How Many Days to Spend in Williamsburg: 2, 3, 5 and 7-Day Itineraries
How Many Days to Spend in Williamsburg: 2, 3, 5 and 7-Day Itineraries
Spending a week in Williamsburg, Virginia, was like stepping into a time machine—only with better food and comfier shoes. From the moment I arrived, I knew I stumbled into a perfect blend of American history, charming scenery and modern-day fun.
If you're planning a trip and searching for things to do in Williamsburg or looking to explore popular Williamsburg attractions, trust me, you won't run out of options. I came for the history but stayed for the ghost tours, local brews, wine tasting and hidden gems only the locals rave about.
Why You Should Visit Williamsburg, VA
I’ll be honest, Williamsburg totally surprised me. I expected a bunch of old buildings and some people dressed up in old-fashioned costumes, but what I got was this immersive mix of living history, thrill rides, amazing food and super chill vibes.
One day I was watching a blacksmith in Colonial Williamsburg and the next I was flying through the air on a roller coaster at Busch Gardens. Add in wine tastings at the Williamsburg Winery, sunset walks along Colonial Parkway and some of the friendliest people I’ve met while traveling. What I found is that Williamsburg isn’t just a history lesson, it’s a whole experience.
So, whether you’re here for the deep dive into Colonial America or just want a relaxing getaway with a side of cobblestone charm, Williamsburg delivers. And it just might surprise you.
How Many Days Should You Spend in Williamsburg?
Here’s the insider scoop. Plan to stay the full seven days if you can. I split my time between Colonial Williamsburg, Busch Gardens and the Jamestown Settlement, with spontaneous detours to foodie spots in Merchant’s Square and scenic walks along the Colonial Parkway.
Oh, and don’t skip the Williamsburg Winery. I would suggest going in the late afternoon for golden-hour views and fewer crowds.
This guide covers how to pace your visit, what not to miss and the low-key local favorites you won’t find on the usual tourist lists. Ready to time travel in style? Let’s dive into the perfect Williamsburg itinerary.
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Where Should You Stay in Williamsburg?
First things first, your accommodations. There’s only one place that should be on your radar and that’s Westgate Historic Williamsburg Resort.
The location alone is a dream. I could walk to local restaurants (I still think about that pecan-crusted trout I had at The Fat Canary—absolutely unreal), and Colonial Williamsburg was just minutes away.
After long days of exploring, coming back to a spacious villa with a full kitchen and cozy living area was the kind of comfort that hotels just don’t offer.
And the staff? Genuinely warm and welcoming. One of them even gave me a tip about Blackbird Bakery, a tucked-away gem with the flakiest croissants I’ve ever had.
There’s a peaceful charm to the property that made me want to slow down and soak it all in. My morning coffee on the balcony became a ritual, followed by a dip in the pool or a lazy game of cornhole on the lawn.
For families, the resort is packed with kid-friendly touches, and for couples like my boyfriend and I, it had just the right mix of quiet and convenience. It’s safe to say we felt right at home. It’s a resort I would definitely recommend to anyone visiting Williamsburg.
Two-Day Williamsburg Itinerary
Day 1: Colonial Charm & Iconic Eats
Morning: Dive straight into Colonial Williamsburg. You’ll want at least three to four hours here. Don’t worry, it’s more than just walking around. Chat with costumed interpreters, watch tradespeople at work, and don’t skip the blacksmith shop. Entry starts around $50, but kids under 6 are free.
Lunch: Head to DoG Street Pub, a relaxed spot with hearty sandwiches and local beers.
Afternoon: Stroll through Merchant’s Square for boutique shopping and dessert at Blackbird Bakery. The almond croissant? Next level.
Dinner: Treat yourself to The Fat Canary. Yes, I splurged here for the pecan-crusted trout and it was worth every bite.
Day 2: Thrills & Sips
Morning to Afternoon: Spend the day at Busch Gardens Williamsburg. It's a must-see and easily takes five or six hours. Roller coasters, shows and great landscaping. It’s a theme park with European flair. Single-day tickets run about $75–$100, but discounts pop up online, so be sure to check Busch Gardens’ website. There are also several types of ticket options. The longer you stay, the less you pay!
Lunch: Eat inside the park for convenience. Try Trapper’s Smokehouse for surprisingly good BBQ.
Dinner: Back in town, grab dinner at Food For Thought, a casual, flavorful and kid-friendly eatery with a diverse menu.
For more tips on enjoying Busch Gardens Williamsburg, keep reading. I’ve included some helpful tips for your park day(s) later on in this article.
Three-Day Williamsburg Family Getaway
Day 3: History Continues
Morning: Explore Jamestown Settlement (allow three hours). It’s interactive, educational and great for kids. The recreated ships are especially cool.
Lunch: Pop into Berret’s Seafood Restaurant, near Colonial Williamsburg, for the she-crab soup. Trust me, you won’t be sorry!
Afternoon: Wind down at The Williamsburg Winery. Do a tasting and take a vineyard tour. Make sure to go mid-afternoon for golden hour views.
Dinner: Dine right there at Gabriel Archer Tavern. It’s cozy, rustic, and the charcuterie board is amazing for an appetizer.
Day 4: Art, Parks & Pasta
Morning: Visit the Muscarelle Museum of Art on the William & Mary campus. It’s small but curated beautifully.
Afternoon: Take the kids (or just yourself or your partner) to Waller Mill Park for paddle boating or easy hiking. It’s budget-friendly at just $2 per car.
Lunch: Pack a picnic or swing by Pierce’s Pitt Bar-B-Que. It’s a no-frills BBQ joint, but it has legendary pulled pork.
Dinner: Try Antonio’s Ristorante Italiano for hearty pasta and garlic knots that should come with a warning label. I’m hungry just thinking about it. My server also said the pizza was also delicious. Check out other great pizza places in Williamsburg!
Five Days Exploring Colonial Williamsburg
Day 5: Relaxed Wandering & An Evening Ghost Tour
Morning: Sleep in, then take a leisurely walk along the Colonial Parkway. The views are calming and great for photos.
Lunch: Snack your way through The Cheese Shop. I recommend grabbing a sandwich and enjoy it outside on Duke of Gloucester Street.
Afternoon: Light shopping and exploring the edge of town.
Evening: Book a ghost tour. I chose Colonial Ghosts, and yes, it was spooky enough to keep my boyfriend and I up all night.
Dinner: Go casual with Amber Ox Public House. My boyfriend had a beer and said it was great. I’m not much of a drinker, so I had a burger and loved it.
Day 6: Day Trip to Yorktown
Morning: Drive about 30 minutes from Westgate to Yorktown Battlefield and Yorktown Beach. Learn about the final victory of the Revolutionary War, then relax by the water.
Lunch: Eat at Water Street Grille, right on the riverfront. Its great seafood and scenic views are something to definitely experience.
Afternoon: Explore the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown. This should take about two to three hours. It’s packed with interactive exhibits.
Dinner: Back in Williamsburg, grab a low-key dinner at Second Street Bistro.
Seven-Day Williamsburg Vacation Plan
Day 7: Wind Down Williamsburg-Style
Morning: Brunch at Blue Talon Bistro. The French toast is outrageous, and the cozy interior makes it feel like home. If you’re looking for more Williamsburg coffee shops, there are plenty to enjoy!
Afternoon: Spend your final hours back at Westgate Historic Williamsburg Resort. Swim, relax and maybe challenge the family or your partner to one last game of cornhole. You could also hit the fitness center to burn off the calories you ate at all the delicious restaurants in Williamsburg.
Budget Tip: Save this day for relaxing. It gives you breathing room and saves you money.
Dinner: The last night also gives you a chance to revisit a favorite restaurant. My boyfriend and I went back to The Fat Canary. You could also try someplace new for your final food adventure of the trip. How about Gold Taste Sushi and Japanese Restaurant for something different. I haven’t been, personally, but it was on my list. We just didn’t get to it.
Use This Handy Map to Find Your Way Around!
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Things to Know Before Exploring Williamsburg
Tips for Busch Gardens Williamsburg
When I visited Busch Gardens Williamsburg, I had a ton of questions, so I put together all the best tips I wish I knew before going. From saving money to skipping lines and finding the best food, here’s everything that made my day a lot smoother.
Best Time to Visit
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Go on weekdays if possible. Tuesdays and Wednesdays tend to have the lowest crowds.
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Visit during spring or fall for milder weather and shorter lines. Summer weekends can get packed and hot.
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If you're visiting in October for Howl-O-Scream, arrive early in the day for rides, then stay into the night for the scare zones and haunted houses.
How to Save Money
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Buy tickets online in advance. You can often save money compared to gate prices.
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Consider the Fun Card or multi-day tickets if you're visiting more than once.
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Bring your own refillable water bottle. We all know bottled theme park water costs a fortune, so don’t pay if you don’t have to. There are water fountains and refill stations throughout the park.
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If you're with a group, split a large locker near the entrance instead of individual ones near each ride.
Where to Eat & What to Skip
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Eat at Trapper’s Smokehouse. That’s what we did. And we were surprised by the generous portions and surprisingly good BBQ.
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Avoid peak lunch hours (12 p.m. to 2 p.m.) to dodge long lines. Eat early or late. This really goes for all theme parks in the U.S. I wanted to add it just in case.
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Vegetarian or gluten-free? Try Marco Polo’s Marketplace for more flexible options. Also, make sure you let your server or a theme park employee know about any allergies. It’s better to ask first if you have any questions or are unsure.
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This one’s a biggie. Kids’ meals can be filling and more affordable for adults with smaller appetites. And if the kids’ meals are too small, buy one regular meal and share it. My boyfriend and I do this a lot, not just at theme parks.
Park Navigation & Must-See Attractions
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Download the Busch Gardens app ahead of time. It shows wait times, show schedules and a live park map.
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Hit the most popular rides early, meaning get to the park when it first opens. Rides like Griffon, Pantheon and Verbolten tend to draw long lines by mid-morning. You might be a little tired getting up early, but it’ll be worth it if riding these attractions are must-dos.
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Start in Germany or Italy and work your way around the park clockwise. This goes against the usual traffic flow.
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Don’t skip the shows. Celtic Fyre is a standout with live dancing and energy. My boyfriend and I loved it.
Tips for Families With Kids
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Stroller rental is available, but you can also bring your own to save money.
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Visit Sesame Street® Forest of Fun for little ones. It has splash areas and character meet-and-greets.
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Use “Rider Swap” if one parent wants to ride while the other watches the kids, then switch, so the other parent can ride. No double waiting required.
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Bring a change of clothes for kids if they’re going to the water play areas.
What to Pack & What to Know
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Wear comfortable shoes. You’ll be walking a lot (and through some hilly areas).
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Bring ponchos from the dollar store for the water rides or unexpected rain.
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Parking isn’t free. Standard parking is around $30, so plan for that in your budget. You can also take an Uber or Lyft if it’s cheaper.
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Lines can get long. I recommend bringing a portable phone charger to keep your phone running all day. So much of the park experience is in the app, so you’ll need your device. Plus, you’ll want to take photos, go on Instagram and stay in touch with your friends and family.
How Long Should You Spend at Busch Gardens?
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One full day is usually enough if you arrive early and stay until close.
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If you're visiting during a seasonal event (like Food & Wine Festival or Christmas Town), two days will let you enjoy it all without rushing.
Special Ticket Offers You Should Know About
When I was planning my trip to Williamsburg, I quickly realized that snagging the right ticket deals could make a big difference in both my experience and my wallet. The following ticket deals are for 2025. Keep in mind, the dates and ticket offerings change from year-to-year.
Spring Bounce Ticket - Valid Jan. 24 - May 9, 2024
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Enjoy seven days of consecutive admission to Colonial Williamsburg and Busch Gardens Williamsburg. Complimentary parking at Busch Gardens is included with your ticket.
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Adult (13+): $135.68 | Children (6-12): $117.18 | Children 5 and under are free.
Summer Bounce Ticket - Valid May 10 - Sept. 21, 2025
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Enjoy seven (7) days of consecutive admission to Colonial Williamsburg, Busch Gardens Williamsburg and Water Country USA. Complimentary parking at Busch Gardens Williamsburg and Water Country USA is included with your ticket.
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Adult (13+): $175.08 | Children (6-12): $152.08 | Children 5 and under are free.
America's Historic Triangle Ticket
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This ticket grants you access to five historical sites, including Colonial Williamsburg, Historic Jamestowne, Jamestown Settlement, the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown and Yorktown Battlefield. The ticket is for seven consecutive days from the first date of use.
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Adult (16+): $123 | Children/Teens (6-15): $55 | Children 5 and under are free.
General Tips for Sightseeing in Williamsburg
When I first started exploring Williamsburg, I quickly realized there's a lot more to see than just Colonial reenactments and cobblestone streets. I hope these tips help you discover a side to Williamsburg you didn’t know existed.
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Best Time to Visit Williamsburg: Spring (April–early June) and fall (late September–early November) offer ideal weather, lighter crowds and scenic charm. Great for walking tours, outdoor dining and exploring popular Williamsburg attractions.
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When to Avoid Crowds: July and early August are peak travel times with high heat, long lines and busy parks. Expect heavier foot traffic at places like Busch Gardens and Colonial Williamsburg.
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When to Book Flights: Book flights six to eight weeks in advance to Newport News/Williamsburg Airport (PHF) or Richmond International Airport (RIC) for the best rates. Both airports are within a short drive of Downtown Williamsburg.
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How Much to Budget: Plan for around $150–$200 per person, per day for a comfortable trip with hotel, meals and attraction tickets. Budget travelers can enjoy Williamsburg for under $100/day with discount passes and casual dining.
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Money-Saving Tips: Buy combo tickets like the Historic Triangle Pass or Summer Bounce Ticket to save on multi-day access to Busch Gardens, Colonial Williamsburg and Jamestown.
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Where to Stay: Book early, especially during spring break, October and holidays. Westgate Historic Williamsburg Resort is a favorite thanks to its central location, spacious villas and friendly staff.
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What to Pack: Bring layers, even in warmer months. Mornings and evenings can be cool. A light jacket, sunglasses, comfortable shoes and a refillable water bottle are must-haves.
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Essential Footwear: Williamsburg is walkable but historic. You’ll encounter cobblestones, uneven paths and long stretches through parks and museums. Comfy walking shoes are non-negotiable.
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Summer Weather Tips: Expect hot, humid days with temperatures between 85–95°F. Pack sunscreen, a hat and maybe even a small fan or cooling towel if you're heat-sensitive.
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Rain or Shine Travel: Many attractions are outdoors, so bring a compact umbrella or poncho, especially if you're heading to Busch Gardens or planning a full day at Colonial Williamsburg.
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Dining Reservations: Popular spots like The Fat Canary, Berret’s Seafood and Blue Talon Bistro fill up fast. Reserve ahead, especially on weekends and during seasonal events.
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Transportation Tip: While parts of Williamsburg are walkable, you'll want a rental car if you plan on visiting Williamsburg Winery, Yorktown Battlefield or anything outside downtown.
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Use the Apps: Download the Colonial Williamsburg app and Busch Gardens app, and use Google Maps to get around.
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Trip Length Recommendation: Stay at least three to five days to truly enjoy Williamsburg’s museums, theme parks, dining scene, wineries and natural beauty without rushing.
These tips helped make my trip smoother, more affordable and way more fun. I hope they’ll give you a head start on planning your own Williamsburg adventure.
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Why Williamsburg Was One of My Favorite Getaways Yet
Visiting Williamsburg, Virginia, was one of those trips that completely surprised me in the best way. I came for the history but ended up loving everything from the hands-on experiences at Colonial Williamsburg to the thrilling rides at Busch Gardens Williamsburg.
Strolling through Merchant’s Square, sipping wine at the Williamsburg Winery and soaking in the peaceful views along the Colonial Parkway made each day feel like its own little adventure. It’s the kind of place that makes it easy to slow down, explore and really enjoy where you are.
My stay at Westgate Historic Williamsburg Resort worked out perfectly for what I needed—comfortable, convenient and close to all the places I wanted to visit. After long days out and about, it was a quiet place to come back to and recharge.
If you're thinking about a trip to Williamsburg, it’s definitely a destination that checks off all the boxes for history lovers, families and anyone just looking for a unique and memorable getaway.
For more travel tips and trip guides to exploring Williamsburg and beyond, visit the Westgate Resorts Travel Blog.
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* Westgate Resorts is in no way affiliated with the attractions featured in this article. Items or places listed are current as of the publishing date of this article. Please call or visit the respective website for the most up-to-date offerings and details.
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