Colonial Capitol Colonial Williamsburg
Step back into the 18th century at Colonial Williamsburg, America's largest living history museum, where history truly comes alive.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more interaction
Colonial Capitol Colonial Williamsburg
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more interaction

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back into the 18th century at Colonial Williamsburg, America's largest living history museum, where history truly comes alive.
"A wonderful place to visit that really brings American history to life."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on cobblestone streets! :athletic_shoe:
Book Tours in Advance
Popular tours like 'Cry Witch' sell out quickly. Book online to secure your spot. :admission_tickets:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Capitol Building
East end of Duke of Gloucester Street
Step into the heart of colonial governance. Explore the chambers where revolutionary ideas took shape and history was made.
Governor's Palace
East end of Duke of Gloucester Street
Experience the grandeur of colonial leadership. Tour the opulent rooms and formal gardens of the former royal governor's residence.

Historic Trades
Various locations throughout the historic area
Witness skilled artisans at work. See blacksmiths, wigmakers, printers, and more demonstrate 18th-century crafts.

Cry Witch Performance
Various locations
An interactive 18th-century witch trial experience. Engaging and educational, it brings colonial justice to life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Immerse Yourself in History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on cobblestone streets! :athletic_shoe:
Book Tours in Advance
Popular tours like 'Cry Witch' sell out quickly. Book online to secure your spot. :admission_tickets:
Engage with Interpreters
The costumed interpreters are knowledgeable and make history come alive. Ask them questions! :speech_balloon:
Utilize the Visitor Center
Start your visit here for maps, schedules, and orientation. :world_map:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on cobblestone streets! :athletic_shoe:
Book Tours in Advance
Popular tours like 'Cry Witch' sell out quickly. Book online to secure your spot. :admission_tickets:
Engage with Interpreters
The costumed interpreters are knowledgeable and make history come alive. Ask them questions! :speech_balloon:
Utilize the Visitor Center
Start your visit here for maps, schedules, and orientation. :world_map:
Consider a Multi-Day Pass
To truly experience everything, a 2-day or longer pass is recommended. :calendar:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Colonial Williamsburg for its immersive historical experience and the dedication of its costumed interpreters. The Capitol Building and Governor's Palace are highlighted as particularly fascinating. Some find the cost to be a bit high, and occasionally, tours may veer into contemporary political commentary.
"Quite fascinating to think about the history represented in this place! I know the building is not the original and was rebuilt from the ruins that were there, but it’s still very good. Our tour guide was good at his job, and walked us through the types of cases the court would’ve tried as well as how the legislators would’ve been set up to debate."
Kevin Horst
"If you ever have the chance to attend Cry Witch, it is well worth your time! The performers are spectacular and it places you in an interactive witch trial from the 1700’s. Our tickets were $19 each and we got them online!"
Chloe Fowler
"A great place to visit and learn about Colonial America government history.
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 but you can go directly to the city where there is plenty of parking in parking garages along the outer streets. You can see lots of different working places in the city like bookbinders, silversmiths, gunsmiths and the capitol building. This is at the East end of the Duke of Gloucester street. It is surrounded by a courtyard. We caught it just right and grouped up into a tour with about 20 people. The guide did a wonderful job of taking us through the building and discussing the various rooms and their histories. In each of the rooms there was seating and the guide encouraged us to sit while she told the story of the place using key people and events. It is an excellent tour. The guide was extremely knowledgeable and the tour was fascinating. I highly recommend this tour if you have an opportunity to take this tour."
Ward Dougherty
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Colonial Williamsburg is located in Williamsburg, Virginia. If flying, the closest major airport is Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport (PHF), about a 30-minute drive away. Richmond International Airport (RIC) is about an hour away. Amtrak also serves Williamsburg, with the station being a short distance from the historic area. Many visitors drive, with ample parking available in garages along the outer streets. :car: :train:
Yes, Colonial Williamsburg offers a free shuttle service that connects various points of interest within the historic area and to parking lots. Biking is also a popular way to get around, with bike rentals available. :bus: :bike:
There are several parking garages located on the perimeter of the historic area, such as the Prince of Wales, York Street, and Colonial Williamsburg Visitor Center garages. Parking is generally free for the first two hours, with fees thereafter. :parking:
Many hotels are located within walking distance of the historic area, especially those along the Duke of Gloucester Street. Check your hotel's proximity before your visit. :walking: :hotel:
Colonial Williamsburg is committed to accessibility. Many buildings and programs are accessible, and the visitor center can provide detailed information. The shuttle service is also accessible. :wheelchair:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices vary depending on the type of ticket and duration. Day passes, multi-day passes, and annual memberships are available. Special event tickets, like for 'Cry Witch,' are often sold separately. Check the official Colonial Williamsburg website for current pricing. :moneybag:
While you can purchase tickets on-site, buying them in advance online is recommended, especially for popular tours or during peak seasons, to ensure availability and potentially save time. :computer: :calendar:
General admission tickets typically grant access to the historic area, including many of the historic buildings, trade shops, and gardens. Some special tours or performances may require separate tickets. :ticket:
While many buildings and programs require a ticket, you can walk along the Duke of Gloucester Street and enjoy the atmosphere of the historic area without a ticket. However, to enter most buildings and see the interpreters in action, a ticket is necessary. :free:
Operating hours can vary by season and specific building. The historic area is generally open daily, but individual shops and buildings have their own schedules. It's best to check the official Colonial Williamsburg website for the most up-to-date hours. :clock: :information_desk:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the Capitol Building and the Governor's Palace for insights into colonial government and life. The historic trade shops, where artisans demonstrate 18th-century crafts like blacksmithing and wigmaking, are also highly recommended. The 'Cry Witch' performance is a unique interactive experience. :star:
To fully appreciate Colonial Williamsburg, plan for at least a full day. Many visitors opt for a two-day pass to explore at a more relaxed pace and attend multiple programs. :stopwatch:
You'll encounter a wide range of interpreters portraying various roles, from tradespeople and shopkeepers to soldiers and citizens of the 18th century. They are knowledgeable and eager to share their stories. :costume:
Yes, Colonial Williamsburg offers various guided tours led by knowledgeable interpreters. These tours often focus on specific aspects of colonial life, government, or architecture and are highly recommended for a deeper understanding. :tour_bus:
Colonial Williamsburg offers many activities for families, including interactive demonstrations, historical games, and opportunities to meet characters from the past. The living history aspect is engaging for all ages. :family_}}}}
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Colonial Williamsburg offers a range of dining options, from casual taverns serving traditional fare to more formal dining experiences. You can find places like Chowning's Tavern, King's Arms Tavern, and the Williamsburg Lodge Restaurant. :forkandknife:
Many taverns and restaurants offer a selection of dishes that can accommodate vegetarian or vegan diets. It's always a good idea to check menus in advance or inform your server of any dietary restrictions. :leaf:
Picnicking is generally permitted in designated outdoor areas. However, bringing outside food and drinks into indoor dining establishments may not be allowed. :sandwich:
Dining prices can vary significantly. Casual taverns might offer entrees in the $15-$25 range, while more upscale restaurants can be $30+. :dollar:
Yes, there are often grab-and-go options, bakeries, and cafes within the historic area for a quicker meal or snack. :coffee:
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed in the outdoor areas and public spaces of Colonial Williamsburg. However, some indoor exhibits or performances may have restrictions. Always look for signage or ask interpreters if you're unsure. :camerawithflash:
The Capitol Building, Governor's Palace, and the charming cobblestone streets with historic buildings provide excellent photo opportunities. The gardens are also beautiful, especially in bloom. :frame_}}}}
Interpreters are usually happy to pose for photos, especially if you engage with them respectfully. However, always ask permission before taking close-up shots or photos during a performance. :posing_face:
Yes, drone usage is typically prohibited within the historic area to preserve the atmosphere and for safety reasons. :noentrysign:
The 'golden hours' – early morning and late afternoon – offer the best natural light for photography, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. :sunrise: :sunset:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Plan your visit around the children's interests. Look for programs specifically designed for younger visitors, such as the 'Colonial Kids' activities. Wear comfortable shoes, as there's a lot of ground to cover, and pack snacks and drinks to keep energy levels up. The shuttle service is also a convenient way to navigate the site with little ones.
💰 Budget Travelers
Pack your own snacks and water bottles to save on food costs within the historic area. Many of the outdoor spaces and street scenes can be enjoyed without purchasing admission to every building. Prioritize which buildings and tours are most important to you to maximize your experience within your budget.
🏛️ History Buffs
Take advantage of the guided tours and special programs that delve into specific historical topics, from revolutionary politics to social customs. Engage with the interpreters, who are often experts in their fields, and don't hesitate to ask detailed questions. Consider attending lectures or workshops if available during your visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Capitol Building: A Seat of Power
The tours within the Capitol are particularly insightful, with knowledgeable guides in period costume bringing the space to life. They detail the types of cases tried and the setup for legislative debates, offering a vivid glimpse into the workings of colonial government. The building's architecture itself is a testament to the period, reflecting the importance placed on civic institutions. It's a must-visit for anyone interested in American history and the foundations of its government.
Living History: The Role of Interpreters
Interacting with these interpreters is a highlight for many visitors. They provide firsthand accounts of daily life, societal norms, and the political climate of the time. Whether you're asking a wigmaker about his tools or a soldier about camp life, their knowledge and passion create a memorable connection to the past. This interactive element transforms a visit from passive observation to active participation in history.
Exploring the Historic Trades
Seeing these trades firsthand offers a tangible understanding of the skills and labor that were essential to colonial life. You can observe the techniques, learn about the materials used, and appreciate the craftsmanship involved. It's a fascinating way to connect with the practical aspects of history, moving beyond dates and events to understand the daily realities of the people who lived then.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit