Things to Do in Colonial Williamsburg, VA

Things to Do in Colonial Williamsburg, VA
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Colonial Williamsburg allows visitors to see, touch, taste, feel and even smell what life was like in 18th Century America, according to History.org, the website for Colonial Williamsburg. There are plenty of things to do in Colonial Williamsburg, including historical interpretations, entertainment, shopping and eating. However, there are also activities where visitors can get a little exercise, relax, play games or celebrate all with a historical influence.

Ghost Walking Tours

It doesn't have to be Halloween to enjoy a walking tour of Colonial Williamsburg to learn more about the pre-Revolutionary spooks living near the town. The tour, titled "The Original Ghosts of Williamsburg Candlelight Tour," is an evening guided walk in which you can learn more about the folklore or scary stories about the historic town, according to TheGhostTour.com, the website for the tour. The stories are based on "The Ghosts of Williamsburg" by L.B. Taylor. During July and August, an additional tour is offered each evening. Tours depart rain or shine. For more information, dates and times, check TheGhostTour.com website.

Biking

Another way to see historic Williamsburg is to hop on a bike and explore the 173 acres of the town, according to TheInnat802.com, the website for the Inn, which is a bed and breakfast. Williamsburg has several trails for all levels of cycling experience, from the beginner, who is looking for a leisurely trip through the town, to the expert, who is after an aggressive ride. The Inn's website also notes that tourists can bring their own bikes or rent from a local bike shop.

Holidays and Special Events

If you are planning a trip to Virginia coincide with a special time of year, you might want to check out Colonial Williamsburg holiday and special events. For example, on July 4 there is a family program in Williamsburg to mark Independence Day. Activities include a parade, fireworks and fife and drum performances, according to History.org. Another example is in December, when there are many activities to experience a Colonial Christmas, such as caroling, game playing, decorating and wreath making.

Golf

Although they did not have as much time for leisure, colonists in Williamsburg did play games from time to time, according to History.org. Similarly, modern visitors can take a break from exploring history and play a round of golf at the Colonial Golf Club in Williamsburg. The course has the amenities of a private club, such as lessons, a club house and a practice range, but is open to the public, according to its website. The course is also known for its natural setting.
Another option is the Golden Horseshoe Golf Club, which is affiliated with Colonial Williamsburg. According to its website, the course was designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr. and Rees Jones and features 45 walk-able holes framed by Audubon sanctuaries.

Relax and Wellness

It may be hard to believe, but even early colonists had their own wellness rituals that mirror modern techniques, and the Spa of Colonial Williamsburg combines 500 years of wellness practices to offer its guests relaxation with a historical flair, according to History.org. Packages are based on techniques that were popular during different historical eras. According to the History.org website, guests can choose a 17th Century hot stone cleansing, an 18th Century herbal spa, a 20th Century rain massage or a 21st Century skin rejuvenation.

References

Article reviewed by Rick Capone Last updated on: Dec 7, 2010

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