Williamsburg is an easy and relatively inexpensive United States vacation. There are some entrance fees but costs for transportation and especially off-season hotel prices are moderate. There are many bed and breakfasts and inns. However, the local B&B’s have, on the average, a somewhat higher price than the modern chain hotels but make up for it in authentic charm.
While I have lived in nearby Washington, DC since my college days, I had never been to Williamsburg until I made a road trip one fall day. Although Williamsburg is a top tourist site year-round, it is really special in late fall. At that time the bright autumn foliage is still on display just as Thanksgiving decorations are going up.
It provides an inexpensive vacation with something for every interest from:
1. Drive, or take advantage, at least part way, of the option to travel by train. Do not forget to ask about discounts for a wide array or travelers from students to seniors. Alternatively, also ask about special reduced prices using your gas or credit card reward points. 2. For lodging, for best pricing go farther out but where there are public transportation and many different options for meals. If you have a kitchenette or even a refrigerator, you can better control costs for breakfast and snacks. 3. Travel during off-season or shoulder season when slack tourist demand softens prices.
(For the full list of the top twenty-five sights, see VacationIdea.)
Save time to take a day trip to Jamestown. I was surprised that few buildings remained. However, it is worth a short visit as a key part of American history.
(Sample prices are based on early Dec. 2021.)
From $99:
The four star Historic Powhatan Resort is a condominium complex which has large apartment lodgings as part of the Diamond Resorts. They offer tours of their historic Manor House. This resort features furnished condos with iPod docking stations and is within a ten-minute drive of historic Williamsburg. The property has a seasonal outdoor pool and an indoor pool. The guest apartments also feature a DVD player and sitting area.
Guests at the Powhatan Resort can play a round of mini golf, or get a real workout by going for a hike. The property also offers tennis courts and an outdoor pavilion.
Apartment units at the Historic Powhatan Resort have a kitchen or kitchenette which includes a microwave and refrigerator. However, if your solo holiday means taking a break from your own “home cooking”, there is relief in sight! The Resort has three options to avoid “DIY” gourmet cuisine.
First:
You can sample fine dining at the Kitchen at Powhatan.
Second:
For light snacks and cold drinks, the Garden at Powhatan is the ideal spot to relax on the outdoor patio.
Third:
A full breakfast and dinner menu are available daily at the Powhatan Grille. Lunch is served on weekends Friday through Sunday.
The Powhatan is conveniently located just a thirty minute drive to the Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport. The College of William and Mary is only four miles from the property. Perfect for reunions.
Cedars of Williamsburg: Bed and Breakfast:
From $175
The Cedars is nestled in an authentic historic Georgian brick building. It is right across the street from the College of William & Mary. Colonial Williamsburg is only a ten minute walk away.
Cedars guest rooms have antique and colonial period style decor. Each has a private bathroom.
In addition, there are plenty of places to relax in the outdoor garden with its own gazebo and fountain. On chilly days, you can curl up by the fireplace in the library.
For top dining options, Merchant Square is only half a mile away. For New American dishes, visit the Fat Canary. For European cuisine, try the Blue Talon Bistro with its French Brasserie atmosphere.