What does a Williamsburg Vacation look like in the summer of 2020? It is a little different than in previous years, but our small town has found ways to welcome you. With safety measures and enhanced cleaning in place, many of our attractions have already opened and the remainder are planning reopening over the next few weeks.
The shops in Merchant’s Square and Williamsburg Premium Outlets opened in mid May kicking off our new normal with limited in-store capacity, social distancing and most requiring masks for admission. Today, restaurants previously allowed to open for outdoor dining have also been allowed to reopen at 50% capacity indoors. That means whether you are looking for lunch in a Colonial Tavern or a five star experience at the Fat Canary on Duke of Gloucester Street, we have you covered.
Nature enthusiasts have had the opportunity to enjoy almost all of Williamsburg’s outdoor activities without ceasing over the last few months. The nature trails have been quite busy with hikers taking in scenery from historic sites, to the York River to wooded trails through Freedom Park. If you prefer to enjoy nature while riding in a cart chasing a little white ball, we have 13 championship golf courses ready and waiting.
Also reopening this weekend is Go Ape Tree Top Adventure. With two courses to accommodate various ages and abilities, Go Ape lets you explore your inner Tarzan (or Jane) as you tightrope and zipline your way across the natural landscape.
For a more relaxed afternoon the Tasting Room at the Williamsburg Winery has also reopened and tours of the facility are now operating at 50% capacity. In fact, Williamsburg now boasts the Williamsburg Tasting Trail for beverage enthusiasts. Almost all venues are now reopened for your tasting pleasure!
Today Colonial Williamsburg has announced plans to reopen additional parts of the historic area starting June 15 including some of the most popular historic buildings like the Governor’s Palace, art museums and almost all of their outdoor experiences. Busch Gardens has indicated they will reopen on June 25. Almost all tickets will require a reservation date so that reduced capacity can be managed. Additionally, guests at both parks will be required to wear masks and practice social distancing.
If being on the water speaks to you of summer, consider kayaking the James River or one of the local beaches at Jamestown or Yorktown. Both the James River and York River are tributaries of the Atlantic. In Williamsburg you can still enjoy the water but without the crowds you will find in VA Beach.
Finally, when selecting your hotel consider your plans for the day. Many hotels are offering enhanced cleaning and have replaced breakfast buffet’s with to go options. The first to come out with an extensive list of sanitation measures was the Best Western Historic Area. If you want to go a little more upscale and enjoy a slew of other onsite activities including tennis, putt-putt and jet skis without ever leaving the property, consider Kingsmill Resort.
No matter your preferences, there is a Williamsburg Vacation just for you. For more information on Williamsburg’s many outdoor experiences visit our Facebook page or call us at 1-866-341-4866.