Colonial Williamsburg & Shopping

Description

Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

Colonial Williamsburg. The very name conjures up visions of a town born at the very beginning of America's quest for independence. For 80 years, Williamsburg was the political center of Virginia and one of England's largest, wealthiest, and most populous colonies. Relive a bit of its colonial history during this six-hour and forty-five minute excursion that not only features the perfect overview to the town's finest attractions but also offers you a chance to shop for keepsakes.

Be sure to wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes and don't forget to bring a camera to capture the day's fun. From the pier you'll head north out of the city for a one-hour ride toward Virginia's Historic Peninsula. Sit back and relax as you drive over the waterway known as Hampton Roads, one of the world's largest natural harbors. Tucked inside the colonial district of the modern city of Williamsburg – the nation's largest living history museum – is a landmark on the National Register of Historic Places. Once you arrive in Colonial Williamsburg, you'll immediately feel as if you've been transported to another time.

You'll embark on a leisurely 90-minute walking tour with your guide. Sprawled across 301 acres, Williamsburg includes charming, stately and original 18th century structures including hundreds of houses, shops and public outbuildings, many of which are reconstructed on their original foundations. Take photos of costumed actors playing the part of shopkeepers, townsfolk, soldiers, and others as they work and play in the nation's largest living history museum. As you make your way through the cobbled streets you'll learn that Williamsburg was established in 1633 as a defensive outpost against Native American Indian invasion. By 1699, Virginia's General Assembly decreed that the young city would become the capital of the Virginia Colony.

Shopping was just as fun and important in the 18th century as it is today so you'll head over to Merchants Square for some browsing and buying. Located on Duke of Gloucester Street, Merchants Square boasts over 40 shops, a number of restaurants and an art gallery. Feel free to shop, grab a bite or take photos and window shop.

As you stroll along Duke of Gloucester Street, you may be surprised to learn that this picturesque boulevard, Williamsburg's main thoroughfare, began life as an ancient Indian trail and today, you'll be walking in the footsteps of Patrick Henry, James Madison, George and Martha Washington, Thomas and Martha Jefferson.

At the completion of this invigorating day, you'll return to port with a camera filled with beautiful and exciting historical memories to share.

Special Notes:

Wear sturdy, comfortable walking shoes. Lunch is not provided but refreshments and snacks are available for purchase in Williamsburg. Admission tickets to exhibition buildings are not included.

Child Price:

12 & under reduced