Ultimate Guide for Williamsburg, VA with Kids (2025)

Written By Colleen

Things to Do in Williamsburg with Kids

“Williamsburg was ‘the finest school of manners and morals that ever existed in America.”
— Thomas Jefferson
Family in front of Colonial Williamsburg court house. Horse and buggy in foreground.

"Colonial Williamsburg Courthouse" by Mobilus In Mobili CC BY-SA 2.0.

What if your next family vacation could take you back in time and launch you into the sky—all in the same week? Welcome to Williamsburg, Virginia, where the stories of early America come to life with costumed interpreters, colonial villages, and centuries-old battlefields… right before you trade history for high-speed thrills at a world-class amusement park. There are so many things to do in Williamsburg with kids!

One day, you're chatting with a blacksmith in Colonial Williamsburg; the next, you're plunging down a roller coaster at Busch Gardens or drifting through lazy rivers at Water Country USA. From hands-on history to adrenaline-pumping rides, nature escapes, and sweet treats, Williamsburg is a destination where the past and present collide for unforgettable, kid-friendly fun.

So far, our family has traveled to 14 countries across three different continents. We've seen some incredible landscapes, historical monuments, and iconic landmarks. That said, Williamsburg, VA, is still one of our all-time favorite places to visit. Both Kevin and I visited as kids, and we've taken our kids countless times over the past few decades!

When we roll into town, it's like arriving at the home of a treasured old friend. Everything is familiar and comfortable, yet never ceases to make us smile as we check into our favorite hotel and prepare to visit all our favorite places.

We know you're going to love it too! Here’s everything you need to know to make Williamsburg, VA, the next epic adventure for your whole family.

 
 

This historic area isn't just home to Colonial Williamsburg; it's a trifecta of early American history. It's perfect for curious kids and history-loving parents, and it’s one of the best ways to learn about the early settlers who called America home long before the Revolutionary War, the establishment of our government, and the US Constitution. The Historic Triangle includes three distinct early English settlements where guests of all ages can visit historical landmarks and learn about the rich history of our country.

If history is on your agenda, several combined ticket options can provide you with entry to multiple historical sites for one price during your stay. America's Historic Triangle Ticket grants you access to Jamestown Settlement, Historic Jamestowne, Colonial Williamsburg, Yorktown Battlefield, and the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown. Kids 5 and under are FREE!

Colonial Williamsburg 

Colonial Williamsburg is perhaps the most well-known early English settlement in the region. One of the most popular attractions here is the world's largest living history museum, featuring costumed interpreters who interact with visitors, demonstrating the way of life from the 18th century. Visitors can observe and interact with blacksmiths, bookbinders, brickmakers, carpenters, cooks, and other skilled artisans. These people aren't just actors playing a role. They are world-renowned experts who make goods, offer services, and provide consultation to cultural institutions worldwide.


Click on photo to enlarge and see descriptions.

 

In all, the historic area includes 89 original 18th-century buildings and hundreds more that have been painstakingly reconstructed. While many of these buildings can be explored independently, others require a guide to tour. Guided sites include the Governor's Palace, George Wythe House, the Courthouse, and the Capitol building.

One of the most popular guided tours is the Colonial History Guided Walking Tour. The tour is 105 minutes and is only $25 per person.

For those more adventurous, you can take a popular ghost tour through Colonial Williamsburg! A highly recommended experience!

 

Insider Tip: Ghost tours sell out fast during peak seasons (especially October), so reserve early!

 

Located adjacent to Colonial Williamsburg is Merchants Square, a popular destination for shopping and dining. Access to Merchants Square does not require a ticket, and it's one of our favorite places to spend time on each visit to Williamsburg. From the Cheese Shop (our favorite place to grab a sandwich) to toy stores, wine shops, candy shops, and souvenir shops, local merchants offer a wide range of delicious and fun things. For more detailed information or to purchase tickets, visit Colonial Williamsburg.

Historic Jamestowne

This is the site of the first permanent English settlement in early America. The town dates back to 1607 when a group of 104 London entrepreneurs set sail for North America with instructions to build a settlement. They landed on Jamestown Island on May 14, 1607. They established a town that they named after their King, James I.

Life wasn't easy for those first settlers. They had a complex relationship with the Native Americans. They initially coexisted with the local Powhatans, relying on them for food and survival with a slightly uneasy system of trade. As England sought to expand its hold on land and resources, tension increased. Settlers found themselves under attack and unprepared for the harsh winter. Over the next several years, the settlers battled disease and famine, as well as the growing hostility and breakdown of communication and trust.

History buffs likely know that peace and prosperity didn't come to the settlement until the wedding of Pocahontas, daughter of Chief Powhatan, to tobacco grower John Rolfe. Despite the initial peace brought by the marriage, a surprise attack by the Powhatan tribe in 1622 killed 1/3 of the colony and was the catalyst for the king to take control.

General admission to Historic Jamestowne is $15 for visitors 16 years of age and older for the National Park Service portion and an additional $15 for the Jamestown Rediscovery portion. Children 15 and under are free for the National Park Service portion, and kids 6–15 are only $5 at the Jamestown Rediscovery portion. Check the website to learn about the schedule for the week you're visiting and determine what you want to see and do.

 

Insider Tip:  If you hold a National Park pass, you'll be eligible for reduced admission!

 

The Jamestown Settlement is a museum that tells the story of 17th-century Virginia history. You'll have access to immersive films, exhibits, and re-creations. You can even explore a life-size recreation of an early 17th-century fort or board a ship modeled after those that sailed from England to Virginia in 1607.

Yorktown Museum & Battlefield

Perhaps the most consequential battle in the history of the United States happened at Yorktown in the fall of 1781. General George Washington and Lieutenant General Comte de Rochambeau made a strategic decision to march the Allied armies hundreds of miles from New York City to Yorktown to surprise the British and secure a victory.

British troops, having sustained huge losses during the three-week siege, surrendered to the Continental Army and their French allies. This was the last major land battle of the American Revolution, culminating in the signing of the Treaty of Paris in 1783.

One truly poignant moment during our world travel adventures was seeing this battle immortalized in the iconic Hall of Battles at the Palace of Versailles near Paris, France. The painting, titled The Siege of Yorktown, was completed by Louis-Charles-Auguste Couder in 1836 and features Lieutenant General Rochambeau, General Washington, and General Lafayette. Seeing our history displayed so prominently all around the world was heartwarming.

The Siege of Yorktown, painted by Louis-Charles-Auguste Couder, hangs in the Gallery of Great Battles at the Palace of Versailles.

Yorktown Battlefield is part of the National Park Service, and it's where you can walk in the footsteps of General George Washington at the site of the Revolutionary War's last major battle. You can walk through Yorktown National Cemetery and explore the battlefield, where artillery pieces are still on display and regular demonstrations are held.

At the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown, you can learn the story of the nation's founding and immerse yourself in galleries and films like "The Siege of Yorktown" with its 180-degree surround screen and special effects that will make you feel you were there.

 

Some of our favorite family memories are built around theme parks. We love them, and if you love them too, Williamsburg has some great options on offer. Whether you’re chasing high-speed thrills, cooling off on water slides, or soaking up seasonal celebrations, these parks deliver nonstop fun for all ages.

Busch Gardens Williamsburg

Our family has a passion for amusement parks. We've visited theme parks throughout the United States, Canada, France, Germany, and Japan. But the one park we've returned to over and over again for decades is Busch Gardens in Williamsburg, VA. (Purchase discounted tickets here!)

It's one of the country's best amusement parks, not just because of its fabulous rides and shows but because of the way the architects and designers have incorporated the attractions into the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. We love how clean and beautiful this park is, offering a range of activities for kids, from toddlers to teens. We've spent hours in each of the areas of this park and keep coming back, season after season, to enjoy our favorite rides, foods, and shows.

 

Insider Tip: Bringing little kids? We recommend stopping at the height check station located at the front of the park upon arrival. Here, your kids can get measured and will receive a color-coded wristband indicating which rides are available to them throughout the park. It will save you from having to remeasure them at each ride throughout the day.

 

This year’s big news is the opening of The Big Bad Wolf: The Wolf's Revenge. The new ride pays homage to one of the park's most popular rides of the past. The original ride, The Big Bad Wolf, was first introduced in the summer of 1984 and was one of our favorite rides. It was taken down in 2009 to make way for Verbolten, which debuted in 2012. The much-anticipated reimagined coaster debuted in May of 2025.

In addition to coasters and kids' areas, Busch Gardens Williamsburg offers a variety of incredible live shows and a range of tasty food options. Our day in the park isn't complete without a visit to Das Festhaus, where we’ll munch on pizza or traditional German fare while watching a musical performance. Other favorite food experiences include Trapper's Smokehouse for delicious BBQ, Josephine's Creamery de Chocolate for impressive ice cream sundaes, and Three Rivers Snacks for kettle corn or funnel cakes.

 

Insider Tip: Arrive early to secure a parking spot closer to the entrance. If you arrive later in the day, consider the Preferred Parking upgrade. It's worth it when little legs are tired at the end of the day.

 

Water Country USA

A sister park of Busch Gardens Williamsburg, Water Country USA is Virginia's largest water park and has been consistently ranked among the top water parks across the country.

We enjoyed having it as part of our annual membership for years and years. With all the amazing pools, slides, and splash pads, every one of us enjoyed spending a hot day in this park. We found a clean park with attentive lifeguards and plenty of seating to dry off and relax. In addition, we found the food selection to be surprisingly delicious and satisfying for a water park.

Your family will have no problem being entertained, whether for a full day or as a combined day shared with time at Busch Gardens, a short drive away. Whether riding the swells in the wave pool together, taking a leisurely ride on the lazy river, splashing with your younger kids, or barreling down a fast-moving water slide with your older kids, this park is an excellent place for both relaxation and an adrenaline rush!

 

Vacations are expensive. While you want to indulge in some fun activities together, we understand how difficult it can be to keep spending under control. Thankfully, Williamsburg has some incredible options that won’t cost a penny. These free activities and places offer an excellent opportunity to balance your vacation budget.


Free Yorktown Trolley

If exploring Yorktown is on your agenda, you'll want to take advantage of the Yorktown Trolley. It allows visitors to park their car and hop on the air-conditioned (heated in winter) trolley, which makes stops at the Yorktown Battlefield Visitor Center, the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown, as well as the Yorktown Victory Monument, Watermen's Museum, Yorktown Beach, and Riverwalk Landing. The trolley operates from mid-March to mid-December, with hours varying by season; please visit the website for more details.


Colonial Parkway

If you need a quiet break from the excitement of amusement parks or historical sites, Colonial Parkway is just the thing. Take a scenic drive along the peaceful parkway that extends 23 miles from the York River at Yorktown to the James River at Jamestown. If you're lucky, you might even catch a bald eagle nesting or in flight over the water.

 

Insider Tip: Plan your drive for sunset. The golden light on the water is stunning and makes a perfect backdrop for family photos.

 

York River State Park

York River State Park is open year-round and is a great place to enjoy a family hike or hunt for fossils on the beach. Located along the York River, the park is designated as a Chesapeake Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve. This means that the environment has provided clues to the area's cultural history, including Native American settlements and wildlife that have made the area home.

Boasting 40 miles of trails, it's the perfect place for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. During the summer months, locals can be found boating and fishing in both fresh and saltwater spots.

Jamestown Beach Event Park

This family-friendly (and dog-friendly) beach is open daily until sunset. It features picnic areas with charcoal grills, providing families with an excellent option for outdoor fun. There's even a concession stand in case you don't feel like preparing your own meal. Throughout the year, the event park hosts several special events, including live entertainment, that draw both locals and visitors alike.

 

Insider Tip: For those wishing to have fun on the water, rentals are available for everything from floating beach chairs to kayaks.

 

Freedom Park

Freedom Park's history dates back to the 1650s! Today, the 600-acre park features a 1-mile ADA-accessible trail and more than 20 miles of bike trails. It's also home to the Williamsburg Botanical Garden, which features over 800 species of plants.

Jamestown-Scotland Ferry

This free ferry ride across the James River takes about 20 minutes and provides a unique way to get your family (and vehicle) from Jamestown to Surry. The ferry system operates 24 hours a day, transporting more than one million passengers annually. We've taken this ride on multiple occasions, and our kids have always loved the experience; the adults also enjoy the gorgeous shoreline views.

 

Insider Tip: If you’re taking the ferry in the evening, pack a light sweater for everyone. River breezes can be chilly, even in summer.

 

Bruton Parish Episcopal Church

This church is the oldest surviving building in all of Colonial Williamsburg. Its history dates back to 1683! Some of our country's founding fathers, including George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Patrick Henry, attended services at this location. To this day, the church has an active congregation and is open for worship.

You can wander into the church and even sit on the pews. Just be sure to avoid entering during services. Outside the historic church is Bruton Parish Graveyard (it's one of the stops on the popular ghost walking tour). The cemetery has graves marked from the 17th century, including many soldiers who were killed during the Civil War.

College of William & Mary

William & Mary is the second-oldest college in the United States. Its official charter was signed in February of 1693 by King William III and Queen Mary II of England. The Sir Christopher Wren Building, originally known as "the College Building," was constructed in 1695, long before the town of Williamsburg even existed. It is the oldest college building still standing in the U.S., and students still attend classes there.

Before the American Revolution, the chancellor position for the College of William & Mary was typically filled by either the Archbishop of Canterbury or the Bishop of London. Post Revolution, George Washington was the first American to be appointed to the post. His portrait still hangs in the Christopher Wren Building in tribute to his contributions to the college.

Early presidents Thomas Jefferson, John Tyler, and James Monroe received undergraduate degrees from the college. Thomas Jefferson remained to study law under George Wythe, who was the first professor of law at the College of William & Mary and one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence.

 

Insider Tip: Explore the campus, featuring stately brick buildings and a rich history. Be sure to stop in the Spirit Shop & Bookstore located near Merchants Square. (It’s hard to leave there without a new souvenir sweatshirt or book.)

 

Williamsburg and its surrounding areas are filled with offbeat museums, hands-on experiences, and active escapes that go beyond the ordinary. Whether your kids are history buffs, animal lovers, budding pirates, or adrenaline junkies, these unique stops offer a fun and fascinating break to engage curious minds or provide a physical outlet for active families.


Watermen’s Museum

Located in Yorktown, this unique museum has a mission to demonstrate the role that Chesapeake Bay Watermen played in shaping our country. Historical exhibits display the watercraft, activities, and methods of their trade. They also offer field trips and summer programs in archaeology, boatbuilding, and even pirate life!


This museum is closed during the winter season from just before Christmas until late March and is usually closed on Mondays. The museum offers free admission to children under six, as well as to active-duty military personnel, current first responders, and current teachers. Adult admission is only $5!


Ripley’s Believe It or Not!

If you're into weird facts and exhibits, or if you're looking for a way to spend a rainy day, Ripley's might be your thing. Located on Richmond Road in Williamsburg, this wacky museum, with locations nationwide, offers visitors a chance to stand next to the world's tallest man or gaze upon shrunken heads.


From illusions to strange animals and everything in between, your family can find hours of fun here. You can even buy a combo ticket for Catfish Cove Mini Golf. Tickets for children (ages 4–11) cost approximately $15, while adults (ages 12 and above) can expect to pay $20 for admission.


James City County Marina

The marina is situated on Powhatan Creek, directly across from the Jamestown Settlement. If you're looking for a day on the water, you can find canoe, kayak, or paddleboat rentals here. The Marina store also sells fresh bait and tackle for those looking to try their luck fishing. You can even take a pontoon or airboat tour.


Go Ape Zipline & Treetop Adventure

If you're looking to entertain tweens or teens, you can head to GoApe Treetop Adventure Course. It's a great way to enjoy some outdoor activities with aerial views of the historic city. The adventure park is located inside Freedom Park. Prices depend on which courses you choose to book.

 

Exploring Williamsburg works up an appetite—and thankfully, this town knows how to feed a hungry crew. From historic taverns that once served America’s founding fathers to quirky local spots dishing up sugary delights and late-night comfort food, there's something here to satisfy every craving (and every picky eater). Whether you're fueling up for a full day of adventure or winding down with a sweet treat, these are the places our family keeps coming back to year after year.


Our Family Favorites:

After dozens of visits to Williamsburg, we’ve learned one truth: where you eat matters just as much as what you do.


Over the years, with annual Busch Gardens passes in hand and extended family in tow, we’ve taste-tested our way through the town. From crave-worthy breakfasts to sweet treats that end a perfect day, these are our tried-and-true favorite places to eat in Williamsburg with kids.


  • Captain George’s – This all-you-can-eat buffet is one of our all-time favorite “special occasion” restaurants and was a Thanksgiving Day tradition for years (paired with a trip to Christmas Town at Busch Gardens). It includes snow crab legs, shrimp, and other seafood offerings, along with kid favorites such as macaroni and cheese, chicken, fried shrimp, and a variety of freshly made desserts.

 

Insider Tip: Children with smaller appetites can skip the buffet and order from the kids' menu ($8–10 per entrée), which includes fries and a trip to the dessert bar.

 

  • Wythe Candy & Gourmet Shop – Located in Merchants Square, this shop is a family favorite for a sweet treat. From handmade caramel apples to nostalgic treats and hand-dipped chocolates, your sweet tooth will be satisfied.

  • The Cheese Shop – The cheese shop, also located in Merchants Square, is our favorite place to grab a sandwich and chips, along with a nice hunk of great-tasting cheese and some birch beer.

  • Snow-To-Go – We discovered this gem almost 20 years ago. It's located on Richmond Road in Williamsburg. It specializes in delicious shaved ice treats. We highly recommend the "stuffed" version, which layers soft serve ice cream with your selection of flavored ice, for a creamsicle flavor experience that will keep you coming back whenever you're in town.

  • Mama Steve’s – Our family trips to Williamsburg aren't complete without at least one breakfast at Mama Steve's. With servers dressed in Colonial garb bringing out generous helpings of pancakes and crispy bacon, it leaves our bellies stuffed to fuel a day of adventure.

  • Cookout – Yes, it's a national chain, but we love their location on Richmond Road. It's open late, always has our Cheerwine, and is our favorite place to grab a late-night meal or snack after a day at Busch Gardens, despite being located a bit further away from the park.

 

Insider Tip: Although it may be tempting, avoid the fast-food locations located near Busch Gardens after the park closes. We have found that their closing hours do not accommodate park closers. Even if they do, the speed of service can only be equated to that of a sloth stuck in tar!

 

Historic Taverns:

This group of restaurants, all located in the Colonial Williamsburg/Merchant's Square area, has a history that dates back hundreds of years!

  • Chowning’s Garden Bar – Located on Duke of Gloucester Street, this family-friendly restaurant is open Tuesday through Saturday for lunch. Its menu includes burgers, sandwiches, salads, and kids' meals.

  • Christiana Campbell’s Tavern – Located on South Waller Street, this tavern served George Washington and remains a popular destination to this day. We recommend making reservations well in advance. Guests can enjoy live entertainment while savoring classic Southern recipes made with locally sourced ingredients.

  • King’s Arms Tavern – Located on East Duke of Gloucester Street, this is another family-friendly restaurant that's open for lunch and dinner, Thursday through Monday. We're told that the Peanut Soupe is a must-try. A complete kids' menu offers selections like beef short rib or mac and cheese.

  • Shield’s Tavern – Also located on East Duke of Gloucester Street, Shield's is slightly lower in price and is open for lunch only on Tuesday through Saturday. Stop in for a plate of warm doughnuts, potato pudding, and some fried chicken!

 

Choosing the right place to stay can be one of the most challenging aspects of planning a family trip. Everyone has different needs, and the stakes feel high when comfort and convenience are on the line.


Whether you’re looking for a relaxing riverside resort, a kid-approved water park hotel, or a reliable, budget-friendly option close to the action, Williamsburg offers a range of accommodations to fit your family’s travel style and budget.


If you are looking for family-friendly, budget-friendly properties, we have curated a list of some of the most highly rated, kid-friendly properties (sorted by lowest price to highest price):

Recommended Family-Friendly Properties

See Them Here!

If none of those are quite fitting the bill, here are some other great options:

Kingsmill Resort

Kingsmill Resort is a luxury resort located on the banks of the James River. Amenities include a world-class fitness center, a spa, multiple pools, and three championship golf courses.

Accommodations range from riverside cottage rentals and multi-bedroom condos to the original 7,000-square-foot Busch Family estate home. The award-winning resort represents a splurge destination for most families.

Great Wolf Lodge

If you're looking for a one-stop stay-and-play family vacation, Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg should fit the bill. Boasting an indoor water park that ensures loads of fun, rain or shine. From exciting water slides to a relaxing lazy river, there's no need for a separate amusement park.

Included with your stay are open access to the water park, special daily events, and life jackets and towels for safety and comfort. Even the rooms provide a fun experience for the whole family, with options including a tent-themed kids' sleeping area.

 

Insider Tip: You can use the water park starting at 1 p.m. on check-in day and until close on check-out day, so pack your swimsuits separately!

 

Holiday Inn & Suites

While there are several Holiday Inn hotels located in the area, our favorite is the Holiday Inn & Suites located on Bypass Road in Williamsburg. For years, this hotel has been our home away from home when we visit. As IHG platinum members, we are welcomed with complimentary bottles of water, warm cookies, and even a room upgrade if it's available. We also enjoy the free coffee in the mornings before setting out on our adventures. You'll find an indoor swimming pool with complimentary towels and an on-site restaurant.

Colonial Williamsburg Resorts

If you're looking to stay in Colonial Williamsburg, here are some options to consider:

  • Griffin Hotel 

  • The Williamsburg Woodlands Hotel

  • Williamsburg Lodge

An aerial view of the back of the Governor’s Palace in Colonial Williamsburg.

 

What’s the most popular season for visiting Williamsburg with kids?

Williamsburg is a popular destination all year round! With a relatively mild climate, families have plenty of things to do all year! From spring through the destination’s core summer season and holiday celebrations. Note: Summers can reach 95 to 100 degrees! Be sure to plan a mix of indoor and outdoor activities.

What kinds of activities does Williamsburg offer for children?

There are plenty of activities suitable for kids of all ages! Summer offers water parks, roller coasters, treetop adventure courses, biking, hiking, swimming, and kayaking. Fall brings Busch Gardens' Halloween-themed decorations, an outdoor arts festival, and several family-friendly bewitching programs. The holiday season includes fireworks, music, candlelit windows, and special programming, including Christmas Town at Busch Gardens, Christmas trees, music, and food to delight all ages. 

Can I bring my pet to Williamsburg?

Yes, there are many pet-friendly areas in Williamsburg, particularly outdoors and in specific Colonial Williamsburg locations. Pets are welcome in parts of the Historic Area, like Duke of Gloucester Street and the Visitor Center, provided they are leashed and under the handler's control. Many hotels, restaurants, and attractions also welcome pets. Note: Busch Gardens has a kennel for your dog.

 

From time-traveling through colonial villages to conquering roller coasters and splash zones, Williamsburg, Virginia, delivers a one-of-a-kind family adventure that blends learning, laughter, and lasting memories. Whether you’ve got curious historians, thrill-seeking tweens, or toddlers who just want to splash and snack, there’s something here for every member of the family. So go ahead—add Williamsburg to your family bucket list and start planning your own unforgettable journey through the past and present.

We’d love to hear from you! Drop a comment below if you’ve visited Williamsburg or have questions about planning your trip. Or share this post with a friend who needs a little family vacation inspiration. You might just spark their next great adventure!

 

If you found this guide helpful, be sure to subscribe to our weekly newsletter for more family-friendly travel inspiration, tips, and behind-the-scenes shenanigans delivered straight to your inbox!

 

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Colleen
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