Williamsburg is one of the most charming cities in the Nation. Throughout its rich history, it has somehow retained the culture and style of the 1800s. The entire city is filled with beautiful parks and stunning buildings and you feel as though youve arrived at a European city. But alas, youve saved the cost of the airfare and can enjoy the charm right in the United States. Together with Williamsburg, Jamestown and Yorktown create the Historic Triangle. Step back in time and enjoy the sites of the charming Williamsburg.
Williamsburg is filled with many historic sites. The College of William and Mary is a public university with an Ivy League status. Established in 1693, its the second oldest in the nation. Its truly a beautiful building. The Bruton Parish Episcopal Church opened in 1715 and is considered one of the oldest Episcopal churches in the United States. Some of its more famous parishioners include President Washington and President Jefferson. The surrounding churchyard serves as a burial ground. As odd as it might be, its quite interesting to visit the 18th century tombstones. And for those interested in folk art, youll want to visit the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Center, known for its impressive collection.
Its most famous though is the Colonial Williamsburg. Its the nations oldest, and largest, outdoor living museum. There are over 500 reconstructed buildings that have been restored to what they would have looked like before the American Revolution. Youll see hundreds of locals in period costumes stroll along the cobblestone streets and be able to enjoy the many events and festivals held here throughout the year. Make sure you give yourself plenty of time to explore this mini city.
Jamestown was founded in 1607. The Jamestown Festival Park features three replicas of the ships that arrived with the Jamestown settlers back in 1607, the same year the town was founded. Its quite a site to see the Susan Constant, Godspeed and Discovery all moored at the pier. The Yorktown Battlefield was the site of the final battle where the British surrendered and independence was won. Visitors can walk the same path as George Washington and see where the important events occurred.
Need a break from all that history? Williamsburg has got a great outlet for you to just let loose. Make your way to Busch Gardens. This fantastic amusement park has held on to the history showcased throughout Williamsburg. Set in the 17th century, youll feel like youre strolling through a quaint European town, except that there are people screaming with joy as they spin, twirl, drop and zoom on the many rides here. Spreading across 100 acres, there are enough rides here to entertain you for a long time. Theres also a huge Anheuser-Busch brewery close to Williamsburg thats open for tours and even a few taste tests.
For those who love adventure, youd think that Busch Gardens is a major drawing card to visit Williamsburg. And if you were a history buff, the Colonial Williamsburg would be reason enough to come. But you would be mistaken. Although there are many wonderful historic sites, beautiful parks and of course Busch Gardens, its actually the shopping that draws people here. The Historic Triangle has a total of 150 outlet stores. The most visited, in fact one of the top tourist attractions in all of Virginia, is the Williamsburg Pottery Factory. Spreading over 200 acres and filling 32 buildings, this outlet mall is filled to the brim with fantastic deals and amazing stores. Although it opened in 1938, the Pottery Factory has kept up with the times to give you the best bang for your buck on the latest trends.
History, shopping, rides, shopping, beautiful scenery and shopping. The charming city of Williamsburg really does have it all.
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| Yorktown, Virginia | 11.1 miles from Williamsburg | 5 hotels |
| Gloucester, Virginia | 14.1 miles from Williamsburg | 1 hotels |
| Newport News, Virginia | 21.4 miles from Williamsburg | 30 hotels |
| Irvington, Virginia | 31.4 miles from Williamsburg | 1 hotels |
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