As a mom of three, I'm always looking for fun and affordable adventures that my crew will love. And let me tell you, Williamsburg, Virginia, is a total gem! This charming town bursts with history, southern charm, and natural beauty— you don't need to spend a fortune to experience it all.
This summer, we dove headfirst into the heart of American history without breaking the bank. From strolls down historic streets to lazy afternoons soaking up the sun in gorgeous green spaces, we found many free or wallet-friendly activities perfect for our family.
So, if you're looking for a lower-cost adventure with fun and memories, you're in the right place! I'm excited to share our top picks for free things to do in Williamsburg this summer.
Trust me, you won't want to miss these spots.
1. Sail Away on the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry
Stunning views from the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry
Start your day with a serene and historic ride on the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry, a free and unforgettable experience in Williamsburg. To catch the ferry, plan to arrive at the Scotland Wharf (located at 16289 Rolfe Hwy, Surry, VA 23883) at least 15 minutes before your desired departure time. Ferries run 24/7, with departures every 30 minutes during peak hours.
As we boarded the ferry at 6 a.m., the sun's warm hues painted the sky, and the cool morning breeze set the tone for a peaceful ride. The 15 to 20-minute journey across the James River offers breathtaking views, birdwatching opportunities, and a glimpse into the region's rich history. Imagine yourself in the shoes of early settlers as you take in the sights and sounds of the river. My kids were captivated by the waterbirds dipping and diving, while I couldn't resist capturing the stunning scenery.
Once on board, you can enjoy the views from the comfort of your vehicle or get out to explore the ferry. For the most stunning views, head to the upper deck, where you can take in the panoramic vistas of the James River and the surrounding landscape. This relaxing ride is perfect for families, nature lovers, and history enthusiasts alike.
Add the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry to your Williamsburg itinerary and start your day with a memorable experience! To review their schedule, click here.
2. Jamestown Beach: Your Sandy Sanctuary
After our ferry adventure, we took a short 8-minute drive to Jamestown Beach, a great spot to unwind and have fun in the sun. As we stepped onto the shore, the soft sand squished between our toes, and the sound of gentle waves washing over the shore created a calming ambiance. Our kids loved building elaborate sandcastles and sculptures while we relaxed under the warm sun, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. The beach's calm and shallow waters made it an ideal spot for families with little ones to swim and play. We spent hours basking in the sun, splashing in the waves, and creating unforgettable memories. Our kids had a blast soaking up the sun and even enjoyed some quiet time reading, a rare treat!
Jamestown Beach is a gem that offers something for everyone. This family and dog-friendly beach is open daily from 8 a.m. to sunset, making it easy to plan a visit. The beach is fully accessible, featuring an ADA-accessible walkway, parking, restrooms, and direct access to the beach via a beach mat for wheelchair users.
Bring beach towels, a comfortable beach chair, floaties, snacks, and a good book to make the most of your visit. For more information about Jamestown Beach, including hours, amenities, and directions, click here.
3. Step Back in Time at Riverwalk Landing & Historic Yorktown Village
Our next stop was the charming Riverwalk Landing in Yorktown, where we enjoyed complimentary parking and a stroll along the picturesque waterfront. We admired the quaint shops and snapped a photo with the iconic Virginia “LOVE” sign, a perfect memento of our trip. This legendary landmark has been a beacon of love and hospitality in Virginia for decades! The kids were fascinated by the historic architecture of the nearby Historic Yorktown Village, which transported us back to colonial America. It felt like we had stepped into a living history book!
We wandered through the streets, imagining life in the 18th century and learning about the area's rich heritage during this free, self-guided tour.
If you're looking for something fun and adventurous to do while in town, check out Patriot Tours & Provisions for a fun day of kayaking! Note that this activity is not free, but we were delighted to get our feet wet and explore the stunning views from the water. The scenic kayaking tour was well worth the cost, and we created unforgettable memories of paddling around with the kids.
Kayaking with Patriot Tours & Provisions
4. Ride the Yorktown Trolley and Indulge in Sweet Treats
The Yorktown Trolley
We had an absolute blast exploring Yorktown on the free Yorktown Trolley! This convenient and complimentary service allowed us to see the area's highlights without worrying about parking or transportation.
The trolley runs a 4-mile loop, stopping at 11 popular sites, including:
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Yorktown Battlefield Visitor Center (There’s an admission cost)
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Yorktown Victory Monument (Free)
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Yorktown Beach (Free)
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Riverwalk Landing Piers (Free)
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Riverwalk Landing
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Watermen’s Museum (Free admission for Active-Duty Military members, First responders, and School teachers)
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American Revolution Museum at Yorktown (There’s an admission cost)
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The intersection of Main and Ballard Streets (York Hall)
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York County Courts & Office Complex
On the way to Little York Confectionery
We hopped off at Little York Confectionery for a sweet treat, indulging in colorful candies and delicious ice cream as a reward for our exploration. But the best part? We could have easily spent the whole day riding the trolley, exploring the town's hidden gems, and soaking up the historic atmosphere. With so much to see and do, the free Yorktown Trolley is the perfect way to experience it without breaking the bank!
A sweet chocolate box from Little York Confectionery
We highly recommend taking advantage of this fantastic service and enjoying the scenic views, historic landmarks, and charming shops and restaurants Yorktown offers. And the best part? It's free! 😊
Click here to review the Yorktown Trolley schedule and plan your day.
5. Beach Bliss at Yorktown Beach
Yorktown Beach
Our last trolley stop was Yorktown Beach, where we ended the day with a good tan. The kids couldn't resist building another sandcastle while I enjoyed a peaceful walk along the shore. It was the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy quality time with the family, watching the kids' imaginations run wild as they built and played in the sand. As the day ended, we left with memories of a beautiful day in Yorktown, already looking forward to our next visit. We ended the day with a great reading session with a good book!
A relaxing read at Yorktown Beach
6. Immerse Yourself in Nature at Freedom Park and Williamsburg Botanical Garden
Nature walks at Freedom Park
Located within a 2-minute walk from the park is Go Ape! Zipline and Adventure Park, is an adventure course offering ziplining, rope courses, and more (note: this activity is not free, but we couldn't resist the thrill and ended up ziplining through the trees).
A fun afternoon at Go-Apes! Zipline and Adventure Park
After working up an appetite, we headed to the Williamsburg Botanical Garden, a free, gated garden open daily from 7 a.m. to sunset. As we strolled through the beautifully maintained gardens, we discovered various plant species, tranquil water features, and scenic walking paths. Conveniently, picnic tables are scattered throughout the gardens—a perfect spot to enjoy lunch, depending on the time of your visit!
Williamsburg Botanical Garden
Pack snacks and drinks to make the most of your visit. It was a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Stunning views at Williamsburg Botanical Garden
On our way out, we made a quick stop at the playground, where the kids burned off their last bit of energy, climbing, swinging, and sliding
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7. Discover the Magic of Colonial Williamsburg
Don't leave the area without immersing yourself in the charm of Colonial Williamsburg! A visit to this historic city isn't complete without strolling its picturesque cobblestone streets, taking in the meticulously restored 18th-century architecture, and witnessing costumed interpreters masterfully bring America's colonial past to life. While some attractions require tickets, there's still plenty to explore and discover for free, making it an accessible and enriching experience for all.
If you're looking for a break from the history books, grab a quick bite and a beer and let the kids indulge in some classic arcade fun at Precarious Beer Project, located in the heart of Williamsburg's High Street (110 S Henry St, Williamsburg, VA 23185). This entertaining spot combines a casual dining experience with a nostalgic arcade atmosphere, perfect for a family-friendly pit stop or a relaxed evening out.
8. Satisfy Your Cravings at The Peanut Shop of Williamsburg
Peanut lovers, you're in luck! The Peanut Shop of Williamsburg, located at 414 Prince George St, Williamsburg, VA 23185, offers free tasting adventure that's not to be missed. Sample their famous Virginia peanuts and indulge in a variety of delicious flavors. It's a treat for the taste buds that won't break the bank - and who knows, you might just leave with a bag (or two) of these tasty treasures!
9. Enjoy Free Entertainment with Williamsburg Events
Our Williamsburg adventure ended on a high note with the Sounds of Summer Concert Series. We enjoyed a fantastic evening of live music under the stars, the perfect way to relax and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
We did it! We explored the best of Williamsburg without spending a fortune! From historic highlights to tasty treats, we had an absolute blast discovering all the free (and almost free) fun this amazing town offers. And the best part? We didn't break the bank! If you're looking for even more family-friendly adventures, check out our blog, "The Best of Williamsburg, Virginia: Dinning, Attraction, and More!" Happy travels and remember you don't have to spend a lot to make unforgettable memories.
