Introduction to Williamsburg, Virginia
Williamsburg, Virginia is 20 miles NW of Newport News, Virginia (center to center) and 47 miles NW of Virginia Beach, Virginia. The city is conveniently located inside the Norfolk - Virginia Beach - Newport News metropolitan area.
Williamsburg History
The area now known as Williamsburg was a largely wooded land prior to the 17th century. English colonists arrived here in 1607. A settlement was established here in 1638. The community was named in honor of King William III of England. Williamsburg was established as the colonial capital of Virginia in the year 1699. The community was laid out by Governor Francis Nicholson who had earlier designed the city of Annapolis during his tenure as Maryland's royal governor.
Williamsburg and nearby Attractions
- Jamestown Settlement & Yorktown Victory Center
- Muscarelle Museum of Art
- Earl Gregg Swem Library
- Matoaka Lake
- Golden Horseshoe Golf Course
- Williamsburg Historic District
Things To Do In Williamsburg
The city of Williamsburg is an ideal destination for lovers of history and art. There are a number of historic sites and museums nearby that one can visit. The Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Center and the Muscarelle Museum of Art showcase some interesting exhibits. The Jamestown National Historic Site, Endview Plantation, and Lee Hall Mansion are also worth visiting. The city has several libraries and memorial halls that offer valuable information about the history and culture of the region. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy a game of golf at the Golden Horseshoe Golf Course or visit any of the parks that have facilities for playing a variety of sports. In addition, the city hosts annual celebrations including the Italian Festival, Scottish Festival, Virginia Indian Heritage Day, the Virginia Shakespeare Festival, and Williamsburg Film Festival.
Williamsburg Transportation
Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport provides facilities for air transportation.
Williamsburg Higher Education
Residents of the city can enroll at the local College of William and Mary. Other institutes nearby are Christopher Newport University and Thomas Nelson Community College.
