Discovering the Timeless Charm of Williamsburg Virginia : A Journey to America’s Historic Gem

Welcome to Williamsburg, Virginia – a place where history breathes life into the present, and Colonial gossip and chatter fills the air.

Let's dive right in and explore the irresistible charm of this historical haven!

Step back in time: Williamsburg is steeped in history, taking you on a journey to the colonial era. Stroll through the renowned historic district, where cobblestone streets and beautifully restored buildings transport you to a bygone era. Immerse yourself in the stories of the past as you explore historic sites, such as Colonial Williamsburg and Jamestown Settlement, where costumed interpreters bring history to life.

This place is literally like travelling back in time, you feel like you are real time observer of the past. The whole area is a living museum, from the costumed villagers going about their day to day lives, to the shops and cafes where you will find costumed tradesmen and craftsmen authentically recreating the Colonial experience.

We absolutely loved Colonial Williamsburg, the Characters you meet are so dedicated to recreating the history of the town, they really make it an authentic experience from start to finish.

The little shops are amazing, each one is set up as it would have been back in Colonial times and inside is like a living museum.

The Prentis Store is the oldest retail shop in America and features beautiful reproduction items including leather goods, glass and earthenware.

There is a General store, a toy shop, a historic jewellery shop and even a furniture store where you can buy Colonial styled furniture, home accents, gifts and seasonal merchandise. The whole area is free to visit but some of the specialist stores do require a ticket to enter but these stores do give you access to expert tradesmen and women who demonstrate specialist skills. Tickets also give you access to inside tours of historical buildings, museums and staged performances.

Tickets can be purchased online and in 2023 they are $49.99 for an adult $28.99 for a Youth (6-12 years) and Children under 6 are free.

Of course Williamsburg isn’t just about history, there are also many modern day shopping areas and other activities for you to enjoy.

We were staying with two of our wonderful friends whilst in Williamsburg and we wanted to do something fun together, so we did a bit of research online and found an exciting activity that really caught our eye !

Axe throwing at Axe Republic ! We have no words to explain just how much fun this turned out to be. We literally laughed so hard all night it was hilarious.

On arrival you are given shoes, similar to bowling shoes. If you don’t have socks they will provide you with a pair but take your own if you prefer. You will be given a designated area to throw your axes in and a staff member will come with you and give you some training and explain the safety rules. It’s quite simple though, throw the axe, hit the target and don’t kill any of your friends!! … Simple !

Well… it’s not quite that simple, there is a definite technique to axe throwing but the staff are on hand for continued coaching should you struggle to pick it up !

(Note: the axes you throw are small hatchets, the full sized axes we are posing with in the main photo are just props used for photographic purposes only. The smaller ones you see us throwing are the real deal.)

We were lucky enough to be staying in Williamsburg on the 4th of July, so thought it would be fitting to visit historical Jamestown and find out more about our English ancestors, how they arrived in Jamestown and what happened next.

Jamestown, Virginia, is classed as the historic birthplace of America. Nestled along the James River, this enchanting destination holds a significant place in American history.

Jamestown is renowned as the first permanent English settlement in America, established in 1607. When you visit you can explore the Jamestown Settlement, a living history museum that beautifully recreates the 17th-century colonial life. You can wander through the reconstructed fort, interact with historical interpreters, and gain insights into the challenges faced by the early settlers.

It was such a fascinating place, we learned so much about our own history that oddly neither of us remember being taught in history lessons at school (or maybe neither of us listened??) hmm, either could be true to be fair !

One of the must-visit landmarks in Jamestown is the Jamestown Rediscovery archaeological site.

You can witness the ongoing excavations that have unearthed fascinating artefacts, providing a deeper understanding of the colony's past.

You really get to immerse yourself in the captivating stories of Captain John Smith, Pocahontas, and the struggles and triumphs of the early settlers.

If you want a truly immersive experience, explore the Jamestown Settlement's Powhatan Indian Village. Step into the world of the Powhatan people, interact with costumed interpreters, and learn about their fascinating culture and way of life. Gain a deeper appreciation for the intricate relationship between the colonists and the Native American tribes.

Jamestown is a MUST if you are visiting Williamsburg, as well as the outdoor areas, it has a large indoor museum too, which not only gives you access to an enormous amount of history but helps to give you a rest-bite from the heat of the sun !

If you are visiting Williamsburg then don't miss out on the vibrant local markets and nature spots that it has to offer!

Take some time to explore the Williamsburg Farmers Market, where you can savour fresh produce and artisanal products.

For a dose of nature, visit the breathtaking Freedom Park, where you will find serene trails, picturesque woodlands, and there’s even a treetop adventure course for the adventurous souls.

In conclusion, Williamsburg, Virginia is a treasure trove of history, delectable cuisine, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Immerse yourself in the past, s your taste buds, and explore the lesser-known corners of this enchanting destination.

Start planning your adventure today, and let the timeless charm of Williamsburg captivate your heart like it did ours!