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From 1699 to 1780, Williamsburg was the capital of the colony of Virginia. After the state capital was moved to Richmond in 1780, Williamsburg began to deteriorate. The current restoration dates back to 1926, and was initially funded by the Rockefeller family. Today, the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation is America’s largest living history museum, with more than 500 original and reconstructed buildings, shops, taverns, homes, government buildings, gardens, and more. Bringing this all to life are Colonial Williamsburg’s historic interpreters and craftsmen, who are delighted to explain life in 18th century America. The complex also includes several outstanding museums, our favorite being the Abby Aldrich Folk Art Museum. Take the shuttle bus to Carter's Grove Plantation for a taste of 16th century Native American life, and contrast the 1750s Georgian mansion with the reconstructed 18th-century slave quarters.

Williamsburg, VA
Getting Around
Colonial Capital B&B
	Williamsburg is midway between Richmond and Norfolk on I-64 (exit 238), and is about 150 miles south of Washington, DC, in Virginia’s Tidewater region. If you’re heading for Colonial Williamsburg, look for the green and white signs for the Visitor Center after you exit the interstate. Once you purchase your admissions pass, you can either take the shuttle bus or walk to the Historic Area.
When to Go
Spring and fall are the loveliest times to visit, but can be the most crowded. Summers are often hot and humid, so try to do your sightseeing early in the day. Winter visits are a delightful surprise. Although some activities are curtailed, there are no crowds, so you can enjoy the historic area, restaurants, shops, and B&Bs at a relaxed pace. Spring visitors: mark your calendars for April 20-27, 2002, the 69th annual Historic Garden Week, with special events scheduled in the Williamsburg area and throughout the state.
Sights & Activities
Midway between Williamsburg and Richmond, along scenic Route 5, are the James River Plantations, dating back to 1619, with beautiful 17th and 18th century manor homes and gardens to tour.
Chartered by the British crown in 1693, the College of William and Mary is the second oldest college in the U.S., and is generally regarded as one of the country’s best small public universities. Visitors are welcome at its two art galleries, and at the Wren Building, dating back to 1695.
Seven miles south of Williamsburg’s restored area is Jamestown, the site of the first permanent English settlement in the U.S. You can visit the excavations of the original fort and interpretive exhibitions of Jamestown Rediscovery, or experience the recreated fort, Indian village, and ships of the Jamestown Settlement.
Thirteen miles southeast of Williamsburg is Yorktown, a Colonial-era village best known as the site of the Yorktown Battlefield, the last major battle of the American Revolutionary War. Tour the battlefield and the National Park Service Visitors Center, or stop in at the Yorktown Victory Center, a recreation of America’s struggle for independence.
Enough history? Family favorites include Busch Gardens and Water Country USA, while shoppers can go ‘til they drop at everything from high-quality antique reproductions to designer outlets. More Williamsburg info…
B&Bs and Inns

A Williamsburg White House
	Williamsburg zoning restricts the majority of B&Bs to three guest rooms; most were built in Colonial style in the late 1920s, when the restoration of Williamsburg began.
Our favorites balance the knowledge and charm of owner-operated B&Bs with the professionalism of a well-run inn.
Here are some we visited (listed alphabetically): A Primrose Cottage combines wonderful gardens with comfortable, Shaker-style décor. A Colonial-Revival home built in 1904, A Williamsburg White House has spacious rooms and a great location. Two blocks from the restored area, the Aldrich House is a great choice for families. Our favorite room at the Applewood Colonial B&B is the spacious and private Colonel Vaughn Suite. Although the location of the Colonial Capital Bed & Breakfast is ideal, and the décor inviting, best of all are innkeepers Phil and Barbara Craig, who typify Virginia hospitality.
A mile from Colonial Williamsburg, in a lovely verdant setting, is the Colonial Gardens Bed & Breakfast, with an inviting floral theme throughout. Located just a minute’s walk from George Washington's favorite tavern in Colonial Williamsburg, Governor's Trace is ideal for romantic getaways, with a candlelight breakfast served in the privacy of your room. Colonial charm, complete with fireplaces and candlelight make your stay at the Legacy of Williamsburg B & B feel like a return to Colonial times. More Williamsburg B&Bs More Yorktown B&Bs
The Colonial Williamsburg Hotels offers a vast array of guest rooms, from the restored Colonial Houses and Taverns to the elegant Williamsburg Inn, to Lodge, to affordable motel-style accommodation ideal for families.