How to Spend a Day at Colonial Williamsburg with Kids
Visiting Colonial Williamsburg with kids can be a lot more fun than you might expect, if you do it the right way.
This is not the kind of place where you want to just show up, wander around for six hours, and hope your children suddenly become deeply invested in 18th-century government.
But if you focus on the most interactive stops, build in a few breaks, and keep expectations realistic, Colonial Williamsburg can be one of the best family-friendly historic destinations in Virginia.
Between the carriage rides, costumed interpreters, trade shops, gardens, animals, and wide open spaces, there is a lot here for kids to enjoy.
I’ve visited Colonial Williamsburg multiple times over the years, both as a traveler and while teaching American history. After many visits with families and children, I’ve learned what’s actually worth your time, what younger kids tend to enjoy most, and how to make the day feel fun instead of overly educational.
If you’re planning your first visit, here’s exactly how to do Colonial Williamsburg with kids without overcomplicating it.
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Is Colonial Williamsburg Worth It With Kids?
Yes, Colonial Williamsburg is worth visiting with kids, especially if your children enjoy hands-on experiences, costumes, animals, demonstrations, or places where they can move around rather than sit still.
That said, this is not a theme park.
Some parts of Colonial Williamsburg will be fascinating to kids. Other parts may test their patience.
The key is to treat it like a pick-your-highlights kind of day. You do not need to see every building or attend every program to have a great visit.
If you focus on the Governor’s Palace, the trade shops, a carriage ride, the Palace Green, and a few fun performances or interactive moments, then you’ll likely leave thinking, “That was actually really good.”
What to Know Before Visiting Colonial Williamsburg with Kids
Before you head out, here are a few things that make the day easier.
Colonial Williamsburg is Bigger Than Many People Expect
The historic area covers hundreds of acres and includes streets, homes, gardens, government buildings, trade shops, museums, taverns, and green spaces. It is very walkable, but it is still a lot of ground to cover with kids.
Start at the Visitor Center
The Colonial Williamsburg Visitor Center is the best place to begin your day.
You can purchase admission tickets to access Colonial Williamsburg’s activities and experiences here, pick up maps, and see a list of that day’s events.
Parking is Easiest at the Visitor Center
Parking at the Visitor Center is typically the easiest option for first-time visitors. From there, you can use the shuttle system instead of trying to figure out where to go on foot right away.
Check the Event Calendar
Most historic sites and trade shops are open from 10 AM to 5 PM, so arriving early really does help.
Programs, performances, interpreters, and evening events can vary by day and season, so it’s worth checking the official schedule before your visit.
Trip Tip: Pre-Covid, the Williamsburg Marketplace at the Visitor Center rented colonial costumes for children to wear throughout the day. It’s worth asking if they have resumed this service while you are there.
Tickets for Colonial Williamsburg
You’ll need an admission ticket to enter the major historic buildings, trade shops, and official programs.
If you’re only in town for one day, a one-day pass can still be worth it. But if you’re staying longer, a multi-day ticket often gives you much better value and more flexibility.
Colonial Williamsburg currently offers several ticket types, and its main admission products are designed to give access to the major guided buildings, historic trades, and programming across the historic area.
My advice?
If this is your first time visiting Colonial Williamsburg with kids, do not try to “get your money’s worth” by cramming in everything.
You’ll enjoy it more if you choose the highlights and leave room for wandering.
Best Things to Do in Colonial Williamsburg with Kids
If you only have one day, these are the best things to do in Colonial Williamsburg with kids.
Book a Carriage Ride in Colonial Williamsburg Early
One of the smartest things you can do is book a horse-drawn carriage ride early in the day.
Once you’ve purchased your Colonial Williamsburg admission tickets, take a shuttle bus from the visitor’s center, and hop off at Merchants Square. Stop at the Lumber House ticket office to book a carriage ride time.
Why do this first?
Because carriage rides are:
- fun for kids
- a nice break from walking
- a great way to see more of the historic area
- one of the experiences most likely to fill up
If possible, schedule your ride for later in the day. That way, when everyone is getting tired, you already have a built-in break waiting for you.
Expect a fifteen to twenty-minute ride throughout the streets of Colonial Williamsburg. The tickets cost around $15 each when you show your admission ticket or around $20 each if you didn’t buy a pass.
Start on Duke of Gloucester Street
Once you enter the historic area, you’ll likely find yourself on Duke of Gloucester Street, which is basically the main spine of Colonial Williamsburg.
This is where you start to get that “we are really here” feeling.
Along the Duke of Gloucester, you’ll see historic buildings, interpreters in costume, shops and taverns, open spaces where kids can move around, and plenty of places to stop and look around.
Tour the Governor’s Palace
If you ask me what is most worth doing in Colonial Williamsburg with kids, the Governor’s Palace is near the top of the list.
The Governors Palace is where the big wigs of the 1700s hung out.
This is one of the most dramatic and visually impressive places in the historic area, and it usually grabs kids’ attention faster than some of the quieter stops.
Inside, they’ll see formal rooms, period furnishings, decorative details, and most importantly, the famous displays of guns and swords.
Tours of the Governor’s Palace take place every seven to fifteen minutes.
The entrance hall alone tends to win over even the children who were “not really into history” ten minutes earlier.
The tours are short enough to hold attention better than some other sites, and the setting helps kids understand that this was once the seat of royal power in Virginia.
When you leave the Governor’s Palace, head out the back entrance to find a secret garden made up of boxwood bushes. Kids, young and old, appreciate the garden maze.
Let the Kids Run Around on Palace Green
One of the best free things about Colonial Williamsburg with kids is that there are several places where they can just breathe and move.
Palace Green is one of them.
The wide grassy area lies in front of the Governor’s Palace and is a great place to let kids run a little, pause for a snack, take family photos, and slow down before your next stop
Trip Tip: The Colonial Williamsburg app has a scavenger hunt for the Palace Green. Enjoy finding the items on the list when you are in this area.
Visit the Capitol and Courthouse
These are worth doing, especially if your kids are old enough to enjoy a little more context and storytelling.
The Capitol and Courthouse help explain how Colonial Williamsburg functioned politically and socially, and they add depth to your visit without requiring a huge time commitment.
I would not necessarily make these your first stops with younger children, but they’re good “midday” options once everyone is settled into the day’s rhythm.
As you walk through Colonial Williamsburg, you will spot many beautiful gardens. They are part of the charm of this historic area.
Trip Tip: Make sure to check out the Capitol and Courthouse tours on your visit too.
Visit the Trade Shops
The trade shops are one of the best parts of Colonial Williamsburg for families.
These are the places where history starts to feel real because kids can actually see how people worked, built, printed, sewed, hammered, cooked, and created things in the 18th century.
This is where you’ll often get the most natural engagement. As you walk along, keep an eye open for the trade signs above the doors on most buildings.
Trades were the workers of the colonial period. Their shops are worth a visit, even if you walk in and take a quick look.
The trade smiths are great about interacting with guests too.
Check the list of trades and times for each shop on your map or resources from the Visitor’s Center.
Among the kids’ favorite places are the weaver’s shop, the printing office, the carpenter’s yard, and the silversmith’s shop.
Trip Tip: The post office is an official US post office. Buy a postcard and mail it back home. This is a neat, affordable souvenir with the Colonial Williamsburg Post Office stamp.
Look for Historical Figures and Costumed Interpreters
One of the things that makes Colonial Williamsburg with kids more engaging is that history isn’t just behind glass here.
You’ll see interpreters and historical figures throughout the historic area, often interacting with guests or appearing in scheduled programs.
For kids, this can make the day feel much more alive.
Many will often hang out near the taverns or at the Palace Green. My favorite one is the young George Washington.
Watch a Fifes and Drums Military Ceremony
If there is one thing I would tell first-time families not to miss, it’s this:
Watch the Fife and Drum Corps if they’re performing that day.
This tends to be one of the most fun, memorable, and kid-friendly experiences in Colonial Williamsburg.
It’s lively, easy to follow, and a lot more exciting than some of the quieter exhibits.
If your child starts to fade in the afternoon, this kind of performance can be exactly the energy boost you need.
Check the daily schedule when you arrive so you know when and where to catch it.
You can catch this at the Market Square North demonstration behind the Courthouse, when local students in the 5th grade or higher play the Fifes and Drums.
Participate in an Auction in Colonial Williamsburg
One of the most interactive and fun events for kids and adults alike is the live auction at Market Square In the middle of Duke of Gloucester Street.
Look for the large tents set up to sell souvenirs. The auction stage can be found behind the tents.
On some afternoons, an auctioneer sells wares to the highest bidder in an interactive event that even kids can participate in.
You’ll bid on souvenirs you’re most likely to buy anyway. The auctioneer plays with the crowd as you have fun bidding against each other.
I have purchased many souvenirs this way and most often, at a better price than the stores sold them.
So, step up and don’t be afraid to bid. You don’t have to pre-register, either.
Go Shopping
Shopping in Colonial Williamsburg is different from shopping at your local mall.
The items in the historic shops are 18th-century games, toys, food, housewares, and clothing.
These shops are often a favorite stop for the kids. Simple games and tricorn hats are the most bought items.
I always picked up vanilla beans at the shops.
Other Must-See Spots in Colonial Williamsburg with Kids
The Market Square – Picture this: open spaces, performers in period costumes, and maybe even a colonial game or two to join in. It’s the perfect spot to let the kids burn off some energy while you soak in the ambiance.
The Magazine & Guardhouse – If your kids think swords and muskets are the coolest things ever, this is your spot. They’ll get to see where all the weapons were stored and hear stories that make history come alive.
The Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg – Okay, hear me out. I know “museum” might not scream “kid-friendly,” but this one has a hands-on area where kids can touch and play.
Plus, it’s indoors—hello, air conditioning. While you’re there, point your phone at a specially marked scanner to hear an audio tour written and narrated by teens.
The Great Hopes Plantation – Do your kids want to see a re-creation of an 18th-century tobacco plantation? Learn the tobacco crop’s importance, and hear the working farmers’ stories.
You might even be asked to help look for tobacco bugs!
Where to Eat in Colonial Williamsburg with Kids
If you are looking for an authentic colonial meal, you can’t go wrong with any tavern, including Chowning’s, Christiana Campbell’s, King’s Arms Tavern, and Shields.
The taverns are all located in the historic area. Although a bit pricey, the dining experience is a must.
Colonial-themed food, such as shepherd’s pie, Brunswick stew, and peanut soup, delight diners.
Don’t worry; each tavern has a kid-friendly menu for picky eaters.
There are other family-friendly restaurants in the area, but a tavern is one you won’t want to miss.
Great Way to End the Day
End your day in the historic area back at Merchants Square.
You will find the Wythe Candy & Gourmet Shop, which is always a hit with the kids.
They have every kind of candy and chocolate you can imagine. Of course, you have to try the dark chocolate sea salt caramels from there, because they are amazing!
In what else but The Cheese Shop do you find the best cheese you can imagine?
The selection is outstanding, and the knowledgeable staff will help you make a delicious cheese board to enjoy out on the patio.
Pair this with your chocolate from Wythes and a glass of wine from The Williamsburg Winery located in the exact center.
Now, you have a perfect way to wind down from a fun afternoon while preparing for the evening.
Nighttime at Colonial Williamsburg with Kids
The shops and taverns may close at night, but there are still plenty of things to do in Colonial Williamsburg with kids when the sun sets.
These events can change, so check with the Visitor’s Center for what is available when you are there.
It is such an experience to be in Colonial Williamsburg at night. Fire cauldrons, called cressets, replace modern conveniences like street lights. Their light only enhances the colonial atmosphere.
These are some of my favorite nighttime activities, and I hope you enjoy at least one.
Colonial Williamsburg Ghost Tours
One of my favorite experiences at Williamsburg is the Colonial Williamsburg Ghost Tours.
Your costume guide walks you through the quiet streets at night on this ghost tour through Colonial Williamsburg, sharing haunted stories and tales. With only candlelight to lead you through the town, the experience is quite spooky but fun.
I wouldn’t recommend this tour for younger children, though.
Palace Concert/Dancing
This is an entertaining event held at the Governor’s Palace. It takes place by candlelight as well. Costumed actors interact and dance while the ballroom music from the 17th and 18th centuries is played.
Audience participation is encouraged, so don’t say I didn’t warn you.
The actors stay in character as if they were at an actual ball at the Governor’s Palace. It is an impressive and enjoyable evening.
Cry Witch – Witch Trial
Again, this an experience that I wouldn’t recommend for younger children.
It is the trial of Grace Sherwood, a woman accused of being a witch. It’s held at the Capitol building courthouse. The actors are pretty vivid in their portrayal.
I have seen it several times and enjoyed it each time. It’s fascinating to learn about the origins of court-related sayings we use today.
Tips and Hints for Visiting Colonial Williamsburg with Kids
I have given you quite a few of my favorite tips for visiting Colonial Williamsburg, but here are a few more:
- Pack Snacks: Yes, there are places to eat, but the last thing you want is to be caught mid-tour with a hangry kid. Think granola bars, fruit snacks, or whatever keeps your crew happy.
- Bring Comfortable Shoes: The historic area is huge, and there’s a lot of walking involved. Make sure everyone’s wearing their comfiest kicks.
- Plan for Downtime: Don’t try to see everything in one day. It’s impossible. Pick a few must-see spots, then leave room for exploring (or ice cream breaks).
- Engage with the Interpreters: The people in costume are there to interact with you! Encourage your kids to ask questions. They’ll love hearing about what life was like in the 18th century, and you might learn a thing or two as well.
- The Bathrooms are Hidden in Plain Sight: If you or your kids need a bathroom break, the bathrooms are hidden in tiny white buildings throughout Colonial Williamsburg. Oh, and guess what? You will also find vending machines next to most of them!
Where to Stay in Colonial Williamsburg with Kids
Williamsburg has several chain hotels, with most offering larger rooms for families.
These hotels are clean, affordable, and offer free breakfasts. I personally have stayed at all of them and any one of them would a good choice for families.
- Hampton Inn & Suites in the Historic District
- Comfort Suites Williamsburg Historic Area
- SpringHill Suites Williamsburg
If you want the authentic colonial experience, I would consider staying at one of the Colonial Williamsburg lodging options.
Some of these include the luxurious Williamsburg Inn, the Williamsburg Lodge, or one of the colonial rooms or houses.
The Williamsburg Inn is an upscale Forbes Travel Guide five-star hotel with a beautiful golf course, The Golden Horseshoe. Visitors can walk the golf cart paths in the early mornings before the golfers arrive. The landscape of the course is quite peaceful in the mornings.
My favorite place to stay is the Colonial Houses on the Duke of Gloucester Street.
These authentic historic-era homes are right in the middle of Colonial Williamsburg.
Staying in one of these homes is as close as possible to replicating the feeling of living in the 18th century.
The homes are well-appointed, and most rooms and cottages feature fireplaces that can be lit on cold nights.
One of my most memorable trips was my week-long stay in the house next to the public armory.
Visiting Duke of Gloucester Street early in the morning and late at night when Colonial Williamsburg is closed to the public is a unique experience.
Other Fun Things to Do with Kids in Williamsburg, VA
Of course, you can spend your entire vacation in the Historic Triangle and not run out of things to do. However, there are other fun attractions nearby that kids love.
As you plan your trip, consider visiting The Great Wolf Lodge, located 15 minutes from Colonial Williamsburg. The resort has a giant indoor water park and kid-friendly events throughout the year.
Busch Gardens is an exciting theme park minutes from Colonial Williamsburg. Kids of all ages enjoy the rides, coaters, and shows.
Until Next Time
By the end of the day, your kids will probably be tired but happy (and maybe a little smarter, too).
Colonial Williamsburg with kids is a mix of fun, education, and a touch of chaos, but the good kind. It’s the kind of day they’ll remember for years.
So, if you’re looking for a family vacation destination that combines entertainment with education, look no further than Colonial Williamsburg, where the past comes to life for a truly unforgettable experience.
