1. Colonial Williamsburg is a living history museum located in Williamsburg, Virginia, that depicts life in 18th-century America, particularly during the time of the American Revolution. The site includes more than 500 restored and reconstructed buildings, tradespeople practicing traditional crafts and trades, and actors portraying historical figures such as George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Patrick Henry. Visitors can explore the colonial village, shop for period goods, attend historical reenactments and performances, and learn about the daily lives of colonial Americans.
Some interesting facts about Colonial Williamsburg include:
- The site was first established as a historical restoration in the 1920s by the Reverend W.A.R. Goodwin and philanthropist John D. Rockefeller Jr.
- It is the world’s largest living history museum, encompassing over 300 acres and featuring hundreds of buildings.
- The site is also home to the world-renowned Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum and the DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum, which feature an extensive collection of early American decorative arts.
- The colonial village is populated by more than 100 actors portraying historical figures and tradespeople, who stay in character throughout the day and engage with visitors to provide a fully immersive experience.
- The site is also a center for historical research and scholarship, with a team of historians and archaeologists working to uncover new information about life in colonial America.
2. Colonial Williamsburg is open year-round, although some of the buildings and exhibits may be closed during the winter months. The site is open daily from 9:00am to 5:00pm, with extended hours during peak season. Phone information can be obtained by calling (888) 965-7254.
3. Tickets to Colonial Williamsburg can be purchased online or at the ticketing office on site. Various ticket options are available, including single-day and multi-day passes, as well as combination tickets with other area attractions such as Busch Gardens and Water Country USA. Discounts are available for military personnel and AAA members. Transportation to the site can be arranged through the Williamsburg Area Transport (WAT) system, which provides free shuttle service throughout the area.
