Title: A Sentimental Journey to Williamsburg, VA – Exploring the College of William & Mary and Historic Williamsburg
Our 2021 road trip to Williamsburg, VA was both a proud milestone and a nostalgic return. From a college tour at William & Mary to rediscovering the charm of Colonial Williamsburg, here’s how we experienced history and heritage in one unforgettable visit.
🚗 Road Trip to Williamsburg, VA: A Journey with Purpose
In the summer of 2021, we packed our bags and hit the road from Easton, Maryland to Williamsburg, Virginia, filled with excitement and pride. Our daughter had just been accepted into the College of William & Mary, and this trip marked the beginning of a new chapter in her academic journey.
But it wasn’t just a college visit. For us, it was also an opportunity to return to Historic Williamsburg—a place steeped in early American history, and one we had visited before but were eager to rediscover through fresh eyes.
🏫 Touring the College of William & Mary
Walking through the campus of the College of William & Mary, we were instantly struck by its quiet grandeur. Founded in 1693, it’s the second-oldest college in the United States, and the legacy was tangible in every brick building, winding path, and shaded quad.
From the Wren Building—the oldest academic building still in use in the U.S.—to the charming Sunken Garden, the campus blended historical depth with youthful energy. As parents, it was emotional to imagine our daughter walking these very grounds, becoming part of a tradition that has shaped presidents and pioneers.
🏠 Cozy Stay at an Airbnb in Williamsburg
For our accommodations, we opted for a charming Airbnb nestled in the heart of Williamsburg. The cozy setting gave us the flexibility to unwind after full days of exploration, and its location made it easy to access both the campus and nearby attractions. There’s something special about living like a local, even if only for a few days.
🏰 Revisiting Historic Williamsburg: A Walk Through Time
No trip to Williamsburg is complete without a visit to Colonial Williamsburg, and this time was no different. We strolled down Duke of Gloucester Street, greeted by costumed interpreters who brought 18th-century Virginia back to life.
Highlights included:
- The Governor’s Palace – A stately mansion that once housed royal governors.
- The Capitol Building – Where the seeds of American democracy were sown.
- Blacksmith and Apothecary Shops – Interactive stops that fascinated us with age-old techniques.
The preservation of history in Williamsburg is not just visual—it’s immersive. The aroma of hearth-cooked food, the clink of metal on the blacksmith’s anvil, and the period reenactments made the past feel present.
💭 Reflections on a Meaningful Trip
This 2018 trip to Williamsburg was more than just sightseeing. It was a personal milestone, a celebration, and a moment to pause and appreciate the interwoven legacies of education and American history.
With our daughter’s new beginning at William & Mary and our own nostalgic reconnection with Colonial Williamsburg, the experience reminded us of how history and the future can beautifully coexist.
🌟 Tips for Visiting Williamsburg, VA:
- Book early if staying in town—Airbnbs and inns fill up quickly during peak college and tourist seasons.
- Take time to explore both Colonial Williamsburg and the William & Mary campus—they’re walkable and interconnected.
- Don’t miss out on local restaurants and artisan shops for a taste of regional culture.
Have you been to Williamsburg or toured the College of William & Mary?
Share your experience in the comments below!