The Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Charlottesville, Virginia and Williamsburg, Virginia

CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA - Williamsburg, VA is a route with historical significance, but it is not just about history. Along the way, there are many restaurants and attractions worth stopping for.

Glen Allen, VA is the halfway point between the two destinations and it is a great place to stretch the legs and grab a bite. Be sure to check out the Virginia Center Commons Mall, just off of 95, for some shopping between your destination.

Top 5 Things to Do

1. Monticello - Charlottesville, VA

Monticello is the primary plantation of Thomas Jefferson, one of the founding fathers of the United States. Not only is Monticello a historic site, it is also a beautiful one with over 5,000 acres of gardens, lawns, and forests. There are dozens of buildings, including the main house, to explore. Monticello is a must-see attraction for anyone touring the Charlottesville area.

Interesting fact: Monticello was one of the first sites designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

2. Busch Gardens Williamsburg - Williamsburg, VA

Busch Gardens Williamsburg is a fun-filled amusement park that has been serving families since 1975. They offer incredible roller coasters, rides, attractions, live entertainment, and animals to display. Some of their most popular roller coasters include InvadR, Apollo’s Chariot, and Griffon.

Interesting fact: Busch Gardens Williamsburg is famous for having four world-class roller coasters.

3. Colonial Williamsburg - Williamsburg, VA

Colonial Williamsburg is a feast for the whole family. It is America’s largest interactive history museum. This site is set up exactly like Williamsburg was in the 1700s. They offer tours, interactive experiences, carriage rides, and even ghost tours. Visitors can interact with costumed employees as well, who remain in character as if they lived in that era.

Interesting fact: Colonial Williamsburg was once the capital of Virginia

4. Virginia Beach - Virginia Beach, VA

Virginia Beach is a resort town that has a lot of attractions, including the beach itself. The boardwalk is a 3-mile passageway that offers bike rental shops, places to eat, street performers and more. A must-see attraction in Virginia Beach is the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center.

Interesting fact: Virginia Beach has the longest pleasure beach in the world.

5. Natural Bridge State Park - Natural Bridge, VA

The Natural Bridge State Park is a must-visit destination for all nature lovers. This is a 215-foot limestone arch that gives visitors a glimpse of the Blue Ridge Mountains in the background. The area has hiking trails and a living history demonstration that showcases the life of Indians and pioneers who used to inhabit the area.

Interesting fact: George Washington once surveyed and included the Natural Bridge in his map in 1750.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the route from Charlottesville to Williamsburg is just over a hundred miles apart, but with so many attractions to see, the trip can take you several days. Visitors have the option to stay overnight in any of the cities along the route, or they may opt to camp in the Shenandoah National Park or one of the many “KOA” parks. It is best to start at one end of the trip and give yourself time to enjoy everything the route has to offer.