America’s historic triangle sees millions of visitors each year; people flock to the birthplace of America due to its history and beauty. There are various places with affordable admissions, but, even better, there are several free things you can do in Williamsburg, Virginia and the surrounding areas. Take a look at these eight fun and free things you can enjoy on upcoming Williamsburg vacations.
Climb Aboard the Jamestown Ferry
It’s free to ride the Jamestown Ferry, and it’s an experience you will remember forever. During your time riding on the ferry, you can pretend you’re one of the European settlers who first arrived more than 400 years ago. The ferry is kid-friendly too!
Tour Colonial Williamsburg
Head to the grounds of Colonial Williamsburg and see original 18th-century buildings, watch the historical interpreters walk the streets, and have a meal at a historic tavern. The living-history museum offers a lot of free activities, but there are various that require paid admission, so make sure you check the website before you go.
Take a Drive
There is an endless amount of scenery to view if you drive the 23-mile Colonial Parkway that connects the cities of Jamestown, Yorktown, and Williamsburg. You’ll get to see the James and York Rivers and can pull off along the way at the interpretative areas for more information about the area’s rich history. Pack a picnic lunch and get ready to snap some photos of the amazing views too.
Go for a Hike
If you are looking to stay active on your trip to Williamsburg, head to the Greensprings Greenway Interpretive Trail for a 3-mile hike that includes a boardwalk over the wetlands. There are programs featured along the trails and signs that point visitors in the direction of the paths taken by Native Americans. Not only can you immerse yourself in nature, you can learn about history along the way.
Visit a Park
In order to really marvel in the beauty of Virginia, head to a Williamsburg park. Freedom Park is 689-acres of beauty with open meadows and amazing views, and walking and biking trails.
The Williamsburg Botanical Garden is open every day of the year from 7:00 am to sunset and is home to a wildflower meadow, wetlands, fernery, a daffodil border, and much more.
Waller Mill Park is another popular and scenic park in the area. Its 286-acre lake is open for canoeing, kayaking, fishing, pedal boating, and boating. Visitors can play cornhole and kids will enjoy its playground too!
If you want to see some picturesque views of Historic Jamestown or watch some wildlife up close, visit Powhatan Creek Park.
Check out U.S. Army Transportation Museum
Just over 10 minutes from Williamsburg in Ft. Eustis, is the U.S. Army Transportation Museum. At over six acres, it’s all about the history of army transportation, proudly displaying vehicles and other transportation related equipment. Go check out the memorabilia for free! There’s a reason why Williamsburg was named one of the top 15 cities in the United States in Travel + Leisure’s survey “2017 World’s Best Awards.”
Walk along Yorktown Waterfront
Yorktown is home to the Riverwalk Landing, a beautiful and quaint place to take a walk and enjoy views of the York River. The mile-long pedestrian walkway is one of Virginia’s best-kept secrets! The walkway links the major attractions in Yorktown and the area is sprinkled with benches to rest and admire the beauty of the river. You’ll also find specialty shops, locally owned stores, and various culinary temptations.
If you’re considering visiting Williamsburg, Virginia for your next vacation destination, get ready to enjoy all the free and fun activities the area has to offer. Where else can you take a hike through a park in the morning, learn about the area’s history at a living history museum in the afternoon, and ride a ferry in the evening?
Resources: https://www.visitwilliamsburg.com/trip-idea/williamsburg-named-one-americas-top-15-cities-travel-leisures-2017-worlds-best-awards
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