How Many Days do you Need in Williamsburg, VA?

With its rich colonial history, William and Mary’s scenic campus, beautiful waterways, cultural events throughout the year, and a culinary scene just outside our door, plan to stay at least a few nights with us to see what Williamsburg offers.

As a college town, Williamsburg’s layout surrounds the gorgeous campus of William and Mary, one of 8 "Public Ivy" schools in the US. At over 300 years old, taking a tour of the centuries-old school and its classic architecture is a must-do activity while visiting.

Our Williamsburg bed and breakfast is just a short walk from the campus, so start your first morning by grabbing coffee at nearby Aromas Coffee House on your way over. William and Mary tours are available and provided by current students, where you’ll step foot into places like the Wren Building, which holds the unique title of being the oldest college building still standing in the US. And far from being merely a token of history, the Wren Building is just as bustling as ever, with a chapel, active classrooms, and weekly recitals on its pipe organ, which are worth checking out.

After enjoying the afternoon exploring the campus, grab dinner at one of several enticing local eateries, like the Amber Ox Public House in the tight-knit downtown district, or select an option from our Locals Guide to Williamsburg. Wind down afterward by strolling along its colonial-era storefronts and charming streets.

Plan to spend at least two days at Colonial Williamsburg, the largest living history museum in the world. Buying a multi-day ticket is a great deal, as it is only slightly more than a single-day ticket, and you'll have time to explore the expansive and impressive 300-acre historic area. Spend your afternoons engaging with various tradespeople, such as shoemakers, weavers, and engravers, who provide a real taste of how life functioned in Williamsburg during the 17th and 18th centuries. Your ticket will also grant you access to the art museums on-site, where you’ll see everything from folk art and Native American quilts to exquisite centuries-old pieces hewn from wood.

In the evening, take a carriage ride through the historic area as the sun sets, transporting you back to when our nation was just coming into being. Stop for dinner at one of the restaurants within the historic district, like the King’s Arms Tavern, where the city’s colonial roots inspire the menu and ambiance. On another night, add some thrill by taking one of the fabled ghost tours or seeing a live storytelling show, all of which make Colonial Williamsburg an experience to remember.

While its history rightly takes center stage, don’t miss out on exploring the natural beauty of the Williamsburg area. Water abounds as two rivers – the York and James – create a peninsula, with Williamsburg in the center. Spend a summer day at Chickahominy Riverfront Park, where you can picnic near the water, rent canoes, and adventure along the riverside.

Be sure also to visit Freedom Park, which, like the rest of Williamsburg, is packed with history–it was the site of a famous Civil War battle and home to an 18th-century cemetery. Everyone in the family will love strolling or biking along its several miles of multi-use paths that wind through its 600 acres of meadows, manicured gardens, and ponds.

Spend nights enjoying live music at one of the many venues in the area, such as the Summer Breeze Concert Series, which offers free weekly live music throughout the summer on the lawn of the Museums of Colonial Williamsburg just two blocks from the Inn. You can also grab a bite to eat from the on-site food trucks. Beer and wine are also available. The concerts are free.

Enjoy music at Yorktown's outdoor Riverwalk Landing venue, just a short drive down the Colonial Williamsburg Parkway. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early and enjoy dinner or dessert at any of Historic Yorktown's waterfront restaurants, including Water Street Grille, Carrot Tree, Umi Sushi, Ben & Jerry's, Yorktown Pub, and Larry's.

Reserve your stay with us. Your perfect Williamsburg getaway awaits!