Homeschool families, join us each spring and fall for special Homeschool Days to experience revolutionary educational opportunities. Get your special homeschool discounted admission tickets here, then in this itinerary, we’ll help you get the most out of your visit.
Get ready to experience the living, breathing 18th-century colonial capital. A mile long and half a mile wide, the Historic Area boasts historic sites, trades people practicing 18th-century techniques, rare animal breeds, and so much more. Discover our two world-class art museums with thousands of objects on display. Meet the people who bring history to life at programs and events throughout the day.
Planning ahead is key to getting the most out of your visit. We’re sharing our tips on what to do during a visit, whether you’re here for one day or two.
Hit the Favorites
Visit Tradespeople
Allow 20-30 minutes in each location to ask questions and learn from the skilled craftspeople.
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Historic Trade: Tailor
Interact with the tailors as they clothe 18th-century Americans.
CW Admission
Handicap Accessible
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Historic Trade: Wheelwright
Watch our skilled tradesmen construct and repair historical vehicles.
CW Admission
Handicap Accessible
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Historic Trade: Shoemaker
Trace the steps of this time-honored trade as the shoemakers reveal tools and techniques.
CW Admission
Plan Your Meals
Savor historically inspired and contemporary creative cuisine.
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Chowning's Tavern
Cheers to Tradition
Open to the Public
Handicap Accessible
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King's Arms Tavern
A Refined Chophouse Experience - Reservations Recommended for Dinner
Open to the Public
Handicap Accessible
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Raleigh Tavern Bakery
Gingerbread Cakes and Other Favorites
Open to the Public
Handicap Accessible
Meet a Nation Builder
Time and again, our fans suggest spending time with our Nation Builders. From Thomas Jefferson to the Marquis de Lafayette, any opportunity to learn from these engaging and knowledgeable interpreters is a win.
Learn MoreSee a Performance
Check out a whimsical outdoor play or see what’s showing in the Hennage Auditorium at the Art Museums for great entertainment while you rest your legs.
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Conversation: Meet a Nation Builder
Find a Nation Builder, a significant figure of 18th-century Williamsburg, around Palace Green for some informal conversation.
Open to the Public
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Special Event: Lights of Freedom
Celebrate the words and music of the American Revolution, culminating in a grand fireworks display at 9:30 p.m. above the Governor's Palace.
Open to the Public
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Music: Fife & Drum
Watch and listen to the Fifes and Drums as they demonstrate the music and drill of various military ceremonies from an 18th-century soldier's working day.
Open to the Public
Visit the Art Museums
In addition to the world’s largest living history museum, two hidden gems await in the Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg. The Dewitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum features objects that are useful as well as beautiful, while you can find bold and imaginative pieces made by untrained artists at the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum.
Learn MoreStay with Us!
Planning to be here a few days? Enjoy special homeschool family discounts at our official Colonial Williamsburg hotels. Located within and surrounding the Historic Area, you can’t find accommodations closer to all the action.
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