Monumental history is alive in Williamsburg, where immersive learning blends with unforgettable experiences.
A field trip to Williamsburg and the Historic Triangle in Virginia offers an incredible and engaging living history lesson in colonial life. Students can interact with costumed interpreters and participate in guided tours, role-playing activities and hands-on programs to better understand the area’s significance to America’s story.
Planning a student adventure? Let our expert-curated resources lead the way.
1.) Colonial Williamsburg
Explore the 18th century like nowhere else at Colonial Williamsburg, the world’s largest living history museum. Students can glimpse the Governor’s Palace, the Capitol and the Courthouse during a guided group tour. Visit the Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg, where two distinct establishments come together under one roof. The DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum and the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum provide examples of American decorative and folk art from the 17th to the 18th centuries. For authentic dishes, groups can dine in one of the many Historic Area taverns, including King’s Arms Tavern.
2.) Jamestown Settlement
Discover America’s beginnings at Jamestown Settlement, a museum alive with 17th-century Virginia history and culture. Students can discover the lesser-known facts about America’s beginnings through exhibits showcasing centuries-old artifacts and interactive activities. Visit the 4D theater and experience the films “1607: A Nation Takes Root” and “Bacon’s Rebellion.” Explore the full-scale Paspahegh Town replica and the 1610-14 fort. Climb aboard the God speed or Discovery replica ships for an immersive history lesson and take a virtual tour of the Susan Constant as it undergoes restoration.
3.) Historic Jamestowne
In Historic Jamestowne, students can visit James Fort, first unearthed in 1994. Witness archaeologists from the Jamestown Rediscovery project unearth relics from the past and glimpse artifacts uncovered during their dig at the Nathalie P. & Alan M. Vorhees Archaearium houses. Tour the 1907 Memorial Church, built to commemorate the 300th anniversary of Jamestown, which resembles a 1619 church used as a meeting place for the legislative assembly. The Jamestown Glasshouse showcases the art of glassmaking, America’s first English industry, which began in Jamestown, Virginia. Sift through excavation artifacts, learn how to map archaeological features, and engage in various hands-on learning activities at the Ed Shed. Groups can also enjoy a scenic excursion along Island Drive, a loop open to pedestrians, bicyclists and vehicles. Observe wildlife and the natural environment that the English colonists encountered.
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American Revolution Museum Farmhouse
4.) American Revolution Museum at Yorktown
Discover the story of America’s formative years, from the colonial period to the creation of the Constitution and beyond, at the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown. Students can engage in the Continental Army Encampment to learn about the daily routines of American soldiers from historical interpreters and live demonstrations. At the Revolution-Era Farm, experience hands-on 18th-century chores in the house, kitchen, tobacco barn, gardens, and fields. Groups will also enjoy the captivating film “The Siege of Yorktown” on a 180-degree surround screen and numerous immersive galleries and exhibits throughout the museum.
5.) Yorktown Battlefield (Colonial National Historical Park)
Visit the Yorktown Battlefield at Colonial National Historical Park, where the United States won independence. Begin the tour at the Visitor Center with an orientation film. Next, explore the exhibits, including General Washington’s field tents used during battle. A ranger-led walking tour offers insight into the last fight and glimpses of the Moore House, Surrender Field, and numerous fortifications and cannons.
6.) Freedom Park
At Freedom Park, older groups can connect science, history and nature while exploring one of the first free black settlements in America, dating back to 1803. Students will also discover the 1781 Revolutionary War Battle of Spencer’s Ordinary, featuring artifacts spanning from prehistoric to 20th-century periods. The 600-acre forest features a two-mile multi-use trail that affords scenic views and wildlife.
7.) William & Mary
The second-oldest college in America (1693), The College of William & Mary provides an immersive exploration of Thomas Jefferson’s alma mater on engaging group tours—student-led, historic campus or self-guided experiences. Visit the Sir Christopher Wren Building, completed in 1700 and the heart of the historic campus, and step inside the oldest building in the US still being used today. Students will learn about the influence William & Mary had on forming the American government as the first legislative body in the country.
Busch Gardens
Just for Fun
Williamsburg’s top attractions are a fantastic addition to your educational itinerary. Take your group to Busch Gardens® Williamsburg for thrilling coasters, culturally immersive areas to explore, live entertainment, and more. Warmer days are perfect for the whole group at Water Country USA, with exciting waterslides, wave and lazy pools, and plenty of aquatic activities. Go Ape Zipline and Adventure Park encourages students to test their abilities in tree top obstacle courses and ziplines, promoting teamwork, confidence, and memorable learning.
Discover safety tips, sample trips, and planning tools inside the Student Travel Planning Guide.
