Colonial Williamsburg: A Winter Visit

Colonial Williamsburg is a reconstructed 18th-century village in the heart of Virginia's Historical Triangle. December is a particularly wonderful time to visit, with period decorations adorning every lintel and candles glowing from windows. Taverns invite guests in to enjoy 18th-century fare, seasoned with songs and games. Shops are bursting with reproduction goods, some of which are made right in the historical area. A stroll down the pedestrian Duke of Gloucester Street will send you back to colonial times, evoked through the sound of horses' hooves, the smell of woodsmoke, and insightful stories.
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Chapters in this tour:
     Introduction
     The East End
     Midtown
     Market Square & the Magazine
     Bruton Parish Church & the Restoration
     The Governor's Palace

Transportation:

By Foot - Easy walking

Specialty:

Historical/Heritage, City/Town

Category:

Guided Tour - play before & while you tour

Tips in this Tour:

	If you're feeling peckish while wandering around, try the Raleigh Tavern for a quick cookie and a bottle of ginger ale. Otherwise, Chowning's Tavern offers lunch fare, but if you're not craving 18th-century food, continue up Duke of Gloucester Street and try the modern restaurants in Merchant's Square.
	If you're interested in taking a carriage ride, tickets can be bought at Greenhow's Lumber Store. Just be sure to get there early in the day to ensure you get the vehicle you want!
	Every Saturday in the summer, the Merchant's Square hosts a farmer's market. There are fresh, organic vegetables, along with handmade soaps, fresh fish, baked goods, flowers, and cheeses. In December, the farmer's market returns, this time with holiday decorations made out of fresh greens and fruits.
	Children always enjoy visiting the sheep, oxen, and horses. Ask any of the interpreters where the animals are being pastured that day, since they are moved around to prevent overgrazing.
	The gardens behind the Palace are a ticketed site, but other gardens are just as beautiful. And free! Be sure to visit the garden next to the Custis tenement, across from Bruton Parish, or the garden shop. Wander behind the houses and shops on Duke of Gloucester for the real hidden treats.

Click to see how our tours display--tons of images with either text or narration--much better than any audio tour because you can see the sites. It's like having a friend show you around, with priceless advice and insider information, to enjoy at your own pace. Our samples feature different locations throughout the year.

Provider: Nicole Lemery

Nicole M. Lemery holds a master’s degree in Writing for Performance from Goldsmiths College, London. When not living in the past, she enjoys traveling and pursuing her career as a playwright. She works at Colonial Williamsburg as a tailor and historical interpreter.