{"id":10014,"date":"2024-12-17T02:32:55","date_gmt":"2024-12-17T02:32:55","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/wix-post-882e53d5-73b3-4b05-8c53-f85cb4414c5e"},"modified":"2026-10-05T16:47:42","modified_gmt":"2026-10-05T16:47:42","slug":"williamsburg-va-why-winter-is-our-favorite-time-to-visit-plus-where-to-stay-where-to-play-what","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.wechoseadventures.com\/?p=10014","title":{"rendered":"Williamsburg, VA: Why Winter is the Best Time to Visit. Plus Where to Stay, Where to Play, What to Eat. A 3-Day Family Winter Itinerary"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized wix-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wechoseadventures.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/ef789a_4894b45d2ec94948b5fe86955d407946mv2.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1.5031315240083507;width:2160px;height:auto\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Williamsburg in winter is pure magic. From twinkling lights and cozy vibes to stepping back in time, it\u2019s hands-down our favorite season to visit. We go every year in the winter\u2014it&#8217;s the best Hallmark movie town in Virginia, and it never disappoints! You can explore Colonial Williamsburg during the festive Grand Illumination, sip cocoa while ice skating under sparkling lights, and soak up holiday cheer at Busch Gardens Christmas Town. Whether you\u2019re making s\u2019mores around the fire or catching fireworks that light up the night, winter in Williamsburg feels like a family adventure straight out of a holiday movie. This guide breaks down where to stay, play, and eat so you can plan an unforgettable 3-day winter getaway.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><br><p><a id=\"8fdn5175\"><u>Where to Stay<\/u><\/p><br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><br><p><a id=\"4jxcx5229\"><u>Where to Play<\/u><\/p><br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><br><p><a id=\"mgpwn195\"><u>Best Hikes<\/u><\/p><br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><br><p><a id=\"8uyhz13666\"><u>Where to Eat<\/u><\/p><br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><br><p><a id=\"nozxb8632\"><u>Homeschooling\/Learning Resources<\/u><\/p><br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><br><p><a id=\"uhvis203\"><u>3 Day Itinerary<\/u><br><\/p><br><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized wix-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wechoseadventures.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/ef789a_c2bf3b5bd59e460bb22e0393fe096288mv2.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1.5031315240083507;width:2160px;height:auto\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Where to stay:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/vrbo.tp.st\/8UHq1pN4\" target=\"BLANK\" rel=\"noreferrer\"><u><strong>Tiny Red Barn (Family-Friendly Lodging)<\/strong><\/u><\/a> The Tiny Red Barn feels like a hidden gem just outside Williamsburg. It\u2019s cozy, quiet, and perfect for winding down after a day of exploring. We loved spending time outside, especially around the fire pit\u2014it\u2019s the perfect spot for roasting marshmallows, sipping cocoa, and stargazing on a clear night. The peaceful farm setting was a highlight, and we loved meeting the donkeys on the farm. It\u2019s such a unique place to connect as a family while enjoying some fresh air and simple moments. Bonus, it&#8217;s dog friendly!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><br><p><strong>Bonus Tip<\/strong>: Bring along your favorite board games, marshmallows for the fire pit, or hot cocoa mix for a cozy family night under the stars.<\/p><br><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized wix-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wechoseadventures.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/ef789a_7843304d510b40fbbd470e5317b19268mv2.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1.5031315240083507;width:2160px;height:auto\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Where to play:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><br><p><strong>Grand Illumination (Seasonal Evening Event)<\/strong>\u00a0The Grand Illumination is happening on December 21, 2024. A highlight of the Williamsburg winter experience, the Grand Illumination features spectacular fireworks, musical performances, and glowing colonial lanterns. The event takes place on select nights in December and creates a festive, unforgettable evening for the whole family.\u00a0<\/p><br><p><em><strong>Tip<\/strong><\/em>: Arrive early with blankets and hot drinks to claim a great viewing spot. We suggest sitting to the side of the Capitol Building for the best views with less crowds.<\/p><br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><br><p><strong>Busch Gardens Christmas Town (Family Holiday Theme Park)<\/strong> Busch Gardens transforms into a dazzling winter wonderland during Christmas Town. Millions of lights, themed villages, festive food, and kid-friendly rides make it a must-visit. <\/p><br><p><em><strong>Tip<\/strong><\/em>: Bundle up and arrive early to beat the crowds and see the best light displays.<\/p><br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><br><p><strong>Colonial Williamsburg (Historical &amp; Educational Fun)<\/strong> Colonial Williamsburg is the perfect place to step back in time. Costumed interpreters, festive holiday d\u00e9cor, and carriage rides make it extra special in winter. Don\u2019t miss the Grand Illumination and other seasonal events.<\/p><br><p><em><strong>Tip<\/strong><\/em><em>:<\/em> Check the event schedule for special 18th-century holiday traditions.<\/p><br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><br><p><strong>Liberty Ice Pavilion (Seasonal Ice Skating)<\/strong> The Liberty Ice Pavilion in Merchant\u2019s Square is the place to be for outdoor ice skating under sparkling lights. It\u2019s a family favorite that feels straight out of a holiday movie.<\/p><br><p><em><strong>Tip<\/strong><\/em><em>:<\/em> Reserve your skates and tickets online to save time, and don\u2019t forget to grab a hot chocolate from a nearby shop for the full winter experience.<\/p><br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><br><p><strong>Jamestown Settlement (Historical Site)<\/strong> The Jamestown Settlement brings history to life with recreations of the original fort, Native American village, and historic ships. Even in winter, interactive exhibits make it a great educational stop.<\/p><br><p><em><strong>Tip<\/strong><\/em><em>:<\/em> Check for indoor exhibits and special winter programming for a warm escape during colder days.<\/p><br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><br><p><strong>Yorktown Battlefield (Historical Site)<\/strong> Visit the site of the last major battle of the Revolutionary War. Winter is a peaceful time to explore walking trails and self-guided tours without the crowds.<\/p><br><p><em><strong>Tip<\/strong><\/em>: Stop by the visitor center for ranger-led talks and exhibits.<\/p><br><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized wix-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wechoseadventures.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/ef789a_884e1aa7615d437ba7081ca03ba33d20mv2.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1.5031315240083507;width:2160px;height:auto\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Where to eat:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><br><p><strong>Precarious Beer Hall (Casual Dining &amp; Drinks)<\/strong> Precarious Beer Hall offers craft brews, creative food options, and a laid-back atmosphere. While it\u2019s a great spot for adults, its fun vibe makes it a unique stop.<\/p><br><p><em><strong>Tip<\/strong><\/em><em>:<\/em> Try their seasonal beers and pair them with tacos or wood-fired pizza.<\/p><br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><br><p><strong>The Cheese Shop (Casual Lunch)<\/strong> Located in Merchant\u2019s Square, The Cheese Shop is a go-to for sandwiches, soups, and snacks. It\u2019s perfect for a quick lunch during your day of exploring.<\/p><br><p><em><strong>Tip<\/strong><\/em><em>:<\/em> Don\u2019t leave without trying their famous house dressing!<\/p><br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><br><p><strong>Blue Talon Bistro (Comfort Food for Dinner)<\/strong> Warm up with French-inspired comfort food at Blue Talon Bistro. Their cozy atmosphere and kid-friendly options make it ideal for families.<\/p><br><p><em><strong>Tip<\/strong><\/em><em>:<\/em> Treat yourself to their hot chocolate or bread pudding\u2014you won\u2019t regret it!<\/p><br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><br><p><strong>Colonial Williamsburg Taverns (Themed Dining Experience)<\/strong> Experience a taste of history at one of Colonial Williamsburg\u2019s historic taverns. Dining in these colonial-inspired spots is an experience the whole family will enjoy.<\/p><br><p><em><strong>Tip<\/strong><\/em><em>:<\/em> You&#8217;ll need reservations for this one!<\/p><br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><br><p><strong>Pierce&#8217;s Pitt Bar-B-Que (Casual, Family-Friendly BBQ)<\/strong> A local favorite, Pierce&#8217;s Pitt Bar-B-Que serves up delicious, slow-cooked BBQ that&#8217;s perfect for a laid-back meal. From pulled pork sandwiches to hearty sides, it&#8217;s a hit with both kids and adults.<\/p><br><p><em><strong>Tip<\/strong><\/em><em>:<\/em> Don&#8217;t skip their famous smoked ribs or homemade pies\u2014they\u2019re worth the stop!<\/p><br><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized wix-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wechoseadventures.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/ef789a_c4658ee71a5941f6b2a0b8ad365ede78mv2.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1.5031315240083507;width:2160px;height:auto\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Homeschooling\/Learning Resources:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">1. <strong>Early American History<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Discover colonial life and early American history in Williamsburg through interactive experiences and educational opportunities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><p><strong>Online Resources:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><br><p>Colonial Williamsburg Education: Offers virtual tours and educational activities about 18th-century life.<\/p><br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><br><p>Virginia Historical Society: Provides historical resources and interactive tools for kids.<\/p><br><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><p><strong>Field Trip Ideas:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><br><p>Colonial Williamsburg: Hands-on history with costumed interpreters and interactive exhibits.<\/p><br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><br><p>Jamestown Settlement: Explore the first English colony and learn about Native American cultures.<\/p><br><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><p><strong>Suggested Books:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><br><p><em>&#8220;Colonial Days: Discover the Past with Fun Projects, Games, Activities, and Recipes&#8221;<\/em>\u00a0by David C. King (ages 6+)<\/p><br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><br><p><em>&#8220;A History of US: From Colonies to Country&#8221;<\/em>\u00a0by Joy Hakim (ages 10+)<\/p><br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><br><p><em>&#8220;Founding Brothers: The Revolutionary Generation&#8221;<\/em>\u00a0by Joseph J. Ellis (ages 14+)<\/p><br><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">2. <strong>Winter Wildlife and Habitats<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Learn about the seasonal changes in Virginia&#8217;s wildlife and habitats during the winter months.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><p><strong>Online Resources:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><br><p>Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources: Educational tools about native animals and winter adaptations.<\/p><br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><br><p>National Audubon Society: Learn about birdwatching and species found in Virginia during winter.<\/p><br><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><p><strong>Field Trip Ideas:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><br><p>York River State Park: Explore winter trails and observe wildlife along the river.<\/p><br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><br><p>Virginia Living Museum: Visit exhibits showcasing native animals and ecosystems.<\/p><br><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><p><strong>Suggested Books:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><br><p><em>&#8220;Who Pooped in the Park? Shenandoah National Park&#8221;<\/em>\u00a0by Gary D. Robson (ages 6+)<\/p><br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><br><p><em>&#8220;A Kid&#8217;s Guide to Birding&#8221;<\/em>\u00a0by Lynn Hassler (ages 10+)<\/p><br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><br><p><em>&#8220;Winter World: The Ingenuity of Animal Survival&#8221;<\/em>\u00a0by Bernd Heinrich (ages 14+)<\/p><br><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">3. <strong>Colonial Trades and Skills<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Explore the trades and skills that were essential to life in 18th-century Williamsburg.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><p><strong>Online Resources:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><br><p>Colonial Williamsburg Trades: Videos and resources on blacksmithing, carpentry, and other trades.<\/p><br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><br><p>PBS Colonial House: Learn more about life and survival in the colonial era.<\/p><br><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><p><strong>Field Trip Ideas:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><br><p>Colonial Williamsburg: Watch tradespeople demonstrate blacksmithing, weaving, and more.<\/p><br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><br><p>American Revolution Museum at Yorktown: Hands-on exhibits and historical reenactments.<\/p><br><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><p><strong>Suggested Books:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><br><p><em>&#8220;The Blacksmith: Ironworker in the Colonial Village&#8221;<\/em>\u00a0by Leonard Everett Fisher (ages 6+)<\/p><br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><br><p><em>&#8220;Colonial Crafts&#8221;<\/em>\u00a0by Bobbie Kalman (ages 10+)<\/p><br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><br><p><em>&#8220;Everyday Life in Early America&#8221;<\/em>\u00a0by David Freeman Hawke (ages 14+)<\/p><br><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized wix-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wechoseadventures.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/ef789a_72bd9656a34f4380ad6fd4bce79a324emv2.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1.5070126227208975;width:2149px;height:auto\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Our 3 Day Itinerary:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Day 1<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><br><p><strong>Afternoon<\/strong>: Check in at the Tiny Red Barn and explore.<\/p><br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><br><p><strong>Evening<\/strong>: Head to <em>Busch Gardens Christmas Town<\/em>. Enjoy a dinner in one of the themed restaurants (we like the Festhaus for dinner and free show!), ride the festive rides (there&#8217;s some wild roller coasters here), check out the dazzling light displays, and try all of the seasonal treats.<\/p><br><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Day 2<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><br><p><strong>Morning<\/strong>: Start your day exploring <em>Colonial Williamsburg<\/em>. Visit historic buildings, chat with costumed interpreters, and take a carriage ride through the colonial streets.<\/p><br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><br><p><strong>Lunch<\/strong>: Grab lunch at the Cheese Shop for some of the best sandwiches (and cheese of course) in the area. <\/p><br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><br><p><strong>Afternoon: <\/strong>Lace up your skates for some fun at the <em>Liberty Ice Pavilion<\/em>. Skate under the twinkling lights while festive music plays.<\/p><br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><br><p><strong>Evening<\/strong>: Experience the magic of the <em>Grand Illumination<\/em>. Find a great spot for fireworks, enjoy caroling, and soak up the festive glow. Happening select Saturdays in December.<\/p><br><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Day 3<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><br><p><strong>Morning<\/strong>: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and pack up the Tiny Red Barn.<\/p><br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><br><p><strong>Late Morning<\/strong>: Visit <em>Jamestown Settlement<\/em>\u00a0or take a quiet stroll through Yorktown Battlefield.<\/p><br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><br><p><strong>Lunch<\/strong>: Finish your weekend with a meal at <em>Blue Talon Bistro<\/em>\u00a0before heading home.<\/p><br><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Ready to Plan Your Adventure?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For more family-friendly road trips and info on our favorite destinations for adventurous families check out our adventures at <a href=\"www.instagram.com\/wechoseadventures\" target=\"BLANK\" rel=\"noreferrer\"><u>We Chose Adventures<\/u><\/a>. Join us as we explore more family-friendly trails, scenic drives, and outdoor getaways in the Mid-Atlantic and beyond! Check out some of our videos of our trip here:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\nhttps:\/\/www.instagram.com\/reel\/DDrhkhexjNH\/?utm_source=ig_embed&#038;utm_campaign=loading\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Discover why Williamsburg is perfect for winter getaway for families. Explore our 3-day itinerary with top places to stay, play, and eat in <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":1000333,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_kad_post_transparent":"","_kad_post_title":"","_kad_post_layout":"","_kad_post_sidebar_id":"","_kad_post_content_style":"","_kad_post_vertical_padding":"","_kad_post_feature":"","_kad_post_feature_position":"","_kad_post_header":false,"_kad_post_footer":false,"_kad_post_classname":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[3,2],"tags":[21,19,20],"class_list":["post-10014","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-destinations","category-road-trips","tag-family-winter-fun","tag-williamsburg-itinerary","tag-winter-in-williamsburg"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.wechoseadventures.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10014","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.wechoseadventures.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.wechoseadventures.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.wechoseadventures.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.wechoseadventures.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=10014"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/www.wechoseadventures.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10014\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1000551,"href":"https:\/\/www.wechoseadventures.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10014\/revisions\/1000551"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.wechoseadventures.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/1000333"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.wechoseadventures.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=10014"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.wechoseadventures.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=10014"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.wechoseadventures.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=10014"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}