TOP 10 Best 18th century american history in Williamsburg, Virginia

Experience a truly historic stay at the Colonial House and Griffin Hotel Check In, located at 302 Francis Street East in Williamsburg, Virginia. Immerse yourself in the rich history of Colonial Williamsburg with two complimentary admission tickets included with your booking. Choose from five unique hotels that cater to your vacation dreams, needs, and budget. Indulge in an 18th-century dining experience at the King’s Arms Tavern, one of America’s oldest restaurants. Explore the beauty of springtime at Colonial Williamsburg Resorts, with activities such as golfing at the Golden Horseshoe Golf Club, relaxing at The Spa of Colonial Williamsburg, and dining at various options within the Historic Area.

Step back in time to 1776 at the Colonial Williamsburg Musket Range located at 310 South England Street in Williamsburg, Virginia. Experience the thrill of firing live rounds at a target with reproduction 18th-century flintlock firearms used during the Revolutionary War. Learn about the history of these weapons as you immerse yourself in the past. Participants must be age 14 or older, with guests ages 14–17 accompanied by a legally responsible adult. All participants must sign a waiver, with a valid photo ID required. Shuttle transportation is available to the range, where each participant is allowed one observer. The session includes range instructions, ammunition, targets, and safety equipment. Weather permitting, this unique experience is not to be missed. Don't miss out on this opportunity to connect with history in a hands-on and exciting way at the Colonial Williamsburg Musket Range.

The Colonial Williamsburg Fife and Drum Building, located at 433 Franklin Street in Williamsburg, Virginia, is a museum and tourist attraction that offers a wide range of events and activities for visitors to enjoy. From candlelight recitals to historical reenactments, there is something for everyone at this unique institution. Visitors can take a leisurely horse-drawn carriage ride through the Historic Area, meet historical figures such as George Washington, and even participate in interactive programs like military drills and family activities. The building also hosts musical performances, art exhibitions, and special events like tea parties and ghost tours.

Colonial Williamsburg is a living history museum located at 137-173 West Duke of Gloucester Street in Williamsburg, Virginia, United States. This institution serves as a window into America's colonial past, offering visitors the opportunity to step back in time and experience life as it was during the 18th century. Through interactive exhibits, guided tours, and costumed interpreters, Colonial Williamsburg brings history to life in a way that is both educational and entertaining. With its meticulously restored buildings, beautiful gardens, and vibrant reenactments, this museum provides a captivating glimpse into the rich heritage of early America.

The Colonial Williamsburg Courthouse, located at 101 West Duke of Gloucester Street in Williamsburg, Virginia, is a historic institution that offers visitors the opportunity to experience justice in the 18th century in an original building. This courthouse allows guests to discover how the legal system connected colonists to their community during this time period. In addition to exploring the legal proceedings of the past, visitors can also exchange ideas while sampling authentic versions of historic “hot liquors” such as coffee, tea, and chocolate. The courthouse also provides a glimpse into the private lives of Henry Wetherburn, his family, and his enslaved peoples, who played a vital role in the success of the tavern.

The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation is a museum located at 401 West Duke of Gloucester Street in Williamsburg, Virginia, United States. It is a place where the ideas, people, and true stories of our nation's founding come to life. Experience a vacation like no other this spring as you witness a new nation bursting into bloom with stirring performances, elegant historic gardens, groundbreaking art exhibits, and endless charm. This institution is not just a living history museum, but also a center for scholars, teachers, and enthusiasts of the American experiment. Stay up to date with the ongoing Revolution, discover behind-the-scenes happenings, and explore surprising stories of life during America's founding.

Located on East Duke of Gloucester Street in Williamsburg, Virginia, R. Charlton's Coffeehouse is a museum that offers visitors a glimpse into the bustling world of colonial coffeehouses. Unfortunately, the institution is currently temporarily closed. Step back in time to the era of the Stamp Act and immerse yourself in the sophisticated atmosphere of a historic coffeehouse where locals and visitors alike gathered to exchange news, conduct business, and engage in political discussions.

Located at 213 East Duke of Gloucester Street in Williamsburg, Virginia, the Prentis Store is a unique home goods store that specializes in 18th-century gifts and goods crafted by skilled tradesmen. Visitors can browse through a wide selection of handcrafted leather goods, iron hardware, tools, reproduction furniture, pottery, writing instruments, and Native American crafts. Additionally, the store offers papers, ink, and seals for those looking to add a touch of authenticity to their correspondence. In addition to its collection of historical goods, the Prentis Store also features a Golden Horseshoe Clubhouse and Golf Pro Shop for golf enthusiasts. Guests can find essentials and folk art inspired by the Williamsburg Lodge and Museum Collections, making it a must-visit destination for those looking to bring a piece of history into their homes.

The Neck of Land Historical Marker is a museum located within the Colonial National Historical Parkway in Williamsburg, Virginia. This institution is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich history of the area, particularly focusing on the significance of the narrow strip of land known as the Neck of Land. Visitors can explore exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays that highlight the cultural and historical importance of this region. Whether you are a history buff or simply curious about the past, a visit to the Neck of Land Historical Marker is sure to be an enlightening and educational experience.

The 1750 Isle of Wight Courthouse, located at 130 Main Street in Smithfield, Virginia, is a historic museum and tourist attraction. Built between 1750-1751, this courthouse served as the main courthouse for Isle of Wight for about 50 years before the court system was moved to its present location in Isle of Wight, Virginia. Modeled after the Capitol Building in Williamsburg, this beautifully restored courthouse offers free tours and is available as a rental space. Located in historic downtown Smithfield, the courthouse is situated on one of the original 72 lots established for the Town of Smithfield in 1752. Visitors can explore the rich history of the area and learn about the court cases that took place in this historic building. Admission is free, and donations, memberships, and special events help support the operations and programs of the courthouse.

Located at 214 Palace Green Street in Williamsburg, Virginia, the Thomas Everard House is a must-see tourist attraction. Step back in time and visit the home of Thomas Everard, a prominent planter and civic leader. This historic house, one of the oldest in Williamsburg, is filled with 18th-century antiques and has been carefully restored to its original appearance. Explore the rich history of the Everard House and learn about the founding principles of American government. By renewing your membership with a donation of $50 or more, you can enjoy special benefits and support the preservation of this important piece of American history. Don't miss out on this opportunity to experience the charm and elegance of the Thomas Everard House.

The Capitol Building in Williamsburg, Virginia, was the center of British authority in the colony for most of the 18th century. It served as the place where laws were passed, revolutionary ideas were debated, court cases were heard, and pleas for emancipation were made. Today, visitors can take daily tours of the Capitol to learn about its rich history. Originally constructed in 1705 after the previous statehouse in Jamestown burned down, the Capitol has a storied past of destruction and reconstruction. The House of Burgesses, the lower branch of the Virginia General Assembly, met in the Capitol from 1705 to 1776 and included prominent figures such as George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Patrick Henry. The Governor's Council, the upper house of the legislature, advised the governor and also acted as the colony's highest court. The history of the Capitol is intertwined with the enslaved population of Virginia, as funds for the building were raised in part by taxing the importation of enslaved people.

The DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum, located at 301 South Nassau Street in Williamsburg, Virginia, is a must-visit tourist attraction for art and history enthusiasts. This museum houses an impressive collection of southern furniture and British ceramics, making it a treasure trove of exquisite decorative art. Visitors can explore the Portrait Gallery, attend lectures and musical events in the Hennage Auditorium, and even participate in hands-on activities in the Education Studio. With three museums in one, there is something for everyone to enjoy at Colonial Williamsburg.