Williamsburg, Virginia, is not a dusty page out of a colonial history book — at all!

While the city whispers stories of America’s beginnings from its red-brick rooftops, it seamlessly marries the old and the modern.

Where else can you walk the same streets as Thomas Jefferson in the morning? Then fly down a 74-foot drop coaster in the afternoon and sip wine by sunset?

People come to Williamsburg for different reasons, though. It could be a family vacation with a bit more substance, a weekend escape rooted in culture, or the thrill of experiencing something genuine. 

Whichever… What keeps them coming back is that this town refuses to be one-dimensional. It’s for anyone who wants an experience that has meaning, unforgettable layers, and is fun.

So, planning to visit? Here are 7 must-see attractions in Williamsburg, VA, and how to experience them properly.

2. Colonial Williamsburg

For a view and experience of a historic site that feels like a movie with actors who never break character, Colonial Williamsburg is your go-to attraction in Williamsburg, VA. 

Blacksmiths hammer away, tavern keepers serve ale in pewter mugs, and costumed interpreters debate liberty like it’s 1776.

The scene is set just right over 300 acres of original and reconstructed buildings. These bring you face-to-face with what life was like on the eve of revolution.

There are reenactments and guided tours usually begin in the late morning hours. If you can catch an evening ghost tour, do it—adds that eerie, thrilling layer of realism.

However you choose to experience Colonial Williamsburg, you are in for active history. You even become a part of the story.

Cost:

$31.50 for a one-day ticket for adults, $9 for children (6-12 years), and FREE for children under 6. Annual passes and multi-day options available.

2. Water Country USA

Ready to break from powdered wigs and corset lacing? Head to Water Country USA, Virginia’s largest water park. It’s the summer antidote to all that warm Virginia sun.

Slides like the “Cutback Water Coaster” and wave pools will make you question whether you are still on the East Coast.

Water Country USA is one of those attractions in Williamsburg, VA, capturing the essence of a whole summer. It’s no wonder the moving experts Williamsburg, VA offers recommend it as a first stop for families settling into the area.

There’s a solid mix of kid-friendly areas and adrenaline-pumping activities for adults. Kiddie areas like H20 UFO keep the kids entertained, and for the weary parents? Private cabanas and lazy rivers await your presence.

Weekdays in the summer, before noon, are among the best times to visit for the optimal experience. The lines are shorter, and the water’s just right.

Cost:

$35.99 – $60, depending on date, booking, and special packages like dining. Kids under 3 are FREE.

3. Governor’s Palace

Virginia’s royal governors once called the Governor’s Palace home.

Built in 1722 and rebuilt after a fire, this stately home was the symbol of authority, and later, defiance. The palace features adorned rooms, expansive gardens, and a foyer that houses swords as wall décor.

Best to visit in the late afternoon hours. The sunlight streaming into the formal gardens makes for magical photos, and there’s less crowding indoors.

The palace represents a nation on the brink of collapse. It’s torn between loyalty to the crown and the yearning for freedom.

Plus, it’s a rare chance to see what colonial luxury looked like.

Cost:

$31.50 for a one-day ticket for adults, $9 for children (6-12 years), and FREE for children under 6.

4. Busch Gardens Williamsburg

If you crave a slice of Europe right on American soil, Busch Gardens understands the assignment. There are small villages themed after Scotland, England, France, and Germany.

The German village comes complete with pretzels and beer, while the Scottish hamlet with bagpipes registers their signature presence.

Visiting during Spring or Fall, when temperatures are perfect, is ideal. There are also seasonal events like Howl-O-Scream and Christmas Town that transform the park.

Many people love this place for rides like “Pantheon.” It’s the world’s fastest multi-launch coaster, delivering thrills and boasting genuine beauty. 

Cost:

$49.99 for a single-day ticket.

5. Williamsburg Winery

What’s a 300-acre farm dedicated to wine like? Find out at Williamsburg Winery.

Founded in 1985, this winery produces award-winning vintages. It’s one of the attractions in Williamsburg, VA, that honors Virginia’s deep wine-making roots.

The best experiences often happen in the late afternoon into early evening. These times are the perfect golden hour for a wine flight and charcuterie board under the trees.

Williamsburg Winery hits the spot for its blend of rustic elegance and old-world appeal.

So… go for the Grand Illumination red, stay for the charming on-site restaurant (Gabriel Archer Tavern), and tour the cellar if you can!

Cost:

Tastings range from $18 to $25, while guided tours incur an additional cost. Dining and bottle purchases vary in cost and are available on-site.

6. Jamestown Glasshouse

Near the Historic Jamestowne, the Jamestown Glasshouse is one of those Williamsburg, VA, attractions that’s equal parts educational and mesmerizing.

…costumed artisans use 17th-century techniques to blow glass in real time. 

Upon visiting, you will feel the heat and hear the whoosh of the furnace. It’s a prime opportunity to see how glass transforms into pitchers, vases, and ornaments.

Unlike anything else, this stop is hypnotic. Kids and adults are entranced by the ancient techniques and beautiful final products. Of course, these products are available for purchase.

Visiting on cooler days when the furnace feels like a cozy fireside is recommended. You don’t want to feel like you entered a blast furnace.

Cost:

$30 for adults (16+), $5 for kids aged 6-15, and FREE for children under 5.

7. Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum

If you think folk art is boring, think again. The Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum is the place for the unexpected. 

You will see carved animals, weather vanes, vivid quilts, and portraits. Its collection rivals that of the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, one of the attractions near Williamsburg, VA.

The folk art here is deeply human. It doesn’t take itself too seriously, yet it has a history with heart and color. It’s the kind of museum that brings art to life.

Best to go Midday, at that time when your feet need a break and your brain needs a visual feast.

Cost:

FREE

Conclusion: 7 Stops Down — Countless Left to Discover

What makes Williamsburg tick is its ability to surprise you. You come expecting powdered wigs and walk away with wine tastings, thrilling coasters, and glass-blown art. 

Each of these attractions offers something different, and it’s not just in activity, but in the feeling it evokes. That’s key.

• If you want to feel awe? Visit the Governor’s Palace.
• Need thrills? Busch Gardens is right there.
• In the mood for introspection? The Folk Art Museum will stir your soul.

It doesn’t even matter whether you are traveling with kids, a partner, or flying solo; Williamsburg will find a way to speak to you.

So go on and get down from the fence. Let the attractions in Williamsburg, VA, rewrite your idea of what a “historic town” can be.