The restored capital of England’s largest colony in the New World is a must-see attraction for visitors of all ages. This is not some phony, fenced-in theme park: Colonial Williamsburg is a living, breathing, working history museum with a painstakingly researched environment that brilliantly captures America of the 1700s.
The 301-acre historic area contains 88 original 18th-century buildings and several hundred faithful reproductions. Costumed townsfolk and ‘interpreters’ in period dress go about their colonial jobs as blacksmiths, apothecaries, printers, barmaids, soldiers and patriots, breaking character only long enough to pose for a snapshot.
Costumed patriots like Patrick Henry and Thomas Jefferson still deliver impassioned speeches for freedom, but the park doesn't gloss over America's less glorious moments. Today's re-enactors debate and question slavery, women’s suffrage, the rights of indigenous Americans and whether or not it is even moreal to engage in revolution.
Walking around the historic district and patronizing the shops and taverns is free, but entry to building tours and most exhibits is restricted to ticketholders. Expect crowds, lines and petulant children, especially in summer.
To park and to purchase tickets, follow signs to the visitor center , found north of the historic district between Hwy 132 and Colonial Pkwy; kids can also hire out period costumes here for $25 per day. Start off with a 30-minute film about Williamsburg, and ask about the day’s programs and events.
Parking is free; shuttle buses run frequently to and from the historic district, or you can walk along the tree-lined footpath. You can also buy tickets at the Merchants Square information booth .
