Williamsburg Vacations

"Be part of the story" is Colonial Williamsburg's tagline -- and apropos considering the painstaking details that have been captured here to reflect life in the 1700s. Through cobblestone streets, you'll find blacksmiths, milliners, cooks, soldiers, cobblers, perhaps even Thomas Jefferson himself.

Who needs a trip to Europe when Germany, Italy and England have all been recreated in one manageable, kid-friendly space? Nestled in a forest, the Old Country entices with rides, games and shows for all ages. Drink ale from a stein in a gorgeous beer hall, get jerked and splashed in the Roman Rapids, cool off on a Rhine River cruise and by all means, tame the Loch Ness Monster, a roller coaster worth every loop and dive.

Oct. 19, 1781 is a date forever etched in revolutionary history, especially on these grounds, where America won her independence from Great Britain. Walk with a part of the British militia as park rangers share battle tales, and learn how artillery played a role in the Siege of Yorktown. Don't worry, moms and dads, these guns don't actually fire.

Chartered by King William III and Queen Mary II of England, the second-oldest college in the United States bears hallowed halls that once housed presidential pupils such as Thomas Jefferson, John Tyler and James Monroe. Along with its historical recognition and academic reputation, William and Mary is just so darn pretty. Think 1,200 acres of well-manicured grounds, a sparkling lake and (the goosebump-inducing) oldest college building in America. 

The York River sets the scene for patriotic strolls with The Fifes and Drums of York Town. What's even more American than that? Engaging in some good old-fashioned consumerism at the multiple shops and restaurants along the water. At the end of the walk, the ultimate reward: a heaping ice cream cone.

Definitely make a day of this. Between the shoots, falls and newest attraction – Vanish Point, a 75-foot drop – this amusement park will leave you drenched, terrified, sun-kissed and exhausted. Of course, on a summer day, we couldn't have asked for a better distraction.

See the Civil War headquarters of General McClellan where "Taps" was composed, and the site of the first Thanksgiving. Stroll the plantation's lush terraces and fragrant gardens overlooking the James River.

A family trip wouldn't be complete without a shopping fix. Head here for savings on Calvin Klein, J. Crew, Juicy Couture, a few apparel lines represented among 135 stores. A VIP Shopper Club and group tours invite shopaholics to cash in on even more savings.

The refrigerator doesn't need another magnet to remind you of your travels. Instead, hit this artisan retail outlet for unique finds, from salt-glazed pottery to custom silk floral arrangements. The Pottery also sells clothing, furniture, food and linens, too. A word of advice: Bring the walking shoes and your car -- you've got 200 acres to cover.

There’s more to Williamsburg than its famous colonial living history museum--but a trip to the eastern Virginia city isn’t complete without exploring the historic area. Colonial Williamsburg draws visitors from all over the world to experience the reconstructed buildings, homes and shops of the 18th-Century Williamsburg settlement where George Washington and Thomas Jefferson once walked (and still do, in the form of authentically costumed actors). Even after immersing yourself in Colonial Williamsburg, there’s enough to do in modern-day Williamsburg to fill a whole vacation, whether you’re a couple, a family with kids or a group of friends. There are thrill rides and entertainment at Busch Gardens Williamsburg and Water Country USA, a Ripley’s Believe It Or Not! Museum, outdoor fun at York River State Park, art museums, wineries, spas, golf, and even more colonial history at the Jamestown Settlement and Historic Jamestowne. Hungry visitors will find everything from casual to fine dining in Williamsburg; A Chef’s Kitchen, with stadium seating that allows diners to watch chefs prepare their meals while giving a culinary lesson, is especially popular. There‘s no shortage of affordable hotels and motels in Williamsburg, and the bed-and-breakfasts are as charming and romantic as can be.

AOL Travel’s Williamsburg Guide

AOL Travel's Best Williamsburg Hotels