Family activities and things to do in Williamsburg, VA

Trying to plan a family weekend? Williamsburg is in no short supply of local events and activities to do that are fun for the whole family! Whether you’re interested in the history of the area or looking for some thrills, Williamsburg has what you need for a good time.

Busch Gardens is Williamsburg’s own theme park complete with rides, shows, and more with special events depending on the season. Catch some thrills with the park’s roller coasters or if thrill seeking isn’t your thing, catch some family-friendly shows and performances, or see some animals! There is something to do all year round. Prepare yourself for some spookiness during Howl-O-Scream, get into the festive spirit with a walk-through Christmas Town, or enjoy another of many events Busch Gardens has to offer throughout the year.

Got a need for speed? Get strapped in a single or double seat kart and get ready for a race around one of the many different tracks at Go-Karts Plus. Even little ones can start practicing their driving skills on the Rookie Track. On top of Go-Karting, there are plenty of other attractions and activities including Mini Golf, Bumper Cars, Gemstone Panning, an Arcade, and more! With a little something for everyone, Go-Karts Plus is a great fun for the family!

Pools and water rides more your speed? Water Country USA, Virginia’s largest water park, open during the summer season, has all you need to cool off during those hot days of summer vacation or break! The park has plenty of raft rides and slides, tidal pools, and lazy rivers. Rent out your own private cabana or lay pool side on loungers for a more relaxing, resort-like take in the park. There is something to enjoy for all ages!

Go Ape is another great option for adventurous families looking for outdoor activities that give an adrenaline rush! Zipline across some amazing views, navigate bridges up in the trees, throw some axes, or take that leap of faith 40 feet from the ground. Your heart will be pounding in the best way as you navigate through the courses and experience what it’s like to be up and in nature.

Enjoy oddities, mini-golf, 4-D movies, and laser mazes at Ripley’s Believe It or Not, the only place in Williamsburg where you’ll find the strange, the weird, and downright odd – like shrunken heads.

For a smaller dose of fun, enjoy a movie and dinner at the Movie Tavern at The Shops at High Street or stop by the Bounce House Family Entertainment Center at Patriot Plaza which also features Laser Tag.

Don’t forget Second Sundays! On the second Sunday of every month, March through December, check out the different art, crafts, and other artisan goods vendors at Williamsburg’s own art and music festival. There is plenty of fun for the kids from face painting to craft projects all along the streets of Colonial Williamsburg.