Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia - Where America's History Began

Are you interested in American history? If so, there's probably no better place to go than colonial Williamsburg, Virginia.

An independent city on the Virginia Peninsula in the Hampton Roads area, Williamsburg is billed as the place where America began and where history lives even today. Along with Yorktown and Jamestown, Williamsburg makes up the historic Triangle of Virginia, and it's a must-see for the colonial history buff. While Jamestown is the site of the first permanent English settlement in America, Williamsburg, with its combination of modern-day city and restoration of the colonial past, is by far the most interesting place to visit. The recreation of an 18^th century town, complete with actors playing the roles of their forebears will delight all ages.

Things to See and Do

Originally called Middle Plantation, it began in 1632 as a fortified settlement on the high ground between the James and York rivers. It was renamed Williamsburg after the capital of the Virginia colony was moved there from Jamestown in 1698. It received a royal charter as a city in 1722, and was the center of political events leading to the American War for Independence.

In addition to Colonial Williamsburg, the city is home to College of William & Mary, established in 1693, and the second oldest university in the United States. After the Civil War, Williamsburg became a sleepy backwater until the mid-1920s when a number of individuals and organizations got together to recreate it's colonial past as a historic and tourist attraction. Today, it is Virginia's number-one tourist draw.

The main attraction of the city is Colonial Williamsburg, where actors recreate life in the colonial city's early years, including a controversial decision about a decade ago to include the history of slavery, complete with slave quarters, and black actors playing the roles they would have had during the 18^th century. While many in both the white and black communities opposed the move, it is done in a historically accurate, but sensitive way that adds immeasurably to an understanding of life in early America.

Getting There

The city is serviced by the Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport, located 20 miles from the center of town, and with limo and rental car service into the city, and the airports at Richmond and Norfolk, both only 55 miles away. Most people, however, get to Williamsburg by car via nearby Interstate 64, US Route 60, and State Route 143. Inside Williamsburg, public transportation is readily available, and accessible to the handicapped.

Where to Stay

There's no shortage of hotels, motels, and resorts in the Williamsburg area, at prices to fit almost any budget. My personal preference is a nice place at a reasonable price, that is also located conveniently to the local attractions, so, whenever I visit Williamsburg, I like to stay at the Hampton Inn and Suites. Attractive, and with a full range of quality services, it's only two miles from Colonial Williamsburg, and 10 miles from the Busch Gardens Amusement Park. It's really affordable, with room rates starting at around $100 per night.

Hampton Inn and Suites

1880 Richmond Road

Williamsburg, VA 23185

(757) 229-4900

hamptoninn.hilton.com