We are heading to CW this summer and want to stay in a nice hotel that is walking distance to the main areas if possible. We will have our two daughters (4 and 6) with us so a pool is a must. We are fine with most price ranges but would rather not be in the fanciest of places. A hotel with nice grounds would be a plus. Suggestions? thanks!

We visited CW with our daughters a few years ago and stayed in one of the restored colonial homes that is managed by the Williamsburg Inn. You have the charm and romance of a historical house, more privacy and space than 2 adjacent hotel rooms and you will be located directly IN THE MIDDLE of CW. Plus you get all the amenities of staying in the hotel, including the lovely pool, which is just a short stroll from most of the houses. The one we stayed in even had a small kitchen, so we bought a few groceries and saved some $$ on breakfasts.

CW's Woodlands is perfect for families. It's fairly new and located right at the Visitors Center, so you have the option of using their buses or walking over to the restored area. They have a large outdoor pool, a great continental breakfast, and the motel itself is very clean and well-run.

The website for Colonial Williamsburg (colonialwilliamsburg.com) has an excellent description of all of the accommodations they offer. Families with young children like the Woodlands Hotel & Suites. It's located at the Visitor's Center which is adjacent (and walkable) to the restored area. There is a pool and a restaurant which caters to kids.

Great. I was already eyeing the Woodlands so that looks like where we will stay. We are heading up to Washington DC after that but would like to go to a great beach for 4 days in between. Hit me with some suggestions! thanks!