Day trips from Williamsburg, VA
From Williamsburg, Virginia
12 Amazing Destinations
Perfect for day trips
Williamsburg, Virginia, is a historic gem that offers a wealth of day trip opportunities. From the serene beauty of nature and parks to the thrill of adventure sports, and from the rich history of small towns to the vibrant culture of urban centers, there's something for every interest. Whether you're looking to explore scenic drives, indulge in culinary delights, or immerse yourself in wildlife and nature, these day trips from Williamsburg promise unforgettable experiences.
1. Chincoteague Island
Chincoteague Island is a coastal paradise known for its pristine beaches and the famous Chincoteague ponies. Spend the day exploring the Assateague Island National Seashore, where you can enjoy horseback riding, kayaking, and wildlife watching. Don't miss the Chincoteague Island Wildlife Refuge, home to a variety of bird species and the iconic ponies.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Assateague Island National Seashore
- ✓Chincoteague Island Wildlife Refuge
- ✓Golf Cart Tour
- ✓Premium Custom Private Boat Tours
- ✓Sunset Tour
Available Tours (7)
Ultimate Double Decker Party Pontoon Boat Rentals
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Luxury Landau Pontoon Boat Rentals
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Fishing Skiff Boat Rentals
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4 Hour Fishing Skiff Boat & 1 Hour Jet Skis Combo Package
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Sunset Luxury Landau Pontoon Boat Rentals
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Guided Jet Ski Rental & Eco Tour
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Sunset Skiff Boat Rentals
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2. Richmond
Richmond, the capital of Virginia, offers a blend of history, culture, and culinary delights. Visit the historic St. John's Church, where Patrick Henry delivered his famous "Give me liberty or give me death" speech. Explore the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts and indulge in the city's vibrant food scene with tours like the Arts District Food Tour.
What to See & Do:
- ✓St. John's Church
- ✓Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
- ✓Arts District Food Tour
- ✓Richmond Brewery Tours
- ✓Scott's Addition Brews & Bites Tour
- ✓Choose Your Ghost Tour!
Available Tours (10)
Carytown Food Tour
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Choose Your Ghost Tour!
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James River Hiking Tour
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Scott's Addition Brews & Bites Tour
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Arts District Food Tour
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Haunted Capitol Hill Ghost Tour
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Haunted History Of Richmond
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Church Hill Chillers Ghost Tour
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Shadows of Shockoe Ghost Tour
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Phantoms of Franklin Ghost Tour
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3. Luray Caverns
Luray Caverns is the largest series of connected caves in the eastern United States, offering a breathtaking underground adventure. Explore the stunning rock formations, including the Great Stalacpipe Organ, the world's largest musical instrument. Above ground, enjoy the Car and Carriage Caravan Museum and the Luray Valley Museum.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Great Stalacpipe Organ
- ✓Car and Carriage Caravan Museum
- ✓Luray Valley Museum
- ✓Luray Caverns
- ✓Scenic drives
4. Jamestown
Jamestown, the first permanent English settlement in America, is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. Explore the Jamestown Settlement, a living-history museum that brings the early colonial era to life. Visit the Jamestown Rediscovery site, where archaeologists continue to uncover artifacts from the original settlement.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Jamestown Settlement
- ✓Jamestown Rediscovery
- ✓Historic Jamestown
- ✓Jamestown Island
- ✓Scenic drives
5. Yorktown
Yorktown is a historic town that played a crucial role in the American Revolution. Visit the Yorktown Battlefield, where the final major land battle of the Revolutionary War took place. Explore the Yorktown Victory Center and the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown for a deeper understanding of the era.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Yorktown Battlefield
- ✓Yorktown Victory Center
- ✓American Revolution Museum at Yorktown
- ✓Historic Yorktown
- ✓Scenic drives
6. Natural Bridge State Park
Natural Bridge State Park is home to the iconic Natural Bridge, a 215-foot tall natural arch carved by Cedar Creek. Explore the park's hiking trails, visit the Natural Bridge Zoo, and discover the Lace Falls, a 100-foot waterfall. The park also offers a variety of adventure sports, including zip-lining and rock climbing.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Natural Bridge
- ✓Natural Bridge Zoo
- ✓Lace Falls
- ✓Hiking trails
- ✓Adventure sports
7. Shenandoah National Park
Shenandoah National Park offers breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and a variety of outdoor activities. Drive along the scenic Skyline Drive, hike the numerous trails, and visit the park's historic sites, including the Rapidan Camp, a former presidential retreat.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Skyline Drive
- ✓Hiking trails
- ✓Rapidan Camp
- ✓Scenic views
- ✓Wildlife watching
8. Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach offers a mix of relaxation and adventure. Enjoy the sun and sand at the beach, explore the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, and visit the Cape Henry Lighthouse, the first federally funded public works project of the newly formed United States.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Virginia Beach
- ✓Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
- ✓Cape Henry Lighthouse
- ✓Beach activities
- ✓Scenic drives
Available Tours (8)
← Scroll horizontally to see all 8 tours →
9. Monticello
Monticello, the historic plantation of Thomas Jefferson, is a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts. Explore the beautifully preserved estate, including the main house, gardens, and the Jefferson family graveyard. Learn about Jefferson's life and legacy through guided tours and exhibits.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Monticello Estate
- ✓Guided tours
- ✓Jefferson family graveyard
- ✓Historic gardens
- ✓Scenic drives
Available Tours (7)
Custom Private Wine Tour for up to 6 Guests
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Custom Private Wine Tour for up to 11 Guests
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Thomas Jefferson's Monticello Tour
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MMC - Monticello Motor Club
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Private Day Tour - Monticello
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Custom Private Wine Tour for up to 14 Guests
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The Sprinter Shuttle
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10. Staunton
Staunton is a charming small town known for its historic architecture and vibrant arts scene. Visit the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and Museum, explore the historic downtown area, and enjoy a performance at the American Shakespeare Center's Blackfriars Playhouse.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and Museum
- ✓Historic downtown
- ✓Blackfriars Playhouse
- ✓Staunton Farmers' Market
- ✓Scenic drives
11. Chesapeake Bay
Chesapeake Bay is the largest estuary in the United States, offering a variety of water-based activities. Enjoy a boat tour, go fishing, or visit the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum. Explore the historic towns along the bay, such as Annapolis and St. Michaels, for a taste of coastal living.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Boat tours
- ✓Fishing
- ✓Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum
- ✓Historic towns
- ✓Scenic drives
12. Fredericksburg
Fredericksburg is a historic town with a rich colonial past. Visit the Fredericksburg Battlefield, where three major Civil War battles took place. Explore the historic downtown area, including the Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop and the Rising Sun Tavern. Enjoy the town's vibrant food scene with a variety of restaurants and cafes.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Fredericksburg Battlefield
- ✓Historic downtown
- ✓Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop
- ✓Rising Sun Tavern
- ✓Scenic drives
Available Tours (6)
Private Fredericksburg Wine Tour (Pick Up Outside Fredericksburg)
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Private 1/2 Day Fredericksburg Wine Tour (AM)
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Private Fredericksburg Wine & Spirits Tour
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Private 1/2 Day Fredericksburg Wine Tour (PM)
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Private Fredericksburg Wine Tour (6 Hour)
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Civil War Tour of the Battle of Fredericksburg
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