Williamsburg, Virginia Vacation Packages

History Comes to Life in Williamsburg

Follow the beat of the fife and drums into Williamsburg. From historical sites to amusement parks, this family vacation destination is filled with fun things to do from the past and present.

A trip to Williamsburg should start with a visit to Colonial Williamsburg. This living, breathing 18th-century village is a fun history lesson and an even more fun vacation. Step back in time as you walk the streets of a reconstructed colony and interact with the authentically dressed and acting inhabitants. Watch an old-fashioned blacksmith at work, take a horse-drawn carriage ride and enjoy a hearty meal and a tankard of ale at Shields Tavern. You will feel like you're living in the 1700s.

When you're tired of living in the past, get ready for a ride at Busch Gardens® Europe. If you dare, take a thrilling trip on Griffon, a floorless rollercoaster that takes you up 205 before twisting, turning and plunging at remarkable speeds. Or, zoom through a Bavarian village on The Big Bad Wolf rollercoaster. For more excitement, catch the elaborate Emerald Beat show highlighting traditional Irish dance. That's only the beginning of the fun at this truly amusing amusement park.

In addition to the big-name attractions, there are plenty of other things to see and do in Williamsburg. If you're a wine lover, you will enjoy a trip to the Williamsburg Winery. And if you're craving another taste of history, visit Jamestown Settlement to learn how the original inhabitants of the settlement lived and survived. You can even walk the hallowed halls of The College of William and Mary. This famed university is not only the country's second oldest, it's also the alma mater of four United States presidents.

In Williamsburg the shopping is outstanding. You can choose from outlet malls, specialty boutiques or antique shops. Most notable perhaps is the 45,000-square-foot Williamsburg Antique Mall which is filled with old treasures.

Williamsburg restaurants are terrific, too. Whether you're looking for casual dining with colonial flavor or a cozy gourmet restaurant, Williamsburg has it all. For a spooky dining experience, be sure to catch the show at the Haunted Dinner Theater - the interactive mystery performance is full of laughs.

Things to Do in Williamsburg

• Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum - Explore this art museum filled with the art of everyday life, from 19th-century household objects folk instruments.
• Busch Gardens Europe - Explore the European lands while you flip and fly on the wild rides of this amusement park.
• Colonial Williamsburg - This historic village, with its authentic reconstructions, costumed characters and multitude of interactive activities, takes you back to the 18th century.
• Haunted Dinner Theater - Dine on an all-you-can-eat buffet while you enjoy an enchanting mystery show complete with audience participation.
• Jamestown Settlement - Relive the history of the founding of America's first permanent English settlement.
• Shields Tavern - Dine like an 18th-century colonist in this historic tavern in Colonial Williamsburg.
• Water Country USA® - Speed down the flumes at this fun water park.
• The College of William and Mary - See the second-oldest university in the United States.
• Williamsburg Antique Mall - Stroll through more than 45,000 square feet of unique and interesting antiques.
• Williamsburg Winery - Take a tour through this winery, museum and underground barrel center.