Wander through Williamsburg - Whatever the Weather

A Seasonal Guide to Williamsburg, Virginia

When you think of Williamsburg, Virginia, you probably picture its historic district; certainly Colonial Williamsburg is one of the city’s huge draws, rich with cultural appeal. But there’s a lot more than just period reenactments going on here. Williamsburg offers many year-round events and attractions for visitors of all ages. With help from our friends at The Williamsburg Hospitality House, we’ve compiled a seasonal list of things to do and see.

Winter

Holidays are a special time in Williamsburg. Duke of Gloucester Street, the colonial district’s main thoroughfare, is bedecked with pine boughs and other festive décor.

In early December, the neighborhood hosts its annual “Grand Illumination” evening celebration, with candle lighting, outdoor music and entertainment capped off by a thrilling fireworks display. Munch on a gingersnap and admire the façade of the Williamsburg Inn, one of the city’s most elegant hotels, erected by oil tycoon John D. Rockefeller in the 1930s.

If you’re planning to spend New Year’s Eve in Williamsburg, don’t miss First Night, a family-friendly downtown event featuring bands, food and fun. First Night isn’t marketed heavily outside of the Williamsburg area, so you’ll get to experience some authentic hometown flavor.

Spring

As the weather warms and the days lengthen, Williamsburg buzzes with activities for locals and visitors alike. Explore the Colonial Parkway, which extends over 20 miles and links Jamestown, Williamsburg and Yorktown (the so-called “Historic Triangle”).

Much has been done to preserve the natural beauty of this parkway and make it attractive for cyclists, birdwatchers, and other nature lovers. Start at the Parkway’s Williamsburg branch of the Visitors Center, watch a short movie, then set off.

After you’ve built up an appetite, venture over to charming Merchants Square, adjacent to the historical quarter of the city, and grab a snack or a meal. (Cheese connoisseurs will have plenty to smile about; there is a cheese shop here that sells hundreds of different varieties.) The shopping in Merchants Square is noteworthy as well – think boutique apparel and imaginative gifts.

Summer

There’s nothing like stretching out in the sun and splashing in the water. Visiting the beach is what summer is all about, and Williamsburg offers two locations for visitors to do just that – College Creek and Jamestown Beach.

These laid-back locales, whose inlets feed into the James River, aren’t made for surfing – they’re just simple spots with sand and sea (and a lot less crowded than nearby Virginia Beach). Bring a picnic and relax with your family. When the sun goes down, head to Bruster’s or Handel’s for some refreshing ice cream and yogurt.

Fall

For many, fall means football, and the citizens of Williamsburg are no exception. Williamsburg is home to the College of William and Mary, and Tribe football is just about the closest thing to an official religion in the neighborhoods near campus. Williamsburg Hospitality House has special W&M-themed hotel packages; consider buying tickets to a game and soaking up the excitement.

Of course, if football’s not your game, there are plenty of other autumnal activities in Williamsburg (one of the nice things about this city is that it’s not just a “college town”). Be sure to check out the gorgeous fall foliage along the aforementioned Colonial Parkway and stop to pick up a few apples at Bush Neck Farm.

Williamsburg Hospitality House and Conference Center offers comfortable accommodations including cable television, and wireless Internet. Plan your next meeting here and take advantage of our many amenities. Williamsburg Hospitality House is a popular destination for weddings and banquets, and is conveniently located near the College of William and Mary.