Pre-arrival Information for Guests

The Historic Area of Colonial Williamsburg includes 88 original 18th-century structures. Hundreds of houses, shops and public outbuildings are reconstructed on their original foundations. Museums, gardens and farms offer additional glimpses of period life.

CW is home to more than 20 historic trades and skills. These world-renowned experts not only make goods and provide services to the Historic Area, they also consult and produce for other cultural institutions around the world. You will not find a trades community with so many experts in one place anywhere else.

Your admission ticket agrants you access to multiple programs throughout the day on the Charlton and Play House stages as well as the expanded and Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg. Check out the Events Calendar to see what's happening each day, with interest filters to customize your visit.

Explore the expanded and updated Art Museums, featuring more of the collection on view than ever. Discover colorful and whimsical folk art made by amateur artisans in the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum to objects that are useful as well as beautiful in the DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum. Plus, enjoy amenities including the Museum Store and Café.

Savor the taste of locally sourced ingredients, expertly prepared to reflect the culinary traditions of the time. With a mixture of restaurants, bars, lounges, and historic taverns located in and around the Historic Area, you’ll find the perfect place for a historically-inspired family meal or an intimate evening of creative cuisine.

Choose from one of five world-class accommodations: the iconic Williamsburg Inn, use Bonvoy points at the Williamsburg Lodge, Autograph Collection, relax at the Griffin Hotel, unique Colonial Houses in the Historic Area, or stay in the family-friendly Williamsburg Woodlands Hotel and Suites. All are conveniently located within and surrounding Colonial Williamsburg’s Historic Area.

Unwind in ultimate tranquility at THE SPA of Colonial Williamsburg, or serve up fun with our premier tennis and pickleball courts. Tee off at the Golden Horseshoe Golf Club—experience championship courses with stunning views, challenging play, and a rich golfing legacy.

From souvenirs and books, to furnishings for your home and unique 18th-century jewelry handmade by our historic tradespeople, Colonial Williamsburg has a wide variety of shopping. Visit our 18th-century shops in the Historic Area or head into Merchants Square for our WILLIAMSBURG shops.