jan

Traveling to Williamsburg in July. Know any fun stuff to do besides Busch Gardens,etc. Fun attractions,restaurants?? 5 adults & 3 kids ages 10-16.
Also--we are traveling from Ohio--any interesting side trips?
Staying at Powhatan Plantation Resort in Wills.--know anything about it??

Mark

I know you said, "besides Busch Gardens", but I wasn't sure if you knew about Water Country USA (also owned by BG). It's a fairly large water park that has stuff for every age group and is definitely worth a visit (especially in the humid summers of Virginia). If you get a three day pass to BG, you can go to both parks.
You might find a few other "fun" things to do in the colonial part of Williamsburg... but your kids are 10-16, in reality it's hard to compare the thrill of the Loch Ness Monster to the "thrill" of someone making candles in colonial garb.

J. Wilson

We vacationed in Williamsburg last summer and lived in the area several years ago. The surrounding towns of Hampton, Newport News, Jamestown, and Yorktown have lots of historical parks, museums to visit. You might enjoy the Mariner's Museum in Newport News, Ft. Monroe in Hampton, and walking around the parks in Yorktown & Jamestown. It's interesting and is a nice contrast to Busch Gardens. We enjoyed the Powell House in Col. Williamsburg. Have fun!

Martin Cohn

The area around Williamsburg has so many things to see and do that my wife and I had to return a second time to see everything. If you like touring old houses, there are a few great ones in the area along the James River. We thought Shirley Plantation and Berkley Plantation were really interesting.

If you like shopping, then you will love Williamsburg! There are lots and lots of outlet stores, and the Pottery Factory is anothere great place to shop. Make sure you wear good walking shoes!

Consider checking out the museums in the Williamsburg area, they are a great place to cool down if the hot weather gets to you. It was really hot when we were there last year! They have some very interesting exhibits, good for a few hours.

For a great dinner, make reservations at the Trellis Restaurant in Merchant's Square. The chef here has been on several cooking shows and written a few dessert cookbooks, his famous dessert is called "Death By Chocolate." Great food and not too expensive.

Have a Great time!

jan

Thanks for the above advice. We'll be doing Busch Gardens /Water Country and obvious touring, but is there anything you would suggest we NOT miss doing?
By the way, we'll be sure to try the "Death by Chocolate"!! We've had it in area restaurants at home, but I'll have to try the original!!!

Beth

My husband was stationed at the Norfolf naval base for a few years and I made trips to the Williamsburg area from our Maryland home every couple of months. I don't know how many days you will be in the area but your might want to consider a day trip to Virginia Beach to enjoy the ocean. It is approximately 45 miles south of Williamsburg. Not a bad drive at all. As for things NOT to do. Stay away from the all-you-can-eat restaurants. Expensive for the quality of food served. Enjoy!