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Moving back and forth between the 18th and 21st centuries is a normal, daily activity for many Williamsburg residents. Visitors quickly discover how that works in this renowned Virginia city.
Getting your bearings
The main drag is Duke of Gloucester Street. At one end of this mile-long thoroughfare is the College of William & Mary abutting the modern-day shops and restaurants of Merchants Square. At the other end is the Capitol, a stately, red brick building our founders would recognize if they saw it today. Painstakingly restored on its original 18th-century foundations, the Capitol is one of the first buildings visitors seek to tour.
In 1776, a resolution declaring the colonies free and independent states was drafted here at the Capitol. This resolution became the basis for the Declaration of Independence. So, if you want to give your children a first-hand look at American history, this is a great place to start. And speaking of starting, when the Williamsburg Fife and Drum Corps is scheduled to play, this is where they begin their journey down Duke of Gloucester Street. Sporting regimental red and blue uniforms, their performance of brisk military field music is an invigorating treat for bystanders young and old.
Restoring the Colonial Capital
It was the vision of Dr. W.A.R. Goodwin to return Williamsburg to its former glory as the capital of Virginia from 1699 to 1780. Goodwin became rector of Bruton Parish Church on Duke of Gloucester Street after being assured that the church would be restored to its colonial form. Today, the church has an active congregation. Meanwhile, Goodwin captured the attention of John D. Rockefeller, Jr., who saw the opportunity for bringing an 18th-century town back to life and had the money for the project. Work began in earnest in 1930 when the design for Colonial Williamsburg got underway.
Under the radar
The gardens of the Governor’s Palace are exceptional and should be on your list of things to see in Williamsburg. While there, look for the grave marker in the high wall that surrounds the gardens. You will learn that 158 bodies are buried within the enclosure. The remains were discovered in 1930 when palace restoration work began. George Washington used the Governor’s Palace as a military hospital for wounded Continental Army soldiers during the Yorktown campaign of 1781. Due to the remnants of some military insignia, it is believed that the remains belong to the soldiers who died in that conflict.
Dining recommendations
There are several taverns in the Historic Area. The King’s Arms (Jefferson Bread Pudding) and Chowning’s Tavern (Brunswick Stew), both on duke of Gloucester Street, attract residents as well as tourists. Stepping back into the present, you’ll find that Merchants Square has 40 retail shops and restaurants, and you’ll love the variety! But for good eats, locals recommend The Cheese Shop for great sandwiches, and, in the evening, The Fat Canary, offering AAA Four-Star dining. For a little French flair, it’s the Blue Talon Bistro, which is just around the corner on Prince George Street. Try their Mac & Cheese or Grilled Asparagus Salad.
Accommodations
If the Williamsburg Inn was good enough for Queen Elizabeth II when she visited the area, it will likely win your approval. You might also consider the adjacent Williamsburg Lodge. Both are located on the edge of the Historic Area. The Woodlands Hotel and Suites, situated next to the Welcome Center, is also popular among families. But if you have a car, you’ll find that more economically priced hotels are just a few minutes away from Colonial Williamsburg.
Getting there
If you’re driving, the closest interstate to Williamsburg is I-64 just a few miles east of town. However, coming from the west, the area is also accessible from I-295 via John Tyler Highway.
If flying, you can choose from three airports. The Newport News-Williamsburg International Airport is 17 miles away. Both Norfolk International and Richmond International are 45 miles from Williamsburg.
Note: All travel is subject to frequently changing governmental restrictions—please check government advisories before scheduling trips.
Enjoy your visit as you Travel Into History!