Neighboring Colonial Williamsburg, William & Mary is a historic treasure hidden in plain sight. The second-oldest institution of higher learning in America, this distinguished university has seen notable alumni pass through its gates including actress Glenn Close, former U.S. secretary of defense Robert Gates, head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers Mike Tomlin, and four U.S. presidents, including Thomas Jefferson. Both serene and bustling, William & Mary’s campus is at once a historic spot and a happening place that offers visitors several worthy things to see and do.
1. Magnificent Museum
Although the Muscarelle Museum of Art opened on the William & Mary campus in 1983, the collection it houses dates to 1732. From paintings and drawings to sculpture and photography, the permanent collection includes nearly 8,000 objects. Spend an afternoon exploring European and American paintings by the likes of Rembrandt and Georgia O’Keeffe and much more. A major expansion of the museum in 2023-24 increased display space for the permanent collection and made more room for special exhibits. General admission is free, although there may be a charge for special exhibits and programs. Docent-led tours are offered daily, so check online for times.
2. Bridge Full of Traditions
The most photographed and most romantic spot on campus, the Crim Dell Bridge is much more than a decorative bridge. Local lore has it that if two people cross the bridge while holding hands, they’ll be lifelong friends, and if they kiss, they’ll be lifelong lovers. The ornate red-and-white bridge, which crosses a lily pond and connects the old and new campuses, was erected in 1966. The surrounding mountain laurels, azaleas, and camellias put on a beautiful show each spring, when graduating students walk across the bridge as part of Commencement.
3. General Campus Tour
Take a self-guided tour to become acquainted with more points of interest on campus, which is divided into Ancient Campus, Old Campus, and New Campus. Highlights include the Sir Christopher Wren Building, the oldest academic building in continuous use in the United States, as well as the President’s House, academic halls, statues, and landscaped gardens. As you tour campus, you’ll learn more about its storied history: King William III and Queen Mary II of England chartered the college in 1693, hence the name. Phi Beta Kappa was founded on campus in 1776. And in 1918, it was the first college in Virginia to become coed.
4. Botanic Tour of Trees & Other Plants
More than 300 species of trees plus scores of other plant species have been planted on campus over the years, including dozens of exotic species. Self-guided botanic tours follow a loop that starts at the Wren Building, circumnavigating the area around the Sunken Garden. Just for starters, be on the lookout for towering tulip trees, stately oaks, fruit-bearing loquat trees, and holly trees festooned with red berries.
5. Organ Recitals
Step back in time during weekly organ recitals in the Wren Chapel, located inside the historic Wren building. Three talented musicians play the 1740 English chamber organ, which is on loan from Colonial Williamsburg, the sprawling living history museum neighboring William & Mary. Be immersed in the full, robust sound generated by five-and-a-half ranks of pipes perched on the chapel’s balcony. Recitals are free and open to the public.
6. Choral Concerts
If vocal music is more to your liking, you’re in luck. Several college choruses perform at periodic concerts that are free and open to the public, presented in courtyards or in the concert hall on campus. Concerts celebrate Opening Convocation, Homecoming, and the Yule Log Celebration, among other festive occasions.
7. Cheer for the Tribe
Fall is football season – you’re invited to get swept up in game-day spirit and root for the green and gold at thrilling home games. Buy tickets to a home football game, and get ready to cheer the Tribe on to victory!
For more, see top things to do for visiting college kids and get ideas for celebrating your grad in Williamsburg!