Between its incredible history and wild adventures, a Colonial Williamsburg family trip turns out amazing for Claire Zlobin and her family.
Governor’s Palace, Colonial Williamsburg
There are few destinations where you can walk the same streets as America’s founding fathers in the morning and be flying through treetops or zipping down a waterslide by afternoon. Our Colonial Williamsburg family trip was the perfect blend of education, adventure, and culinary exploration. The kids not only soaked up centuries of history, they had an absolute blast doing it.
Norton Palace, Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia
Step into the 18th Century on a Colonial Williamsburg family trip
Colonial Williamsburg is the world’s largest living history museum, and it’s where history truly comes alive.
Costumed interpreters fill the streets, working in trade shops, tending gardens, and telling the stories of the people—free and enslaved—who shaped America’s early years. Our guided walking tour with Trish, a master storyteller and local historian, made history engaging and accessible for the kids. She effortlessly blended facts with fun, even ensuring we stayed shaded and hydrated on a hot summer day.
The carriage ride was a highlight, giving us a peaceful tour of the Historic Area in a horse-drawn carriage. Meanwhile, Merchants Square, with over 40 boutique shops and eateries, was the perfect stop for a sweet treat and a dose of modern-day charm nestled in colonial beauty.
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Blacksmith Forge, Jamestown Settlement, Virginia
Don’t miss the living history lessons at Jamestown & Yorktown
A short drive away, we dove deeper into America’s past:
- At Jamestown Settlement, the kids explored recreated ships, a Powhatan village, and a colonial fort. They learned about the first English settlers, the Powhatan people, and the complex story of the first Africans brought to Virginia in 1619.
- At the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown, they were captivated by live musket demonstrations, a recreated Continental Army encampment, and a working colonial farm. The immersive 180-degree film, The Siege of Yorktown, brought the revolution to life in a way no textbook ever could.
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Le Scoot Log Flume, Busch Gardens, Colonial Williamsburg
Add Busch Gardens to your Colonial Williamsburg family trip
The history lessons were balanced with plenty of excitement at Busch Gardens Williamsburg, where roller coasters, animal encounters, and live shows kept us entertained all day. This isn’t just a thrill park—it’s also one of the most beautiful theme parks in the world.
Next door, about a 9 minute drive, Water Country USA was a refreshing way to cool off. The kids loved the epic water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers, and we appreciated the easy navigation with the park’s app. Whether you’re into wild rides or gentle splashes, there’s something for everyone.
Head high above the trees at Go Ape!
If your family craves more adventure, don’t miss Go Ape! Zipline & Treetop Adventure. It was an exhilarating way to experience the Virginia forest. With rope obstacles, ziplines, and even a forest escape challenge, it was a fun and confidence-building activity for the older kids—and adults too!
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Pierce’s Pitt Bar-B-Que, Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia
Where to eat with kids on a Colonial Williamsburg family trip
We didn’t just eat during this trip—we feasted our way through Williamsburg. Some standout spots included:
- A Virginia tradition since 1971, Pierce’s Pitt Bar-B-Que joint is a must-stop. The pit-smoked meats, legendary sauce, and family-run atmosphere made for the perfect casual lunch.
- Craft 31 is a culinary gem offering gourmet burgers, a craft beer selection, a raw bar, and their signature “bottoms up” pizza. It’s a unique, crowd-pleasing experience that hit the spot after a full day of adventure.
- Located in a historic bank, this DoG Street Pub is a gastropub that combines simple, excellent food with a global beer menu that satisfies both adventurous and classic palates.
- James Landing Grille At Kingsmill Resort, this riverside restaurant delivered fresh, regional seafood with stunning views of the James River. A perfect date-night spot—or a relaxing family dinner.
- Once frequented by George Washington himself, Christiana Campbell’s Tavern serves up crab cakes, spoon bread, and conversation in a cozy, colonial setting.
- Food For Thought is equal parts intellectual and delicious, this family-friendly restaurant sparks conversation with décor celebrating great thinkers and discussion cards on every table.
- Known for its fresh lunch fare and decadent cakes, Carrot Tree Kitchen is a charming spot made for a delightful mid-day stop.
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The Estate at Kingsmill, Colonial Williamsburg
Where to stay with kids in Colonial Williamsburg
Tucked along the James River within Kingsmill Resort, the Cottages on the James offered the perfect home base. These luxurious, beautifully designed cottages gave us space to spread out, unwind, and enjoy resort amenities like golf, tennis, spa services, and marina activities. With panoramic river views and access to fine dining, we couldn’t have asked for a better blend of comfort and convenience.
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George Wythe House, Colonial Williamsburg
You’ll never forget this Colonial Williamsburg family trip
Colonial Williamsburg gave our kids the opportunity to experience history, not just learn about it. And as parents, we loved how the area balanced hands-on education with high-energy fun, nature, and phenomenal food. Whether we were exploring a Revolutionary battlefield, laughing through a splashdown at Water Country, or enjoying a quiet sunset over the James River, every moment felt intentional and unforgettable.
If you’re looking for a destination that blends culture, learning, and adventure with family bonding, put Colonial Williamsburg on your list. It’s a trip your kids won’t forget—and neither will you.
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