If you are planning a trip to Williamsburg, you are heading to one of the most historically rich locations in all of the United States. There are 10 amazing historic sites you will want to visit when in Williamsburg.
Colonial Williamsburg
At the heart of the historic places to visit in Williamsburg is Colonial Williamsburg itself. Colonial Williamsburg can best be described as a living outdoor museum. Colonial Williamsburg hearkens back to pre-revolutionary days in all things, including buildings, technology, and the people who populated the community. Ideally, you should allocate a couple of days to really take in all that Colonial Williamsburg has to offer. This includes special events during the summertime. Consider starting a visit to Colonial Williamsburg at the visitor center, which includes an informational film as well as an orientation walk.
College of William and Mary
The College of William and Mary is the second oldest college in the United States. The buildings on the campus are in stunning condition. A stroll across the beautiful campus provides you with exposure to living history. Throughout the year, visitors to the College of William and Mary can take advantage of a variety of arts, cultural, and historical events. The best way to really take in the resplendent campus is to embark on a self-guided walking tour.
Jamestown Settlement
The Jamestown Settlement was founded in 1620 when the first settlers arrived. Today, Jamestown Settlement provides an amazing opportunity for people to take in a truly well-maintained historic site. Jamestown includes historians on the property, dressed in authentic period costumes. These historians are pleased to answer questions and provide information about the site. The indoor gallery features a 30-minute documentary film and various exhibits. These materials present the lives of the settlers, Powhatan Indians, and African slaves that once resided in the settlement.
Westover Plantation
Westover Plantation is nestled on the banks of the James River. The plantation is regarded as one of the finest examples of Georgian architecture. The main house at the Westover Plantation was constructed in 1730 by William Byrd. Byrd is the man who founded Richmond, Virginia. Burial grounds are also found on plantation property. The burial grounds include the third oldest tombstone in the United States, belonging to Captain William Perry. The plantation also features a stunning boxwood garden as well as ancient tulip poplars. The main house at Westover Plantation is only open to the public during Virginia Garden Week. Virginia Garden Week is at the end of April
Belle Aire Plantation
The expansive plantation residence is open appointment only for groups of 20 or more. Having noted this, if you are not part of group, consider calling the plantation to arrange to tag along with a scheduled group. The plantation residence was built in 1650. The plantation also features gorgeous gardens. The gardens are also open throughout the year for tours by appointment. During Virginia Garden Week during April each year, the house and grounds are open to the general public without appointments.
Edgewood Plantation
Yet another historic site and plantation worth visiting in Williamsburg is Edgewood Plantation. The stunning 7,000 square foot Gothic Revival residence is said to home to a “broken-hearted ghost. Today, it is open for tours and is a bed and breakfast. Tours can be scheduled by appointment. Tours require groups of at least 10 people. Edgewood is a particularly popular place to visit during the wintertime holiday season. The mansion presents more than 15 Victorian Christmas trees throughout the residence during the holidays.
North Bend Plantation
North Bend Plantation is considered one of the best-preserved Greek Revival homes in the south. The plantation was the residence of the sister of President William Henry Harrison. The property currently is operated as a gracious bed and breakfast. Tours in the day and evening are available at North Bend by appointment. No appointment is necessary to tour the grounds at North Bend Plantation. Tours are on the honor system with collection boxes located on the property for the $2 tour charge.
Bassett Hall
Bassett Hall doesn’t have a history that dates back to the Colonial days. Nonetheless, it is one of the most popular destinations in Williamsburg. Bassett Hall was the residence of John D. Rockefeller, Jr., and his wife Abby. The residence provides a look at stylish decorating gracious living in the 1930s and 1940s. Abby Rockefeller called Bassett Hall her “dream of dreams home.”
Kimball Theatre
A lovely venue, the Kimball Theatre is the place to visit while in Williamsburg to take in a historic property. In addition, throughout the year, Kimball Theatre presents live performances of different types, including plays. In addition, the theatre hosts an array of local events and presents feature films of different types, including classic motion pictures.
Colonial Taverns
Throughout Williamsburg are a number of historic taverns that populate the city. These taverns date back to the 18th century. At the top of the list of historic taverns in Williamsburg are:
- King’s Arms Tavern
- Chowning’s Tavern
- Shield’s Tavern
Williamsburg is one of the most interesting, compelling locations in all of the United States. With all of the historic sites in the city, a visit to Williamsburg can be a once in a lifetime experience. If you want to take in all of the major historic sites in Williamsburg, plan on spending several days in the city.
