It's time to get outside and Williamsburg has fantastic places to do just that! From adventurous activity to peaceful relaxation, the parks of Williamsburg truly offer something for everyone. To inspire your next trip, we spoke with our local elected officials about some of their favorite picture-perfect parks.

 


 

Virginia Capital Trail

The Virginia Capital Trail is a 52-mile multiuse trail connecting the site of Virginia’s original settlement at Jamestown to Virginia’s modern capital in Richmond. Along the way, serious cyclists, casual pedalers, and leisure pedestrians alike pass through some of Virginia’s most beautiful landscapes and historic sites. Ruth Larson, James City County board of supervisors member, tells us the trail has been the perfect place to gather during the pandemic, with plenty of room for social distancing. “It never gets lost on me when I’m walking the Capital Trail and enjoying the beauty around me, that the areas I’m passing through, have been an important part of history for hundreds of years.” says Larson. 

virginia capital trail bikers

 

Chickahominy Riverfront Park

Chickahominy Riverfront Park is another favorite of Larson’s. “One of the things I love about this park is the level of activity. There is a community pool and splash pad area, a campground for overnight visitors, shelter areas for groups to hold activities, a fishing pier, and a park store. There is also a boat launch making it a great spot for canoeing or kayaking. I have even watched bald eagles fly around while jet skiing slowly down the creek. It’s a great place for families.”

 

Bicentennial Park

Mayor Doug Pons of the City of Williamsburg shared that Bicentennial Park is one of his favorites to visit. If there were a picture of the word "quaint," it would be this park. With its rolling green landscape, winding brick paths, towering trees, and fairy tale lamp posts, this quiet park can be found just blocks from Colonial Williamsburg and is the perfect place for a picnic.

Bicentennial park - blue star memorial

 

Waller Mill Park

On the opposite end of the park spectrum is another favorite of Mayor Pons – Waller Mill Park. This 2,700-acre park is teeming with activity. Stop by the boathouse store for kayak, canoe, pedal boat, or Jon boat rentals to explore the 360-acre lake. Here, you can also pick up fishing equipment and snacks to enjoy a day on the water. Looking for a place to play with your pet? Waller Mill Park also includes a sizeable dog park. Numerous trails wrap around the park, including the Lookout Tower Trail with amazing views of the lake. Additional amenities include playgrounds, ball fields, picnic areas, and an 18-hole disk golf course.

waller miller park canoes and kayaks

 

Wormley Creek Marina

“Not what we think of as a traditional park, but definitely offers a fantastic recreational experience,” says Chad Green, chairman of the York County board of supervisors. Wormley Creek Marina is the stop of the boating enthusiast, with a full line of services from expert technicians and a store for all of your supply needs, ensuring that your day on the water is an excellent experience. The well-manicured grounds and beautiful views of the Chesapeake Bay make it a wonderful place for a picnic.

 

New Quarter Park

New Quarter Park is a gem of York County according to Green. The 545-acre park offers incredible active experiences, including kayak rentals, hiking trails, a championship disc golf course, and a family-friendly mountain bike course. The access to Queen’s Creek and the York River also makes this park a dream for nature lovers. “With monthly birdwatching and nature walk programs, as well as a 2-acre wildflower-filled monarch butterfly habitat, there is plenty to see and photograph,” says Green.

 

Looking forward to all that Williamsburg has to offer? Check out our trip planning tools for what to see and do on your next adventure.