Williamsburg is often thought of as the territory of elementary school field trips, tricorn hats, and fifes and drums. But this Tidewater Virginia city is so much more than its colonial history.

From modern shopping to gourmet dining, Williamsburg is a bustling getaway destination where you can pack an entire weekend—or a week—with a mix of history, culture, and relaxation. Whether your travel style revolves around golf, spas, wineries, or restaurants, here’s what to do, what to eat, and how to explore Williamsburg, one of the Friendliest Towns in the South.

What To Do In Williamsburg

Explore Colonial Williamsburg

Of course, if you’re in Williamsburg, you shouldn’t miss Colonial Williamsburg. Spend a day strolling through the world’s largest living history museum, where you can see reenactments of everything from silversmithing to basketmaking. Join a tour of the Governor’s Palace, pop in a historic house, or visit the newly opened Bray School, which is one of the earliest institutions dedicated to educating Black students, operating from 1760 to 1774.

There’s no bad time of year to visit, but the spring brings stunning flowers to the gardens, and the Christmas season is a masterclass in festive wreaths and decor.

colonialwilliamsburg.org, 101 Visitor Center Dr, Williamsburg, VA 23185

Escape To Sweethaven Lavender Farm

Just outside of town, you’ll find Sweethaven Lavender Farm. This pastoral escape is where you can wander through lavender fields, pick your own lavender, and relax with a refreshing bowl of lavender ice cream. On a perfect early summer day, there’s nothing more relaxing.

sweethavenlavender.com, 2460 Bush Neck Rd, Williamsburg, VA 23188

Shop Around Merchants Square

Want to squeeze in a little shopping while you’re in town? There are historic and modern retailers alike along Duke of Gloucester Street in Merchants Square, which is just outside the Colonial district. From Monkee’s of Williamsburg to The Christmas Shop, Brick & Vine, and Danforth Pewter, there are boutiques and shops to keep you busy all day long.

merchantssquare.org, 134 N Henry St, Williamsburg, VA 23185

Play a Round of Golf

Williamsburg is home to 24 golf courses, including some of the best public golf courses in the country, like the Golden Horseshoe Golf Club. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., this celebrated course even includes an island green.

colonialwilliamsburg.org/stay-play/recreation-wellness/golden-horseshoe-golf-club, 401 S England St, Williamsburg, VA 23185

Learn About Southern Furniture at the DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum

For the antique and historic home enthusiasts, an afternoon spent at the DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum is time well spent. Located on the edge of the historic area, this museum houses the world’s largest collection of Southern furniture. It’s also where you’ll find an impressive collection of British ceramics.

www.visitwilliamsburg.com/listing/dewitt-wallace-decorative-arts-museum-of-colonial-williamsburg/2352, 301 S Nassau St, Williamsburg, VA 23185

Stroll Around the Campus at the College of William & Mary

Founded in 1693, the College of William & Mary is the second-oldest institution of higher learning in the United States (the first is Harvard!). The Georgian-style campus is lovely to stroll around; make sure you stop by the Wren Building and the Sunken Garden, which is the school’s quad.

wm.edu, 200 Stadium Dr, Williamsburg, VA 23185

Treat Yourself to a Spa Day

After a long day of walking, take a moment to indulge by booking a service at The Spa of Colonial Williamsburg. This tranquil spa offers primarily modern services though there are a few options like the 17th Century Replenish or the 19th Century Relinquish that can take you back to the spa treatments of yore. For a unique experience, the Williamsburg Salt Spa offers treatments including salt cave therapy and flotation therapy.

colonialwilliamsburg.org/stay-play/recreation-wellness/the-spa, 307 S England St, Williamsburg, VA 23185

williamsburgsaltspa.com, 1111 Old Colony Ln, Williamsburg, VA 23185

Where To Eat In Williamsburg

Grab a Sandwich at The Cheese Shop

The Cheese Shop is an iconic establishment for travelers, locals, and William & Mary students alike. Located right in Merchants Square, this spot is bustling at lunchtime, but the sandwiches are worth the wait. Don’t forget to pick up a jar of their house dressing while you’re there.

cheeseshopwilliamsburg.com, 410 W Duke of Gloucester St, Williamsburg, VA 23185

Get the Ham Sampler at The Amber Ox Public House

The Amber Ox Public House is a brewpub that does it all. They have their own beer via The Precarious Beer Project, scratch-made food from local ingredients, and a speakeasy that’s perfect for a post-dinner drink. The menu highlights are all Southern-inspired, and the ham sampler is a must-order for anyone looking for a taste of Virginia.

theamberox.com, 525 Prince George St Suite 102, Williamsburg, VA 23185

Enjoy a Fine Dining Experience at Le Yaca

Founded in the French Alps and brought to the unassuming city of Williamsburg, Le Yaca is one of the most storied fine dining establishments in the city. It is traditional French dining with an authentic atmosphere, hidden away in an unsuspecting location.

leyacawilliamsburg.org, 1430 High St, Williamsburg, VA 23188

Where To Drink In Williamsburg

Taste Virginia Wine at Williamsburg Winery

Since 1988, Williamsburg Winery has been a leader in Virginia winemaking, and their tasting room is open daily. They also have two restaurants on the property, so you can fully experience the wine with perfectly paired food.

williamsburgwinery.com, 5800 Wessex Hundred, Williamsburg, VA 23185

Sip on Award-Winning Whiskey at Copper Fox Distillery

Want something a little stronger? Head over to Copper Fox Distillery, where you can taste whiskey made with locally grown barley. With a firepit and a speakeasy, you can spend an afternoon slowly sipping on award-winning craft spirits.

copperfoxdistillery.com, 901 Capitol Landing Rd, Williamsburg, VA 23185

Step Back in History at 8 Shires Coloniale Distillery

Because it’s always a good idea to infuse a little bit of history when you’re in Williamsburg, 8 Shires Coloniale Distillery is worth a visit. This distillery aims to preserve the methods used in Colonial America, from 1600 to 1775, while also appealing to a modern drinker.

8shires.com, 7218 Merrimac Trail, Williamsburg, VA 23185

Where To Stay In Williamsburg

Stay in Luxury at the Williamsburg Inn

If Queen Elizabeth stayed here, it’s good enough for us. The Williamsburg Inn has long been the most luxurious place to stay in Williamsburg, and it maintains its historic charm—along with modern updates. It’s right in the historic area of Colonial Williamsburg, but you’ll feel a few centuries away while relaxing by the pool or dining in the sophisticated Terrace Room.

colonialwilliamsburg.org/stay-play/accommodations/williamsburg-inn, 136 Francis St E, Williamsburg, VA 23185

Experience the New Retro at The Rochambeau Roadside Inn

Looking for a stay that’s a bit more laid-back? The Rochambeau Roadside Inn is a completely renovated 1954 roadside motel that has all the nostalgia, but with an updated, stylish look. There are even bunk rooms and suites for those traveling with a group.

stayrochambeau.com, 929 Capitol Landing Rd, Williamsburg, VA 23185