Thinking about a visit to Colonial Williamsburg? The world’s largest living history museum offers a unique chance to glimpse our nation’s early years up close and in person. Featuring 301 acres of period architecture, working tradespeople, historic taverns, and more, Colonial Williamsburg has something for everyone, especially the history buffs in your family.
But what about the outdoor lovers in your travel posse? It’s important to balance history and cultural attractions with activities that are energetic and fun. Williamsburg also offers a variety of outdoor adventures that will please family members who love being in the great outdoors. From hiking and biking to stand-up paddle boarding and zip lining, outdoor recreation is waiting just around the corner from the historic area. Here are a few of the most fun outdoor things to do in Williamsburg.
Take A Park Break
The City of Williamsburg and the surrounding James City County have numerous parks with family-friendly activities. Start with a visit to Waller Mill Park in Williamsburg, a 2,705-acre wooded paradise which features a 360-acre lake, playground, disc golf course, corn hole, picnic tables, and hiking trails. The lake is the star attraction at this park — its pristine waters welcome visitors for fishing, boating, swimming, and more. You can rent kayaks, canoes, and pedal boats, or bring your own. Fishing poles are available to rent (no fishing license required), and you can keep whatever you catch. Plan a picnic in the park’s picnic area and grill up the day’s bounty, then watch the sunset over the lake at day’s end. It’s one of the most fun Williamsburg things to do in the great outdoors.
Chickahominy Riverfront Park in James City County is perfect for outdoor adventures. Fishing is popular, especially from the 290-foot lighted pier (open 24 hours), but you can also rent a boat or cast your line and fish directly from the riverbank. When visiting this park, it’s important to note that everyone aged 16 and up will need a freshwater fishing license, and fishing is strictly catch and release. Not a fan of fishing? Not to worry. Instead shoot some hoops on the basketball court or grab a few friends and play volleyball. Hiking and viewing wildlife is always fun, and don’t forget your swimsuit so you can enjoy the park pool and splash pad. Last but not least, book a stand-up paddle board lesson or yoga class with Paddle On Williamsburg, which launches its paddle boards at Chickahominy Riverfront Park on select dates.
Like To Bike?
Get ready to pedal through history. Start with the leisurely Historic Jamestowne Island Loop and choose a three- or five-mile circuit that introduces you to the same natural environment which the earliest colonists likely encountered. It just may be one of the coolest outdoor things to do in Williamsburg. You may also see wildlife as you enjoy scenic views of the James River, marshlands, and surrounding forest. The loop is open to pedestrians, bike riders, and vehicle traffic so wear a helmet and follow safety rules. If you need a bike Pedego Williamsburg offers rentals of standard bikes as well as e-bikes, and will deliver for full-day and weekly rentals.
Another great place to bike is the Virginia Capital Trail, which stretches between Williamsburg and Richmond. Hop on the trail at any number of sites, like the James City County Marina, which also offers bike rentals. If you’re not keen on riding the entire 51-mile trail, just pedal a shorter section of the trail, like Jamestown Settlement to Chickahominy Riverfront Park, which is just 13 miles round-trip. Check out this and other itineraries on Virginia Capital Trail’s website.
Outdoor Fun & More
Freedom Park in James City County is an all-in-one destination, where you and your family can easily spend an entire day enjoying some of the most fun Williamsburg things to do. Much more than a park, this idyllic oasis offers history, nature, thrills, and more. Starting with history, Freedom Park has a rich historical background beginning in the 1650s. Explore an 18th-century cemetery, a Revolutionary War Battle site, plus one of the nation’s earliest Free Black Settlements. You can visit re-created cabins furnished with items authentic to the period, as well as an interpretive center.
Enjoy nature as you hike along two miles of multi-use trails, including a one-mile ADA accessible paved trail — or go for some thrills on more than 20 miles of mountain bike trails that wind through historical sites and forests, and along creeks and open meadows. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife!
For even more excitement, visit Go Ape and try the Treetop Adventure Course or the Treetop Junior Course, also in Freedom Park. The Treetop Adventure takes participants through the treetops using zip lines, obstacles, and Tarzan swings. Younger adventurers can choose the Treetop Junior Course, a smaller zip line circuit perfect for those 12 and under.
Ready for something a bit calmer? Don’t miss the Williamsburg Botanical Garden, also located in Freedom Park. Instead of exotic plant species, however, you’ll discover 18 different habitats comprised of species native to the Virginia Coastal Plain—plus a therapy garden and herbal garden. Garden aficionados will love learning about the importance of native plants, how to prevent and control invasive species, and sustainable gardening practices for a typical garden in the Virginia Peninsula area.
While you’re in Williamsburg, no doubt you’ll want to find some of the best places to eat — read this list of some of the top eats you’ll find in Colonial Williamsburg.
