Visit tradespeople in their shops, explore the Magazine, discover something new at Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg, shop our signature stores, and enjoy comfort food at Chowning’s Tavern!
The Historic Area is open 9:30 a.m.to 4:30 p.m. daily | Download a map & program guide here.
The Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg are open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily
Save on Tickets
Whether you have one day to visit, or want unlimited visits for the rest of 2021 at an amazing price, we have the perfect discounted ticket or special offer for you. Your admission ticket or pass is your key to a limited selection of featured Colonial Williamsburg Historic Area sites, trades, programs, and gardens, as well as access to two art museums and free shuttle service. Plus, get tickets online for a totally touchless experience!
Buy NowPreservation and stewardship of the colonial capital requires routine maintenance, and we schedule necessary building closures during the winter to take care of our sites. Double check that your favorite spot is going to be open while you’re here. Please note the following closures:
- Capitol (closed for maintenance Jan. 19-29)
- Governor’s Palace & Grounds (closed for maintenance Jan. 4-15)
- Randolph Kitchen & Yard (closed for maintenance March 1-12)
- Public Armoury (closed for maintenance Feb. 8-19)
Visit this page for additional operations details, and our events calendar to check what’s open during your visit.
Season Favorites
Special Events
Plan Your Visit
Explore the Historic Area
Discover government sites, family homes, and historic trades.
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Courthouse Exploration
Experience justice in the 18th century. Discover how the courthouse connects colonists to their community. Guest entry every 15 minutes
CW Admission
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Behind the Wythe House
Explore the yard and first floor of the Wythe House. Discuss Enlightenment thinking and the ideas that shaped the Revolution.
CW Admission
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Weavers at Work
Learn how flax, cotton, and wool are converted from tangled masses into orderly, precise fabrics.
CW Admission
Attend an Event
Meet Nation Builders, learn about Archaeological research and watch performances at the Play House Stage.
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Visit a Nation Builder
Step into the past with a Nation Builder and learn about their contribution to the founding of our nation.
CW Admission
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Pop-Up Archaeology!
Drop in to the Art Museums for a special pop-up exhibition of artifacts from Custis Square and the First Baptist Church archaeology sites!
Art Museums Admission
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Entertainments at the Play House
See the theatrical entertainments of The Jug Broke Theatre Co. Enjoyment for all! Check the marquee by the stage for daily performances.
CW Admission
Dine With Us
With a mixture of historic taverns, modern restaurants, and cafes 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.
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Chowning's Tavern
Colonial-Inspired Meals
Open to the Public
Handicap Accessible
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Museum Café
Once you have satisfied your curiosity in the museums, take time to satisfy your thirst and appetite. The Museum Café offers guests both indoor and outdoor dining options, weather permitting. The menu features a delectable …
Open to the Public
Handicap Accessible
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Merchants Square Shops
Over 40 unique stores and restaurants. Unlimited memorable experiences. At Merchants Square, you'll find so much more than can fit in a shopping bag. Shared laughter over a delicious meal. A child dancing to a brass band. D…
Open to the Public
Handicap Accessible
Winter Warmers
Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg
Featuring the best in British and American fine and decorative arts, plus the nation’s premiere collection of American folk art
Learn More
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Tradespeople in the Galleries
Visit with the harpsichord-makers, gunsmiths, joiners, tailors, engravers, wigmakers, or printers in the Art Museum.
Art Museums Admission
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Tradespeople in the Raleigh Tavern
Visit the silversmiths, wigmakers, bookbinders, public leatherworks, and more to explore the techniques and tools used in their trades.
CW Admission
TOOLS FOR A TOTALLY TOUCHLESS EXPERIENCE
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Explore Virtually

Please note that some images may have been taken prior to COVID-19. All guests are required to wear face masks when indoors, and they are recommended outdoors. Face coverings will be worn by Colonial Williamsburg staff. Learn more here about our commitment to the health and safety of our guests and staff and what protocols we have in place.