer. Be sure to pack your clubs and …

Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum

The Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum carries folk art and 19th century household items. Exhibits showcase paintings, furniture, toys, kitchenware, needlework, carvings, and more. There is something for every eye and expression at the …

DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum

The DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum presents a collection of 18th and 19th century arts and antiques from Great Britain and America. There are also lectures and musical performances held. After touring, stop by the store for a selection of books, music, jewelry, and other products, followed by a sandwich or drink at the …

Waller Mill Park

Waller Mill Park contains a pretty lake, hiking trails, and activities for every age. Fishing, boating, canoeing, kayaking, and other aquatic activities are allowed on the lake. There are also shelters that can accommodate 25 to 150 people, picnic tables, fields, and …

York River State Park

Freshwater and saltwater coalesce at the York River State Park, creating the perfect habitat for aquatic and plant life. Not only can adventurers hike, mountain bike, ride horses, and swim, but programs and activities are available to explore the colonial and Native American history and artifacts of the area. Pack a picnic lunch and …

Yorktown Wine Festival

For only about $25, wine lovers and those seeking to have a great time in general can stop by the Yorktown Wine Festival. Some of Virginia's finest wines will be on display at this premier wine festival. Make sure to take home a bottle or two to remember your …

Bruton Parish Episcopal Church

The Bruton Parish Episcopal Church was constructed in 1674 and still holds church services to this day. The church's patronage has included myriads of patriots from the Revolution and other Virginians. Over 120 recitals and concerts are held annually. Visitors are invited to attend noonday prayers every Monday through Saturday and the Holy Eucharist …

Governor's Palace

Standing as a beacon for Revolutionary sentiments and British dissipation, the Governor's Palace has served as the residence to both royal and elected governors of Virginia. There are sword and gun displays, as well as a grand ballroom. Exit the palace to discover a world of manicured …

Go Ape Treetop Adventure Course

Go Ape is a treetop thrill course, with zip lines, obstacles, and other adventure rides. There are also junior treetop adventures. Be prepared to have fun above and between the trees, hills, and scenery of …

Dining

While seafood is indeed a Virginian specialty, visitors can still easily find a variety of different restaurants and cuisines while in Williamsburg. Much of the produce and food is regionally-sourced, so guests may often rest assured that each meal is homegrown. Many restaurants also offer vegetarian dishes, so there's something for every palate in Williamsburg.

Williamsburg Winery

After venturing on a wine tour and tasting at Williamsburg Winery, sit down for dinner at the Gabriel Archer Tavern. For lunch, enjoy sandwiches, salads, and platters while taking in the vineyard view. Dinner courses feature the likes of steak, salmon, roasted chicken, and vegetarian specials. There are food and wine pairings Thursday …

Café Provençal

Nestled in the Williamsburg Winery is the regal Café Provençal. Chef Tim Westby-Gibson offers guests French-inspired dishes and complementary wines that have been referred to as "some of the best wines in the world". Locally caught fish, locally grown produce, and even some local wines all make Provençal an outstanding …

A Chef's Kitchen

The culmination of over thirty years of food and beverage experience, A Chef's Kitchen is the creation of renowned chef John Gonzales and his wife Wanda. Lovers of fine wine and food will be swept away while being taught how to craft the ultimate full course meals. Learn and dine from one of America's …

Le Yaca

Le Yaca has much to be proud of: in addition to being a favorite of historic Williamsburg, the restaurant also ranks in the Top 100 for the Diner's Choice Awards and was given Hampton Road's Number 1 Platinum Plate Award. Restaurateurs and laymen alike rave about the French cuisine, which composes a seasonal menu. …

Captain George's Seafood

If you love seafood and good prices, head over to Captain George's Seafood. Choose from over 100 items on the menu or craft your meal from one of the many buffets. The king crab legs are incredibly popular, as well as the oysters. It's recommended that you arrive early, as the waiting times may …

Francesco's Ristorante Italiano

First generation Sicilian chef Francesco brings his superb culinary experience to Williamsburg with his eponymous Francesco's Ristorante Italiano. Traditional and new Italian cuisine are his specialties, gracing the palates of patrons with artisan entrees. The produce used is the finest of the region, and the ingredients boast only the highest …

Second St.

Second St. Restaurant is a romantically intimate venue featuring new American cuisine. Choose to dine indoors or on the beautiful outdoor patio. Their menu features a wide selection of appetizers, main courses, and fabulous desserts. All of the entrées come highly recommended, whether it is grilled salmon or perfectly seared steak. Second St. also …

Amiraj Modern Indian Kitchen

Serving a fusion of Indian and Pakistani cuisine, Amiraj is a Virginian flagship for premium dining. The menu is impressively varied, with both softer flavors and booming spices. The spices are house-toasted and mixed, and the sauces are Amiraj …

Food For Thought

“Eat, Drink and Think” at Food For Thought Restaurant. Clever décor includes biographical photographs of historical figures, from scientists to political leaders, and each table contains discussion cards designed to spark thoughtful conversation. Choose from a menu featuring a wide variety of cuisines, whether it be fork tender pot roast, Jamaican jerk chicken, pad …

Opus 9 Steakhouse

Opus 9 Steakhouse is located in the stupendous New Town community of Williamsburg. Entrees include aged Prime Steak, Au Poivre, New York Strip Steak and more. Each meal is cooked to your …

Christiana Campbell's Tavern

Once a seafood favorite of none other than George Washington, Christiana Campbell's Tavern specializes in 18th century seafood courses. Crab cakes, sherried shrimp, scallops, lobster: each meal hearkens Old Virginia with a twist of modern panache. The décor and ambiance are styled after 18th century …

King’s Arms Tavern

First opened in 1772, the King's Arms Tavern is a true homage to Virginia's rich culinary history. The cuisine encompasses Southern favorites for dinner and dessert. You'll feel as though you've stepped into the past as you savor the delicious …

Oceans & Ale

Located in historic Williamsburg, Oceans & Ale is a steakhouse and classic seafood restaurant. There are nightly specials and live entertainment. The atmosphere is warm and …

Huzzah's Eatery

Exquisite family dining is found at Huzzah's Eatery. Traditional American favorites like pizza, barbecue, buffalo wings, chili, and quesadillas make for a fun night. Adults can enjoy a drink from the beer and specialty …

Cafés

Williamsburg has a pleasantly diverse array of cafés. There are traditional coffee houses with upbeat charm, Southern comfort diners, pizzerias, cheese shops, delicious bakeries, and even chocolate cafés.

Aromas Specialty Coffees & Café

Aromas World is a bubbly café and bakery, offering specialty coffees, teas, and desserts, as well as wine and beer. The venue is styled with Old World decor, making it a innovative escape for breakfast, lunch or dinner. There's live music on Fridays and …

Five Forks Café

Winner of the Virginia Living Magazine's "Best Diner – Eastern Virginia" award for 2012, Five Forks Café is Williamsburg's beloved classic diner. They are open for breakfast, lunch and now also dinner. Five Forks serves traditional American favorites, such as breakfast sandwiches, eggs, hash browns, French toast, burgers, salads, homemade chili, and much …

Giuseppe's Italian Restaurant

Giuseppe's Italian Restaurant is a gourmet café serving authentic Italian cuisine. Choose from lunch or dinner menus with dishes like individual pizzas, pastas, soups, and salads. Also be sure to look into the wine menu. Freshly baked rolls accompany all lunch entrėes, along with either homemade soup or fresh …

Blue Talon Bistro

Blue Talon Bistro is the brainchild of chef David Everett, who places particular emphasis on Southern comfort cuisine and an ever-relaxed atmosphere. Come for breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner or dessert. Take time to peruse the bar menu and wine …

Plaza Azteca

Plaza Azteca Mexican Restaurant has been serving authentic Mexican cuisine for two decades. Bringing the eclectic vivacity of Mexican seasoning, Plaza Azteca prepares dishes like their signature sizzling fajitas, enchiladas, burritos, quesadillas, and nachos. To top it all off, enjoy your meal with a hearty …

The Cheese Shop

The Cheese Shop selects handcrafted artisan cheeses from the United States and around the world. Place an order for a scrumptious sandwich to fill you up, and take in the fabulous aromas of gourmet cheese. The staff is eager to help you taste and decide which cheeses to …

Old Chickahominy House

With a history dating back to 1955, Old Chickahominy House is a Williamsburg staple for home-cooked Southern cuisine. Interestingly, the cafe is one part restaurant, one part gift shop. They sell antiques furniture, jewellery, lamps, and …

Carrot Tree Kitchens

Following in the vein of founder, owner, and carrot enthusiast Debi Helseth, the Carrot Tree Kitchen is Williamsburg’s scratch bakery. Along with the fabulous cakes and pastries, Carrot Tree also serves brunch and dinner. The cuisine is new and traditional American, with sandwiches, seafood, vegan, and vegetarian …

Bellissimo Pizza

Bellissimo is a deli-style pizza cafe, serving guests New York-inspired pizzas. The ingredients are always fresh, and the dough and sauces are made daily. Make sure to stop by for a great lunch or …

Bars & Nightlife

Indulge in fine wines, tavern drafts, neighborhood cocktails, and more in Williamsburg. While not a haven for nightclubs, Williamsburg's extensive and classy bar scene will surely impress. Some venues are located around the area in surrounding towns like Newport News and Yorktown.

Fat Canary

The Fat Canary, located in Colonial Williamsburg, is renowned for its rich elegance and superb wines. Receiving the AAA Four Diamond award for seven consecutive years, the Fat Canary offers a seasonal menu of the finest New American cuisine. Peruse the red and white wine lists and fall in love with selections from around …

DoG Street Pub

DoG Street is a British-American fusion gastropub located on the historic Duke of Gloucester Street, from which it derives its name. Opened in June of 2012 by chef David Everett, the pub combines friendly neighborhood service and ambiance with craft beer and quality dishes. Indulge in microbrew and conversation, all in the great atmosphere …

Berret's Taphouse Grill

Open from April through October, the Taphouse Grill is a trendily offbeat outdoor bar and grill. The full bar includes wine and beer with microbrews on tap. Select dinner from Virginian seafood, chicken, or beef, and enjoy live music on Fridays and Saturdays. Among local favorites is the she-crab …

Cozzy's Comedy Club & Tavern

Cozzy's Comedy Club and Tavern boasts an extensive history of featuring comedic greats like Michael Winslow, Jimmy “J.J.” Walker, Darrell Hammond, Tommy Chong, and many more. The weekend shows have premier stand-up comedians. Guests can enjoy dinner along with the shows. Comedy shows start at 9p.m. on Fridays and at 8p.m. and 10:30p.m. on …

Sandbar Grill & Pub

At the Sandbar Grill & Pub, guests can find delicious food and drinks, live entertainment, and karaoke all in one venue. The full kitchen offers everything from fresh salads to buffalo wings, while the full bar is completely at your service. A stress-free environment is always the daily …

Green Leafe

Green Leafe at New Town is one of Williamsburg's leading bars and restaurants. The cuisine is traditional American, and the drink menu highlights a full bar and wine list. Also note the extensive beer selection, featuring over 150 bottled beers and 64 drafts. Spend the day shopping or dining in New Town, and step …

Yorktown Pub

The Yorktown Pub is found in beautiful and historic Yorktown Beach. Fresh seafood caught in the area graces the menu, along with Boars Head deli sandwiches and Carrot Tree desserts. For nighttime occasions, take your pick from the full bar: imported, domestic, and micro beer options are available. Be sure to check out the …

The Corner Pocket

Serving produce from the surrounding area is the Corner Pocket, located in Colonial Williamsburg. The restaurant and bar fuels patrons for more fun in the billiards room, and live music takes to the stage. There are also four dart boards, seven televisions, and a 10 foot projection …

Josiah Chowning's Tavern

Originally opened in 1766 by namesake Josiah Chowning, the Tavern offers feasts and friendship for a memorable night. A garden bar and cider stand are two highlights. Fiddlers play each night to add a merry atmosphere to the Josiah Chowning's Tavern experience. …

Center Street Grill

Center Street Grill has daily happy hour specials, wine and dines, and a full bar. There's a cold beer chest and wine cellar, so come prepared with your drink desires. It's a great way to finish a busy day in …

Shopping

Williamsburg truly has it all: specialty apparel, jewelry, shoes, antiques, candles, and even toy shops can be found here, along with larger outlet malls. Venture to the picturesque New Town community for a day of shopping and dining, or make your way to Master Craftsmen for accessories handmade from precious metals found in America.