15 Things to Do in Williamsburg, VA for Couples

Are you trying to create the perfect itinerary for your trip to Williamsburg? Click here for fifteen things to do in Williamsburg, VA for couples. 

Couples who take trips together stay together. At least, that’s what a recent study concluded after 42% of couples studied said they renewed their “spark” or fell back in love after a vacation.

The good news is you and your partner don’t have to travel far to get this benefit. A trip to the top tourist destinations in the US can do the trick just as well as an extended Eurotrip.

And what better place to visit in the US than the birthplace of America: Williamsburg, Virginia? There are so many things to do in Williamsburg, VA for couples, from outdoor activities and museums to theme parks and spas.

If you and your partner are looking for the best Williamsburg date ideas, you clicked on the right post. Keep reading for the top 15 things to do in the US’s oldest city.

1. Go Back in Time at the Westgate Historic Williamsburg Resort

Westgate’s Williamsburg Resort is not only the best place to stay in Williamsburg. It is also an unforgettable experience where you and your partner can feel immersed in history.

Relax by the pool by day and share a romantic plunge in the on-site hot tub by night. Or try your hand at old-fashioned Williamsburg activities and games like axe throwing, musket firing, and much more!

When you have experienced all the resort has to offer, you will love how convenient it is to town. The hotel’s location is only a short drive from theme parks, historic sites, and everything else Williamsburg has to offer.

2. Visit the Site of the First American Settlers

Speaking of historic sites, many of the country’s most famous ones are in Williamsburg, the birthplace of America. See what it was like to live in colonial times at Historic Jamestowne and Jamestown Settlement.

You and your partner can also pick up tickets to Colonial Williamsburg. This live museum experience allows visitors to interact with actors portraying famous early Americans like George Washington and Gowan Pamphlet.

William and Mary College is also a must when you are in the area. It is the second-oldest university in the United States, having been founded in the late 17th century.

3. Unwind at the Williamsburg Winery

When you have a free afternoon, make the 15-minute drive to the Williamsburg Winery. It is a 300-acre winery and farm known as Wessex Hundred. There, you and your partner can taste the local varietals on offer.

May we recommend the Extensive Tour and Reserve Wine Tastings? This experience allows you to see all the winery has to offer. Visitors can even try the reserve wines kept in the estate’s private cellar.

Reserve a table at the Gabriel Archer Tavern and stay for dinner. The turkey and brie sandwich is a local and tourist favorite, with its sweet Lingonberry preserves and savory roasted garlic mayo.

4. Escape the Summer Heat at Water Country USA

Williamsburg may have relatively mild summers. But walking around the historic sites on offer will work up a sweat anyway. Cool down with a trip to the Williamsburg location of Water Country USA.

Water Country USA Williamsburg is the largest water park on the mid-Atlantic coast. And you don’t need kids to enjoy the park. You and your partner can race down the water slides, hang out in the lazy river, or chill in the wave pool.

This theme park has no shortage of rides, either. Go whitewater rafting on Big Daddy Falls, or get your thrill on the Colossal Curl or Cutback Water Coaster. Other must-rides include the newly redesigned Aquazoid Amped raft ride.

5. Ride the Roller Coasters at Busch Gardens

If you and your partner didn’t get your theme park fix with Water Country USA, Busch Gardens should be your next stop. The new DarKoaster alone is enough reason to visit – it’s the only all-indoor straddle rollercoaster in the US!

Other fan favorites include the Pantheon, the world’s fastest multi-launch coaster, and Apollo’s Chariot. The latter has a massive 210-foot drop that will have you re-experiencing the ride even after you head home.

Busch Gardens is no stranger to leisure. The park offers multiple relaxing couples activities, including a ride on the Busch Gardens Railway or Rhine River Cruise. The Aeronaut Skyride is the best way to view the whole park from above.

6. Grab a Beer at the Local Breweries

There is no better way to unwind after a trip to Busch Gardens or Water Country USA than with an ice-cold brew. Lucky for you, Williamsburg is home to dozens of breweries to do just that.

Two favorites in the area are Billsburg Brewery and the Alewerks Brewing Company. Billsburg is conveniently located off Jamestown Road. The bar and lounge specializes in classic American lagers, pilsners, and ales.

16-year-old Alewerks Brewing Company is another must-visit for beer-loving couples. Hang out on the patio or take a tour to get a behind-the-scenes look at how Alewerks creates its delicious brews.

7. Take a Day Trip to the American Revolution Museum

Williamsburg, Yorktown, and Jamestown together make up an area known as America’s Historic Triangle. If you have already visited the historic sites at Williamsburg and Jamestown, Yorktown should be the next stop on your list.

Yorktown is a brief 20-minute drive from Williamsburg. We recommend making a day trip out of it as there is so much to do and see in the area. One of the best destinations is the American Revolution Museum.

See real-life items sourced from the Revolutionary War. Or experience what it was like to fight with the Continental Army. Speaking of, you can also check out the Continental Army Encampment, a free bonus with tickets to the museum.

8. Get Some Exercise at the Local Parks

Going on vacation can pull you out of your regular routine. But physical activity is crucial for you and your partner’s health. Get your weekly exercise in with trips to one of the city’s many parks.

Freedom Park is the best place to go for an off-road bike ride. If hiking is more your speed, take your partner to York River State Park. Hike over 30 miles worth of trails nestled beside the banks of the scenic York River.

If you prefer to get your exercise through water sports. Williamsburg has you covered. Powhatan State Park is the best place for kayaking. Meanwhile, try Waller Mill Park for boating and fishing activities you’ll both enjoy.

9. Sample the Best Seafood

You and your partner probably know all about farm-to-table. But have you heard of sea-to-table? If not, you will once you leave Williamsburg because the city boasts dozens of these establishments.

It takes less than an hour to drive from the coast of Chesapeake Bay to Williamsburg. That is why the fish is so fresh. Get your fill at local sea-to-table restaurants like Captain George’s, Fat Tuna, or Berret’s.

One of the most high-rated sea-to-table restaurants in the area is Casa Pearl. This hole in the wall is located inside a gas station. But don’t let its humble exterior fool you – Casa Pearl serves seafood plates fit for a King Crab.

10. Tour a Haunted House

Nothing is more romantic than sharing a scream or two. And Williamsburg offers plenty of them. In its more than 350-year history, this city has become home to its fair share of ghosts.

That’s why you shouldn’t miss adding Get Your Guide’s Ghost Tour to your bucket list. Take a stroll to the old asylum, public gaol (jail), or colonial-age cemetery for a dark trip through memory lane. You might even be lucky enough to capture a ghost orb (what are orbs?) on camera or experience some paranormal activity firsthand!

You might even be lucky enough to capture a ghost orb (what are orbs?) on camera or experience some paranormal activity firsthand!

For something less chill-inducing, stop by the Governor’s Palace. Local legend has it that visitors can see the ghost of Thomas Jefferson if they are lucky. In all, the tour will take you to 12 of the city’s eeriest haunted buildings.

11. Shop the Modern or Old-Fashioned Way

Williamsburg may be known for its historic attractions and thrilling amusement parks. But it is also a haven for couples who love to shop until they drop.

Merchants Square offers a bit of both worlds. It is styled like a historic square but features modern clothing boutiques and furniture showrooms, as well as restaurants and bars. Plus, don’t miss the farmer’s market, hosted on the square every Saturday from 8 am to 12 pm.

Are you and your partner looking for something a bit more modern? If so, the Patriot Plaza Premium Outlets are the place to be. Find all your favorite stores, from premium brands like Coach to more affordable options like Ann Taylor.

12. Educate Yourself at One of the Many Williamsburg Museums

The American Revolution Museum is worth the trip to Yorktown. But you and your partner can also find plenty of educational and exciting museums in downtown Williamsburg.

A local and tourist favorite is the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum. One of the oldest museums in the world and the oldest museum in the country, this is also the place to glimpse the collection of a Rockefeller, one of America’s richest families.

William and Mary’s Muscarelle Museum of Art is the best place to see local artists’ work on display. Students at the university and community artists contribute to the permanent collection and rotating exhibitions on offer.

13. Relax at the Williamsburg Salt Spa

If you and your partner are spa enthusiasts, the Williamsburg Salt Spa is a must. Here, couples can unwind with traditional salt therapy in a real-life salt cave. There is no other place like it in all of the US.

This spa takes inspiration from Polish salt spa traditions. The owners of this getaway designed their facility after the world-famous Wieliczka Salt Mine Spa just outside of Krakow in South Poland.

Get a massage or facial while experiencing the benefits of the majestic salt cave. Or take a dip in the private saltwater float tank to de-stress and get rejuvenated with your partner.

14. Escape Room the Colonial Way

You may have tried an escape room before, but you and your partner have never experienced an escape room like this! Colonial Escape Room offers educational content as you solve clues to progress through the game.

If you and your spouse like your games scary, Chesapeake Bay Butcher is the room for you. Solve the mystery of the Chesapeake Bay Butcher inside an escape room modeled after his real-life home!

The only downside? You and your spouse will need to find a third player to enter the Chesapeake Bay Butcher room. Otherwise, you will have to settle for the equally exciting Blackbeard’s Cabin or CyberPunk’s rooms.

15. Pick Up a Souvenir Before You Head Home

There is just one more stop to make on your Williamsburg vacation. You will need to pick up some souvenirs to remember your trip. Or maybe you want to shower your loved ones with gifts once you return home.

No matter what kind of souvenirs you are searching for, Merchants Square has an option for you. Get something fun for the kids in your life at the Wythe Candy and Gourmet Shop.

For the adults, there is no better place to go than the Spice and Tea Exchange, where you can find all kinds of kitchen staples. Or check out Danforth for handmade metal products perfect for dads, brothers, or sons.

These Are the Best Things to Do in Williamsburg, VA for Couples

If your travel plans bring you to Williamsburg, this list can help you create your itinerary. There is something for every couple in this historic city, from site seeing to thrill-seeking and everything in between.

Are you searching for more things to do in Williamsburg, VA for couples? Search our travel posts for the tips you need to plan the perfect couples’ trip!

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