Williamsburg & Historic Triangle Virginia Guide: Colonial History, Busch Gardens & Resort Stays

Virginia’s Historic Triangle—linking Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown, and Yorktown along the scenic 23-mile Colonial Parkway—offers an unmatched blend of living American history, European-themed roller coasters at Busch Gardens Williamsburg, and championship golf along the James and York rivers.

1. Where to Stay in Williamsburg

When comparing accommodations on Expedia, Booking.com, or our Williamsburg Resort Rates page:

• Richmond Road & Historic District Corridor: Positioned less than two miles from Colonial Williamsburg’s Visitor Center, colonial-style resorts like Westgate Historic Williamsburg Resort provide quiet studio and two-bedroom villas with jetted tubs, kitchens, and easy access to local taverns and outlet shopping.
• Merchants Square & William & Mary Campus Area: Ideal for walking directly into the 301-acre restored 18th-century capital and dining at historic colonial taverns.
• Kingsmill & Busch Gardens Corridor (East Williamsburg): Closest to Busch Gardens Williamsburg, Water Country USA, and the James River plantations.

2. 4-Day Williamsburg Historic Triangle Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival via Richmond (RIC) or Norfolk (ORF) & Merchants Square

Fly into Richmond International Airport (RIC) or Newport News/Norfolk (ORF)—each about 45 minutes from Williamsburg—or ride Amtrak directly into the downtown Williamsburg station. Stroll Duke of Gloucester Street at dusk and dine in Merchants Square.

Day 2: Colonial Williamsburg Living History Museum

Spend the day exploring the Governor’s Palace, the Capitol, Bruton Parish Church, and historic trade shops where costumed interpreters forge iron, print 18th-century newspapers, and debate the American Revolution. Book an evening ghost walk or colonial tavern dinner.

Day 3: Busch Gardens Williamsburg or Water Country USA

Experience one of the world’s most beautifully landscaped theme parks at Busch Gardens Williamsburg, featuring European hamlet villages, Pantheon, Apollo’s Chariot, and Griffon.

Day 4: Jamestown Settlement & Yorktown Battlefield

Drive the tree-lined Colonial Parkway to Jamestown Settlement to board full-scale replicas of the 1607 ships Susan Constant, Godspeed, and Discovery, then visit the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown before heading home.