Historic Williamsburg is a popular tourist destination located in Virginia, USA. This living-history museum offers visitors the opportunity to return to the 18th century and experience life as it was during the American Revolution. The site features restored buildings, costumed interpreters, and interactive exhibits that help visitors learn about colonial life and the birth of the United States.
While Historic Williamsburg may be most famous for its historical significance, it is also an excellent destination for families with children. With various family-friendly activities and attractions, parents can rest assured that their children will have a fun and educational experience at the site.
Family-friendly activities in historical sites must be offered to encourage children to learn about history and heritage. By making history fun and engaging for children, we can inspire a love of learning that will stay with them throughout their lives. This article aims to give parents ideas on exploring historic Williamsburg with kids an enjoyable and educational experience.
Whether you are a history buff or a family looking for a fun day out, Historic Williamsburg has something to offer everyone. With that in mind, let’s dive into some of the exciting family-friendly activities and attractions the site offers!
Exploring Historic Williamsburg with Kids
Exploring Historic Williamsburg with Kids is a fantastic way for families to spend a day, weekend, or even longer. Visiting Historic Williamsburg with children has many benefits, including the opportunity to learn about history and culture in a fun and interactive way. Additionally, visiting historical sites with children can help them develop an appreciation for the past, which can help them better understand the present.
Exploring Historic Williamsburg with Kids
While Visitors of all ages can enjoy historic Williamsburg, there is a recommended age range for children to appreciate the experience fully. Generally, children aged 6-12 are the best fit for the site, as they are old enough to understand the site’s historical significance but young enough to enjoy the interactive exhibits and activities.
There are plenty of things to do in Historic Williamsburg with kids. One of the most popular family-friendly attractions is the Colonial Williamsburg Children’s Area. This interactive exhibit allows children to step into the shoes of 18th-century children with activities such as playing colonial games, participating in crafts, and dressing up in colonial clothing.
Another popular activity is visiting historic homes, which offer a glimpse into the lives of colonial Americans. Children can explore the houses, learn about the people there, and even participate in hands-on activities such as cooking, weaving, or gardening.
Families can take a carriage ride through the historic district for a more leisurely way to explore Historic Williamsburg. It is a great way to see the site and learn about its history while relaxing and enjoying the scenery.
Participating in hands-on activities is another fun way for kids to learn about history. Many interactive exhibits allow children to learn about colonial crafts and trades, from blacksmithing to shoemaking.
Costumed interpreters are a staple of Historic Williamsburg; children love meeting them. These actors portray historical figures and are always happy to chat with visitors and answer any questions they may have.
Finally, watching live performances is a must-do activity for families visiting Historical Williamsburg. Something is always happening at the site, from colonial plays to musical concerts.
Planning Your Visit to Historic Williamsburg
Historic Williamsburg is a living history museum that transports visitors to the colonial era. Planning your visit to this fascinating attraction is essential, especially when travelling with children. Here are some tips for a stress-free and enjoyable trip with your little ones.
Best time to visit Historic Williamsburg with kids
The best time to visit Historic Williamsburg with kids is spring or fall when the weather is mild, and the crowds are lower. Summers can be hot and humid, which may make it challenging for children to enjoy the experience fully.
Tips for a stress-free and enjoyable trip with kids
Dress appropriately
The Colonial Williamsburg experience involves a lot of walking, so make sure you and your children wear comfortable shoes. Additionally, wearing appropriate clothing, such as hats and sunscreen in the summer or coats and gloves in the winter, can make a huge difference in your visit’s enjoyment.
Bring snacks and water.
Kids tend to get hungry and thirsty while exploring, so it’s a good idea to bring snacks and water to keep them fueled and hydrated throughout the day.
Use the shuttle bus system.
The shuttle bus system in Williamsburg is an efficient way to get around the area. You can park your car and take the shuttle to the different area of interest, making it easier to navigate with kids.
Take breaks
Walking around for an entire day can be tiring for you and your children, so taking breaks throughout the day can help recharge everyone’s batteries. Plenty of benches, picnic areas, and green spaces to rest and relax.
Prioritize activities based on your child’s interests and attention span.
While there’s so much to see and do in Historic Williamsburg, it’s essential to prioritize activities based on your child’s interests and attention span. You can’t see and do everything in one day, so focus on what your children enjoy the most.
Allow time for exploration and discovery
Allowing your children to explore and discover at their own pace can make the experience more memorable. Let them interact with the interpreters, ask questions, and participate in the activities. It’s all about creating an unforgettable experience for the whole family.
In conclusion, planning a trip to Historic Williamsburg with kids can be an unforgettable experience. Following these tips can ensure a stress-free and enjoyable adventure that your children will remember for years.
Dining Options in Historic Williamsburg for Kids
After a long day exploring Historic Williamsburg with kids, finding a place to eat is essential. Fortunately, many dining options in the historic district cater to families with kids. Here’s an overview of dining options in Historic Williamsburg for families, including the best restaurants, menu options for picky eaters, and tips for dining with kids.
Historic Williamsburg offers various dining options, from casual cafes to fine-dining restaurants. Most restaurants are within walking distance of the historic district, making it easy to grab a bite to eat between activities. Some dining options include taverns, coffee shops, and restaurants serving colonial-inspired cuisine.
Best Restaurants for Families with Kids
When dining with kids in Historic Williamsburg, choosing a restaurant with a family-friendly atmosphere is essential. One of the best options for families is Shields Tavern. This colonial-inspired tavern features a kid’s menu with options like mac and cheese, grilled cheese, and chicken tenders.
Another excellent option for families is the Chowning’s Tavern. This restaurant features traditional colonial dishes like shepherd’s pie and Brunswick stew and kid-friendly options like hamburgers and chicken sandwiches. The restaurant also features live music, which can keep kids entertained while parents enjoy a meal.
Menu Options for Picky Eaters
If you’re travelling with picky eaters, finding a restaurant that offers something for everyone can be challenging. Fortunately, many of the restaurants in Historic Williamsburg offer a kid’s menu with classic options like hamburgers, chicken tenders, and grilled cheese.
For families with picky eaters, we recommend the King’s Arms Tavern. This restaurant offers a kid’s menu with classic options and more adventurous dishes like shepherd’s pie and roast beef. The restaurant also offers a family-style meal with various dishes to share.
Tips for Dining with Kids in Historic Williamsburg
Dining with kids in Historic Williamsburg can be a fun and memorable experience, but it can also be challenging. Here are some tips to help make the experience more enjoyable for everyone:
Please make a reservation: Many of the restaurants in Historic Williamsburg can get crowded, so it’s essential to make a reservation in advance.
Bring snacks: If you’re travelling with young children, keeping them occupied while waiting for the meal is a good idea.
Ask for high chairs or booster seats: Most restaurants in Historic Williamsburg offer high chairs or booster seats for young children.
Be patient: Dining with kids can be unpredictable, so it’s essential to be patient and flexible.
Accommodations for Families in Williamsburg
If you’re planning a family trip to Williamsburg, Virginia, choosing suitable accommodations is crucial to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Fortunately, many family-friendly hotels and resorts in Williamsburg offer a range of amenities and activities for kids of all ages. Here’s an overview of accommodations for families in Williamsburg, including recommended options, benefits of staying on-site at Colonial Williamsburg, and tips for booking accommodations.
Family-Friendly Hotels and Resorts in Williamsburg
Williamsburg offers a variety of accommodations, including hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals. Regarding family-friendly options, several hotels and resorts cater to families with kids. Some of the most popular options include:
Great Wolf Lodge: This resort features an indoor water park, arcade, and daily activities for kids.
Kingsmill Resort: This resort offers a range of family-friendly amenities, including a lazy river, pool complex, and kids’ club.
Williamsburg Lodge: This hotel offers spacious rooms and suites, a pool and a kids’ activity room.
Recommended Accommodations for Families with Kids
When choosing accommodations for families with kids, it’s essential to consider factors like room size, amenities, and location. Based on these criteria, we recommend the following accommodations for families:
Great Wolf Lodge: With its indoor water park and daily activities, Great Wolf Lodge is an excellent option for families with kids of all ages.
Kingsmill Resort: This resort offers spacious villas and a range of family-friendly amenities, making it an ideal choice for families with younger children.
Williamsburg Woodlands Hotel and Suites: This hotel features spacious suites with separate bedrooms, living areas, and a pool and playground.
Benefits of Staying On-Site at Colonial Williamsburg
Staying on-site at Colonial Williamsburg offers several benefits for families. One main advantage is easy access to the historic district, making it easy to explore the attractions and participate in daily activities. On-site accommodations also offer a range of amenities, including pools, restaurants, and kids’ programs. Additionally, staying on-site can provide a more immersive experience, fully immersing families in Williamsburg’s history and culture.
Tips for Booking Accommodations in Williamsburg
When booking accommodations in Williamsburg, there are several tips to remember to ensure a stress-free and enjoyable stay. Here are some tips to consider:
Book in advance: Williamsburg is a popular destination, so booking accommodations well in advance is essential to ensure availability.
Check for family packages: Many hotels and resorts in Williamsburg offer family packages that include discounted rates and extra amenities.
Consider the location: When choosing accommodations, consider proximity to the attractions and activities you plan to participate in.
Read reviews: Before booking, read reviews from other families to understand the amenities, service, and overall experience.
Suitable accommodations are crucial to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable family trip to Williamsburg. Consider room size, amenities, and location, book in advance, check for family packages, view location, and read reviews to make the most of your family vacation in Williamsburg.
Beyond Historic Williamsburg: Other Family-Friendly Attractions in the Area
While Historic Williamsburg is a must-visit destination for families, many other family-friendly attractions in the area are worth exploring. From amusement parks to outdoor adventures, Williamsburg offers something for everyone. Here’s an overview of other family-friendly attractions in Williamsburg, including recommended places to visit with kids and tips for exploring other attractions in Williamsburg.
In addition to Historic Williamsburg, the area has several other family-friendly attractions. Some of the most popular options include:
Jamestown Settlement and Yorktown Victory Center:
These two living history museums offer a glimpse into the lives of early settlers and soldiers during the Revolutionary War.
Busch Gardens Williamsburg:
This amusement park features roller coasters, live entertainment, and themed areas that transport visitors to different parts of the world.
Water Country USA:
This water park offers a range of water slides, wave pools, and play areas for kids of all ages.
Go Ape Treetop Adventure Course:
This outdoor adventure course features zip lines, obstacles, and challenges high in the trees.
Ripley’s Believe It or Not!:
This museum features exhibits and interactive displays that showcase the bizarre and unusual.
Williamsburg Botanical Garden:
This 30-acre garden features a range of plants and flowers, walking trails and a butterfly garden.
Besides these, there are other places too that are particularly well-suited for kids in Williamsburg,
Tips for Exploring Other Attractions in Williamsburg with Kids
When exploring other family-friendly attractions in Williamsburg, there are several tips to keep in mind to ensure a fun and stress-free experience. Here are some tips to consider:
Plan: Research the attractions you plan to visit and create a rough itinerary to ensure you make the most of your time.
Consider age and interests: When choosing attractions, consider the age and interests of your kids to ensure everyone has a good time.
Check for discounts: Many attractions offer discounts for families or if you purchase tickets in advance.
Bring snacks and water: To keep kids fueled and hydrated, bring snacks and water.
Take breaks and rest throughout the day to avoid burnout and keep everyone in good spirits.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Historic Williamsburg is a destination that offers a unique combination of history, education, and entertainment that is perfect for families with kids. Exposing children to the rich cultural heritage of our nation’s history is essential, and Historic Williamsburg provides an ideal setting for parents to do so. This article has provided an overview of the benefits of visiting Historic Williamsburg with children and offered practical tips on making the most of the experience.
As we have seen, there are many things to do in Historic Williamsburg with kids. From exploring the colonial homes and meeting costumed interpreters to participating in hands-on activities and watching live performances, there is something for everyone. Additionally, many dining options are available that cater to picky eaters, and there are plenty of family-friendly accommodations to choose from.
It is important to note that Historic Williamsburg is not the only family-friendly attraction in the area. Jamestown Settlement and Yorktown Victory Center offer an interactive look at the early history of America, while Busch Gardens Williamsburg and Water Country USA provide thrilling amusement park experiences. Go Ape Treetop Adventure Course and Ripley’s Believe It or Not! are popular attractions for families with kids.
In summary, visiting Historic Williamsburg with kids is an opportunity to have fun and learn about our country’s history in a unique and engaging way. From exploring colonial homes to experiencing live performances, there is something for everyone. It is also worth exploring other family-friendly attractions in the area to make the most of your trip.
So, if you’re looking for a fun, educational, and memorable family vacation, consider visiting Historical Williamsburg. Your kids will thank you for it, and you’ll create memories that will last a lifetime. Remember to pack comfortable shoes and plenty of sunscreens, and get ready for a trip that you will remember!
FAQs
What is Historic Williamsburg?
Historic Williamsburg is a living history museum and a popular tourist destination in Virginia. It is a restored colonial capital of the Virginia Colony and features restored and reconstructed buildings from the 18th century.
Why is it essential to visit Historic Williamsburg with kids?
Visiting Historic Williamsburg with kids allows them to learn about the rich cultural heritage of our nation’s history uniquely and engagingly.
What are some recommended things to do in Historic Williamsburg with kids?
Some recommended things to do in Historic Williamsburg with kids include exploring colonial homes, meeting costumed interpreters, participating in hands-on activities, and watching live performances.
What is the recommended age range for kids to fully appreciate the experience at Historic Williamsburg?
While children of all ages can enjoy Historic Williamsburg, it is recommended that children be at least six years old to appreciate and understand the historical significance of the attractions fully.
What are some family-friendly accommodations in Williamsburg?
Some family-friendly accommodations in Williamsburg include the Great Wolf Lodge, the Kingsmill Resort, and the Williamsburg Lodge.
What are some other family-friendly attractions in the Williamsburg area?
Other family-friendly attractions in the Williamsburg area include the Jamestown Settlement and Yorktown Victory Center, Busch Gardens Williamsburg, Water Country USA, Go Ape Treetop Adventure Course, and Ripley’s Believe It or Not!
What are some dining options for picky eaters in Historic Williamsburg?
Some dining options for picky eaters in Historic Williamsburg include Shields Tavern, which offers traditional American fare, and the Blue Talon Bistro, which serves comfort food.
What are the benefits of staying on-site at Colonial Williamsburg?
Staying on-site at Colonial Williamsburg fully immerses guests in the historical experience and provides convenient access to all of the attractions.
What are some tips for exploring other attractions in Williamsburg with kids?
Some tips for exploring other attractions in Williamsburg with kids include planning, bringing plenty of snacks and water, and taking breaks throughout the day to rest and recharge.
Are any special events or festivals held in Historic Williamsburg for families with kids?
Yes, Historic Williamsburg hosts various special events and festivals throughout the year that are geared towards families with children, such as Grand Illumination and the Haunting on DoG Street.
Are there any height or age restrictions for attractions at Busch Gardens Williamsburg or Water Country USA?
Yes, some of the attractions at Busch Gardens Williamsburg and Water Country USA have height and age restrictions. It is recommended to check the park’s website or speak with a staff member about specific regulations before visiting.
Can children participate in all of the hands-on activities in Historic Williamsburg? While many hands-on activities in Historic Williamsburg are suitable for children, some may have age or height restrictions or require adult supervision.
Is there the best time of year to visit Williamsburg with the kids?
The best time to visit Williamsburg with kids can vary depending on personal preferences and schedules. The spring and fall are generally less crowded and offer comfortable temperatures, while the summer can be sweltering and busy.
Are there any discounts or special offers for families visiting Historic Williamsburg?
Yes, Historic Williamsburg offers various discounts and special offers for families, such as discounted tickets for children and military families and special packages for overnight stays.
Are pets allowed at Historic Williamsburg or other family-friendly attractions in the area?
Pets, except service animals, are generally not allowed at Historic Williamsburg or other family-friendly attractions in the area.
Are any guided tours or activities available for families with kids in Historic Williamsburg?
Yes, many guided tours and activities are available for families with kids in Historic Williamsburg, such as the Junior Interpreter Program and the Family Fun Tour. It is recommended to check the attraction’s website or visitor centre for more information.
