In Williamsburg, Virginia, every season brings new colors, new flavors, and new experiences. This guide helps you plan the perfect trip to the Historic Triangle by highlighting top seasonal things to do, major events, weather insights, and packing tips. From spring blooms to winter wonders, you’ll enjoy fun-filled discoveries and epic adventures any time of year.
SPRING: Break for Family Fun, Blooming Gardens & History Tours
Top Things to Do
Take a family-friendly spring break in Williamsburg, where famous museums and attractions promise immersive experiences and fast-paced thrills. For exhilarating fun in nature, take to the treetops of Go Ape Zipline & Adventure Park.
Spring brings a burst of color to the gardens of Colonial Williamsburg, making it an ideal time to explore the iconic living history attraction. You’ll also find flowers in full bloom at the nearby Williamsburg Botanical Garden. For more ways to enjoy the outdoors, go birding at York River State Park, pedal the scenic Virginia Capital Trail, or take a peaceful hike along Island Loop Drive on Jamestown Island.
Blend history, nature, and adventure at Yorktown Battlefield Colonial National Historic Park, where America’s independence was won. Hop on a Yorktown and Company Replica Stanley Steamer Wagon Tour for a narrated ride through the battlefield’s most storied spots. While in Yorktown, don’t miss the charming waterfront hub of Riverwalk Landing, where you’ll find treasure-filled shops and restaurants serving up crab cakes and other local favorites.
Major Events
What began in 1927 as a flower show to preserve Thomas Jefferson’s trees at Monticello is now a beloved annual tradition. During Historic Garden Week, typically held in late April, you can tour private historic homes filled with floral arrangements and wander the picturesque gardens.
Savor local heritage at the Vintage Visions & Vibes Festival, also held in April. The two-day event features a vintage and collectibles market, live music, a classic car show, and more. At the Blues, Brews & BBQ Festival, typically held in May, sip craft beer from 30+ breweries, feast on mouthwatering BBQ, listen to live blues, and relax in the wine garden.
Weather & What to Pack
In spring, Williamsburg comes alive with pleasant, mild daytime temperatures ranging from the 50s in early March to the low 70s by May. Spring weather can shift throughout the day, so pack layers to stay comfortable. Also pack a sturdy pair of walking shoes for exploring trails, parks, and historic sites. Keep an umbrella or rain jacket handy as occasional spring showers can sweep through the area.
SUMMER: Theme Parks, Beach Time & On-the-Water Fun
Top Things to Do
Celebrate the spirit of Independence Day all summer long at the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown, where fascinating exhibits, high-tech experiences, and live demonstrations bring the fight for freedom to life.
Beat the heat by flying through the air on record-breaking roller coasters at Busch Gardens® Williamsburg or plunging into the pools and rivers of Water Country USA. Or, embrace the sunshine at Yorktown Beach, where accessible paths and beach mats welcome everyone to the sandy shore. Lounge on the beach, cast a line, or go swimming in the calm waters.
More ways to make a splash: Kayak or paddleboard the serene waters of Chickahominy Riverfront Park, York River State Park, or Waller Mill Park, where nature surrounds you at every turn. For a more leisurely adventure, set sail with Yorktown Sailing Charters and soak in the stunning views.
Major Events
Celebrate Independence Day as you explore America’s origin story in the Historic Triangle. Experience Fourth of July at Colonial Williamsburg, which features reenactments, patriotic ceremonies, live demos, and a fireworks display. Or, enjoy fireworks and family moments along the York River or at Busch Gardens® Williamsburg.
Also at Busch Gardens® Williamsburg, experience a Summer of Wonder with vibrant art, live music, global flavors, and nonstop fun for all ages from late June through July. Come back in August for the park’s Bier Fest, where seasonal brews and beer-inspired eats take center stage.
Let Williamsburg be the soundtrack to your summer with music festivals like Williamsburg Live and the Sounds of Summer concert series. At the riverside Yorktown Market Days, shop for local goods and catch live tunes.
Weather & What to Pack
Summer in Williamsburg brings plenty of sunshine with highs in the 80s and 90s, often accompanied by warm, humid air. Be ready for occasional afternoon thunderstorms that quickly cool things down.
Pack lightweight, breathable clothing and a swimsuit to dive into water-filled fun. Stay sun-safe with sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, and keep hydrated with a reusable water bottle. Comfortable sandals or walking shoes are a must for exploring.
FALL: Ghost Tours, Autumn Colors & Outdoor Adventures
Top Things to Do
Discover the haunted past of this storied region with ghost tours hosted by Williamsburg Ghost Tour, the Original Ghost Tour, Yorktown Ghost Walks, and more. Complement the ghost stories with other gripping tales – of dramatic events and everyday heroes – when you visit the area’s museums and historic attractions. Don’t miss a chance to walk in the footsteps of legendary figures like Pocahontas and Captain John Smith at Historic Jamestowne.
Stroll through Colonial Williamsburg, where fall colors frame centuries-old buildings. You can also take a leisurely drive or bike ride along the Colonial Parkway for quality leaf peeping. As you explore, take time to savor fall flavors – toast to good times at local breweries, taste the fall bounty at local restaurants, and be on the lookout for Oktoberfest events.
Fall is ideal for outdoor adventures, like hiking or biking scenic trails through majestic woods, wildlife-rich marshlands, and historic national parks. Cooler fall temperatures bring fish closer to shore, making it prime time for fishing at spots like the Yorktown Fishing Pier and Chickahominy Riverfront Park.
Major Events
Admire and shop handcrafted art at October’s An Occasion For The Arts, the region’s premier annual festival celebrating art and music. Also in October, celebrate the historic Yorktown Day with a patriotic parade and musical performances.
Culinary events, typically held in October, serve up refreshing fall fun. Sip fine wines and indulge in fresh oysters at the Yorktown Wine and Oyster Festival. At Yorktoberfest, sip 40+ craft beers, ciders, and wines to get a real taste of Coastal Virginia.
Embrace spooky season with exciting Halloween events for all ages. Get your scream on at Busch Gardens® Howl-O-Scream®, featuring haunted houses, shows, and BOOze bars.
Weather & What to Pack
Fall in Williamsburg brings cool, crisp air and colorful foliage, with comfortable temperatures in the 50s to 70s. Many find it ideal for spending time outdoors.
Pack layers and a light rain jacket to stay comfortable through cool mornings and the occasional shower. Closed-toed walking shoes are ideal for leaf-crunching strolls, and a camera is a must for capturing fall colors.
WINTER: Shopping, Cozy Historic Taverns & Holiday Fun
Top Things to Do
Step into a wonderland of art at indoor gems like the Muscarelle Museum of Art and Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum. Don’t miss the gift shops for unique finds. Do more shopping and complete your holiday gift list at Merchants Square, outlet malls, antique malls, and the annual Christmas Market.
While at Merchants Square, go ice skating at the Liberty Ice Pavilion. Keep the winter vibes coming at historic taverns, where you can cozy up by the fire with a pint or indulge in a multi-course meal. Or, warm up with a glass of red wine at the Williamsburg Winery Merchants Square Wine Bar. Holiday concerts and performances at the Kimball Theatre offer another way to get in the spirit.
Kids enjoy year-round fun at Great Wolf Lodge, especially in winter when the indoor water park feels like a dream. Plenty of local attractions, including Wagsters Magic Theatre, will keep the kids entertained and happy.
Major Events
Celebrate the season with Colonial Williamsburg’s Grand Illumination, held on three Saturdays in December. The Historic Area is dressed up with holiday decorations, music fills the streets, and fireworks light up the night sky above the Capitol building and Governor’s Palace.
Immerse yourself in more holiday magic in Yorktown, where the Yorktown Lighted Boat Parade and Christmas Tree Lighting bring sparkle and cheer.
Meanwhile, Busch Gardens® Christmas Town™ is Virginia’s largest Christmas event featuring over 10 million twinkling lights. Keep on celebrating into the new year with Busch Gardens® Mardi Gras, a multi-week festival where you can sample 40+ Cajun flavors, enjoy thrilling rides and shows, and soak up Big Easy vibes.
Weather & What to Pack
Chilly days and crisp nights define winter in Williamsburg, where temperatures range from the 20s to 50s and it sometimes snows. Pack cold-weather essentials like heavy coats, scarves, hats, gloves, and winter boots, plus holiday outfits if you’re celebrating!
Plan Your Trip
Find great places to stay in Williamsburg, from affordable hotels and resorts to elegant inns and historic cottages. Discover more things to do and plan your epic getaway!