Weekend Getaway: Williamsburg, Va.
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About 150 miles south of the nation’s capital sits the original colonial capital: Williamsburg, Virginia. Part of the Historic Triangle comprising Williamsburg, Jamestown, and Yorktown, this area is perhaps best known for its costumed characters, but it also offers all the fixin’s for a memorable weekend away. From historic luxury to wicked wineries, Williamsburg’s got it all.
Where to Stay
Old Town Luxury: Williamsburg Inn. Built in 1937 by the legendary philanthropist John D. Rockefeller Jr., the Williamsburg Inn is now recognized as one of the best hotels in the world. Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II stayed at the Inn in May 2007 when she visited Williamsburg for its 400th anniversary. Looking for something a little less formal than Regency antiques and sparkling chandeliers? Try the adjacent Providence Hall. Rates available on request. 136 East Francis Street; 757.220.7978; history.org.
Just for Fun: Great Wolf Lodge. If you can get past the kitschy log-cabin theme, this upscale destination hotel offers not only an Aveda Concept Spa but also a full-scale indoor water park, arcade, fitness room, outdoor pool, two scrumptious restaurants, and a confectionary café. If you need to sit down and catch your breath, curl up in front of the huge stone fireplace in the lobby and sink into the overstuffed furniture. Rates vary by month and room type, and sometimes suites begin as low as $169 including water-park passes. 549 East Rochambeau Drive; 1.800.551.WOLF; greatwolflodge.com
Where to Dine and Drink
Surf and Turf: Christiana Campbell’s Tavern. Back in the day, Christiana Campbell’s Tavern served up fresh seafood to travelers, townspeople, and (possibly it’s most famous guest) George Washington himself. Dinner is served every evening from 5 p.m., and such is the clamor for the Tavern’s crab cakes that you will want to make a reservation. Waller Street; 757.229.2141; history.org
Casual Comfort: The Blue Talon. The Blue Talon focuses on “serious comfort food,” and while dishes like escargot and sautéed calf’s liver may not have been what your mama made, they certainly hit the spot for more grown-up palates. 420 Prince George Street; 757.476.BLUE; bluetalonbistro.com
Raise a Glass: Williamsburg Winery. Responsible for almost one quarter of Virginia’s wine production, the Williamsburg Winery also offers guided tours, reserve wine tastings, and lunch and dinner daily at the Gabriel Archer Tavern. No need to limit yourself for fear of drinking and driving, either, as Wedmore Place, a European-style hotel on the Winery’s ground, is now open for overnight guests. 5800 Wessex Hundred; 757.229.0999; williamsburgwinery.com
Where to Chill Out
Time Travel: Colonial Williamsburg. Oh, come on, you can’t go to Williamsburg and NOT snap a few pictures with the colonial characters. Revolutionary City, a two-hour dramatization of the collapse of the colonial government and the start of the American Revolution, is worth the trip alone. One-day passes are $36 for adults. Colonial Williamsburg; 757.229.1000; history.org
Kids of All Ages: Busch Gardens. From March to October, Busch Gardens offers kids of all ages a unique version of “Europe.” From the Loch Ness Monster roller coaster to the Escape from Pompeii waterslide, the rides are sure to thrill. Nervous friends can stay on solid land and watch shows like Emerald Beat (Irish dancing) and American Jukebox (musical numbers) or meet the famous Budweiser Clydesdales. Regular single-day admissions are $56.95. One Busch Gardens Boulevard, 1.800.343.7946; buschgardens.com