Steeped in history, Williamsburg, Virginia, is a destination that offers an educational and immersive experience, as well as plenty of classic family fun along the way. It's a destination that blends American history with fun, hands-on experiences for all ages. With its mix of education, entertainment and natural beauty, Williamsburg makes for a memorable and rewarding destination for those looking for a kid-friendly visit.
Our guide explores the six top things to do in Williamsburg for kids, allowing you to build a tailored itinerary for your next unforgettable family vacation.
1. Step Back in Time at Colonial Williamsburg
For most of the 18th century, Williamsburg was the capital of the Virginia colony. Today, modern visitors have the opportunity to experience what life was like during that pivotal era of the country's history. Colonial Williamsburg is a living history museum that invites visitors of all ages to step into the past and immerse themselves in the sights and sounds of the 1800s. It offers plenty to see and do, to really immerse those seeking some patriotic history.
Families from near and far agree that this is one of the top kid-friendly things to do in Williamsburg, as it allows children to see history in action. In the Historic Area of Colonial Williamsburg, you will discover 88 original 18th-century structures, allowing you to witness what daily life was like more than 250 years ago. In addition to being able to walk through the houses and shops that are preserved in this section of the museum, you will encounter historic interpreters who are playing the part of townsfolk, tradespeople and high-society residents. You never know who you might meet as you stroll down these storied streets. One day, you may run into Thomas Jefferson or the Marquis de Lafayette, while another day may bring an encounter with the local blacksmith or a teacher.
It's more than just a place to see historic buildings or interact with interpreters, though. Colonial Williamsburg hosts experts on historic trades, giving visitors the ability to learn more about the skills and trades that were prevalent in the 18th century and that set the foundation for craftsmanship today. Children can participate in hands-on activities, explore the different museums on-site and watch performances at the playhouses.
If you are only in Williamsburg for the weekend, you will find that you can easily spend an entire day at Colonial Williamsburg. But if you have more time to spare, consider extending your visit and stretching it out over two days. This will allow you to appreciate the full scope of this one-of-a-kind living history museum.
2. Experience History For Yourself at the Jamestown Settlement
Williamsburg is perfectly situated near America's Historic Triangle, which includes Jamestown Settlement. Families who are traveling to this area and want to enjoy a heavy dose of history will love this living history museum, which is considered to be one of the top things to do in Williamsburg for kids.
Similar to Colonial Williamsburg, the Jamestown Settlement invites guests to transport themselves to the early 17th century, when the first settlement in North America was established by the British. During your time on the settlement, you will find immersive exhibits and recreated structures that allow you to learn more about the English, the Powahatan tribe and the West Central Africans, all of whom lived in the colony in the 17th century.
During a day at the Jamestown Settlement, you will have the opportunity to walk through the recreated Paspahegh Town, giving you the ability to learn more about the Powahatan tribe's way of life. The settlement is also home to three recreated ships, letting you step on board the vessels that brought the original colonists to the shores of North America. James Fort is another recreated historical sight and is a favorite among visitors. There, you will see what daily life was like for the colonists who were struggling to survive and establish a community in the New World.
The perfect complement to your visit to Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown Settlement is an excellent day trip for families who are traveling to Williamsburg with their kids.
3. Learn Lessons From the Past at the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown
Completing America's Historic Triangle, the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown offers an in-depth look at the Revolutionary War and the fight for American independence. Blending traditional gallery exhibits with living museum experiences, this is a family-friendly attraction that allows children to learn about United States history in a new and exciting way.
On display within the indoor exhibits, you will find perfectly preserved artifacts from the Revolutionary War as well as architectural findings that showcase what daily life was like in Colonial America during the 18th century. One of the most popular attractions at the museum is "The Siege of Yorktown," which is an immersive film shown in a 180-degree theater. It allows guests to experience the pivotal battle in which the British were finally defeated and includes special lighting, smoke effects and vibrations. While it's a powerful experience, families should keep in mind the sensory needs of their children and their ability to handle this intense film event.
In the outdoor areas of the museum, you will be able to walk into a re-enacted Army encampment, giving you a better idea of what George Washington and his troops may have experienced around the time of the Battle of Yorktown. Children can visit the nearby Revolution-era farm, where they can participate in the household chores of the era and discover what life might have been like for kids their own age at the time of the American Revolution.
If you have a family full of history buffs, this is an awesome half-day or full-day excursion to add to your itinerary.
4. Cool Off at Water Country USA
For families that are taking a summer vacation to Williamsburg, Water Country USA is a must-do attraction. Virginia summers can be hot and steamy and Water Country USA provides families with the perfect place to cool off. Not only is it one of the top kid-friendly things to do in Williamsburg, but it's also the largest outdoor water park in the state.
The park opens each year in May and stays open until the end of September. There are attractions and activities for families of all ages and stages, including:
- High Tide Harbor: Water Country USA's newest attraction is sure to become a fan favorite. This multi-level water playground was created with families in mind, giving them a space to play and explore together.
- Hubba Hubba Highway: This free-floating river adventure is an awesome spot to relax on a warm, sunny day in Virginia.
- Surfer's Bay Wave Pool: Famously known as the largest wave pool in Virginia, this is a spot where you can ride the waves and soak up the sunshine.
- Riptide Race: Just one of nearly a dozen water slide attractions in the park, Riptide Race is a dueling pipeline that allows you to compete against your counterpart for the fastest run.
- Big Daddy Falls: This water slide was created with the whole family in mind, allowing you to enjoy a whitewater rafting experience in the heart of Williamsburg.
From small play areas for the littlest visitors to epic slides for thrill seekers, Water Country USA has something for everyone.
5. Feel the Thrills at Busch Gardens Williamsburg
When you plan a family vacation to Williamsburg, you will find that you can design a comprehensive itinerary that blends historic and educational experiences with classic family fun. Busch Gardens Williamsburg is the largest and most popular theme park in the area and is definitely high on the list of the best things to do in Williamsburg for kids.
This theme park is open year-round, though it does have limited hours during the winter months. While other theme parks primarily focus on rollercoasters, thrilling rides and fun family attractions, Busch Gardens takes it to the next level by adding a zoo-like experience to the mix. You can easily go from riding the larger-than-life Escape from Pompeii water coaster to the tranquility of a Highland Cow tour, making this one of the most memorable places in Virginia.
It's possible to conquer Busch Gardens Williamsburg in a day, but you may want to savor your time here and spend at least two days enjoying the park.
6. Take a Break at Yorktown Beach
By the end of an exhilarating yet exhausting visit to Williamsburg, you may be ready for a low-key day with the kids. Yorktown Beach is a public beach in Historic Yorktown where you can sit in the sand and splash in the waves. Boating, fishing and swimming are allowed at the beach, but you will find that most families are there with their umbrellas, chairs, shovels and pails, ready for a day of simple family fun.
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