A Celebration 250 Years in the Making
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Join us for a July 4 birthday celebration like no other, filled with festivities, including live concerts, interactive family-friendly experiences, public readings of the Declaration of Independence and more! Click here to learn more.

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Shields Tavern

Shields Tavern

HOURS OF OPERATION

Tuesday - Saturday
11:00 am - 2:00 pm

July 4 All-Day Buffet | 11:00 am - 6:00 pm

Details:

$$

Family Friendly

Contact:

Phone

855-263-1746

Location:

422 East Duke of Gloucester Street
Williamsburg VA 23185

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To Fry Chicken
To Make a Grand Sallet
Shields Tavern Atmosphere 2

Shields Tavern

Taverns were central to 18th-century life, serving as gathering places for locals and travelers alike. Guests paid a set fee for a meal and often shared communal sleeping arrangements. Shields Tavern, originally operated by Jean Marot in 1709, later came under the management of his daughter Anne and her husband James Shields. By 1750, it was one of Williamsburg’s seven licensed taverns, catering to the lesser gentry and upper middling ranks with food, drink, and entertainment.

Today, Shields Tavern continues this tradition with the Groaning Board menu a historically accurate family-style service, where guests enjoy a lively, communal dining experience reminiscent of 18th-century tavern hospitality.

  • The Groaning Board Menu at Shields Tavern harkens back to the indulgent feasts of the 18th century, inspired by the tradition of tables so bountiful they seemed to groan under their weight. Reflecting the rich history of Williamsburg, this menu captures the essence of tavern dining with hearty, flavorful dishes crafted from fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.

  • Shields Tavern proudly offers a selection of refreshing nonalcoholic beverages, perfect for any guest to enjoy.

  • At Shields Tavern, we take pride in supporting our local community by sourcing ingredients from nearby farms and purveyors. This commitment ensures the highest quality and allows us to showcase the rich flavors of the region. Whether you're craving a hearty entrée, a light bite, or a sweet treat to end your meal, our menu offers something to delight every palate, inviting you to experience the true essence of Colonial-inspired dining.

  • Shields Tavern is ADA-accessible

Menus

Lunch Menu

Timeless Tastes, Crafted for Today

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Shields Tavern

Beverage Menu

Heritage-Inspired

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Special Events

July 4 Picnic Baskets

Enjoy a festive July 4 Family Picnic Basket from Shields Tavern Pavilion, available 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM. Relax in the shade at your reserved picnic table and indulge in holiday favorites like Mr. Shields’ Ice Box Fried Chicken, cornbread, potato salad, and fresh watermelon and strawberries, all topped off with patriotic cookies and refreshing lemonade.

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