Explore Our Nation's History at Colonial Williamsburg

Colonial Williamsburg is an engaging living history museum spread out across 300 acres in historic Williamsburg. Visitors are transported to colonial-era Williamsburg and are immersed in historic culture, including buildings, houses, shops, taverns and costumed interpreters that bring history to life. There are a plethora of exhibits, museums and programs to see, all of which encompass an old world charm.

When I visited, I attended the “Revolutionary City” program which was a lively reenactment that covers the period of 1774 to 1781. Through a series of large-scale streetscape events visitors are able to engage in the reading of the Declaration of Independence, hear the reactions of townspeople as Great Britain tries to tighten control over the colonies, watch Benedict Arnold and the British occupy Williamsburg and witness the General deliver an address before the march to Yorktown, complete with fifes, drums and a cannon salute.

I also had the pleasure of dining at Shields Tavern, a restaurant that serves southern comfort foods inspired by colonial receipts. I dined on the barbeque ribs and drank some of their seasonal ale, all of which was absolutely delicious. The atmosphere of Shields Tavern was also splendid, as the décor and live music were all infused with 18th century affectations.

While I was visiting Colonial Williamsburg I took in one of their evening programs as well. “Cry Witch” is performed at the Capital courtroom building and the one-hour program tells the story of Grace Sherwood, a woman who stands accused of witchery. The story was especially engaging and all of the actors did an excellent job. The audience gets to decide the fate of Grace Sherwood, innocent or guilty, which adds to the interactive experience. During my visit, we found her innocent but the outcome changes with each program.

Experience Colonial Williamsburg and see how much fun history can be!