What type of vacation do you enjoy? Do you love learning about the nation’s past through historical attractions? Or do you prefer to spend your days at an amusement park? These experiences and more can be found in Williamsburg, Virginia. In this RV Trader Travel Spotlight, we’ll go over everything you need to know about visiting Williamsburg.
Williamsburg, Virginia History
Williamsburg’s history dates back centuries, when the city was founded as the capital of the Virginia Colony in 1699. During this time, Williamsburg became one of America’s first planned cities. Conversations about politics, religion, the economy, and other societal matters filled the streets, with residents and visitors such as Thomas Jefferson, James Monroe, and George Washington.
Things to Do in Williamsburg
While the Revolutionary happenings in Williamsburg are integral to America’s history, today’s city is known as a family-friendly destination with something for every type of vacationer to see and do.
Colonial Williamsburg
Colonial Williamsburg transports you and your family back in time to America’s beginnings. Listen as our nation’s leaders discuss ideas of independence and a revolution and speak with the historical interpreters dressed in colonial garb. Watch as blacksmiths forge recreated weapons to supply the armies during the Revolutionary War. Hear the Fifes and Drums march down Duke of Gloucester Street, and have a bite to eat at Christiana Campbell’s Tavern which was George Washington’s favorite place for seafood.
Colonial Williamsburg is the largest outdoor living museum in the country. This award-winning historical attraction offers a hands-on approach to American history through guided and self-guided tours, costumed interpreters, art exhibits, and so much more.
Parking is available throughout Colonial Williamsburg’s historic area. There are also shuttles that conveniently depart from the Colonial Williamsburg Visitors Center, with ample parking for RVs. If you decide to drive your camper around the historic area, pay attention to road signs. Not all of Colonial Williamsburg’s paved roadways are accessible by vehicle.
Busch Gardens Williamsburg
Busch Gardens Williamsburg offers both adrenaline-pumping thrills and family-friendly fun. Whether you’re a kid or kid at heart, Busch Gardens has rides, events, and entertainment through all four seasons.
Face hair-raising twists and stomach-turning drops on one of the many rides and roller coasters. Sing and dance to live entertainment performed within the park. Little ones will love seeing their favorite characters in the Sesame Street® Forest of Fun™.
Whenever you’re in town, be sure to check the events calendar to see what’s happening at Busch Gardens. Annual events include Summer Nights, Howl-O-Scream, and the award-winning Busch Gardens Christmas Town.
Busch Gardens has several parking lots, but the England lot is designated for oversized vehicles, such as RVs.
Visiting Williamsburg over the summer? Cool off at nearby Water Country USA, Virginia’s largest family water park. Make a splash on a water slide or simply unwind as you float along the lazy river.
Explore a Local Park
Amusement parks aren’t the only parks in Williamsburg. Hike, bike, and kayak your way around Williamsburg by visiting one of the many scenic parks. Here are a few of our favorites:
- Chickahominy Riverfront Park
- Freedom Park
- Jamestown Beach Event Park
- Powhatan Creek Park
- Waller Mill Park
You can also explore more of Williamsburg’s natural surroundings without leaving the comfort of your Class A motorhome. The Colonial Parkway, part of the Colonial National Historical Park, is 23 miles connecting Williamsburg to neighboring Jamestown and Yorktown. Pull off the parkway, adjacent to the York and James Rivers, for biking, fishing, and sightseeing along this National Scenic Byway.
If you’re really looking to take a break from being on the road, walk or bike the Virginia Capital Trail, extending from Jamestown and Williamsburg to Richmond. This 52-mile trail travels along the scenic Route 5 corridor and features many historic sites, with opportunities to hop off and traverse other local attractions.
Go Shopping
In addition to history, Williamsburg is also known for its array of shopping options. From locally owned shops and bakeries in Merchants Square to the more than 100 brand-name stores at the Williamsburg Premium Outlets, you’ll be able to indulge in some retail therapy. Just make sure you have room in your camper for all of your new purchases.
Best Time to Visit Williamsburg
Williamsburg has plenty to do year-round, so there’s never a bad time of year to visit. Spring and fall are the most ideal because temperatures are more moderate and crowds are lighter. Cruising down the Colonial Parkway in springs offers the sights of flowers in bloom, while fall boasts picture-worthy foliage.
However, Williamsburg has a relatively mild climate, so don’t be afraid to visit during the winter, when the city glows with holiday lights. Summer generally has the largest crowds, with vacationers flocking from around the country to visit the historic city.
Where to Camp and Park Your RV in Williamsburg
Need a place to park your motorhome or unhitch your travel trailer while you explore Williamsburg? There are full hookup campgrounds for you to make your homebase when you visit, such as American Heritage RV Park and Williamsburg KOA. Anvil Campground even offers shuttle service to and from local attractions, so you can leave your tow vehicle behind.
Chickahominy Riverfront Park also has RV camping if you’d like to stay closer to nature. Reservations are recommended for this campsite, situated along the Chickahominy and James Rivers.
What’s Near Williamsburg, Virginia
Williamsburg, along with nearby Jamestown and Yorktown, make up the Historic Triangle—the birthplace of American Democracy. Much like Williamsburg, Jamestown and Yorktown offer something for every type of traveler.
Dive into more of America’s history at Jamestown Settlement, Historic Jamestowne, Yorktown Battlefield, and the American Revolution at Yorktown. Take a waterfront stroll along Yorktown’s Riverwalk Landing, which is home to a weekly farmer’s market, live music, and other local events.
If you decide to spend more than a day in Yorktown or Jamestown, you’ll find plenty of RV parks and campgrounds in the area, as well as nearby Newport News. You can also take the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry south to Surry County and tour even more of Virginia.
While Williamsburg, Virginia is a favorite for history buffs, the Greater Williamsburg area is garnering a national reputation for all of its attractions and activities. No matter what you do, an RV vacation to Williamsburg is sure to be one for the history books.
Have you taken your RV to Williamsburg, Virginia? Share any tips you have in the comments section below. And, if you’re looking for a camper for your next road trip, browse the nationwide inventory of new and used RVs for sale on RVTrader.com.
