Returning to Williamsburg, Virginia with my two young kids felt like opening an old photo album— where the images were hazy at first but sharpened with each step down Duke of Gloucester Street.
The first time I visited Colonial Williamsburg was on a summer family trip when I was 15. I remember vividly the clack of horseshoes on cobblestones, the way the air smelled like gingerbread and the sounds of summer in the South. I remember standing at the blacksmith’s in awe of the craftsmanship during the early years of America’s founding, set here in the historical triangle of Virginia.
The author was hosted.
SheBuysTravel Tip: Skip the airport stress — Lyft’sOn-Time Pickup Promise guarantees your scheduled ride shows up within 10 minutes of your pickup time. If it doesn’t? You’ll get Lyft Cash. You can schedule up to 90 days in advance and even lock in your rate. Use codeSBT25 to save 25% off ONE scheduled ride to the airport.
The Best Things to Do in Williamsburg with Kids
There is no shortage of things to do in Williamsburg with kids—and the best part is it truly caters to a wide age range. Returning to Williamsburg now with my two children of various ages, here are a few of our family favorites we experienced:
Colonial Williamsburg may be a historical site, but it’s anything but dull. This isn’t some hushed museum where you tiptoe past velvet ropes—it’s a living, breathing slice of American history with reenactors who talk to you like you’re part of the historic period. My kids were able to watch a musket firing demonstration (thankfully with toddler-sized ear protection!) and shout “HUZZAH!” learned about silversmithing, engraving and so much more.
The perfect afternoon of popping (and sometimes air conditioning hopping) into quaint shops that sell sweets, specialty foods, ice cream, toys, consignment shops and a fleet of restaurants to choose from. Meandering through Merchants Square is a great way to spend the afternoon before dining at one of the restaurants.
Walking Through the “region” of France in Busch Gardens in Williamsburg. Photo credit: Phylicia Stitzel
Visiting Busch Gardens Williamsburg with my kids was a very “full circle” moment for me. I went when I was 15, again as an adult and then bringing my own children was a very surreal experience for me. My daughter loved riding the “loop-ed-loop” roller coasters (after some pep talk convincing), stopping at the different countries’ restaurants for snacks to fuel up for our long day playing in the park. If you are traveling with small kids, don’t worry about them becoming bored; there are still plenty of activities for them at Busch Gardens!
My kids and I after spending a morning enjoying the rope course and zipline adventure. Photo credit: Phylicia Stitzel
If your older kids are into climbing, this ropes and zip-line course is a fun way to burn energy off outdoors. There are several package options if you want to visit for a few hours or just an hour to explore the Virginia woods.
My son walking through the Bounce House Family Entertainment Center. Photo credit: Phylicia Stitzel
This is one of the greatest ways to spend a morning in Williamsburg! Whether you’re visiting and need a place to avoid heat or bad weather or you live in Williamsburg and want to visit a place where your kids can run off a ton of energy, the Bounce House is a wonderful location to do just that for both my kids and it even has separate sections that are designed for different ages.
My daughter and I painting ceramics with my son on my lap at Paint on Pottery. Photo credit: Phylicia Stitzel
Sometimes, all the outdoor exploration can wear on you and the kids and when you want to enjoy an indoor activity that will help keep your kids zoned, Paint on Pottery is a delightful way to enjoy a calm afternoon. They will even ship your items to you nationwide, which is perfect since we ran out of room in our suitcase.
Family-Friendly Restaurants in Williamsburg
Let’s talk about food —because little adventurers need frequent refueling. And let’s be honest, so do grown-up adventurers. Plus, it is one of my favorite things to do when traveling. Here are a few tried-and-true family-friendly spots in Williamsburg:
My daughter trying to decide which donut to choose for breakfast at Emily’s Donuts. Photo credit: Phylicia Stitzel
Family-owned and operated, this donut shop and café is a great little local shop to pick up a cup of coffee and a whimsical donut to kick start your adventure-filled day in Williamsburg. This shop is certainly a local favorite!
A fun and chic coffee shop with a wide variety of food and drink options for those who want a strong coffee and want to try some fun twists on classic foods. Like their crepe-dilla and brisket breakfast sandwich.
Enjoying a beverage at Food for Thought. Photo credit: Phylicia Stitzel
Family fun all around with wall décor featuring historical inventors, scientists, social leaders’ quotes and biographies, with interactive table games that ensure that no one is on their phone at the dinner table. The items on the kid’s menu were more extensive than I’ve seen at most restaurants and my own plate was quite delicious, featuring the hummus platter and the crab cakes!
Looking through some of the gourmet food items at the cheese shop. Photo credit: Phylicia Stitzel
Grab a few picnic supplies at the Cheese Shop and eat on the lawn of the Governor’s Palace. This business has been run for over five decades by the Power family. They offer choices for a wide-spread charcuterie board or you can order a sandwich at the sandwich shop in the back.
My daughter giving my son a piggyback ride through the Precarious Beer Hall and the Electric Circuit. Photo credit: Phylicia Stitzel
A play hall for adults and kids! Based on the name alone, it might not sound like this would be the place to bring the family, but with the numerous arcade games to be played, food options for both kids and adults. I am surprised we ever left!
My son and daughter looking over the menu at Christiana Campbell’s Tavern. Photo credit: Phylicia Stitzel
Do you want to dine at a location where George Washington liked to frequent back in his day? Then you need to make a reservation for Christiana Campbell’s Tavern. Designed after the original location in the 18th century, guests enjoy a historical reenactment dinner complete with candlelight and spoon bread. The ambiance, down to the pewter spoons and plates recreated with the exact design from the original tavern, you will enjoy locally sourced ingredients that lend a hand to the true, authentic dining experience.
How Many Days Do You Need in Williamsburg with Kids?
My daughter watching a silversmith working at his workbench in Colonial Williamsburg. Photo credit: Phylicia Stitzel
We spent 4 days, and it felt just right. I’d recommend between 3–5 days to explore around Williamsburg, depending on your pace. Here’s a suggested breakdown:
Day 1: Colonial Williamsburg (Historic Area + Art Musuem + orientation walk)
Day 2: Busch Gardens (full day)
Day 3: Go Ape! Zipline, Paint on Pottery, Bounce House
Day 4: Free day for pool time, shopping at Merchant’s Square or repeating favorites
When it was time to finally board the plane again, Williamsburg had left a magical impression on me and my children. Not because everything stayed the same (other than the historical center of Colonial Williamsburg itself) but because it grew up with me—and now welcomes my kids with open arms.
And one day, maybe they’ll walk these same streets with little hands tugging at their sleeves, remembering how their mom once took them back in time, just like how she went when she was younger.
A passionate traveler, professional photographer, and wine enthusiast, The Backpacker Mom is redefining what it means to explore the world as a mother. Based in the Pacific Northwest, she travels with her two children, encouraging moms everywhere to “have your cake and eat it too” by breaking barriers around family travel. Specializing in family-friendly adventures, wine getaways, and solo mom tips, she shares insights and inspiration for moms navigating airports with kids under 8, visiting wineries with little ones in tow, and embracing the joys of cultural immersion. With a flair for storytelling and a commitment to empowering mothers to create unforgettable memories with their children, The Backpacker Mom proves that travel and parenting can go hand in hand.
I live an hour away from Williamsburg. I never knew there was so many things to do there. I look forward to checking out many of the places she recommended. Another great article by my favorite travel author.
Leave a Reply