Historic Williamsburg Sites

Williamsburg is a popular destination with many family friendly attractions and proximity to the nation's capital. Yet the city is most known for its many historical sites. While you're visiting Williamsburg, make plans to tour some of Williamsburg most famous historical sites to learn more about our great country.

The Berkeley Plantation sites just 25 miles from Williamsburg in Charles City. The plantation house was constructed in 1726 of Georgian-style architecture, and was the birthplace of our President William Henry Harrison. Inside the home, you will find period furnishings, Civil War artifacts, Sydney King paintings, and more. One and a half hour guided ours are offered by friendly guides dressed in period costumes, and includes a carriage ride. You can also take a self-guided tour of the gardens.

Also in Charles City is the Shirley Plantation, 35 miles west of Williamsburg. The property stands as the oldest plantation in the state. It was settled in 1613 and the current mansion standing was constructed in 1738. Over the years, the home has served as a supply depot for the Continental Army in the Revolutionary War, a field hospital for the Union Army in the Civil War, and the birthplace of General Robert E. Lee's mother, Anne Hill Carter. Inside the home, you will find hand-carved woodwork, family portraits, 17th and 18th century artifacts, and more. A one hour guided tour is available of the property during business hours. You can also take a self-guided tour of the gardens and outbuildings.

The Historic District in Williamsburg is one of the most popular historical attractions in the area. The Historic District boasts cobblestone streets, period costumes, and dozens of shops filled with colonial-style items, such as hats and bonnets, stationary with sealing wax, soaps, jams, fine jewelery, pottery, and more. The district was restored to its current state in the 1920s by John D. Rockefeller. Walking through this 301 acre district will transport you back in time to 220 years ago.

The Colonial National Historical Park sits just to the west of downtown Williamsburg, and is home to two of colonial America's most important historical sites. Here you will find both the Historic Jamestowne Settlement and the Yorktown National Battlefield. With a site visit, you can often catch special events with living history re-enactments, interpreters, and plenty of period costumes and artillery to simulate the events that occurred over two hundred years ago. Ranger guided tours are available throughout the day and last about thirty to forty-five minutes. Living history tours are available on select days and times, so call ahead for these. You are always welcome to explore the park on your own as well.

These are just a few of the many historical sites that enrich the Williamsburg area. Spend some time exploring the amazing history on display for you at these and many other historical sites in the area!