Weekend Getaways in Virginia : Pampering Your Mom in Williamsburg 4 Apr 2024, 12:44 pm

We invite you to stay at our  Williamsburg bed and breakfast and plan your perfect Mother’s Day weekend getaways in Virginia.

Right outside our door, you can spend your days with your Mom exploring nature and shopping at local boutiques. Saturday mornings are for browsing at the Farmers Market. You may want to get a massage. There are many options to enjoy mouth-watering meals. If you are here Saturday evening, you can experience the charming Colonial Williamsburg tradition of the Lighting of the Cressets.

Weekend Getaways in Virginia: Out in Nature, Boutique Browsing, and an Exquisite Seafood Dinner

Kick off your special weekend with Mom by heading out on the Bassett Trace Nature Trail. It’s a beautiful place to hike every season, especially during springtime when the foliage and wildflowers vibrantly bloom. The trailhead neighbors the Colonial Williamsburg historic area and extends as far as the Golden Horseshoe Green Course for 1.5 miles each way. If your Mom is a birder, she’ll be in heaven with the dozens of birds that frequent this dense woodland habitat. Butterflies, including monarchs and various swallowtails, are also a delightful and common sight as the days warm up. As you walk through the shaded forest, you’ll be surrounded by ancient hardwood trees and occasional ponds – where waterfowl add to the pastoral scene.

After your hike, head to Merchants Square, in the town center, across the street from our inn. Browse with your Mom among the 40 shops, each offering unique goods and apparel in the charming federal-style atmosphere. Whether it’s refined home decor at Brick and Vine, elegant metalwork and jewelry at Danforth Pewter, summery French and Italian women’s wear at the French Twist Boutique, or fine linens at J. Fenton, you’re bound to find a perfect Mother’s Day gift and something special for your Mom to bring home.

Plan for Friday night dinner on the patio at Berret’s, a seafood institution in Williamsburg for over 40 years. Outdoor dining is first-come, first-serve, so show up early to beat the dinner rush. Start with tasty appetizers like baked brie with grilled shrimp or seared sea scallops. Follow this up with an entrée of striped bass, tuna, or oysters. The oysters are harvested fresh from the James and York Rivers.  You can learn more about them in our recent blog, Legendary Oysters along the Virginia Peninsula. In addition to seafood, there are many other delicious plates, including a honey-mustard chicken breast with asparagus or the peach-mango seared pork chop. You can share a bottle of wine from their impressive 80-bottle wine list and raise your glasses to your lovely weekend getaway in Virginia.

A Morning at the Market, Replenishing Massage, and Cressets Aglow

There’s no better place to spend a springtime Saturday morning than at the Farmers Market, where the town comes together every weekend to support local farms and vendors. After a restful sleep in your Fife and Drum Inn room or suite, stroll around the block to Duke of Gloucester Street, where the market’s 40+ vendors set up along the pedestrian-only thoroughfare while local musicians provide entertainment. Sip on fresh coffee and enjoy a European-style pastry from the Buttery Baking House while soaking in the mid-May sunshine.

Bring your Mom for an afternoon massage session at the Williamsburg Salt Spa, where their expert therapists offer a range of healing body treatments. Choose from a 60 or 90-minute Swedish massage or the more intense deep tissue style, both revitalizing. For a special twist, add the hot Himalayan salt rocks, which enhance the massage effects by releasing natural minerals. Your Mom will leave glowing and rejuvenated, a treat for the body and soul.

The evening of Saturday, May 11, 2024, brings a unique opportunity to experience the Lighting of the Cressets in Colonial Williamsburg. Start with some tasty bistro eats and hand-crafted cocktails at the Blue Talon Bistro, one of our favorite Williamsburg restaurants and across the street from us on Prince George Street. Then, walk over to Duke of Gloucester Street, where from 8-10 pm, the street glows with the soft light from the fire-lit cressets, creating the same enchanting streetside ambiance as existed during colonial times.

Weekend Getaways in Virginia: A Classic Tavern Mother’s Day Brunch and World-Class Tasting Tour at Williamsburg Winery

Mother’s Day brunch is a beloved tradition, and nowhere is that truer than at Christiana Campbell’s Tavern. The three-course prix fixe menu reflects the tavern’s 250 years of culinary excellence. George Washington ate here often and sang its praises. Mother’s Day menu options include forest mushroom quiche, crab benedict, shrimp and grits, and more! As you enjoy a leisurely walk back through Colonial Williamsburg after brunch, stop by for a cruise through the hedge maze and ornate gardens behind the Governor’s Palace, one of the most stunning landscapes within the 300-acre historic area (ticket required).

You may want to treat your Mom to a Mother’s Day afternoon of wine-tasting at the Williamsburg Winery, just a few miles from downtown. Their sprawling farm feels like an afternoon in Tuscany among the rows of grapes. The rich soil has produced award-winning vintages since 1985. Make your day at the winery unforgettable by joining their reserve wine tasting, which features a guided tasting of nine different wines and spotlights the rare reserve wines from their “library collection.”  We suggest advance reservations for the two-hour tasting session, which includes a platter of cheese and crackers and an etched wine glass to bring home, the perfect souvenir to remember your escape to Williamsburg together.

Reserve your historic room or suite and surprise your Mom with a memorable Mother’s Day weekend getaways in Virginia!

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Spring Blooms: A Guide to Local Gardens and Botanical Attractions 1 Apr 2024, 6:03 pm

During the spring months, our natural landscapes around town turn into a tapestry of vibrant colors, from the extensive and expertly manicured gardens at Colonial Williamsburg to the stunning array of plant species that make up the Botanical Gardens Williamsburg VA within Freedom Park. Start by heading out on the Basset Trace Nature Trail – one of our favorite springtime hikes – where you’ll get a perfect introduction to the breadth of plants in full bloom, from the brilliant white flowers of the Lizard’s tail and yellow petals of the Golden ragwort to the subtle purple colors of Wild ginger. Fill your days with strolls through the nearby gardens – wherever you look, spring’s beauty surrounds our Williamsburg bed and breakfast, flowering anew.

Colonial Williamsburg – Touring the Governor’s Mansion Grounds and Joining a Guided Walk Through the Historic Area’s Multitude of Gardens

After starting the morning with a specialty latte, mocha, or chai next door at Aromas Coffee, walk over to the Governor’s Palace, one of the landmarks of the 300 sprawling acres within Colonial Williamsburg. The gorgeous grounds here embody what gardening looked like during colonial times, with elaborate landscaping and a maze adding to the unique layout. The trees planted throughout the historic area form another type of arbored garden, none more impressive than the beech tree “arbors” that create a tunnel of foliage near the Governor’s Palace.

One of the best ways to get a hands-on introduction to the 30 on-site gardens throughout Colonial Williamsburg is to join their Meet the Gardener tour – included with your general CW admission ticket. A master gardener will guide you through different plots, imparting horticultural knowledge and insights into how colonial-era gardeners worked the soil and which tools they used. These tours begin at 9:30 am every Thursday, starting at the Prentis Store near the corner of North Queen St and Duke of Gloucester St (just a 10-minute walk from our location).

Plants, Pollinators, and Botanical Splendor at the Botanical Gardens Williamsburg VA

Just eight miles north of downtown, the Williamsburg Botanical Garden – a lush 2-acre spread that includes over a dozen unique mini garden areas and several hundred plant species – occupies the center of Freedom Park, itself over 600 acres of urban greenery at its finest. When you enter the garden, following the quaint pathways leading from zone to zone, you’ll pass by an herb garden, always a fragrant treat, a collection of succulents, swamp, and marsh sections, and perhaps the most charming, a fairy garden. With hearts painted on rocks and adorable “fairy houses” mixed in with the garden design, kids will love imagining fairies at play, adding a delightful sense of wonder to the afternoon. Surrounding the garden, you’ll also find dense stands of young and old piney woods, part of Freedom Park’s Arboretum – recently recognized as Level 1, of which there are less than 20 in all of Virginia, and lauded for its diversity of woody plants and dozens of tree species.

One of the missions of the Williamsburg Botanical Garden is to be a magnet for pollinators, creating a haven for the bees and butterflies to work their springtime magic. The “pollinator palace” is an ingenious reuse and reimagining of wooden shipping pallets, several stacked high and made to protect bees as they raise their young – if you visit in the spring, it’s sure to be buzzing with activity as the queen bee mates and the colony chases the bounty of nectar throughout the garden.

Another wonderful garden treat is the astonishing variety of butterflies you’ll see, a sight that surely would’ve awed the famous novelist Nabokov, a lifelong butterfly enthusiast. Butterfly experts have noted over 50 species of butterflies throughout the garden, with unique names like the zebra swallowtail, silver-spotted skipper, and holly azure. Look for them in the pollinator bed and amongst the brightly-hued zinnias, cosmos, and milkweed. If you’re into nature photography, bring your digital camera and tripod to set up along the walkways throughout the garden, where you’ll have your choice of lovely flowers and delightfully fluttering butterflies to capture.

More Than Just a Garden – History at Freedom Park and Springtime Classes

Like most places in Williamsburg, Freedom Park’s history runs deep, especially right next to the garden at the Free Black Settlement. After functioning for nearly 200 years as the Green Spring Plantation, one of the most well-established plantations during colonial times, land owner William Ludwell Lee gave part of his plot to 30 formerly enslaved people that he emancipated in the early 1800s (notable as it preceded the Emancipation Proclamation in 1865). Three humble wooden cabins recreate the dwellings they lived in some two centuries ago, honoring their role in farming this same land, including where the botanical garden is today, connecting past to present tangibly and powerfully. During your day in the garden, it’s worth taking a stroll and stepping foot into the cabins, which are decorated accurately for that period, much like the living history museums of the Historic Triangle.

The Botanical Garden’s dedicated staff of volunteers organizes several springtime events, starting with their Native Orchids of Virginia masterclass at 10 a.m. on April 20th, 2024, held in the Interpretive Center at Freedom Park. The event is free but requires an online reservation. It is a rare chance to learn about the fascinating variety of orchids found throughout our state. The class is an ideal complement to visiting the garden, especially during the spring, when orchids burst into bloom all over Virginia. The impossibly gorgeous pinks and magentas of the Pink Lady’s Slipper orchid make it the most recognizable of the bunch. But you’ll also learn about more under-the-radar varieties like the Coralroot, which forms a unique underground relationship with fungi as it grows. The garden also hosts its annual Honor Box Plant Sale daily starting on April 27th and continuing through May 26th, when you can browse the appealing selection of plants for sale, priced as marked, with cash payment made the old-fashioned way in a drop box.

Stay with us this spring and experience the magnificent natural beauty of the Botanical Gardens Williamsburg VA!

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The Perks of Visiting Williamsburg in the Springtime 14 Mar 2024, 7:30 am

Warmer Days, Fewer Crowds, and Local Markets Returning in Colonial Williamsburg Spring

With colonial Williamsburg spring arriving, temperatures begin climbing into the 60s by mid-March and 70s by April, ushering in warmer days along the Virginia peninsula. Local farmers’ markets kick off their regular seasons, and you’ll have extra sunshine while heading out on nearby trails for hiking and birdwatching – it’s a perfect time of year to explore our natural landscapes. Colonial Williamsburg spring crowds are more manageable than summer’s height, making for a more intimate experience at museums, workshops, and tours. It’s all right at your doorstep from our Williamsburg bed and breakfast, so discover firsthand why springtime is one of the best seasons to visit.

Colonial Williamsburg Spring – Relaxed Ambiance and a Special Shearing

Colonial Williamsburg spring events like the first trimming of their flock of newborn baby lambs and the chance to get a more intimate in-person visit with interpreters playing luminaries like Reverend Gowan Pamphlet or Thomas Jefferson make it an excellent time to explore the historic area. In these months before the summer tourists arrive, you’ll have fewer crowds to contend with, allowing for more space and quiet to take in the artistic wonders of the decorative and folk art museums, more accessible reservations for always-popular carriage rides, and smaller groups for hands-on events like Shoulder Your Firelocks, when all ages will get a tactile sense of what it felt like to march as a newly-enlisted soldier during the late 1700s.

Be sure also to reserve a Stables Behind-the-Scenes tour, offered daily at 1 pm and focusing on Colonial Williamsburg’s renowned rare breeds animal program. In early spring, you’ll get an up-close look at their newest group of Leicester Longwool sheep when our new lambs arrive. It’s a delightful and pastoral scene. The wool from our sheep provides the raw material for the Spinning, Weaving, and Dyeing Shop – one of many historic trades and skills workshops spread throughout the 300-acre living history museum.

Spring Has Sprung Downtown – Williamsburg Farmers Market Returns for the Season

Nothing says springtime like the return of local farmers markets as they kick off their regular season, running from late March through October. The Williamsburg Farmers Market hosts a few scattered events over the winter, including a Valentine’s Market worth visiting on a late winter romantic getaway to Williamsburg. After the colder days of January and February wane, the spring/summer season begins in earnest, with the first market on March 16th. For over two decades, the downtown market has made its home along Duke of Gloucester St between Nassau and Henry St, abutting Merchant Square, just a block from our convenient location.

Walk over anytime between 8 am and noon to browse the rows of 40 vendors, with local musicians providing entertainment as you stroll in the morning sunshine. Start the day with a bagel or delicious homemade pastry from local fave Culture Cafe, some farm-fresh produce and flowers grown on Amy’s Garden’s nearby 70-acre organic farm, and a drip coffee, nitro cold brew, or refreshing lemonade from Column 15. The market doesn’t allow reselling, so you’ll buy directly from the farmers who grew your produce and bakers who made your pastries, connecting the community with their motto to “buy local, eat fresh.”

A Spring Day Trip to Yorktown – Market Days, Trolley Rides, Solitude on a Famous Battlefield, and Basking in the Sunshine Along Riverwalk Landing

Continue the colonial Williamsburg spring market revelry with a 20-minute scenic drive along the Colonial National Historical Parkway to nearby Yorktown, the eastern hub of the Historic Triangle (with Williamsburg in the center and Jamestown along the western shore of the Virginia peninsula). Along with the Williamsburg Farmers Market, their Yorktown Market Days series is part of the Virginia Is For Farmers Market Lovers campaign to highlight the best local markets spread throughout the state. The regular season begins with their first spring market on April 13th from 8 am – 12 pm, setting up at Riverwalk Landing with the flowing waters of the York River and the picturesque Coleman Memorial Bridge casting a scenic backdrop. Snack on Chesapeake Bay Spice nuts from Belmont Peanuts, or enjoy some fresh oysters on the half shell from the Virginia Oyster Company while checking out impressive work from local artisans like turquoise, quartz, and sterling silver jewelry from Celestial Silver Co. and fine hand-blown glasswork from Kelsey Finnie Glass. In a unique touch, each of their markets through the spring and summer has a different theme, such as all-things-French on April 20th (don’t miss the bite-sized and decadent French macarons from Cafe Genevieve), a pirate invasion motif on April 27th, and a vintage car show on May 11th.

While you stroll through Yorktown and soak in the early spring sun, hop on the free Yorktown Trolley, one of the most charming ways to cruise through their historic downtown district. It begins operating daily in late March and makes a loop along Water St and Main St, where you can jump off at any point to check out attractions like the impossible-to-miss 100-foot-high Yorktown Victory Monument, commemorating the combined American and French victory over the British in the fall of 1781. If that piques your historical curiosity and you want to learn more about that momentous battle – the final chapter in the long-fought American Revolution and solidifying George Washington’s legendary status as a commander-in-chief – head next door for a tour of the Yorktown Battlefield. With the more temperate spring weather, you can check out all the main outdoor sites throughout the national park (siege lines, redoubts, and batteries, among many others) before the touristy crowds and humidity of summer settle in.

Stay with us and experience the underrated charm of springtime in Williamsburg!

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Creative Weekend: Williamsburg’s Art Museums, Galleries, and Studios 11 Mar 2024, 5:17 pm

With the renowned and recently renovated art museums of Colonial Williamsburg a short stroll away, a studio where you can take classes just down the street, and a world-class jewelry and art gallery space right next door, you’ll have the vibrant local art scene at your fingertips when you stay at our Williamsburg bed and breakfast.

The Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg – Folk Art, Decorative Art, and Everything In Between

Both art enthusiasts and history buffs will be in gallery heaven at the art museums of Colonial Williamsburg, as their vast collection spans several centuries and includes over 70,000 pieces across various styles. Each of the two wings – the Dewitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum and the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum – has a unique artistic vision. A massive renovation to both museums began in 2017, adding over 60,000 square feet of extra space, with an updated grand entrance, lobby space, and concourse on Nassau St. Even if you’ve been to the art museums in the past, it’s worth visiting again, as the renovation now allows for much more art to be displayed among multiple gallery rooms, bringing thousands of new artifacts out of storage and into these updated spaces.

The decorative arts museum includes a wide-ranging variety of items, including handmade wooden furniture, grandfather clocks (part of the current Keeping Time exhibition), ornate ceramics, incredibly detailed glasswork (such as 300-year-old chandeliers), and one of the world’s largest and oldest map collections, specifically maps of Virginia made by the earliest settlers who charted the intricate details of the Chesapeake Bay coastline. Next door (both museums are easily accessible from the main entrance), the folk art galleries comprise over 4,000 objects from self-taught artists, with current exhibits highlighting early 19th-century paintings by beloved folk artist Edward Hicks, portraits of ordinary citizens of the day in the We the People collection, and an astonishing array of quilts made with bold designs. The folk art museum traces its roots back to avid art collector and philanthropist Abby Aldrich Rockefeller, who donated hundreds of pieces of folk art to Colonial Williamsburg in the late 1930s, having begun collecting art at a young age and developing a keen sense for underrecognized talent within the art world. In the decades since, the museum has expanded dramatically with a mix of donations and acquisitions, focusing specifically on self-trained and more under-the-radar artists who likely would’ve been overlooked by history without Rockefeller’s initial seed of inspiration and the museum’s curatorial dedication ever since. Helpful tip: The Art Museums are included on the daily, multi day and annual passes.  If you just want to visit the art museums of Colonial Williamsburg, an art museum-specific ticket or just $14.99.

Colonial Folk Art Studio – Get Creative in a Studio Space Welcoming to All and Browse Local Folk Art at Juxtaposition Gallery

With their motto, “Our story begins where the Abby Aldridge Rockefeller Folk Art Museum ends,” husband-and-wife team Beverly and Davie Burgdorf continue in the same tradition as Rockefeller did a century ago and have been influential on the local Williamsburg art scene for over a decade. Since starting in 2011 at the Williamsburg Antiques Mall (well worth a visit on a different day trip, with their endless rows of historical and antique art, among other collectibles), they have since developed the Colonial Folk Art Studio and Gallery space, just a mile from our location on Bacon Ave. Beverly studied art in college and brings a wealth of teaching experience to the studio, leading many of their workshops and “mini” classes, a unique chance to learn and create in a small-group format. They invite all ages and abilities, so don’t feel nervous if you are new to art – after all, folk art’s roots begin in humble settings much like this, far from the fancy galleries of the upper-crust art world.

If you came away inspired after you visited the art museums of Colonial Williamsburg, join a class at the Folk Art Studio, where you can learn a variety of disciplines, including ceramics (both wheel and slab), acrylic painting, or mixed media. Their mission is to get people making art, embracing creativity in a supportive atmosphere, guided by the belief that “folk art” is within all of us. Be sure to check out Burgdorf’s more recently expanded Juxtaposition gallery space next door, where she displays her art alongside pieces from over a dozen local artists. The Burgdorfs are also lifelong book collectors, reflected in the gallery’s impressive stacks of rare antiquated books – works of art themselves.

Ryan Eure Designs – Our Talented Artistic Neighbor in Downtown Williamsburg

When you come and go from your Fife and Drum room or suite during your stay with us, you can’t miss the downstairs door next to ours on Prince George St, which leads into the gallery space of Ryan Eure Designs. After getting his start in ceramics, Eure developed a passion for fine metalwork and jewelry, interning locally for a year before eventually opening his downtown storefront in 2021. On the ground floor, marvel at his exquisite high-grade silver creations, ranging from hoop earrings and bangle bracelets to gemstone-inlaid rings and shimmering blue topaz pendants. If you’re on a romantic getaway, mark the occasion by picking out matching men’s/women’s bracelets made from classic sterling silver. Eure also makes breathtaking engagement rings, so if you’re thinking of asking the big question soon, inquire about getting one of his handmade rings or creating a design of your own. We’d love to make your proposal that much more special with our romance package – we’ll help set the perfect ambiance with a dozen roses and a bottle of your favorite wine ready in your room.

After checking out Eure’s jewelry, head downstairs to the basement, where his “downtown gallery” showcases some of the best artists in the Williamsburg area. Among a roster of esteemed artists, you’ll see paintings by Gulay Berryman, who runs a well-respected Williamsburg online art gallery and has exhibited throughout Europe; renaissance-style oil works by Andre Lucero, many depicting beautiful natural landscapes along the Virginia peninsula; and finely crafted equestrian sculptures by Jo Wright.

Stay with us and experience all that the Williamsburg art scene offers, from the historic halls within the art museums of Colonial Williamsburg to rootsy, hands-on studios and refined gallery spaces!

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Hiking in Williamsburg VA: Explore Spring Trails Together 21 Feb 2024, 8:22 am

Experience the enchantment of Williamsburg in spring, an ideal time for Hiking in Williamsburg VA with fewer crowds. Embark on romantic hikes and leisurely nature strolls with your special someone, from the wooded beauty of Bassett Trace Nature Trail to the scenic banks of Lake Matoaka and the expansive 600 acres of greenery at Freedom Park. Your exploration awaits just minutes away from our Williamsburg bed and breakfast. Williamsburg bed and breakfast.

In Town – A Nature Trail Right in the Center of Williamsburg

You’d be hard-pressed to find a better introduction to hiking in Williamsburg in spring than the Bassett Trace Nature Trail, which lives up to its name, full of natural splendor along its 3-mile path. It’s easily accessible and just  a 3/4 mile walk through the historic area from our location, starting off Francis St and following a gentle grade heading south as you traverse a thick forest canopy. You’ll quickly notice the diversity of trees, ranging from tall species like American beech and elm to fruit trees like persimmons (which bear apricot-colored fruits that are most flavorful in the fall months). Sycamore trees along the trail also hold historical importance, as the Native Powhatan tribe used this durable wood to build their dugout canoes, an authentic example of which you can see at nearby Jamestown Settlement (one of our favorite Williamsburg day trips). During every season, this unique trail has its charms – autumn brings stunning colors, brisk and clear spring days are lovely around the two ponds mid-route, and the plentiful shade is a relief during the warmer days of early summer.

On Campus – Along Lake Matoaka at William and Mary

As you stroll through the historic William and Mary campus – passing the stately Wren Building, massive Sunken Garden, and iconic Crim Dell Bridge – after a mile or so, you’ll end up on the shores of Lake Matoaka. Like most places in Williamsburg, the history here runs deep, as the lake took shape over 300 years ago, built shortly after the formation of the college to power a gristmill. The mill is long gone, but the lake’s scenic half-square-mile expanse forms the backdrop for the aptly named “College Woods,” which abut the western edge of campus. Lake Matoaka Trail is on the eastern “campus side” of the water, hugging a portion of College Creek and the lake’s edge for much of the 2.5-mile out-and-back route. 

 For a more extended outing, head to the other side of the lake, where the Matoaka trail network continues for another 8+ miles. If you’d rather drive to the lake trail than walk through campus, park in the paid lots near the on-campus Millie West Tennis Facility. Better yet, combine a hike and some free William and Mary sports spectating when the men’s Tribe tennis team has upcoming matches versus Navy on March 9th, Drexel on March 10th, and Elon on March 25th.

Hiking in Williamsburg VA at the Park: Gorgeous Gardens and Acres of Foliage

Just eight miles north of downtown Williamsburg, Freedom Park’s sprawling and manicured grounds are a gem. Discover some of the best Williamsburg in spring scenery along the two miles of multiuse paths winding along Colby swamp and smaller waterways (crossing nine bridges along the route). As you make your way through the dense hardwood treescape – Freedom takes “city park” to another level with its expansive size – look out for the newish “LOVE” sign, one of several Virginia Is For Lovers LOVEworks signs in our area, and a perfect place to snap a mid-hike photo together. In the park’s center, stroll arm-in-arm through the Williamsburg Botanical Garden and Arboretum, which began as a non-profit 20 years ago and has since expanded to include dozens of different garden areas, each with distinct vegetation and ornate beauty. Sit together on one of the benches in the garden, where you can marvel at the succulent garden, the butterfly zone, and the “pollinator palace,” built to attract bees as they come out of hibernation in late spring and set springtime abuzz.

Although Freedom Park usually shuts down between sunset and sunrise, take advantage of a unique Williamsburg opportunity to explore the trails after dark during the Full Moon Hike through the park on the evening of March 25th. This particular full moon is known as the “worm moon,” marking the last chapter of spring and ushering in the arrival of spring, with earthworms making their first appearance after the long spring months. Join the free hiking group at 7:30 pm for the 1-mile trek under the moon’s bright light, a romantic way to spend the evening together. After your moonlit outing, finish the evening in the cozy comfort of your Fife and Drum Inn room with a wine of your choice – champagne, red, or white – an option in our build-your-own romance package.

Plan your memorable getaway and explore the natural beauty of Williamsburg in spring!

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Williamsburg Hidden Gems: Explore Williamsburg, VA 26 Jan 2024, 10:29 am

While Colonial Williamsburg and Busch Gardens regularly top lists of local attractions, there are plenty of less touristy options right nearby, equally fun and more off the beaten path. Whether exploring fascinating antiques, learning about Virginia’s musical history, seeing local community theater, visiting a unique distillery, or catching a sunset aboard a ferry on the James River, these entertaining and engaging outings are just a few miles from our bed and breakfast in Williamsburg.

Hands-On History – A World of Antiques and Virginia’s Deep Musical Roots

In recent years, the hit PBS program Antiques Roadshow has brought the show to Colonial Williamsburg more than once, setting up in front of the stately Governor’s Palace as their experts analyzed antiques of all styles. With over 400 years of colonial history in our area – dating back to the settlement of Jamestown in 1607 – historical artifacts abound. There’s no better place to dive in than at the massive Williamsburg Antique Mall, whose sprawling 45,000-square-foot building is a goldmine for discovering hidden treasures. Grab one of their handy cards with a map of the mall’s layout to find whatever strikes your interest, from pottery and unique art to rare jewelry, collectibles like stamps and coins, sports-related items, or Civil War memorabilia (several famous Civil War battles happened in and around Williamsburg). Make an afternoon of it by browsing among the 300+ vendors that set up booths, each with a different focus, ideal for making surprising discoveries. Break up the antiquing with grilled cheese and soup or a cinnamon roll with coffee at Veranda Eats and Sweets, a women-run cafe in the middle of the mall with homespun charm.

The various museums at Colonial Williamsburg are renowned and worth visiting during your stay. But five miles north of downtown, away from the crowds, you’ll find another museum tucked away. The Virginia Musical Museum shines a light on Virginia’s rich musical heritage, whether it’s country/bluegrass from June Carter, Steve Earle, and Ralph Stanley, legendary singers like Wayne Newton and Ella Fitzgerald, or modern sensations such as Pharrell Williams and Missy Elliott. These artists all started in Virginia and influenced the shape of popular music in America, with memorabilia and stories of their careers throughout the museum. Make sure also to check out their piano gallery (one of six museum rooms), which traces the instrument’s evolution from its earliest days, including a rare two-century-old Shudi harpsichord. Note: the museum is closed on Sundays but opens at 10 am Monday through Saturday.

Under the Radar, But Not To Miss: Community Theater and a Distinctive Distillery

Live entertainment is always easy to find in Williamsburg, ranging from William and Mary sporting events to Kimball Theatre music shows. One of the more unique performance groups in town is the Williamsburg Players, and while they may not draw the same huge crowds as the bigger venues, their community theater shows are full of passion, talent, and heart-warming earnestness. Their mission is to “‘stimulate, educate, and entertain,” which they have been doing admirably since their first season over 60 years ago, performing 5-8 shows annually. Upcoming spring 2024 shows include classics like Little Shop of Horrors and Peter & the Starcatcher (a fun and fantastical Peter Pan origin story), and their rendition of A Christmas Carol is a perennial favorite if you visit Williamsburg over the holidays.

Although Williamsburg’s long list of award-winning Williamsburg wineries and Williamsbur breweries garner lots of well-deserved buzz, don’t miss out on our equally noteworthy distilleries. Copper Fox Distillery is one of only five distillers in the US to floor-malt their whiskeys, the most traditional and time-honored way to germinate grain, and their use of specific fruity woods imparts a complex and smokey flavor to their line of over eight whiskeys and gin. Visit their cozy speakeasy tasting room (less than 2 miles from our location) for a flight of whiskeys, a guided tour of their operation, and a platter of fruit, cheeses, and olives. The tasting room is also only a couple miles from the community theater, making it a perfect place to get classy drinks and shareable plates before the show.

Free and Fun, With Fantastic Views: Riding the Ferry From Jamestown

Visiting nearby Jamestown’s stunning founding fleet of ships is one of our area’s most popular day trips, a rare chance to step aboard exact replicas of the ships that brought the first colonial settlers to our shores in the early 1600s. During your visit to Jamestown, plan a ferry ride across the James River – it’s free to ride, runs 365 days a year, and is one of the most underrated ways to take in our area’s gorgeous maritime scenery. Even better, plan your ferry ride to coincide with the sunset (ferries depart from the Jamestown dock every 25 minutes throughout the afternoon and evening) when the views overlooking the water are even more spectacular. During your 20-minute relaxing ride, watch for majestic birds like ospreys, bald eagles, and great blue herons, which all nest and breed along the James River. On the other side of the river, enjoy fresh oysters, crab cakes, and delicious cocktails overlooking the water at the Surry Seafood Company before making your way back across on the ferry, finishing with a scenic drive back to Williamsburg on the Colonial National Historical Parkway.

Stay with us, save the tourist traps for another day, and discover Williamsburg’s hidden gems!

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A Cozy Retreat: Plan Your Winter Romantic Escape to Williamsburg 15 Jan 2024, 5:27 pm

We’ve all heard the famous saying Virginia Is for Lovers, and nowhere is that more true than in Williamsburg, where the historic enchantment, excellent restaurants, and romantic outings are all just minutes away. Plan your romantic getaway to our Williamsburg bed and breakfast, where you’ll stay in class, comfort, and privacy while enjoying all Williamsburg has to offer with your special someone.

Relaxation and Indulgence – Massage for Two and Top-Tier Wine-Tasting

After a deep sleep and a casual morning, head to the Common Room for our continental breakfast, featuring Sharon’s freshly baked muffin tops alongside yogurt, granola, coffee, and tea. Enjoy a stroll together through the heart of Colonial Williamsburg, where lovers have walked hand in hand for centuries, enamored by the historic ambiance. Head to the Spa of Williamsburg for a couples massage, when two massage therapists will work their magic on you both, easing you into blissful relaxation. Choose from their classic Swedish-style massage which is excellent if you want an extra soothing session – or the deep tissue version.  You can add arnica or aromatherapy to make it even more therapeutic. After you leave your 60 or 90-minute massage feeling revitalized and pampered, check out the lovely scene of the reflecting waters at the beautiful fountain garden next door before heading back to your Fife and Drum room or suite.

Indulge yourselves later in the day by heading across the street to Merchants Square, where you’ll find the elegant and refined tasting room of the Williamsburg Winery. Settle in together for one of their signature wine flights, which feature varietals from their wide-ranging selection of grapes grown nearby on their sprawling vineyard since 1985. Their grape-growing and wine-making operation is the largest of the five wineries in the Hampton Roads American Viticultural Area, where our temperate climate and rich soil produce world-class vintages. After tasting several wines, bring your favorite bottle back to the room to enjoy together on another night. Whether it’s a fruity Viognier, extra dry Riesling, or complex Cabernet Sauvignon, it’ll set the scene just right.

Skating Under the Stars and a Date Night Dinner Downtown

It’s hard to imagine a more romantic setting than ice skating side by side under the moonlit sky, stopping every few laps around the rink to sip steaming hot chocolate. From our convenient downtown Williamsburg location, you’ll be just a five-minute walk from the Liberty Ice Pavilion, which stays open through Feb 27th and where you can rent skates, get out on the ice together, and enjoy a scene plucked right out of a rom-com movie. If you are not into skating yourself, just being there to watch the skaters is fun! The rink is open every afternoon and evening, with extended hours on Fridays and Saturdays when skating is available until 10 pm.

After your ice-skating outing, stroll a couple of blocks over to Berret’s, one of the best seafood restaurants in Williamsburg and perfect for a date night. Celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2023, Berret’s is a local institution with top-notch service and a locally sourced menu. Share a plate of their famous oysters, harvested just miles away in the York River and as fresh as you’ll find anywhere on the Virginia peninsula. The entrees are all worthy of a special night out, including pecan-crusted salmon, filet mignon, and seared pork chop with peach-mango sauce. Finish with one of their “desserts to share,” the perfect way to wrap up an intimate meal.

Virginia Is for Lovers – LOVE signs and Romantic Day Trips

January and February, after the hectic holiday rush has subsided, are great times of year to plan your Williamsburg getaway. The weather is brisk but beautiful, with fewer crowds, making for a quieter and more intimate atmosphere around town.

Virginia Is for Lovers has been our iconic state motto for over five decades, making Valentine’s Day a particularly fitting time for your romantic rendezvous together in Williamsburg. The famous slogan is embodied colorfully in the 300 “LOVE” signs spread throughout the state, each with a unique look and artistic flair. If you visit around Valentine’s Day, plan a drive to Yorktown (just 13 miles from Williamsburg), where you’ll find their LOVE sign, unmissable at over 6 feet tall and 16 feet wide. The sign sits right on the banks of the flowing and massive York River, one of the most picturesque places to relax, enjoy the waterside views and take some pictures in front of the sign (often decorated with hearts for Valentine’s Day).

Yorktown also hosts a Valentine’s Day-themed winter market from 10 am until 2 pm on February 10th, 2024, so plan your Yorktown day trip to coincide with the market, when you can pick up some fresh chocolates and other sweet treats to celebrate the occasion. We’re also happy to make your Valentine’s Day extra memorable by providing a dozen roses and wine of your choice waiting in your room – check out our romance package page for more details.

Stay with us, plan your escape to Williamsburg, and discover why Virginia is for lovers!

BOOK NOW

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Best Restaurants: Wintertime Dining in Williamsburg 14 Jan 2024, 10:08 am

Discovering the Best Restaurants Near Our Williamsburg Bed and Breakfast

As the cold winter months envelop Williamsburg, Virginia, there’s something magical about enjoying a warm and hearty meal in our historic town. In January and February, fewer tourists compete for tables at local restaurants, and this is a time of year when many locals enjoy dining.

Our Williamsburg Bed and Breakfast is in the heart of Williamsburg and provides the perfect home away from home during your wintertime getaway. To make your stay even more memorable, we have a few ideas of where to go for an enjoyable winter meal.

The King’s Arms Tavern – 416 E Duke of Gloucester St, Williamsburg, VA 23185

Located within a few blocks from our Bed and Breakfast in Williamsburg, The King’s Arms Tavern is a quintessential Williamsburg dining experience. Step back in time as you enter this 18th-century-inspired establishment. The cozy atmosphere, complete with period costumes, is ideal for warming up during winter. Savor traditional Virginia fare like Mrs. Vobe’s Tavern Dinner, Prime Rib of Beef, and Game Pye, followed up with Carolina Rice Pudding or Bread Pudding while enjoying live colonial entertainment. It’s a journey back in time that’s perfect for a wintery evening.

Blue Talon Bistro – 420 Prince George St, Williamsburg, VA 2318

If you’re looking for a contemporary twist on classic comfort food, Blue Talon Bistro is a must-visit. Located across the street from the inn, this charming bistro offers a menu filled with dishes perfect for winter. Try their signature French onion soup, homemade meatloaf, or the rotisserie chicken. The warm and welcoming ambiance and hand-crafted cocktails set the stage for a delightful dining experience, and you don’t need a reservation if you want to enjoy their bar.

Amber Ox Public House -525 Prince George Street, Suite 102, Williamsburg, VA 23185

Just a stone’s throw from our bed and breakfast, there’s this fantastic spot called the Amber Ox Public House, and unlike many local breweries, the Amber Ox offers a full bar for wine and cocktails. It’s just a block away! This place is a unique blend of exceptional beer and local cuisine, and they’re all about creating unforgettable experiences. Picture a brewery that goes beyond the ordinary, offering meticulously crafted beers and a curated selection from nearby states. And as a restaurant, it’s not your typical spot either – they’ve got this cool mix of Southern flavors with a contemporary twist. So, if you’re up for a delicious meal just around the corner, Amber Ox is the perfect spot to explore!

Fat Canary – 410 W Duke of Gloucester St, Williamsburg, VA 23185

For an intimate and immersive dining experience, make a reservation at the Fat Canary, a short walk from the Fife and Drum Inn. If you are looking for a restaurant for dinner to celebrate an anniversary, birthday, or special occasion, this is the place. The Fat Canary offers a culinary journey of seasonal delights that change regularly. The restaurant has a great wine selection, amazing desserts, and great service. But, if you’re just looking at enjoying a drink, they accept walk-ins for their bar. It’s an excellent choice for a special winter evening.

Berret’s Seafood Restaurant and Taphouse Grill – 199 S Boundary St, Williamsburg, VA 23185

Berret’s Seafood Restaurant in Williamsburg, VA, is a culinary gem that has been delighting diners for decades. Nestled in the heart of Merchants Square, it is a two-block walk from the inn.  This renowned seafood establishment offers a delectable menu of fresh seafood dishes highlighting the region’s coastal flavors. From their famous Virginia Crab broils to the mouthwatering seafood platters and daily fresh oysters, Berret’s Seafood Restaurant is a go-to destination for seafood aficionados. The warm and inviting atmosphere, paired with impeccable service, makes it the perfect place to savor the tastes of the sea in Williamsburg, VA. You can also walk-in at their bar, and enjoy a drink or two.

The more popular Williamsburg restaurants are busy, especially during the summer, winter is not quite so crowded but we still strongly recommend making a reservation in advance. In the summertime, we advise guests to book a reservation at their favorite restaurants as soon as they book their stay at our Williamsburg Inn.

Virginia is charming all year, but there’s something extra cozy about wintertime dining in Williamsburg. Book your stay with us at our inn in Virginia, and indulge in these exceptional restaurants’ diverse culinary delights to satisfy your winter cravings. Whether you’re into colonial-inspired dishes or modern comfort food, this historic town has a treat for every taste. So, embrace the winter spirit, savor those local flavors, and let’s make lasting memories in Williamsburg. Ready to dive in for the perfect winter escape?

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Embracing the Season With Sports at William and Mary 20 Dec 2023, 9:01 pm

College of William and Mary Sports – A Tribe and Tradition

As one of the country’s oldest institutions of higher learning, gaining its charter in 1693 and second only to Harvard, academics at the College of William and Mary are renowned and well-established. But amongst the teaching excellence and rigorous courses of study (routinely rated in the top 20 of all public universities in the nation), sports also have a storied tradition, with top-notch facilities like Kaplan Arena and Zable Stadium hosting games throughout the school year and bringing a buzz to campus.

All of the sports programs at the College of William and Mary, as well as their fans, are known colloquially as “the Tribe,” a nickname that took root almost a century ago and became more established throughout the decades as the Tribe grew in stature, proven by winning NCAA championships in tennis alongside countless conference trophies in sports as varied as gymnastics, field hockey, and football. Today, the Tribe is larger and more vibrant than ever, with plenty of chances to see W & M sports like basketball, tennis, and baseball over the winter months, followed by events like track and field that pick up heading into spring. 

Our Williamsburg bed and breakfast – located right at the edge of campus and within walking distance of all of the state-of-the-art sports facilities on campus – is perfect for catching a sporting event during your stay, whether you’re supporting a student-athlete in your family or just want to experience the thrill of being part of the Tribe on game day.

Football in the Fall, Basketball in the Winter, and Special Game Nights at Kaplan Arena

After winning the CAA (Colonial Athletic Association) title in 2022 and having another strong year in 2023, the College of William and Mary football team makes the fall months extra spirited, filling the stands of Zable Stadium on home game weekends. Although their 2023 season has wrapped up, check for when the 2024 fall season home dates are released and plan your visit to coincide with a Saturday game on campus.

Following a quiet few weeks at William and Mary over winter break (a great time to take scenic strolls throughout the campus if you’re visiting Williamsburg over the holidays, free from the crowds of students, with serene views of the historic buildings and snow-covered pathways), winter sports pick up speed in early January. 

Men’s and women’s basketball games happen weekly, starting with the first women’s home game of 2024 versus North Carolina A & T on Friday, January 12th at 7 pm, while the men’s team takes on Elon on January 4th and Drexel on January 6th, convenient dates for catching a game if you visit around New Year’s. For the wildest and most festive atmosphere, plan to attend special-themed basketball game nights like women’s Pride Night on January 26th versus Hofstra, one of their chief CAA rivals, or the men’s Gold Rush game on February 3rd against Charleston. Gold Rush night –celebrating its 11th year in 2024 – is often the most attended home basketball game of the season, packed with fans all wearing shades of gold to support the Tribe (whose colors are gold and green). Before heading to the game, pick up some team gear at the Campus Shop, our neighbors on Prince George Street, where you’ll find everything from hats and winter beanies to t-shirts and hoodies, with every version of the William and Mary logo imaginable.

It’s just a short walk through campus to get to Kaplan Arena, home to the men’s and women’s basketball teams (and gymnastics) since 1970. The arena accommodates 8,600 fans on game nights without a bad seat in the house. Tickets are very reasonable – women’s games are usually $10 for general admission seating (show up early to snag courtside seats), while men’s games are $10-15, with seats just behind the bench often available in advance.

Free Tennis and Track Meets, Baseball in the Spring, and Pre-Game Festivities at Merchants Square

Although football and basketball often draw the biggest crowds, there are plenty of opportunities to see other sports at the College of William and Mary over the coming months, with several free to spectators. Men’s and women’s tennis are free to attend, with upcoming 2024 matches for the men versus Florida Atlantic on January 25th and against James Madison on February 3rd, while the women play Georgetown on February 4th and St.John’s on February 11th. During January and February, tennis matches are held indoors at the McCormack-Nagelsen Tennis Center (make sure to visit the history-rich ITA Tennis Hall of Fame while you’re there) and move outdoors as the weather warms up in March and April. If you attend an outdoor tennis match in the spring, it’ll be at the Millie West Tennis Facility, located right near the beautiful banks of Matoaka Lake. Between watching matches, plan to hike the Matoaka Overlook Trail, one of the most picturesque areas on the sprawling 1,580-acre campus.

Men’s and women’s cross country and track and field – consistently solid teams for the Tribe, with the men’s cross country team winning the CAA title as recently as 2021 – are free events to attend. For the complete track experience, plan to attend the annual Dan Stimson Invitational at Zable Stadium on March 16th, 2024, when both the men’s and women’s teams will compete all day in events ranging from shot put and high jump to sprints, relays, and the always-entertaining steeplechase.
If baseball is more your speed, catch the Tribe play at home against Holy Cross on February 17th or UMass Lowell on February 25th, 2024, with other home games throughout March, April, and May at Plumeri Park, a short drive from the Inn and one of the finest baseball stadiums you’ll find on any college campus.

Whichever sporting events you choose to attend, start with some pre-game drinks and eats in and around Merchants Square — sit down for a delicious meal across the street from us at the Blue Talon Bistro or grab a tasty brew a couple blocks away at the Precarious Beer Project (a must-visit for beer lovers and one of the stars of Williamsburg’s craft brewery scene) before strolling over to campus for the game day festivities.

Stay with us and experience the rush of cheering for the Tribe at the College of William and Mary!

BOOK NOW

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Discovery, Susan Constant, and Godspeed: Jamestown’s Founding Fleet 12 Dec 2023, 9:32 pm

Three Ships That Made History and Stepping Aboard Their Modern-Day Replicas

Although the Mayflower and its Plymouth-settling crew get the most attention in history books, its journey was preceded by 13 years by another set of three British ships – Susan Constant, Godspeed, and the Discovery – who landed at the current-day Jamestown Island in May of 1607. Representing the recently-formed Virginia Company of London and sailing east from England under a Royal Charter, the intrepid group of sailing captains, crew, and passengers survived four months at sea, only to land on the banks of the James River and struggle through the early decades of life in a foreign land, ever so far from the British shores.

Since 1957, when the museum at Jamestown Settlement came into being to celebrate the 350th anniversary of the first permanent English colony’s founding, it has expanded over the decades, adding new exhibits and living history sites. One of the main attractions is stepping onto the real-life replicas of the Susan Constant, Godspeed, and Discovery, all built to precisely recreate the original fleet’s size, look, and feel, down to the exact dimensions of the sails and living quarters onboard. 

When you stay at our Williamsburg bed and breakfast, you’ll be just a 10-mile drive away from Jamestown Settlement, where you can step aboard these three ships of such historical importance, feeling what it was like for the colonists who embarked on their epic journey four centuries ago.

A Fateful Fleet and the Larger-Than-Life Captains Who Charted the Course

With a passenger list of 105 men and boys and a crew of 39, the 144 brave souls set off from England in December of 1606. Susan Constant, the largest of the three ships at over 100 feet long, carried 71 passengers, while Godspeed and Discovery, both smaller ships, had a combined 73 passengers between them. Reliant on the mercurial wind patterns, their initial set-off from England was delayed by several weeks, forcing them to wait for more favorable winds to get going. After surviving the rough winter months at sea, they eventually reached coastal Virginia on April 26th, 1607. Before heading up the James River, they would explore the Chesapeake Bay and the land on either side of the Virginia peninsula (including Yorktown, a critical battle site later during the Revolutionary War, and up to Annapolis) before docking at what is now Jamestown Settlement on May 13th, 1607.

Jamestown took its name from King James I, who entrusted his three ships to the most fearless and trusted captains of that era. Captain Christopher Newport, who commanded Susan Constant, was a swashbuckling pirate who fought against the Spanish. Even though he lost an arm in those battles, he was a tried-and-true adventurer and proudly took sail on the largest of the three vessels. John Ratliffe, another inveterate explorer, captained the smallest ship, Discovery, and Bartholomew Gosnold brought long-haul sailing expertise (he had sailed to New England in 1602, even naming Cape Cod while there) to Godspeed.

Early Colonial Struggles and John Smith’s Lasting Legacy

Although John Smith was an experienced sailing captain in his own right (he survived multiple shipwrecks before this journey) and would play a crucial role in establishing the well-being of Jamestown Settlement after landing, he did not command any of the three ships. In fact, due to a quarrel with Captain Christopher Newport mid-journey from England to Virginia, Newport locked Smith up in chains for the last two months of the trip, providing the first chapter of much colonial drama to follow.

After landing in the spring of 1607, the colonists faced intense adversity, quickly running out of food with their slow-growing crops due to a historic drought. They were also obsessed with finding gold and treasure while failing to focus on getting corn and other crops going, leading to what they termed the “starving time,” as over ⅔ of the original colonists would die before the end of that year. 

Amid this struggle to survive, John Smith played a crucial role in forming relations with the Native American tribes who called this area home. Pocahontas, the daughter of Chief Powhatan, was an intermediary between the warring colonists and Native tribes, teaching John Smith their native Algonquin language and famously helping spare his life when he was due to be executed. Pocahontas married one of the colonists, John Rolfe, leading to temporary peace, but the Natives and settlers clashed often and brutally, like the raid in 1622 that cost the lives of 350 colonists. 

As for the ships’ fate, Susan Constant and Godspeed returned home to Britain a month after landing at Jamestown Settlement, while John Smith kept the Discovery and explored all over Virginia during the ensuing two years, in the process creating the best maps of the eastern seaboard available at that time. After being wounded in 1609, Smith sailed back to Britain and set his sights on other life adventures, but his imprint on the early years of Jamestown Settlement allowed the group to survive a period that looked all but doomed at first.

Touring the Ships and What to Expect at Jamestown Settlement

Replicas of these three famous ships were created with the original Jamestown Festival Park, which opened in 1957 for the 350th anniversary of the settlement. In the early 1990s, with the impending 400th anniversary, a reconstruction was executed of the Susan Constant – the most demanding to build, at over 120 tons – followed in later years by the Godspeed and Discovery. When you visit Jamestown Settlement, costumed interpreters will give you an in-depth tour of the ship’s design, from the made-to-size kitchen and sleeping cabins below to the masts and massive unfurling sails towering above. It’s one thing to see a tiny Susan Constant ship model at the Smithsonian, but it’s a much more engaging experience to set foot on the wooden deck. Interpreters demonstrate the knots they used and tell stories of their challenges, making their brave seafaring expedition even more palpable and extraordinary.

Although touring the three ships is a highlight, don’t miss seeing the other living history sites nearby. At James Fort, you’ll see how the settlers lived in their first couple of decades after landing, with replicas of their housing, an Anglican church, and where they grew veggies, herbs, and tobacco. A Powhatan village also shows how the Native American tribes lived in villages on the banks of the James River, including a hand-carved version of the dugout canoes that they used for fishing and transportation. Lastly, the indoor museum galleries provide an excellent and in-depth historical overview of the settlers’ time at Jamestown Settlement from their landing until the capital was moved to Williamsburg in 1699, including their often-turbulent relationship with the Powhatan, their adoption of slavery into colonial law in 1662, and their hardship while trying to survive the first chapter of British settlement in America. Hundreds of artifacts are on display at the Settlement Museum. Next door, at Historic Jamestowne, you can view the archeological digs as they explore the original site. They have unearthed over 1 million artifacts, and portions of that collection can be viewed in the Archaearium on the Island.

Explore this Historic Jamestowne interactive map to learn about all of the things to see and do, from visiting the Archaearium Museum to seeing an active excavation.

When planning your visit, you’ll save by purchasing your tickets in advance online, and there are several options on deals for combined access at nearby living history museums. To explore it all, opt for the Historic Triangle Multi-Attraction Pass, which grants you seven days of unlimited access to Jamestown Settlement, Historic Jamestowne, Colonial Williamsburg, Yorktown Battlefield, and the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown.

Stay with us and see the authentic and awe-inspiring founding fleet at the Jamestown Settlement!

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