8 Best Things to do in Williamsburg, Virginia

Planning a trip to Williamsburg and wondering what to do? You’re in the right place!

Williamsburg is best known for its fascinating colonial history, but there’s a lot more to discover here than you might expect. You can explore historic battlefields, hear spooky stories after dark, get out on the water, and escape into some beautiful parks and gardens.

Of course, with Jamestown, Yorktown, and Colonial Williamsburg all nearby, it can be tricky to work out what’s really worth your time. That’s where we come in! In this guide, we’re sharing the best things to do in Williamsburg, from boat rides to free activities, and so much more. Let’s get into it! 

Williamsburg at a Glance

Williamsburg is in southeastern Virginia, roughly halfway between Richmond and Virginia Beach. It’s also part of Virginia’s Historic Triangle with Jamestown and Yorktown, making this an amazing area for history lovers!

Important Tip: Allow a full day to explore Colonial Williamsburg—it’s bigger than you might think!

Plan time for Colonial Williamsburg: This huge living-history area is Williamsburg’s main attraction, with restored 18th-century buildings, historic trades, and plenty to explore. But don’t spend your entire trip here because there’s lots more to see around Williamsburg!

Check all three airports: Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport is the closest, about 20 miles (32 kilometers) from downtown. Richmond and Norfolk airports are both around 46 miles (74 kilometers) away but generally have more flight options, so compare all three before booking.

Visit the Historic Triangle: Williamsburg is right alongside Jamestown and Yorktown, so it’s easy to combine all three during your trip. If you’re interested in early American history, you definitely won’t want to stick to Williamsburg alone!

How We Would Spend 3 Days in Williamsburg

🏛️ Day 1: Colonial Williamsburg & Ghost Stories
Explore Colonial Williamsburg on a private walking tour, visit the historic buildings and taverns, then hear the city’s spookiest stories on an evening ghost tour.

⚔️ Day 2: Jamestown & Yorktown
Spend the day exploring Jamestown and Yorktown on a guided tour or explore them at your own pace, then wind down with dinner and ice cream back in Williamsburg.

⛵ Day 3: Gardens, Sailing & a Movie
Wander through Freedom Park and the Williamsburg Botanical Garden, then head to Gloucester Point for a small-group sailing tour along the York River before a final dinner and movie.

Want to see the full plan? Check out our 3-day Williamsburg itinerary here!

Things to do in Williamsburg

1. Sail the York River with views of historic Virginia

Sailing along the York River is such a fun way to see a different side of this historic part of Virginia! We love this 2.5-hour sailing trip because it takes you out on a modern sailboat with a maximum of just six people, so it feels really personal.

Now, this one is technically outside Williamsburg. It leaves from Gloucester Point, about a 30-40 minute drive from the center, but we think the chance to actually learn how to sail makes the trip worthwhile!

And yes, you can actually take the helm yourself – how cool is that? Your captain will teach you how to turn the boat, build speed, and even “see” the wind. We love experiences where you get to have a go yourself rather than just sitting there, although you can absolutely kick back and enjoy the ride if that sounds more appealing!

There’s some history thrown in too, because, well, this is Virginia. As you sail along the York River, you’ll hear about the Revolutionary War battles that helped bring the war to an end and may even spot US Navy ships heading toward Yorktown. Keep an eye out for dolphins, too! 

We think that this tour is a great way to combine history with beautiful scenery. And we’re not the only ones who love it, because you can read over a hundred 5-star reviews here.

2. Hear Williamsburg’s spookiest stories after dark

Williamsburg might look pretty and polished, but this city has a seriously dark past! This evening ghost tour takes you through Colonial Williamsburg after sunset to hear about the notorious ghosts and creepy stories connected to its centuries-old buildings.

And when you think about just how much has happened here, it’s hardly surprising that there are so many ghost stories. Williamsburg has seen centuries of upheaval, from slavery and the Revolutionary era to the Civil War, so some pretty dark chapters lie beneath those beautiful colonial facades.

One of the creepiest stops is the Peyton Randolph House, which is often described as one of the most haunted houses on the East Coast! Paranormal stories have surrounded the property for years, with reports of unexplained noises, apparitions, and even faces appearing in windows.

You’ll also stop outside places like Bruton Parish Church, Governor’s Palace, and the George Wythe House while your guide shares stories based on paranormal research and eyewitness accounts. So even if you don’t believe in ghosts, there’s lots of fascinating history packed in!

Two versions are available, but we recommend booking the 90-minute extended tour. It only takes an extra half hour and includes four additional haunted sites, which is definitely worth it if you ask us!

We love a ghost tour anyway, but in a city with this much history, it just makes sense. There are hundreds of great reviews to back us up on this one, too. 

3. Step into America’s early history at Jamestown and Yorktown

If you’re coming to Williamsburg for the history, this full-day Jamestown and Yorktown tour is a pretty great place to start! We booked it for the first day of our trip and were so glad we did because it gave us a really good understanding of the area before we explored anything else.

The tour follows the story chronologically, starting at Jamestown Settlement, where the English arrived in 1607. There are some replica ships and actors here; we really enjoyed watching them reenact what life was like. We also had some free time to wander around on our own, which was perfect. We love having a guide, but we also like being able to stop and look at things without feeling like we’re holding everyone up!

After lunch, we headed to the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown, then to Yorktown Battlefield, where George Washington’s army faced the British under Lord Cornwallis in 1781. There is a LOT of history packed into this day, but having a guide explain how everything connected made it so much easier to take in.

Lunch is included, and you can even opt for a Colonial-style meal because, well, when in Williamsburg! Transportation was covered too, so we could just sit back in the air-conditioned vehicle instead of figuring out how to get between all the different sites.

The only catch is that this tour only runs on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. So if you’re visiting on one of those days, don’t miss it—we think this tour is absolutely worth planning around!

4. Explore Freedom Park and Williamsburg Botanical Garden

There is a LOT of history to take in around Williamsburg, so at some point you’ll probably want a little fresh air! Freedom Park is perfect for that, with miles of trails winding through a huge wooded area just outside downtown.

You can make a visit here as active or laid-back as you like. There are easy walking trails and picnic areas if you just fancy a wander, plus around 20 miles (32 kilometers) of mountain bike trails if you’re looking for something a little more adventurous.

But because this is Williamsburg, even a trip to the park comes with a history lesson! From 1803 to 1850, this area was home to one of America’s earliest Free Black settlements. An interpretive center lets you learn more about the community and see artifacts connected to the site, so don’t skip it on your way to the trails.

We also love that Williamsburg Botanical Garden is tucked away inside the park and is completely free to visit! The garden is home to more than 800 species of native vegetation, with different areas dedicated to everything from herbs and butterflies to a cute fairy garden.

There’s something different to see depending on when you visit, too – flowers in spring, hummingbirds during summer, and monarch butterflies in the fall!

We think this is a lovely one to save for a more laid-back morning or afternoon. For us, it was the perfect change of pace when our brains needed a little break from 400 years of American history.

5. Step back in time on a private Williamsburg walk

Colonial Williamsburg is huge, and there is SO much history packed into those streets that it can be hard to know where to start. That’s why we really like the idea of this private walking tour with a local guide, especially if you want to make the most of a shorter visit.

Over two hours, you’ll walk along Duke of Gloucester Street and see some of Colonial Williamsburg’s biggest landmarks, including the Capitol, Governor’s Palace, and Bruton Parish Church. But because the tour is completely private, it doesn’t have to feel like a rigid history lesson. Your guide can tailor the experience to your interests, answer your questions, and even point out little local spots that are easy to miss when exploring alone.

That’s the big advantage of going private for us. You’re not trying to keep up with a big group, and if something catches your attention, you can actually stop and ask about it! The guide also shares local recommendations along the way, which is always handy when you’ve still got more of Williamsburg to explore.

Just note that this is mainly an outdoor walking tour, so admission to Colonial Williamsburg’s ticketed buildings isn’t included. If this sounds like your kind of tour, don’t leave it until the last minute! It’s currently marked as likely to sell out, and private tours naturally have much more limited availability. We recommend booking your spot in advance so you don’t miss out!

6. Ride the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry

Okay, we LOVE finding completely free things to do, and the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry might be one of the best bargains in Williamsburg. Because, well, it costs absolutely nothing!

The ferry crosses the James River between Jamestown and Surry, and the journey takes around 20 minutes each way. Even better, you can take your car straight onboard, so this isn’t one of those attractions where you have to park up, buy a ticket, and turn it into a whole production. Just drive on and enjoy the ride!

For us, the best part is simply being out on the James River. This huge stretch of water played such an important role in the early Jamestown settlement, and seeing the landscape from the ferry gives you a completely different perspective from exploring the museums on land. Once the ferry is moving, passengers can usually get out of their cars and walk around the deck, which is perfect for taking photos and enjoying the views. 

The service runs 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, although departure times vary, so it’s worth checking the current schedule before you set off. And yes, it really is free!

You can simply ride across and back again, or make more of it by continuing into Surry or toward Chippokes State Park. Either way, for a free 20-minute ferry ride across the James River, we think this is such a fun little addition to a Williamsburg trip.

7. Explore Jamestown and Yorktown at your own pace 

If the guided tour we mentioned earlier doesn’t work with your schedule, don’t worry! This 7-day Jamestown and Yorktown pass is a great alternative, especially since that tour only runs on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

The pass covers Jamestown Settlement and the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown, and you get unlimited admission to both for seven consecutive days. So instead of cramming everything into one huge history day, you can take your time, split the museums across different days, or even come back if there’s something you didn’t get to see the first time properly.

And there is a LOT to see. Jamestown Settlement has recreated colonial spaces, historical interpreters, films, exhibits, and replica ships that you can actually step aboard. Then at the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown, you’ll find huge galleries filled with artifacts and interactive displays, plus an immersive theater experience about the Siege of Yorktown.

We really like the freedom of this ticket, particularly for families or anyone who hates feeling rushed around museums. Both sites are open from 9 am until 5 pm, and parking is free too, so it’s super easy to fit them around the rest of your Williamsburg plans.

One thing to know: Historic Jamestowne and Yorktown Battlefield aren’t included, so this isn’t quite as comprehensive as the guided tour above. But if you prefer exploring at your own pace, this is definitely the more flexible option.

8. Walk the trails at Waller Mill Park

After a few days of museums, battlefields, and colonial history, you might be ready to swap sightseeing for some fresh air! Waller Mill Park is just north of central Williamsburg and is a great place to take it easy for a few hours.

The park centers on a huge 360-acre reservoir, with more than 6 miles of wooded hiking trails winding through hardwood and pine forest. There are also paved paths if you just fancy an easy stroll rather than turning your visit into a full-on hike.

If you want something a little longer, check out the Lookout Tower Trail, which is around three miles and has some lovely views across the lake and surrounding woodland. We think this is probably the best trail to choose if you only have time for one!

There’s plenty here besides hiking too. You’ll find picnic areas, a playground, a fishing pier, a dog park, and a disc golf course, so it’s a nice option for families or groups where not everyone wants to do the same thing.

And if being this close to the water has you wanting to get out on it, you can rent kayaks, canoes, and pedal boats for an extra cost. Otherwise, it’s very easy to keep this outing cheap and simply enjoy the trails and lake views. We love having a few nature stops mixed into a history-heavy trip, and Waller Mill Park is perfect when you want to swap exhibits and old buildings for fresh air and a decent walk!

Where to Stay in Williamsburg

Now that you know what to do in Williamsburg, you just need a great place to stay! If it’s your first time in Williamsburg, we recommend staying close to Colonial Williamsburg. Most of the city’s biggest historic attractions are concentrated around this area, and you’ll also be well placed for trips out to Jamestown and Yorktown. The hotels below are all convenient for sightseeing, although the exact locations vary a little. 

Williamsburg Inn – $$$

Williamsburg Inn is our top pick if you want to make your Williamsburg trip extra special! This beautiful luxury hotel sits right beside Colonial Williamsburg’s Historic Area, so you’ll be perfectly placed for sightseeing.

The hotel has been welcoming guests since 1937, and the elegant Regency-style rooms definitely fit the historic setting. But you still get all of the modern luxuries, including access to swimming pools, a spa, golf, and some lovely places to eat and drink.

Basically, if the budget allows, this is the full Williamsburg experience! Rooms typically start around $450 USD per night and can easily climb above $700 USD. Check prices and availability for Williamsburg Inn here!

Williamsburg Woodlands Hotel & Suites – $$

For something more affordable, Williamsburg Woodlands Hotel & Suites is a fantastic mid-range option. It sits right beside the Colonial Williamsburg Visitor Center, and there’s a pathway into the Historic Area as well as a shuttle service, so the location is super convenient.

This one is especially good for families. Rooms are spacious, breakfast is included, and there’s a seasonal pool and splash park, plus mini golf and other games. There are even family-sized suites if you need a bit more room, so we think this property offers a lot for the price.

Rooms generally range from around $130–$250 USD per night. Check prices and availability for Williamsburg Woodlands Hotel & Suites here!

Comfort Inn Williamsburg Gateway – $

If you’d rather save your money for sightseeing, Comfort Inn Williamsburg Gateway is our favorite budget pick. It’s on Bypass Road, a little farther from the Historic Area than the two hotels above, so having a car is handy, but you’re still only a short drive from Colonial Williamsburg and the Visitor Center.

For a budget hotel, you get quite a lot included here! There’s free parking and a complimentary hot breakfast, plus a seasonal outdoor pool and fitness center. The rooms are simple and comfortable, and while it’s not somewhere we’d choose for a fancy resort experience, it ticks all of the important boxes as an affordable base for exploring Williamsburg.

Rooms typically cost around $80–$150 USD per night. Check prices and availability for Comfort Inn Williamsburg Gateway here!

Didn’t find what you’re looking for? Check out more great hotels for Williamsburg here!

Thanks for reading!

Williamsburg may be famous for its colonial history, but there’s so much more to this city than old buildings and battlefields! We loved mixing the history with ghost stories, sailing on the York River, and escaping into the parks when we needed a change of pace. There’s definitely enough variety here to keep you busy for a few days!

Before you go, check out our other USA travel guides for even more firsthand tips, tours, and trip ideas. Or keep the planning going with a few of our favorite guides below! Cheers!

How to Spend THREE Days in Virginia Beach, Virginia: 3-Day Itinerary

How to Spend THREE DAYS in Charlotte, North Carolina: 3-Day Itinerary

25 BEST Things to do in Washington, DC in Summer