Colonial Williamsburg : A Family Day Trip

Richmonders are fortunate to have the largest living museum in the world, Colonial Williamsburg only about 1 hour and 20 minutes away. Williamsburg is a great day trip for Richmond families.

Offering a hands-on, educational experiences focusing on 18th-century life unlike any other, Colonial Williamsburg is a must-do for RVA families.

Although our family has traveled to Williamsburg several times, we had never experienced all CW has to offer until our most recent visit, as it was our first time with tickets that allowed us access to all the historic sites, art museums, gardens, shows and more.

In the past, we had hesitated on tickets because we simply did not know if there would be enough attractions to hold the attention of our 3 and 7 year old. Our trip proved that there is more than enough for young children. So much so, that we truly could not fit it all in during our one day trip.

Colonial Williamsburg Itinerary

Our first stop was the Visitor’s Center to get our passes, a map and helpful info from the registration desk. Just entering the Visitor’s Center gets travelers geared up to travel back to colonial times. Yes, I totally embarrassed my family by purchasing and wearing a tri-cornered hat!

Having a ticket for Colonial Williamsburg allows you to park for free at the Visitor’s Center and use the shuttle throughout the day. The shuttle takes ticket holders from the Visitor’s Center straight to Colonial Williamsburg, or patrons may choose to walk .3 miles. Before leaving, be sure to watch the short movie to set the tone for the day!

I am thankful we chose to walk because the beautiful bridge to the historic area started lots of meaningful conversations with our children about various times in history. This timeline works its way backward so upon arriving in Williamsburg, you’ve read about various significant moments in American history.

You’re bound to encounter animals like these cows in Colonial Williamsburg. Photo credit: Lindsay Garrison

Upon arriving in the historic area, we were able to see two horses – one just a colt! A friendly volunteer explained that the horses were Cleveland Bay, a breed that began in the 17th century.

Children are welcome to pet the horses. Neigh-less to say (see what I did there?!), the kids loved these sweet animals and all the others we encountered during our visit.

Governor’s Palace at Colonial Williamsburg. Photo credit: Lindsay Garrison

Up next was the Governor’s Palace, but the best part for our kids was actually behind it. A stunning hedge maze confused, entertained and challenged the kids while we cheered them on from up above the Ice Box.

With a little encouragement and direction, they made it out. Adjacent to the hedge maze we picnicked in the shady area at the Governor’s Palace Stage.

Could you find your way in and out of this hedge maze behind the governor’s palace at Colonial Williamsburg? Photo credit: Lindsay Garrison

With each turn and new place, we were greeted with a new garden to admire. Further down Duke of Gloucester, we took a tour of the Wythe House. Home of George Wythe, a teacher of Thomas Jefferson, this ornately decorated home is reminiscent of the Wilton House in Richmond.

Colonial Williamsburg Guided Tour

The guided tour, although brief, is informative and includes the backyard garden with chickens. We continued to be most impressed by the knowledgeable, patient and enthusiastic interpreters who answered every question of our young children.

Wythe House at Colonial Williamsburg. Photo credit: Lindsay Garrison

By this time, we were astounded by how much time had passed. We truly were enjoying ourselves so much we nearly missed lunch. Fortunately, our kids were able to remind us!

Colonial Williamsburg Dining

Heading straight down Duke of Gloucester we found ourselves at the Cheese Shop, a popular sandwich shop for both locals and tourists. Grabbing a table outside and placing our order online was a smooth, easy process.

Classic toys and historical objects at the museums at Colonial Williamsburg. Photo credit: Lindsay Garrison

Colonial Williamsburg Museums

Next up was the Art Museums, both the Dewitt Decorative Arts Museum and the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museums are kid friendly. Not only a great place to cool off in the air conditioning, the museums offer a scavenger hunt for kids with a prize upon completion.

Our family also especially enjoyed the toys exhibit as well as the paintings and explanations of questions we had pondered for years.

A phenomenal part of Colonial Williamsburg for us was that the lives of many different types of people are shared. During our visit we visited the American Indian Encampment and learned about the religious heritage of Africans and their Virginian ancestors at the African American Religion Exhibit.

We were so tied up with the exhibits and tours, we missed our chance to see a performance at the Charlton Stage as we had originally intended. See, Colonial Williamsburg definitely requires more than one day!

As we strolled back to the Visitor’s Center, we retraced our way through history with inspiring names like Rosa Parks, Louis Armstrong and John F. Kennedy.

Closing out our trip is the last Nation Maker plaque that reads, “Your Name Here. What Difference Will you Make?”. A perfect way to conclude our historically inspiring day.

Colonial Williamsburg is located at 301 S. Nassau Street Williamsburg, VA 23185.

Lindsay Garrison, your RVA on the Cheap editor

Lindsay Garrison loves Richmond and is proud to raise her own family here. As a teacher for 12 years, she learned how to save, budget and stretch every penny. Additionally, she led groups of students to Europe annually, and took great pride in planning affordable, fun-filled trips. She transferred those skills to her daily life and shares them with readers of RVA on the Cheap. Lindsay utilizes RVA on the Cheap to make enriching life experiences accessible to all. Check her instagram: rva.familyfun for more affordable family adventures!

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