Where History Meets Adventure

James City County, located in the Commonwealth of Virginia, has the best of both worlds with rich history and modern attractions.

Established in 1634 as one of the original eight shires of Virginia, James City County is home to the remnants of historic Jamestowne, the first permanent English settlement in North America. The county is known for its significant role in American history, from the early colonial period through the Revolutionary War and beyond. Today, James City County offers a blend of historical sites, such as Historic Jamestowne and the Jamestown Settlement, alongside modern attractions like Busch Gardens Williamsburg and Kingsmill River and Plantation Courses. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including exploring scenic parks, engaging in water sports on the James River, and cycling along the Virginia Capital Trail. The county also boasts a vibrant dining scene with restaurants, breweries, and bars that cater to diverse tastes. With its unique combination of historical significance and contemporary amenities, James City County is a captivating destination for knowledge and adventure seekers.

History

Journey to Historic Jamestowne where visitors can explore the remains of James Fort, see ongoing archaeological digs, and learn about the early settlers' struggles and achievements. The site also includes a museum with artifacts and exhibits detailing the history of the colony. Right down the road from the remains of Jamestowne is Jamestown Settlement, a living-history museum that recreates the early days of the Jamestown colony. It features re-creations of the settlers' fort, a Powhatan town, and the three ships that brought the colonists to Virginia. Interpreters provide demonstrations and interactive experiences, making it a great place to learn about the daily life of the early settlers.

Historic Jamestowne Aerial Shot — Aerial | Historic Jamestowne

amusement park ride — Roller Coaster | Busch Gardens

Adventure

Thrill-seekers will find Busch Gardens Williamsburg offers world-class roller coasters, live entertainment, and animal encounters, making it a must-visit destination for families and fun. Adventures will navigate zip lines, rope ladders, and treetop crossings at Go Ape Treetop Adventure Course. For water lovers, Chickahominy Riverfront Park provides opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and camping along the scenic river. If you enjoy hiking and biking, the extensive trails at Freedom Park and the Williamsburg Botanical Garden offer beautiful landscapes and wildlife sightings. With its mix of thrilling activities and natural beauty, James City County is an ideal destination for an adventurous getaway.

Historic Jamestowne

1368 Colonial Parkway
757-856-1250

Walk in the footsteps of Pocahontas and John Smith at the original site of the first permanent English settlement in America. Witness the moment of discovery with Jamestown Rediscovery archaeologists as they excavate James Fort. Take a walking tour with an archaeologist, park…

Busch Gardens Williamsburg

One Busch Gardens Boulevard
757-229-4386

Busch Gardens® Williamsburg is an action-packed European-themed adventure park with 17th-century charm and 21st-century technology, boasting more than 130 acres of family fun. Home to top-rated roller coasters, including the all-new Pantheon®, the world's fastest multi-launch…

Jamestown Settlement

2110 Jamestown Road
(757) 253-4838

Jamestown Settlement, a museum of 17th-century Virginia history and culture, explores the world of America’s first permanent English colony in 1607, the Virginia Indians who have occupied Virginia’s landscape for centuries and the circumstances of the first recorded Africans to…

Go Ape Zipline and Adventure Park

5537 Centerville Road

Located just minutes from downtown Williamsburg in the historic Freedom Park, Go Ape is a unique and highly interactive zipline and adventure park with a variety of fun and exciting activities. The Treetop Adventure and Treetop Journey courses are made up of aerial crossings and…

Kingsmill River and Plantation Courses

1010 Kingsmill Road

Kingsmill Resort features three renowned 18-hole golf courses perfectly manicured and beautifully blended into their surrounding natural landscape, earning its spot as our most famous amenity. River Golf Course Host to over 38 PGA and LPGA tournaments, the River Course is…

Everything to do in Jamestown, VA

Attractions

James City County is rich in historical and recreational attractions. Historic Jamestowne offers a deep dive into America's early colonial history, with archaeological sites and artifacts from the first permanent English settlement. At Jamestown Glasshouse, you can watch glassblowers demonstrate the art of glassmaking, Jamestowne's first industry. Nearby, Jamestown Settlement brings history to life with re-creations of the settlers' fort, a Powhatan town, and the ships that brought the colonists to Virginia. For thrill-seekers, Busch Gardens Williamsburg provides world-class roller coasters, live entertainment, and animal encounters. Revolution Golf & Grille on High Street offers a unique indoor golfing experience with high-definition simulators and a full-service restaurant, making it a great spot for both golf enthusiasts and casual visitors.

For those who enjoy puzzles and challenges, escape rooms in Williamsburg provide an exciting adventure. New Town Williamsburg is a vibrant mixed-use community with shops, dining, and entertainment options, perfect for a leisurely day out. Axe Republic offers a fun and adrenaline-filled axe-throwing experience, ideal for groups and parties. Jamestown Discovery Boat Tours provide scenic and informative trips along the James River, offering a unique perspective on the area's history and natural beauty. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy several top-notch courses in the area, including the Williamsburg National Golf Club and Kingsmill River and Plantation Courses, which offer challenging play and picturesque settings.

Glassblowing at Jamestown Glasshouse — Glassblowing | Jamestown Glasshouse

Sisters High Fiving infront of Lochness Monster — Roller Coaster | Busch Gardens

Outdoor Activities

James City County offers a wealth of outdoor activities for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. At the James City County Marina, you can rent kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards to explore the scenic Powhatan Creek, or enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the nearby Virginia Capital Trail, which stretches from Jamestown to Richmond. Chickahominy Riverfront Park is perfect for camping, fishing, and kayaking, with its 290-foot lighted fishing pier and boat ramp. For a historical twist, visit the Church on the Main site along the Powhatan Creek Trail, where you can also see the Tomb of the Unknown Patriot Soldier of the American Revolution. The Colonial National Historical Park offers a blend of history and nature, with trails that take you through significant historical sites and beautiful landscapes.

For those who enjoy biking, the Historic Jamestowne Bike Trail provides a scenic route through the island, offering views of the James River and marshlands. Freedom Park is a 600-acre forested retreat with hiking and mountain biking trails, as well as the Go Ape Treetop Adventure Course for a thrilling aerial experience. Jolly's Mill Pond offers a serene setting for fishing and exploring its historic dam and wetlands. At Diascund Reservoir Park, you can enjoy boating and fishing in a peaceful environment. With such a diverse range of activities, James City County is an ideal destination for outdoor adventures and historical exploration.

Jamestown Discovery Boat Tours 2 — Jamestown Discovery Boat Tours | James River

Influencer - Yatzuri Thomas - Go Ape — Ropes Course | Go Ape Adventure

Wine & Dining

The Williamsburg Winery, one of the largest wineries in Virginia, offers wine tastings and tours, allowing visitors to enjoy award-winning wines in a picturesque setting. Gabriel Archer Tavern, located at the Williamsburg Winery, offers a memorable farm-to-table dining experience with a menu that highlights fresh, seasonal ingredients and a charming, rustic ambiance. Frothy Moon Brewhouse and Billsburg Brewery are popular spots for craft beer enthusiasts, offering a range of locally brewed beers in a relaxed setting.

The county's dining options are diverse, with standout restaurants like La Tienda, known for its authentic Spanish tapas, and Two Drummers Smokehouse, which serves up delicious barbecue. Berret's Seafood Restaurant & Taphouse Grill has fresh seafood dishes like crab cakes and she-crab soup, served in a charming setting that includes both indoor and outdoor dining areas. Another popular spot is Old Chickahominy House, which provides a cozy, rustic atmosphere perfect for enjoying Southern comfort food, including their famous ham biscuits and pies. For those seeking a more modern vibe, Craft 31 offers a diverse menu featuring gourmet burgers, craft beers, and fresh oysters, making it a great spot for casual dining. Whether you're in the mood for seafood, Southern classics, or contemporary American cuisine, James City County has something to satisfy every palate.