A person in a white t-shirt reading junket is standing near a metal gate and talking to others whose backs are turned to the camera.
People visit the grounds of an historic brick church with a tall white steeple under a partly cloudy sky.
The image is a black and white portrait of Scott Joplin, an African American composer and pianist known as the King of Ragtime.

Market Square near Williamsburg, VA

The following tours visit Market Square near Williamsburg, VA:
Walking Tour of Still's Underground Railroad in Alexandria Photo
5/5/2024 - 12/29/2024
Immerse yourself in a part of American history with the Walking Tour of Stills Underground Railroad in Alexandria, Virginia.
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Untold Secrets of Williamsburg History Experience Photo
4/29/2024 - 3/31/2025
Embark on a journey through history and discover the untold secrets of Williamsburg, Virginia.
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Immerse yourself in the spirit of colonial America when you visit the Market Square in the heart of Williamsburg, Virginia. The square is most recognized for its embodiment of 18th-century charm, featuring meticulously restored buildings and bustling trade activities. Its prime location, where Duke of Gloucester Street meets North and South England Street, offers a classic representation of the historical setting of the Virginia Colony during colonial times. A visit to Market Square is like stepping into a time machine, propelling you back to the Colonial era and further piquing your interest in the history of America.

The history of Market Square dates back to 1705, when it was established as a center for commerce and trade in Williamsburg. Spanning across several acres, it was designed to replicate a typical 18th-century British Market, filled with tradesmen and townsfolk selling their wares. The square holds a significant historical relevance, as it served as a key space for political discourse where colonists came together to share news, conduct commerce, and discuss matters of political importance.

Venture outbound from the center of the square, and you will encounter remarkable historic structures which line its edges. The Courthouse of 1770 stands tall at one corner, reflecting the Georgian architectural style and bearing witness to some of colonial Virginia’s most significant legal cases. Another infusion of historic charm comes from the Magazine and Guardhouse, holding a rich collection of military equipment dating back to the late 17th to early 18th century. The market also flaunts an original 18th-century windmill, a large-scale representation of the technology of that time.

Continuing your journey, you may wish to explore the nearby Carpenter's Yard, where you can watch as skilled tradespeople utilize century-old building techniques to create colonial-era crafts. Close by, you can experience the divine aura inside Bruton Parish Church, built in 1674, and still operating as an active Episcopal Church today. Around the square, you may also encounter historical interpreters who recreate the sounds and activities of colonial times, fully immersing you in the town’s rich history.

To visit Market Square in Williamsburg is to experience a vivid re-enactment of the past, painted with historic architecture, century-old trades, and rich colonial history. Its distinct scenery captivates both history buffs seeking to delve deeper into America's past and curious wanderers looking for an unexpectedly educational and engaging journey. Whether you are passing through the region or planning a focused trip, the Market Square with its vibrant history and collection of landmarks stands as one of the top must-visit destinations in Williamsburg, Virginia.

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