You can spend an entire week in America's Historic Triangle — Colonial Williamsburg, Yorktown and Jamestown — and not cover half of the fun there is to be had there.
But even if you have just a few days for a short fall getaway, the historic region just 150 miles south of Alexandria is worth a look. The area is most known for its plentiful historic attractions, but there is a lot to do for those for whom history was not a strong suit in high school.
Base Camp: Kingsmill Resort
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Courtesy Kingsmill Resort
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Courtesy Kingsmill Resort
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Courtesy Kingsmill Resort
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Courtesy Kingsmill Resort
We made our home at Kingsmill, a resort overlooking the beautiful James River in Williamsburg. The lazy river pool was closed for the season, but the outdoor pool overlooking the river was open, as was the indoor pool and hot tub. Playgrounds and walking trails crisscross through the property and woods. We saw many people playing golf (there are three courses on site), biking, playing tennis and popping into the spa. A small arcade enchanted the kids.
If the weather were warmer, we could have taken out a pontoon boat, kayak, jet ski or paddleboard. In addition, fishing charters are available.
With a full kitchen, dining room, living room, deck, two bedrooms and two bathrooms, we were very comfortable in our condo at the resort. For larger groups, there are three- and four-bedroom private cottages overlooking the river, all nicely appointed. For even larger groups, a luxury hilltop home is available and comes with two vehicles and a private chef.
A large brunch overlooking the river at Elements 1010 started our days. For dinner, we took advantage of the outdoor dining at the James Landing Grill. While watching boats and the sunset over the James River, a family of deer meandered past.
Seasonally Appropriate: Ghost Tours
Colonial Williamsburg, called "The World's Biggest Living History Museum," is fun at any time of year, even for those who aren't into history. The interactive exhibits and historically themed shopping are entertaining for all ages.
In October (and year-round), Colonial Williamsburg offers fun ghost tours appropriate for all ages. It was so good, in fact, that we would say it rivals Alexandria's own ghost tours, but we wouldn't want the local ghosts to come haunt us in revenge.
If you have time before the ghost tour, pop in for a drink at The King's Arms, which is Colonial Williamsburg's most highly-rated and well-known tavern.
Busch Gardens
If a ghost tour isn't enough of a rush, some of the new roller coasters at Busch Gardens should be. Sideways, upside down and in the dark, the roller coasters don't disappoint for those who are into that sort of thing. For people who would rather remain right-side up, there's also plenty of calmer rides, games, shopping and entertainment at the amusement park.
Tip: Download the Busch Gardens Williamsburg mobile app. Busch Gardens is big, and you may spend more time walking than riding if you don't have a game plan. In addition, the skip-the-line Quick Queue is well worth its cost. At one popular coaster, the line stretched to more than 55 minutes, but the Quick Queue line was just five minutes.
Through the end of October, Busch Gardens turns into a Halloween fright party after 6 p.m. Those with children who scare easily should leave early, but it's great fun for older kids and adults. Howl-O-Scream ends on Oct. 31.
American Revolution Museum at Yorktown
Chris Militzer/Miliman12 Photography
Museum of the American Revolution
Back, of course, to the history: The American Revolution Museum at Yorktown can suck you in for hours. There are artifacts, interactive exhibits and an outside replica campground for American troops complete with a musket demonstration, medical equipment demonstration, tents and more.
The museum is just a stone's throw from the charming, tiny town of historic Yorktown itself. Upcoming events this fall there include Paws on the River, the Vintage Market, the Maritime Festival and a wine festival. With a goldsmith, bookshop, galleries and riverwalk, the quaint little town is worth a stop. The Yorktown Pub and Waterfront Grille are two good bets for lunch or dinner.
Off the Beaten Path
On the second Sunday of every month from March through December, Williamsburg hosts a music and arts festival called... Second Sundays. Stroll the streets of Colonial Williamsburg and check out arts, crafts and live music, plus face painting for kids (or adults), crafts projects, appearances by local authors and more. Learn more at 2ndsundayswilliamsburg.com.
For the kids, swing by Kidsburg on the way out of town. Located at Veterans Park, Kidsburg is a 30,000-square-foot lighted playground.
While we weren't able to do more, the following are highly recommended by others:
- Jamestown Settlement
- Go Karts Plus
- Pirate's Cove Adventure Mini Golf
- Williamsburg Botanical Garden
- Yorktown Battlefield
Have a good trip!
