Williamsburg Travel Information
It really feels like 1775 as you stroll the streets of Colonial
Williamsburg. Costumed interpreters, 88 original restored buildings
and over 500 carefully rebuilt homes and buildings immerse visitors in
life at the Colonial capital. In addition to its Colonial side,
Williamsburg offers modern amusement parks, tempting restaurants and
miles of shopping. The restoration of Williamsburg, the
country’s largest living history museum, began in the 1920’s funded by
John D. Rockefeller, Jr. The College of William and Mary, Capitol
Building, Raleigh Tavern, Bruton Parish Church and Public Gaol are a
few of the many buildings open to visitors. The elaborate
Governor’s Palace and gardens is the town’s most popular stop.
Craftspeople ply their trades in houses along Duke of Gloucester
Street. Colonial fare is served at taverns such as Christina
Campbell’s. The colonial town, open year-round, is often crowded so
plan and reserve early. Five million year old fossils were found
at York River State Park nearby, which features 2,500 acres with 25
miles of trails and fishing. Busch Gardens Williamsburg, the state’s
largest amusement park, has Old World-themed sections by country.
Water Country USA is also run by Anheuser-Busch which offers brewery
tours. Outlet shopping is a popular pursuit; dozens of shops dot the
area. Also nearby is Jamestown, first permanent European colony
in America established in 1607, now part of the Colonial National
Historic Park. Jamestown Island marks the actual settlement site;
walking tours are available. Across the bridge, Jamestown Settlement
provides a living history interpretation of 17th century
life. Williamsburg is located in Eastern Virginia about one hour
southeast of Richmond, VA, off of I-64.
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