An immersive museum like no other, Colonial Williamsburg educates as its enthralls students of all ages
Discover the ultimate educational experience at Colonial Williamsburg, the largest U.S. history museum in the world. For over 70 years, we have been the go-to destination for school field trips, offering an immersive journey into 18th-century Virginia’s colonial capital. With over 300 acres of iconic sites, historic taverns, and world-class art museums, here, history comes to life.
One of our American Indian Interpreters sits with visitors to answer questions.
Students can witness costumed interpreters portraying real historic figures associated with 18th-century Williamsburg who made significant contributions to our American story. They can explore historic sites including the Governor’s Palace or the Capitol building, the seat of colonial Virginia’s government.
Guests can participate in re-enactments of real historical events in our on-site programing, such as here in the Capitol
Visit our trade shops and meet world-renowned artisans practicing authentic historic trades. Together, this community helped forge a new nation. From blacksmithing to tailoring, there are over 20 historic trades to explore. At Colonial Williamsburg, students can see up-close trades in action as they watch modern-day practitioners of blacksmithing, woodworking, gunsmithing and more use 18th-century tools and techniques to create their wares. Students are encouraged to ask questions as they observe these true craftsmen recreate the art forms of a time long gone by
Colonel George Washington sits with visitors to answer questions.
Research, conservation, and preservation lie at the heart of everything we present in Colonial Williamsburg. Students can learn about these efforts at the Williamsburg Bray School, the oldest extant building in the country dedicated to the education of enslaved and free Black children. Our 89th original 18th-century structure, the Bray School is undergoing active preservation and reconstruction and will open as a public site in late 2024.
Specialized hands-on education content is part of The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation’s new Interpretive Group Stations. Two core concepts, inquiry and experiential design, allow students to further engage in curriculum-based activities and leave with an even better understanding of how knowledge of 18th-century life can be applied to modern day.
The Blacksmiths meet with visitors to answer questions about the historic trade.
Looking to give your students a better understanding of the principles of government? The Colonial Government and the Birth of our Democracy tour gives students a front-row seat to the workings of the colonial government, from the first vote for independence to the Virginia Declaration of Rights. Students will participate in an 18th century election and even debate independence alongside period-costumed colonial political ‘influencers.’
Family pauses for photo in front of the Govenor’s Palace.
No trip to Williamsburg is complete without a meal in one of our historic taverns, where the wonder of the Historic Area transcends to the dining experience. Students can dine on modern-day fare inspired by authentic period recipes. The King’s Arms Tavern, one of America’s oldest restaurants located in the Colonial Williamsburg Historic Area, introduces guests to an 18th-century menu rooted in historical research with 21st-century tastes. Originally opened in 1772, this authentic reproduction public house serves up a transporting experience for the senses with everything true to the time period, from the fashion sported by servers to the pewter candlesticks.
Explore history beyond the classroom with a field trip to historic Williamsburg!
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