This historic summer, celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, where the nation’s journey took root. From unforgettable events and iconic history attractions to theme parks, outdoor adventures, and an exciting food scene, Williamsburg offers a dynamic blend of past and present that you’ll want to discover during this milestone season.
SUMMER SAVINGS: The Williamsburg 250 Passport gets you exclusive deals, discounts, and offers all summer long (and beyond). This easy-access mobile pass is your key to big savings and special perks that will make your summer getaway even more memorable.
Celebrate America’s 250th with Epic Events
Summer is the peak of America’s landmark year, and there are plenty of ways to celebrate big in Williamsburg. From June 12-14, the Sail Yorktown Festival, an official SailVirginia℠ 2026 Affiliate Harbor, will commemorate America’s journey with a massive gathering of tall ships and military ships from around the world. Witness a breathtaking Parade of Sail, take free deck tours, and enjoy live entertainment. There’s a wine and beer garden for adults and fun activities for kids.
On Independence Day, one of the best places to be is 🔺Fourth of July at Colonial Williamsburg. Spectacular fireworks will be the grand finale of a day filled with patriotic readings, powerful salutes, live music, and more. In Yorktown, the Fourth of July Parade will feature dazzling floats, classic cars, and spirited fun along Historic Main Street, and fireworks will light up the York River.
Throughout summer and beyond, art exhibits, concerts, and other special events will continue to mark America’s 250th. Check out the full lineup of 250 events or browse all summer events.
Revisit Colonial Williamsburg
Visiting 🔺Colonial Williamsburg, the world’s largest living history museum, has been a childhood rite of passage for many. But returning as an adult brings a deeper appreciation of America’s extraordinary story. Tour the grand Governor’s Palace, a remnant of British power. Stand inside the Courthouse and the Capitol, where pivotal decisions shaped a nation. Step inside 18th-century buildings to learn about resilience in revolutionary times. At the Colonial Williamsburg Visitor Center and Muscarelle Museum of Art, be inspired by the newly unveiled Great American Birthday Quilt, crafted by everyday Americans from all 50 states — it’s a colorful reflection of creativity and national unity.
Discover simple, refined pleasures as you explore. Sip a craft cocktail at the Restoration Bar at the storied Williamsburg Inn, restored under the vision of John D. Rockefeller Jr. Then shop the boutiques of Merchants Square and enjoy tavern dining, where you can savor delicious dishes from the 18th century. See where to eat in Colonial Williamsburg, and find out where to stay to experience walkable Williamsburg at its best.
Uncover America’s Earliest Chapters in Jamestown
This summer is the perfect time to reconnect with America’s origin story. When you visit 🔺Historic Jamestowne, site of the first permanent English settlement in North America, you’ll be walking in the footsteps of famous figures like Captain John Smith and Pocahontas. Tour the Archaearium to see fascinating artifacts unearthed here during ongoing excavations. Next door, visit Jamestown Settlement, a modern museum with immersive indoor and outdoor exhibits that bring 17th-century Jamestown to life.
Dive into Revolutionary History in Yorktown
Learn about the revolutionary thinking and heroic actions of America’s founders. Visit the 🔺American Revolution Museum at Yorktown, which highlights the struggle for independence through captivating exhibits and outdoor living-history areas — see a Continental Army encampment, walk through a Revolution-era farm, and witness live artillery demonstrations. Then tour the sacred ground of Yorktown Battlefield, site of the Revolutionary War’s decisive final battle.
Chase Thrills at Theme Parks & Water Parks
Zoom into modern times at 🔺Busch Gardens® Williamsburg, home to exciting rides, shows, festivals, and record-breaking roller coasters. Alpengeist delivers a high-adrenaline ride, climbing nearly 200 feet and reaching speeds of 70 mph, while Pantheon thrills with a beyond-vertical 95° drop, multiple launches, and powerful inversions. Nearby, cool off at Water Country USA, where winding water slides, lazy rivers, and kid-friendly splash pads promise refreshing summer fun.
Relax with a Sunny Beach Day
Along the wide and scenic York River, 🔺Yorktown Beach is a sandy strip of shoreline that invites sunbathing, swimming, and paddling. A short walk away, you can rent beach chairs, beach umbrellas, kayaks, and paddleboards at Patriot Tours and Provisions. You’ll find restaurants, bars, and shopping all within walking distance, setting up a day of easygoing fun in the sun.
Seek Out Adventure on the Water
During summer, getting on the water is one of the best ways to experience the beauty of coastal Virginia. 🔺Yorktown Sailing Charters offers an enticing mix of excursions, including a daytime sightseeing sail, sunset sail, pirate adventure sail, and a July 4th fireworks cruise. Be sure to book early to lock in your spot. For a different on-the-water vibe, York River State Park offers guided canoe and kayak trips where you can learn about the natural and cultural history of the area’s waterways. Check out more opportunities for boating and paddling.
Tune Into Summer Concerts
The musical highlight of summer is 🔺Williamsburg Live, held June 25-28 on the lawn of the Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg. This year, major national acts include Melissa Etheridge, Wynonna Judd, Alison Krauss, Grace Potter, and Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews. From late May through August, Yorktown’s Riverwalk Landing hosts the Sounds of Summer Concert Series, featuring a diverse mix of local and regional bands spanning jazz, rock, and other genres. Discover more about local live music.
Sip Craft Beer
Beer has been brewed in the Williamsburg area since before the United States existed. Today, you can sample some of the region’s best craft beer at a slew of top local breweries, including the award-winning 🔺Alewerks Brewing Company, which also runs Alewerks L.A.B. for small-batch beers, creative collaborations, and experimental flavors. Neighboring Colonial Williamsburg, Precarious Beer Project offers a modern take on the beer hall experience with a taproom, arcade games, fun events, and multiple onsite food options.
Savor the Food Scene
With rich farmland, easy access to the Chesapeake Bay, and worldly influences aplenty, Williamsburg has an energetic, eclectic food scene that excels when it comes to seafood, New American fare, and international favorites. From self-proclaimed “serious comfort food” at Blue Talon Bistro to the elevated, seasonally inspired cuisine at Cochon on 2nd to the casual, kid-friendly 🔺Water Street Grille, local restaurants surprise and delight at every turn.
Find the best restaurants in Williamsburg, Jamestown, and Yorktown, or get an overview of the dining scene to fuel your adventures.
Discover More Things to Do this Summer
For more summer getaway ideas, check out all the ways Williamsburg is celebrating America’s 250th anniversary, or explore the area’s impressive collection of things to do.