So… you’re headed to Williamsburg for your class trip, eh? As a teenager, Williamsburg may not have been on your travel radar- however, there are lots of reasons to get excited for your school trip to Williamsburg!
Whether you’re a history buff, thrill-seeker, a shopaholic, or a culinary connoisseur, Williamsburg has you covered.
The Thrills
Williamsburg is home to the beautiful Busch Gardens theme park, the perfect place for adventure seekers. The park offers so many perfect teenage attractions and epic rides, as well as some super fun and tasty snacks to try if you’re a foodie like me.
You have to check out the Griffon! You’ll feel your heart pound as you literally hang over the edge of a 205-foot drop! Then make your way over to the madness of the DarKoaster™ and lose your mind churning through the darkness.
There are 10 incredible coasters, three water rides, and so much more to explore at Busch Gardens. And because it’s easy to get around, you can also enjoy a little bit of freedom with your friends in the park.
The Food
After a long day at the park, it’s natural to have one thing on your mind- what’s for dinner? If you’re ready for something amazing, you’re in for a treat!
Historic downtown Williamsburg is home to some of the most delectable bites you could ever imagine. In some, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time to the 1700s. Many restaurants offer upgraded versions of dishes that were served during that time, and some of the restaurants themselves are original to the period. It’s a really cool experience to surround and share with your friends.
The Chills
Now it’s getting dark, and you have almost wrapped up the day- but not quite! It’s time to hop on a group ghost tour.
Williamsburg is known as one of the most haunted cities in America and your ghost tour is sure to live up to the hype. The guides are captivating storytellers, and the sites are downright spooky. It’s a great way to experience the city at night and bond with your friends.
Be sure to snap lots of pics because you never know what will show up in them!
Shop Locally!!
After a great night’s sleep, you’ll be well-rested and ready to explore more of the city. Shopping is a great way to start off your day!
Visit the historic downtown and explore the shops a little bit with your friends in smaller groups. It’s like the 21st and 18th centuries collide right in the middle of the charming, brick streets. There are so many stores that teenagers love including Lululemon, Simply Southern and a William & Mary swag shop (if you love a good college sweatshirt like me!)
The History
It’s time to face history head on in the Historic Triangle. After all, this IS a school trip! It’s astonishing to be in the actual places where some of our nation’s greatest leaders got their start.
Fun fact! Presidents Thomas Jefferson, James Monroe, and John Tyler are all graduates of the College of William & Mary, which was founded in 1693.
The Jamestown Settlement and the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown take you back to the colonial roots of our nation. Even if history isn’t necessarily your thing, there are still so many incredibly interesting things to experience.
For example, you’ll walk through a Powhatan Village, taking part in the activities of everyday life (I became an expert at the Powhatan version of “ring toss!”) You’ll also explore authentic recreations of Paspahegh Town or live likxe a sailor aboard the Discovery, one of the three original ships that brought the first English settlers in 1607.
Oh, and don’t forget to grab a coffee at the café or pick up a fun souvenir to remember your time here!
At Yorktown, you’ll get a first-hand look at how our nation was founded. Modern movie clips surround you with depictions of historical events so real you’ll feel like you were there.
Outside is a continental army encampment and colonial farm to explore. Stick around for the (very loud) musket demonstrations and learn about life as a soldier. Beware of the shaming!!🤣
Overall, these experiences really put things in perspective and are super cool to think about.
Get Ready for Next Time!
Sadly, your trip is coming to a close. However, you feel like a new person with a deeper appreciation for history and a greater understanding of how the times, people, and cultures played parts in our nation’s story. And your time at the park has cemented your rep as a thrill-seeker!
One thing is for sure- if any other club or group decides to plan a school trip to Williamsburg, you'll be the first to sign up!
