This is a post I’ve been itching to write. Over the course of about 15 years, I’ve spent a lot of time thinking about how to make sense of visiting Colonial Williamsburg. It’s a museum like Central Park is a town green. I’ve made my share of mistakes, and I’ve seen a lot more. Since I love this place, and I want all our guests to share that appreciation, I’d like to offer my observations about what sometimes goes wrong, and how to make it right.
Here are my top ten mistakes visitors to our little town make, in descending order:
#10 They under-plan
A little planning goes a long way in a city a mile long and a half-mile wide. A small investment of time to decide what you most want to see can pay huge dividends. Explore the website. Download our free app for digital planning.
Then download and print a map, and mark your can’t-miss sites. Note that it is color-coded into different zones, which is simply intended to make it easier to break your visit into manageable chunks. You don’t want to spend all your time backtracking. Be aware that some sites are closed on certain days; others are only open for half the day. (The Printer, for example, is open daily 9-1.)
Check the events calendar for day or evening programs. Make any necessary reservations, including dinner at a tavern, in advance. And check the schedule to make sure your destination is open: some shops are open for only half the day, and others are closed on certain days.
#9 They over-plan
You want to be organized, but beware of over-scheduling your time. If you end up hurrying through town trying to keep to a schedule, you’ll miss the serendipitous moments that make this place magical. You might find yourself playing a game in front of a shop, listening to musicians at the Market House, or debating politics with the local printer. Make time for that, and don’t worry if you “miss” something on your itinerary. There are so many things you just can’t plan for, so slow down, take it all in, and enjoy whatever chance encounters come your way.
#8 They get off at the first bus stop
I made this mistake when I first visited. I just hopped off at the first stop, near the Governor’s Palace, figuring we’d just casually explore. With a two-year old. Oops. Our first steps into the city proved to be too tentative, too cautious, and it took too long to get our bearings.
If the Governor’s Palace is the first site you want to visit, then by all means get off at the first bus stop. But if you want to immerse yourself in the city, you should take the new express shuttle to Market Square. (It’s also the fourth stop on the shuttle that makes all the stops.)
But my main point is that there is no one “entrance” to the Historic Area. You get to choose where to begin.
#7 They’re unprepared for the weather
Sure, this seems obvious. But remember you’ll be doing a lot of walking, which means you’ll be out in the elements. So that means wear comfortable shoes and drink plenty of water. The app (and the map) will help you find the nearest restrooms and water fountains.
Williamsburg has more than its share of beautiful weather, but it can be scorching hot in the summer, and the rain can fall by the bucket. So check the forecast and bring sunscreen, an umbrella, and whatever else you might need. You can always pick up a straw hat or cocked hat in one of the shops. Apply sunscreen and stay hydrated on a hot day. And leave the heels in the car.
#6 They walk around with their nose in a phone
Oh, the kids these days.
You’re going to want to have your phone for pictures and wayfinding, of course. Colonial Williamsburg also has a wireless network that just requires you to register with a hotel room number or email address.
But don’t experience Williamsburg from behind a screen. Put it down, at least for a little bit, and settle in to a different, less distracted, time. You’ll see things you would have missed, meet people who would have passed by wordlessly, and relax just a little bit more.
#5 They walk into any-and all-buildings
The Grand Union flags flying in front of many buildings indicate that a site is open, so feel free to come in. But there are hundreds of buildings in the Historic Area, and the majority are not actually open to the public. Some are offices or storage spaces, others are rented out to employees.
If you look closely, you’ll notice small tags that say “Private residence. Not open to the public.” And you’ll end up wandering into someone’s living room. Please don’t do that. It’s very awkward for everyone.
#4 They get shy around famous people
For many folks having a conversation with someone who may or may not be deep inside an 18th-century character can be, well, weird. I understand. To be honest, I’m still better at watching than really engaging. But weird is normal around here, and if you can take the first step—just say hello—then you stand a better chance of having a truly memorable visit.
So take a deep breath and jump in. Embrace the unfamiliar, and have fun.
#3 They aren’t shy enough with the animals
People have been known to pick up some of our admittedly too-comfortable-for-their-own-good squirrels. While they may seem to be acting like pets, they are not. They bite.
And while we’re on the subject of animals, it’s ok to say hello to the animals, but be careful. You can touch the wool of a sheep, but don’t pat them on the head—they don’t like it. Don’t try to pet working animals. And by all means, please don’t feed any of them.
#2 They skip the ticket
Yes, Duke of Gloucester is a public street that anyone is free to stroll. It’s a lovely walk, but if you’ve made the effort to come, don’t cheat yourself. The buildings do not speak for themselves.
If it helps, remember that Colonial Williamsburg is a private non-profit foundation that relies on sales of tickets, souvenirs, meals, and hotel rooms. If you’re asked if you want to “round up” at our ticket and retail locations, please remember we can only keep the doors open with the support of our very loyal and generous donors.
#1 They come for a day
Repeat after me: Colonial Williamsburg is a city. Seriously, it’s huge.
If all you can spare is a day, that’s great. We’ll welcome you for an hour, a week, or a month.
But if you’re here for a day, please don’t leave and think you’ve done anything other than dip your toe in the water. There are iconic buildings like the Capitol and Governor’s Palace, four historic working taverns, twenty-something trade shops, carriage rides, walking tours, art museums, and dramatic programs. And that’s before you include 12 Nation Builders—people like Thomas Jefferson, Patrick Henry, and Martha Washington—and scores of other interpreters portraying 18th-century people and life. You see my point. It’s YUUUGE.
I’ve worked for Colonial Williamsburg for a decade, and I still find new sources of music, mischief, wonder, and inspiration every day. I hope my unsolicited advice will help you find it too.
Thanks to our intern, Joaquin (a.k.a. Abe), who with his customary willingness to be our guinea pig agreed to pose for all the “please don’t do this” pictures. His year with us is drawing to a close, as he’ll return home this week. We will miss him greatly, but at least got lots of good pictures.
We planned a trip to the east coact several years ago, planning to end at DisneyWorld before returning home. We thought a day and a half at CW might be fun with our kids, then ages 14, 12, and 8. I had been to Colonial Williamsburg as a young child and remembered loving it. I wasn’t sure how my “modern” children would take to living history and was worried that they might be bored. Boy, was I wrong! My kids LOVED everything about the place-so much so that we ended up staying three full days (giving up a day at Disney to do so!). Highlights included learning how to throw a tomahawk, marbling their own papers, making soap, and watching a wheel get built. My older daughter eventually had to be dragged out of the milliner’s so we could eat lunch. I wish we’d had a chance to return, but alas, history was calling.
Planning your trip is great, but I agree that sometimes you just need to roll with the moment. Some of my children’s fondest memories were the times spent engaging with the reenactors on the streets and in the shops. The conversation my 12 y.o.daughter had playing cards on the street with an interesting woman started her into acting!
My son and two daughters also begged to buy historic outfits while there, which we did. It was an expense that turned out to be well worth it. Not only did it enhance their experience while at Williamsburg, but it also encouraged them to further explore history once we left. Small purchases such as sealing wax, a chalkboard and a tin whistle turned out to be additional springboards into learning once we got home. Numerous trips to the local library expanded their knowledge. Now all three have become involved in living history events outside of their Colonial Williamsburg experience. The clothing we bought was used for all sorts of things ranging from playing dress up to Halloween costumes, was used in a school play, and of course, used for the random weekend camping events that we’ve gotten into as a hobby. The dresses and breeches have been handed down to other children where their quality and workmanship shows.
Finally, my kids were totally engaged in the experience of Williamsburg, from life on the farm to learning about the ghosts in town. How nice to know that our trip got our kids to put away the phones and iPods and encouraged all to read more about past times.
LOL. Clearly that’s the wrong photo that was inserted here! That is NOT. A picture of my kids at CW.!
We will be in CW from 10/16 through 10/20. We’ve been there before, Any suggestions on things to do other than CW, Jamestown and Yorktown? We will be seeing those areas, but I’d love to see other things, too, Things that the locals like or somewhere to buy good colonial-style items (our house was built in 1735 and we bought it recently, so I’m excited to get decorating ideas while we’re exploring CW!). We’re not into theater, but enjoy shopping, eating and old houses.
I love visiting Westover and Shirley Plantations….Evelyton is gorgeous too…..Shoot, visit all of them on Plantation Row…. =)
Are some months “better” than others to plan a visit? My husband and I are thinking of coming in April, will everything be open at that point?
We have vacationed in Williamsburg during all times of the year. We love visiting in the fall because of the mild weather and fall colors. April can be tricky because it can be beautiful because of the spring gardens but also the weather can be cold and rainy. We prefer mid May to April. Christmas time is also wonderful….the decorations, special programs and festive dinners with entertainment really get you in the holiday mood. It can be frigid in December but we were there one December when the weather was in the 70’s. Really Colonial Williamsburg is amazing any time of the year!
Loved reading all the different responses! We all see things from a personal point of view. Our personal favorite thing to do is to attend the auctions at Market Square with an outstanding auctioneer named Master Penny! We have attended many of these events and are never disappointed. We have purchased unusual pieces for sale and very much enjoy the repartee’ and fierce bidding wars that sometimes evolve. How I would love to repaint our home’s dining room and fill it with cream ware!! Coveting is a sin still, isn’t it? Don’t miss it. P. S. Last November, my daughter gifted us with the Thanksgiving Dinner and weekend. A gastronomical experience!!
We will be visiting with 5 kids ages 15 to 2 and would love suggestions on what sites we should not miss.
I vote hitting the brickyard as well as the kids dig =) Of course there is the encampments and learning to be a soldier =) Visiting the Colonial Nursery, the tinsmith / blacksmith, the joiner, the printer and binder, and lastly, letting them march behind the Fife and Drum =)
They may also enjoy dressing up in period clothing for the day. The youngest would love that for sure!
For the stage events, Momma Said / Poppa Said….the ghost walks are interesting but not for the youngest ….and definitely do Escape the King! Don’t forget to find the animals too =)
If you’re in Merchant’s Square, Everything Williamsburg has great souvenirs too while Celebrations has beautiful wreaths! =)
I think you’ll have lots of fun =)
Best resource is the website. Last time we were there they had an electronic scavenger hunt. When you get there make sure to sign up in the morning for any evening activities as they sell out FAST!
I visited when I was about 15. I loved the adventure. We were only there for two days. It is now 50 years later and I want to visit again. Where can I go to find the package deals.
For packages go to https://www.colonialwilliamsburg.com/plan/special-offers/
We are interested in seeing how people lived in all walks of life in Williamsburg during the development of our country. I would like to see the homes, the slaves’ lives and their dwellings, educational of the young and religious observances of the times. Both my husband and I enjoy seeing the trades as well as the economical structure and England’s support and political influence on our culture.
We will be in CW for 3 days with a 10 yr old boy. What are the musts for his age? Also, it it worth purchasing the Historical Triangle Ticket? Any advice would be appreciated. Can’t wait!
Definitely hit the brick yard. That is fun with kids!
Jamestown is very interesting. I didn’t really care for Yorktown all that much. They do have a self guided audio tour by car. If your child loves water parks and Busch Gardens make sure to plan a day at least at each. Much lower cost for tickets when you buy through CW. Also, CW offers a free shuttle to both.
My 10-yr-old loves Jamestown. He likes the boats and all that. We frequently visit Colonial Williamsburg, but haven’t explored all of Yorktown. Sean loves the military encampment, the REvolutionary spy game, the food, the blacksmith and then on different trips has liked to see joiners, carpenters, and brickmakers. He loves the little reenactment scenes also.
Edit Market Square for Merchants Square! Love CW 🙂
If you’re referring to the shuttle, it goes directly to Market Square near the Magazine on Francis St.
Ohhhh. Ok. I mixed up my Squares. Thanks!
Great suggestions. My husband brought me to Colonial Williamsburg 20 years ago. I fell in love with the whole experience. We return 2-3 times each year. I think the best advice is to read about what is offered within Colonial Williamsburg and take advantage of all the programming that interests you. Spend the money to take part in the evening programs. I find something new each time I visit. This spring, I attended a program that showed how the research is done when restoration of a building begins. My favorite experience yet! Yes, I am a history geek. I would work at Colonial Williamsburg in a heat best!
I would add a couple of items
1) Touch where you can.. Places like the cabinetmaker (and most of the “businesses”) have lots of things that you can pick up and look at closely. The homes are more hands off but some things can be handled.
2) Better to ask permission, especially for pictures. Most interpreters will gladly pose for a picture but sometimes they are in a hurry to get back from a break or need to be somewhere for a performance and can’t stop.
3) Keep that camera at the ready (and with enough battery power and memory space). You never know who might be walking down the street or catch a reflection in a window.
GREAT picture. Looks like it was shot through a hole in the stocks next to the courthouse to me.
All great tips. We have visited twice a year for the past six. Alas we did not “discover” CW until I went on a business trip to Williamsburg, took my wife along, and we spent free time just walking around. We were aware that tickets would be good, but could only get into the historic area for an hour or so a day. We knew quickly that we would have to come back for a real vacation.
The right amount of planning is important. For us 4-5 significant events a day is about right, leaving enough time for some wandering. We have a personal minimum of four days per trip. Last year we took two seven-day vacations strictly in the historic area and never felt bored or that we had run out of things to see and do.
We try to visit with our daughter and her husband. She is a school teacher and is really good at planning out our days! We kid around that we are on a field trip.
I read reviews in tripadvisor pretty often. Some make me kind of sad. People who say they get just as much out of CW without purchasing a pass. Or those who purchase a pass but don’t really know what it entitles them to..
We ran into a couple once outside the Charlton Coffee House at the end of a day who had purchased a one day pass that morning and only wandered the streets all day. They thought they needed another ticket for each building and now it was almost five pm and they had not gone into any site all day.
Another good tip in the blog is about interacting with the various interpreters. We were shy at first, but as each trip has unfolded we have become more comfortable with that and it does make it so much more fun.
Very good article. We recently had a conversation with a couple (long-time friends) who visited CW last year for the first time. We mentioned that we had just made our annual CW reservations for a week’s stay in the fall. They asked: “So what do you do there for all that time?” Apparently they found little to do on their initial visit - other than walking around - most likely because they didn’t know where to start and didn’t put forth the effort to research prior to their visit but also because of a lack of understanding that a great CW experience requires a layering of visits and experiences to acquire a grasp of all the many fabulous things there are to do in CW. After clicking off a long list of things that we enjoy at CW, our friends were dumbfounded at the richness of our CW visits. We had a similar experience with our cousins who visited again with us as their guides. Sometimes I think that CW need Rent-A-Mentor services to help new visitors understand the potential of all that CW offers.
FOOD!!! FOOD!!! DRINK!!! Oh my gosh! The last time my husband and I went we got the all-inclusive package and that means our dinners were included. Williamsburg has some incredible historic food options!!! My husband is a picky eater. He put on his brave face … and was happily eating cuts of meat, salads, vegetables, and all sorts of yummy sweets. He surprised himself and me. We were floored by our meals and local ale.
So, eat at the historic places and explore some history through food. You won’t be disappointed. And no, I don’t have a favorite because we ate in all of them and each had its own charm. 😉
What wonderful. Comments and suggestions.! I love Williamsburg because it’s an historic, walking, people place. We’ve visited in the summer, spring and fall. We usually stay at the Woodlands with it’s wonderful breakfast and peaceful walk to the historic area.
Talk to everyone you can. You will find the most interesting stories, advice, and information you can’t get anywhere else.
Another Tip: Stay away from your GPS…..DoG street, along with the side streets are closed off to traffic. Your GPS doesn’t know that and before you know it, you’re traveling down a street with lots of walking guests, carriages, and no vehicles. If you’re lost, ask someone in period clothing. Reach out and ask those questions. No question is a silly question. In fact, it’s encouraged!
Sampler Tickets: These are wonderful if the weary traveler is in town for only a few hours. It allows you to see 2 trades, the public gaol (jail), and a family home. The best part is if you have enjoyed what you’ve visited so far, you can upgrade your citizens pass!
Navigation: An easier way to remember where you’re at is simple. The Capital will *always* be East. Bruton Parish will *always* be West and the Palace will be North; which leaves South. Consider Francis street as the 21st century and that will be south. If you keep your back to Francis street, you’re in the middle of the 18th century. It’s all in front of you, thus leaving the future behind you but if you do an about face, well, you’ve gotten back to the future. At each crossroad and corners, look down and you will see the name of the street as well as navigational markers.
Most importantly, have fun! Dress up like a Colonial! Participation is the best part of creating a Huzzah! moment! Remember, each step you take into a historical building, a Founding Father stepped into the archway too! You’re following those who secured a stronghold in our little city. You’re playing a part in the city too! Who knows who you will run into or what is going on in the streets. I love sitting at Market House and watching the most colorful people engage the guests.
As your day comes to an end, stop by Chownings to enjoy a nightcap of good food, fine drink, and try your hand at a few games. Or perhaps a ride in the blue carriage, which incidentally, was used in AMC’s Turn. It carried the lovely Ms. Peggy Shippin and her beau, Benedict Arnold (season 3).
Well, it looks like I’ve written a small novella. I hope your visit becomes the most well loved experience!
PS: Did you know you can rent a Colonial home for your visit? Yes you can!! You can inquire at any of the ticket offices, the Visitor Center, or online.
Tip for those staying at the Governor’s Inn: since it isn’t on the shuttle bus stops, you have to walk to the historic area. I fount a 10 minute short cut…you will walk down Henry street (the street in front of the Governor’s Inn) 1. cross the RR tracks 2. cross Lafayette St. 3. turn left on Scotland St. 4. in front of the elementary school you will see a white fence on your right going DOWN, follow it to the gravel path, the path comes out at the Governor’s Palace. This is much faster than walking all the way to Merchants Square and then back down Duke.
I have been coming to CW since 1993, and I have found ALL the shortcuts and special places.
We have been vacationing in Williamsburg since the mid ’70s. Every time we come I discover something new. You cannot possibly see and do everything in one day, one week, one month or one year. Of course living only 3 hours away helps! Things continually change so return visits are mandatory. If you can, visit at different times of the year. Each season has its own unique personality.
We’ve ben there three times and saw so much over the 3 day stays. BUT the next time we will be sure to hit those ” missed spots” .
PS the first time I was there at age 13 I was with my parents who were in the “just walk through quickky-‘ mentality. We stopped on our way home from Florida.. I will never forget that short visit, but it was not enough. I wanted to go back. It took almost 50 years to get back with my husband and grand kids. We would love to come back someday.
We would love to visit around Thanksgiving or Christmas. BUT my husband teaches at Ferris State University in Michigan. It’s a long enough break at Christmas, but the weather between VA and MI can be pretty bad to drive though during the Winter ,so stick to the fair weather months.
Christmas is so special in Williamsburg. We have spent the last 3 Christmas’s and they have been so special. If at all possible find a way to visit then. It’s our tradition now.
I stayed for a week and didn’t have enough time to do everything I “planned” on doing! I wised up and spent some quality time just sitting and observing and soaking up the atmosphere. I attended so many wonderful programs and enjoyed delicious meals in the taverns. I learned how to play Shut the Box and how to use a drop spindle…well sort of learned the drop spindle. The teacher was great, I was spastic. If I could, I would move into a home on DoG and live my life in colonial bliss.
My wife and I have a season pass, and have been visiting since we moved into the area way back in the early 90’s. There are good suggestions in this blog. If I could just point one out, it’s take your time. I have been coming here for years and still see and hear new things all the time. Take the time to take in the intricate things. Take the time to talk with the historical actors and ask questions. Bring a backpack with a light jacket or to store a sweater. The weather changes, bring some extra water and snacks and toys for the kids. Keep your map handy. 🙂
We had been coming to Williamsburg since the late 1980s and finally retired here in 2012. We would visit once or twice a year and friends would ask “haven’t you seen everything?” Well, the answer is no, not ever. There is always something new to see or experience. Also, each time you have a different interpreter at each site you hear something new and different.
I think taking the walking path from the visitors center to the historic area is the best way to slowly walk your self back in time. Plus you can see the windmill and Great Hope’s Plantation.
What would you suggest to do over 3 days time with two 5 year olds and a 7 year ild?
Christine, We would be happy to email you our suggestions. I will send this to you today. Thanks, Sheri/Social Media
My wife and I will be visiting Williamsburg in July and was hoping you can make some suggestions for a 2-3 day trip. Please advise a hotel and some taverns to visit.
Thanks,
John
Unless your kids are history fanatics, rare at that age but not unheard of, and if you are a planning a summer visit,, I recommend seeing stuff 1st thing in the morning - going for a swim - and returning toward the end of the day, maybe 3:30 ish or 4:00 ish. I took my son to Williamsburg twice, the first time without the mid day break, the second with the mid day break. Things were much more enjoyable for my son, and consequently for me, the 2nd time..
Visit the armory. All kids find it fascinating. There’s a parade almost every day. Any hands on activities like games or crafts are so well done. The blacksmith is a good draw for little ones as well. Have fun and take your time.
I would take them to the maze at the back of the governor’s palace, Chowing’s Tavern has games and music at night and is a laid back atmosphere, definitely be around at least one day in the afternoon for the fife and drums.
Great post! By all means use the shuttle buses. They are a godsend for us elders. The drivers are courteous and helpful. Our last stay (third visit) was for four days and could have easily spent a week.
Great suggestions! I am tweeting this out as a general reference @VAHistoryOnline.