15 Fun Things To Do In Williamsburg VA With Kids (Best Colonial Williamsburg Attractions)
Are you planning a trip to Williamsburg, Virginia? Looking for fun things to do in Williamsburg, VA with kids?
Awesome! My family just went and had a blast. It is a great place for a family vacation because there is really something for everyone. The Williamsburg attractions are great for kids and adults who love history, outdoor fun, or theme parks.
In this post, we are going to take a look at all the attractions in Williamsburg, VA, and help you know what to do in Williamsburg! We will also give you a few suggestions of things to do near Williamsburg, Va.
It is important to note that if you are traveling to Williamsburg these attractions are going to be the ones you want to include in your Williamsburg itinerary.
Let’s explore some of the best things to do in Williamsburg VA!
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1. Jamestown Settlement
The Jamestown Settlement is where you want to go if you are looking for things to do in Williamsburg with kids. Jamestown is a living history museum of Virginia culture in the 17th century.
Admission
Adults: $18
Children: $9
Hours
9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Military
If you are or have been affiliated with the Military this could be a good choice for one of the free things to do in Williamsburg Virginia. You can get up to 3 additional people in with Military identification.
More Ticket Options
You can also get free admission if you are a resident. Another good deal is if you plan to visit both the Jamestown Settlement and the American Revolutionary Museum you can buy a combo ticket that is good for 7 days.
If you plan to visit all of the historical triangle sites: Jamestown Settlement, Jamestowne Historic Site, American Revolutionary Museum, and Yorktown Battlefield you can purchase a triangle ticket or even get a tour with a personal guide to all 4 sites.
Jamestown Settlement Hot Tip
Before we get started there is one important thing you need to know! There is a Jamestown Settlement and a Jamestowne historic area! These are different Williamsburg attractions. We will talk about the historic area later.
Jamestown Museum and Living History
The Jamestown Settlement is full of interactive experiences. The museum is pretty awesome! There are lots of videos and hands-on activities. Making this one of the best things to do in Williamsburg Virginia with kids.
Jamestown Settlement includes an outdoor area with 3 ships and a replicated settlement. You can actually climb aboard and learn from historical actors what the importance of the ships were and interesting facts about the time period of the pilgrims.
There is also a fabulous museum. I highly recommend going! I think it is one of the best places to visit in Williamsburg VA!
2. Historic Jamestowne
Historic Jamestowne is the actual settlement where Jamestown originally was. Where the real John Smith and Pocahontas story takes place. It is part of the National Park Services.
Admission
Adults (16+): $30
Child (up to 15): Free
Hours
9:00 am – 5:00 pm
National Park Pass or Military
You can receive reduced admission of $15 per person for this site if you have a national park pass or military ID.
Jamestowne Historic Site
You will want to check out the visitors center first. If you are looking for things to do in Williamsburg with kids, this is another site that they will enjoy. (probably not as much as the Jamestown Settlement) However, they will still have fun exploring.
There is a Junior Ranger program available where they can earn a badge if they complete a booklet. The site includes 1607 James Fort, a statue of John Smith, an archeology excavation site, and a museum.
3. Colonial Williamsburg
Colonial Williamsburg is probably the most famous Virginia Williamsburg attraction. Colonial Williamsburg is a blast into the past. There are lots of historical houses to visit such as the blacksmith, specialty shops, and churches. There are also historic demonstrations throughout the day.
Admission
Adults: Starting at $49
Children: Starting at $28.99
Hours
Colonial Williamsburg is one of the world’s largest living history sites. There are 301 acres full of historic houses, taverns, and interactive experiences.
Our Experience
I have been to many historical sites and I was underwhelmed. It seemed like on the day we went there were very few Williamsburg attractions open.
The open Williamsburg attractions are indicated with flags that fly outside of the house or tavern. When we went there weren’t very many and when we would approach the house, the workers said it was full and we would have to wait 20 minutes. (it was not crowded when we went)
I guess it wouldn’t be too big of a deal but the workers were not very nice or accommodating. They were all kind of grumpy. We were really excited to visit and I felt like the tours we received were mediocre. Most of the employees did not seem like they enjoyed their jobs.
I expected the blacksmith to be making something and explain what he was doing but the workers barely talked. This was a repeat behavior in many of the historical houses we visited.
I was expecting this to be one of the best things to do in Williamsburg VA, and it wasn’t! Maybe you will have a different experience. I hope you do! Colonial Williamsburg has so much potential.
Hot Tip
You can walk around Colonial Williamsburg for free. There are many shops that do not require a ticket. Mostly gift shops and eateries.
There are also some Williamsburg VA attractions that you can view that take place along the streets of the historic district. You won’t be able to use the shuttle service without a ticket but you can still walk around and explore.
Are you ready for some fun? One of the best things to do in Williamsburg with kids is Busch Gardens. It has been voted the most beautiful theme park in America! It is beautiful and so much fun!
Admission
Adults: starting at $50 – $90 (with promo)
If you purchase your ticket online you can usually find a really good deal. Ask me in the Facebook Group if I have any coupon codes or deals. I work with Busch Gardens and can let you know what the best promotions are and offer lots of tips for Busch Gardens!
European Theme Park
Busch Gardens has a European theme. European countries are represented. England, Ireland, Italy, Germany, France, and Scotland. Each country has themed rides, shows, and food options.
The Best Rides at Busch Gardens
The rides are what make Busch Gardens one of the best things to do in Williamsburg, VA. They are legit. Some of the best rides at Busch Gardens are the intense roller coasters for the thrill seeker and lots of little kid rides for younger audiences.
Busch Gardens is one of the top things to do in Williamsburg VA with kids!
Water Country USA is one of the best places to visit in Williamsburg VA on a hot day! It is a legit water park with over 30 rides including slides, a lazy river, and a wave pool.
Admission
Adults/kids: starting at $52 – $60 (with Promo)
You can purchase a single-day Water Country USA ticket or combine it with Busch Gardens. They are separate parks owned by the same company.
Water Country USA
Water Country USA is Virginia’s largest water park. Water Country has some of the best rides like a water coaster, and super fun drop slides.
Water Country is one of the best attractions in Williamsburg VA!
6. Yorktown Battlefield
If you are looking for cool things to do near Williamsburg, VA, consider Yorktown. Yorktown was the home of one of George Washingtons’ greatest victories in winning the Revolutionary War.
Admission
Adult (16+): $15
Yorktown Battlefield
Plan to take some time touring the Yorktown Battlefield. This is part of the National Park system. You can purchase an audio tour and drive to different sites and learn all about the Battle of Yorktown.
There is a museum located in the visitor center of Yorktown Battlefield. It is owned by the National Park Service. You can also do the Junior Ranger Program which will help your kids be entertained while you enjoy the historical site.
Hot Tip
Don’t get confused between Historic Yorktown Battlefield and the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown. These are different!
The American Revolution Museum at Yorktown is awesome! It is another really cool thing to do in Williamsburg for kids. We loved checking out all the exhibits indoors and outdoors.
Admission
Adults: $18
Child: $9
The combo ticket is $30 at the door. This includes both Jamestown Settlement and American Revolutionary Museum.
More Ticket Options
You can Purchase your tickets online and even get a 7- day pass to both the Jamestown Settlement and the American Revolutionary Museum.
I mentioned this early but it applies to this location as well as Jamestown Settlement. You can purchase a combo pass for all four sites: Jamestown Settlement, Jamestowne Historic Site, American Revolutionary Museum, and Yorktown Battlefield: or even get a tour with a personal guide.
Revolutionary Solider Encampment
The Revolutionary Solider Encampment is one of the fun things to do in Williamsburg, VA with kids. The outside area has an encampment where you can learn about the soldiers during the American Revolution. We loved learning how they lived.
If you walk further down there is a replica of an early American settlement to explore with historical re-enactors. We learned all about cash crops and Tabacco.
It is a very interactive experience you will love! It is one of the best things to do in Williamsburg Virginia!
8. Jamestown - Scottland Ferry
The Jamestown – Scotland Ferry is a fun free thing to do in Williamsburg VA. I know we do not have too many opportunities where we live to go on ferry rides, so this was pretty awesome!
It is located near the Jamestown Settlement and Historic Jamestowne.
Ferry Ride
We were excited to drive out onto the ferry. We then exited our cars and enjoyed the ride over to Scotland Island. This is where we went to Chippokes Plantation State Park and searched for shark teeth.
The cool thing about riding the ferry is that you get to do it 2 times. Once there and then back! It is a beautiful view!
If you are looking for free things to do in Williamsburg VA. This is a winner! Maybe some people wouldn’t consider this a Williamsburg VA tourist attraction but we DID!
9. Jamestown Beach
Jamestown Beach is down the street from Jamestown Settlement and right before you enter the bridge to go on the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry.
Admission
There is a $5-$10 (depends on the day) charge to play on the beach.
Jamestown Beach Activities
It is a nice beach where you can jump in the water and swim and have fun! You can also fish. Kayaks are available to rent from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
If you are looking for fun outdoor things to do in Williamsburg, this is a great option.
10. Chippokes Plantation State Park
Chippokes Plantation State Park is a fun area to explore and a unique Williamsburg attraction. You can park and then hike down into the bay area.
Admission
$7
Shark Teeth
One of the reasons we were excited to explore this area was the rumor that there were shark teeth to be found. We set to work and looked and looked. We found 1 in about 45 minutes.
Hot Tip
If you do decide to go, run by the Dollar Store or order on Amazon and grab a sifter or beach toys so that you can sift the rocks and shells from the shark teeth!
We had a lot of fun digging in the sand and enjoying the outdoors!
11. Governors Palace
The governor’s place of admission is included in the Colonial Williamsburg Colonial ticket. It was probably the most noteworthy Williamsburg attraction.
Take A Tour
It is a very popular Williamsburg VA attraction so be prepared to wait. Tours are given from open to close.
This historical tour takes you through the house of all the original governors of Virginia. This list includes Thomas Jefferson.
This is a replica built in the 1930s. It has authentic furniture, guns, and china in the house.
Once you complete the tour be sure to head behind the palace and check out the maze. It is really fun to walk through.
It should be at the top of your list of things to do in Williamsburg historic colonial area.
12. Visit William and Mary College
William and Mary is the second oldest University behind Harvard. In fact, the Sir Christopher Wren building is the oldest college building in America that is still in use today.
College Tour
You can take an official college tour or another option is a private historical tour of the campus and surrounding areas of Colonial Williamsburg.
If you have time while visiting Williamsburg, the college is a pretty historical landmark to check out.
This qualifies as one of the unique things to do in Williamsburg VA because it isn’t something a tourist would typically think of doing but could be really fun.
There are a few different ghost tours in Williamsburg. There is a lot of dark history associated with a town this old! Many of the tours are given at night for an added measure of spookiness.
The best ghost tours in Williamsburg are the Colonial Williamsburg ghost tours.
Ghost Tours of Williamsburg Virginia
- Ultimate Haunted Colonial Ghost Tour
- Williamsburg East Ghost Tour
- The Original Ghost of Williamsburg
- Williamsburg West Ghost Tour
If you are looking for things to do in Williamsburg at night this is a great option!
I love eating at new places while on vacation. It is so nice to get the local’s suggestions. There is a Williamsburg walking food tour.
Food Tour
This tour takes you to all the best eateries and restaurants in town. There will be several tastings and lunch included in the tour.
If you are a foodie and want to visit some of the best places in Williamsburg VA to eat, this is the tour for you!
There are some fun places to stay in Williamsburg Virginia.
Colonial Williamsburg has 4 recommended hotels. They are the Williamsburg Inn, The Williamsburg Lodge a Marriott signature collection, The Griffin Hotel, and the Williamsburg Woodlands.
Seriously, Williamsburg has some of the best family resorts. We did not stay in the recommended Colonial Williamsburg hotels. There are a lot of good choices.
Marriott’s Manor Club at Ford’s Colony
We stayed at the Marriott’s Manor Club at Ford’s Colony. It was amazing!
Staying at this resort was one of our kid’s favorite things to do in Williamsburg. We stayed in a 3 bedroom suite. It was huge! There are a few pools, tennis courts, bike rentals, and outdoor game areas. There is also a nice game room and movie theater.
The resort offers fun activities to do throughout your stay. There is painting, special guest speakers, yoga, and magic shows. Almost all of the Williamsburg activities at the resort are included with your stay. It was so much fun!
Great Wolf Lodge
If you have younger kids there is a Great Wolf Lodge in Williamsburg. Great Wolf takes fun to a whole new level. They also have large rooms for families and plenty of activities to keep you busy.
Great Wolf has an indoor pool, magicquest, arcade games, rope course, rock climbing, and so much more! It is one of the best things to do in Williamsburg VA with kids!
Things to Do in Williamsburg Virginia with Kids
Hopefully, this post has helped you know what to do in Williamsburg VA and you are ready to go and have some fun!
Is Williamsburg VA Worth Visiting?
Yes!!!! This area is awesome! There are so many fun things in do Williamsburg VA that you could easily spend an entire week enjoying all of the Williamsburg VA attractions.
Some of our favorite places to visit in Williamsburg VA were Busch Gardens, Jamestown Settlement, and the American Revolutionary Museum. We really thought there were so many family things to do in Williamsburg VA!
Have a blast in the past experiencing all the Virginia Williamsburg attractions!
Facebook Group
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Wow this is very helpful. I plan on taking a ride on Jamestown – Scotland Ferry! Thank you!
It was really fun!
Williamsburg looks like so much fun! I love that there are great things to do in Williamsburg, as well so much history! It sounds like the perfect place to take kids.
It is a great place for a family vacation!
Definitely no lack of things to do in Williamsburg VA! Showing this to my daughter who lives near there.
So fun to visit!
Looks like such an interesting city with so much history, and Busch Gardens looks so fun, I would definitely be keen to visit there
Busch Gardens was really fun and so beautiful!
I can see why you had a blast! Williamsburg looks like a place where you will not run out of things to do. I had not heard of the city before so it was interesting the learn about its history.
Jamestown and the story of Pocahontas is why I knew about it! I always wanted to go as a kid!
I went to Colonial Williamsburg as a kid and remember loving it. It was saddening to hear that you didn’t get to see much. Maybe they restricted how many could enter the buildings due to Covid…? Either way, I’m glad the rest of your trip was great!
I was so sad! They just didn’t have much open.
I want to visit Williamsburg so badly! All the historical sites are calling my name. Thanks for sharing this really detailed guide. I had no idea there was an amusement park in Williamsburg too!
I love history! It is so fun to visit plus an amusement park….can’t beat that!
I love this guide on the best attractions in Williamsburg, Virginia! I’m all about history and love rollercoasters so would definitely want to check out the historical sites and Busch Gardens especially.
Me too! I love they are both in the same spot!
I’d love to visit Williamsburg! Historical places are my thing!
Me too! I am such a history nerd!
Williamsburg, VA, is on our list to visit. We loved the pictures and the feeling that we were already there. Thank you for sharing.
I love history! This is an amazing place to visit!