Whether you’ve got littles, tweens, or teens, there are fun things to do for every size kid, budget, and interest in Williamsburg, Virginia. Families can soar high above the treetops, travel back in time at the world’s largest living history museum, or enter a different dimension at a captivating magic show. Here are the top 10 ideas for an unforgettable family spring break in Williamsburg this year.
1. Feel the Rush at Busch Gardens® Williamsburg
Thrill seekers unite at Busch Gardens® Williamsburg, with over 50 fun-filled rides and experiences. Ride roller coasters like Apollo’s Chariot, which reaches speeds of 73 mph, features a 210-foot drop, and induces a “free-flight” sensation with its airtime hills. There are also plenty of easy-going rides and a petting zoo for smaller kids.
2. Glide through the Treetops at Go Ape Zipline & Adventure Park
Get your Tarzan on at Go Ape Zipline & Adventure Park, where ziplining and treetop obstacle courses await. Fly high at fast speeds on the Adventure course for more experienced daredevils, or check out the suspended bridges on the Journey course for those with smaller kids. Teens may enjoy the outdoor escape room.
3. Take a Spooky Ghost Tour
Thrills meet chills on a Colonial Ghost Tour, where historian-guides whisk you back in time with Williamsburg folklore. If you think the lost colony of Roanoke is spooky, there are more stories to learn on a spirited trek that covers the lingering souls of early settlement and the Civil War all the way through today.
4. Go Back in Time at Colonial Williamsburg
Kids may be out of the classroom during spring break—but that’s just an opportunity to discover history in real life at Colonial Williamsburg. From horse-drawn carriages to the cadence of fife and drums to engaging action at historic trade shops, there are endless ways to keep families active and engaged.
5. Experience Jamestown Settlement
Discover what life looked like in the 17th century for the Powhatan Indians, English colonists, and West Central Africans at Jamestown Settlement. How did the colonists reach North America, and what did their new homes look like? Step onto a re-creation of one of the ships that sailed from England in 1607 and check out what their fort would have looked like. Plus, experience how one local Algonquin tribe made their dugout canoes and wove feathers for warm clothing at Paspahegh Town.
6. Explore the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown
Stepping through the centuries is easy in Williamsburg. The beginnings of the United States as we know it come to life at the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown, where some of the most pivotal battles changed the course of world history. Don’t miss “The Siege of Yorktown” film, shown on a 180-degree surround screen with immersive lighting and music. It’s the perfect way for kids to get some context quickly before stepping out to interact with costumed soldiers at the Continental Army encampment or getting hands-on at the Revolution-era farm.
7. See a Spell-Binding Magic Show
Fun is no illusion at Wagsters Magic Theatre, which puts on an action-packed 75-minute show filled with gravity-defying theater, disappearing acts, and card tricks orchestrated with lights, video, and instrumentation. Whether you’re looking for an indoor attraction or the most captivating entertainment for kids, you can’t go wrong with this family-friendly classic.
8. Spring for Some Serious Playtime
A pirate ship, carousel, and slides all beckon—and indoors, at that—at Bounce House Family Entertainment Center, billed as Virginia’s largest indoor playground. Rain or shine, younger kids can work off extra energy at their bouncy house of choice, while teens can hit up laser tag or the arcade. Note that Bounce House is closed on Sundays.
9. Take a Fun-Loving Tour
Vacation is all about trying new things. Tap into your sense of discovery on a guided Segway excursion with Patriot Tours and Provisions in Yorktown. The family-owned operator also offers electric bikes, beach cruisers, paddle boards, and kayak rentals. Or, explore scenic local trails with popular outfitter Williamsburg on Wheels, which offers guided bike tours.
10. Indulge in Kid-Friendly Eats & Treats
Delicious eats and sweet treats await at Williamsburg’s plentiful, family-friendly restaurants. Do your kids love to watch planes take off and land? Charly's Airport Restaurant is your spot, featuring homemade soups and pies. Trivia with a side of fries more your speed? Check out Food for Thought. And breakfast always goes like hotcakes at Capitol Pancake House. Check out more breakfast options with our guide to the area’s top pancake houses.
More Fun Ideas for Spring in Williamsburg
See our guide to top spring activities for young kids, and explore even more ideas for a refreshing spring escape in Williamsburg.