Frequently Asked Questions/
Getting Started

The largest living history museum in the United States, Colonial Williamsburg is a private not-for-profit foundation that operates the restored 18th-century capital of colonial Virginia and the adjacent all-encompassing resort.

Williamsburg, Virginia. Set your GPS for the Colonial Williamsburg Regional Visitor Center.

To experience all that the Revolutionary City has to offer—including live action, theatrical performances, vibrant gardens, guided tours of original 18th-century buildings, personal interaction with townspeople, three museums, and so much more—you’ll need an admission ticket.

Begin your visit at the Colonial Williamsburg Regional Visitor Center.

Colonial Williamsburg is open 365 days a year. Visit our Things to Do section for more details on the operating hours for sites, restaurants, and more.

When you arrive, start your visit at the Colonial Williamsburg Regional Visitor Center to pick up a free copy of “Colonial Williamsburg This Week.” This weekly program guide will show you which buildings are open and which programs offered during your visit along with a map and helpful tips. Learn more in our Things to Do section.

Buildings with flags at their entrances are open to ticket holders. Not all colonial buildings are open to the public; some are privately occupied by employees of Colonial Williamsburg and their families, and some hold administrative offices. Visit Tour the City to learn more.

Colonial Williamsburg offers its guests a variety of opportunities to relive the Revolutionary War period. Depending on your interests or focus, visits vary in length and activities. Guests can get a small sample of the Revolutionary City in about half a day, but plan to stay at least two or three days to enjoy the full experience. Colonial Williamsburg is filled with exciting historic sites, informative programs that are constantly changing and expanding, and family-friendly fun.

Some outdoor programs are presented only when weather permits. Building tours continue during inclement weather, and the Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg are open daily.

Learn more about costume rental in our Shopping section.

Evening programs include tours, plays, dances, concerts, and reenactments. Evening meals in colonial taverns are complete with strolling musicians and 18th-century fare. From romantic to kid-friendly, there’s something to do every night of your stay.

Tickets are sold on the day of the ride at all Colonial Williamsburg ticket locations. Availability is limited, and tickets are sold on a first-come, first-served basis, so purchase your ticket early in the morning. Reservations are not taken in advance due to the unpredictable nature of the weather.

All costumed interpreters will be acting as residents of the Revolutionary City and will portray the period leading up to or during the Revolutionary War. Many guests enjoy dressing in 18th-century costume, and you may encounter them during your stay.

Automobiles are not permitted in the Revolutionary City, but shuttle-bus service is provided. Shuttles travel between the Visitor Center and the Revolutionary City and circle the town from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Designated stops are indicated on the map in your “This Week” available at the Visitor Center. Shuttles with wheelchair lifts are available. Shuttle service is free to all ticket and pass holders.

Colonial Williamsburg’s official hotels offer a range of accommodations. Whether you’re traveling for business, looking for a romantic getaway, or planning a family vacation, you’ll find an option that will meet your needs.

From historic taverns to modern sandwich shops and bistros, the Revolutionary City, Colonial Williamsburg Resort, and Merchants Square have plenty of choices to please all tastes. Restrooms are available, and cool drinks can be purchased throughout town.

The Colonial Williamsburg Resort and the Revolutionary City are complemented by convenient and unique shopping options. From luxe home accessories to authentic reproduction 18th-century flatware and furniture—you’ll find the perfect gift, souvenir, or accent for your home.

A limited number of folding wheelchairs are rented on a first-come, first-served basis from the Visitor Center. Ramps and wheelchair lifts are available at selected sites, but many buildings require a few steps.

Try something different—plan your next group event here. Whether it’s a high-profile meeting, educational school trip, or romantic wedding, you'll find facilities and amenities suited to your tastes and needs.