Vacation Ideas: Colonial Williamsburg

Colonial Williamsburg

Restored City

Occupying the area that was originally the capital of Virginia, Colonial Williamsburg is a restored historic district in Williamsburg that offers visitors a picturesque view of colonial life in the 17th and 18th centuries. Upon entering this curious area, you'll find nearly 500 buildings, with numerous establishments being the original structures of the old capital. Along with the buildings and city structure of the old world, you'll also encounter interpreters spread throughout the area, going about the typical, daily life of a colonist. For those debating whether or not this unique experience would translate into a fun vacation experience, below is information on some of the more prominent buildings and landmarks located in Colonial Williamsburg.

Royal Palace

The Royal Palace was home to seven separate royal governors and a truly immaculate structure within Colonial Williamsburg. Along with the beautiful architecture of the actual Royal Palace and interesting reenactments (such as cooking demonstrations) that take place inside, you'll also find the gardens of the Royal Palace to be a truly stunning display of aristocracy in early America.

Bruton Parish Church

In use since 1715, the Bruton Parish Church still holds congregations to this day. This Episcopal Church was regarded as the central point of religion in Virginia during the 17th and 18th century, hosting such distinguished guests as George Washington and Thomas Jefferson. Those looking to experience worship as it was handled in the early forming of America will definitely want to pay a visit to this historic building.

Public Hospital

Visiting the Public Hospital in Colonial Williamsburg provides visitors with an informative glimpse into the early medical sciences of America, particularly relating to mental health. Colonial Williamsburg's Public Hospital ushered in the first time North America had seen a public institution exclusively handle the care and treatment of the mentally ill, and stands as a true landmark of American history. Today, the Public Hospital serves to educate on its past, and as the entrance to the DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum.

The Capitol

From powerful speeches by the likes of Patrick Henry and George Washington to events leading towards revolution, The Capitol building of Colonial Williamsburg is an amazing landmark in American history that has seen numerous renovations throughout its storied history. In fact, today's Capitol building is not the actual structure used in the 18th century, but a masterfully reconstructed version of the second Capitol. In total, there have been three Capitol buildings housed on the same spot. The first was destroyed by fire (on three separate occasions). In 1705, the second Capitol building was finished, although it was completely destroyed through demolition and fire by 1881. And, in 1928 the third building was build to represent the architecture and feel of the second.