Nestled in the scenic heart of Virginia’s historical capital, the Vacation Village at Williamsburg is a hidden gem for travelers seeking a well-rounded experience. From its central location to the modern yet colonial-style accommodations, the resort offers a unique blend of comfort and convenience that appeals to various guests. Whether you’re a history buff eager to explore the nearby Colonial Williamsburg or a thrill-seeker heading to Busch Gardens, this resort perfectly caters to your itinerary. For families, the spacious suites and family-friendly amenities ensure that kids and adults alike have plenty to do during their stay. Couples can enjoy a peaceful retreat, taking advantage of the nearby wineries or historical tours. In this in-depth review, we’ll look closer at Vacation Village at Williamsburg to help you determine whether it’s the ideal destination for your upcoming getaway.
Location and Accessibility
Located just 3 miles from Colonial Williamsburg, the resort is in the epicenter of one of America’s most famous historical destinations. For guests interested in American history, this proximity means you can easily visit the area’s museums, historic sites, and reenactments without commuting much. Family-friendly locations like Water Country USA and Busch Gardens Williamsburg are close to the historical buildings.
Families with children of any age can participate in various activities at these lively parks during their entire visit. Plus, the resort is only about 30 minutes from Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport, providing easy access for those flying in without the hassle of a long commute.
Accommodation: Rooms and Suites
The Williamsburg vacation rentals at Vacation Village are designed to provide the ideal balance of roominess and comfort for a restful visit.
Whether you’re staying in a one-bedroom or a two-bedroom suite, the rooms offer plenty of space to spread out and relax. Every suite has a fully stocked kitchen, ideal for families or travelers who enjoy cooking meals instead of eating out daily. The kitchen includes modern appliances, cookware, and utensils, allowing guests to feel at home. The separate living and dining areas are spacious and provide a comfortable area to unwind after a day of sightseeing or enjoying the resort’s amenities. For more extended stays, including an in-room washer and dryer, is a huge convenience, allowing guests to do laundry without leaving the comfort of their suite. This makes it an ideal spot for extended vacations or families traveling with young children.
Highlights of the Rooms:
- Modern, fully equipped kitchens, perfect for extended stays
- In-room washers and dryers for added convenience
- Private balconies or patios offering serene views
- Large, spacious suites ideal for families or larger groups
The lodgings are furnished with all the conveniences required for a relaxing and delightful stay, giving the impression of a home away from home.
Amenities and Facilities
At Vacation Village at Williamsburg, the amenities are designed to enhance your overall vacation experience, offering both leisure and convenience. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast, a family with kids, or simply looking for relaxation, there’s something here for everyone. The resort features indoor and outdoor pools, allowing guests to swim year-round, regardless of the weather. The outdoor pool, in particular, is a highlight during the warmer months, offering a refreshing spot to cool off or sunbathe. The indoor pool provides a cozy alternative for colder days or evening swims. The resort offers a fully furnished exercise facility for visitors who prefer to be active while on vacation. This facility includes modern exercise machines, free weights, and cardio equipment to ensure you don’t compromise your workout routine. There’s also a children’s playground and daily activities to keep the little ones entertained.
Outdoor and Indoor Pools
- Year-round swimming with both indoor and outdoor pools available
- Hot tub for added relaxation, especially after a day of exploration
- Family-friendly pool areas with safe, shallow sections for children
Fitness Center
- A fully equipped gym featuring cardio machines, free weights, and
- a variety of other fitness equipment is open to guests at no extra charge.
- It is maintained and sanitized regularly for a clean workout environment.
In addition to these amenities, the resort also features tennis and basketball courts, offering opportunities for some friendly competition or a family match. Overall, the resort’s amenities make it a destination, ensuring there’s always something to do.
Customer Service and Staff
When it comes to hospitality, Vacation Village at Williamsburg places a strong emphasis on excellent customer service. When you enter the lobby, you are greeted by friendly, professional staff dedicated to making your stay as comfortable as possible. Check-in is smooth and efficient, with minimal waiting time, even during peak seasons. The staff is always ready to assist with any special requests, whether a late check-out or recommendations for local dining. The concierge team accommodates, providing expert advice on nearby attractions, making reservations, or arranging event tickets in Colonial Williamsburg or Busch Gardens. Throughout the resort, you’ll find the staff highly attentive and responsive to guest needs, whether delivering extra towels to your room or helping resolve any issues quickly and effectively.
Dining Options
Although Vacation Village at Williamsburg does not feature an on-site restaurant, the fully equipped kitchens in each suite make up for this. Guests who prefer to cook meals can take advantage of nearby grocery stores offering everything from fresh produce to gourmet ingredients. However, for those days when you want to dine out, the resort’s location puts you within a short drive of some excellent restaurants. Colonial Williamsburg offers various dining options, from casual cafes to fine dining establishments. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty, Southern-style meal or something more refined, there’s a restaurant nearby to satisfy your cravings. Some popular local options include The Fat Canary, known for its modern take on American cuisine, and Berret’s Seafood Restaurant, where you can indulge in fresh, local seafood.
Nearby Dining Recommendations:
- The Fat Canary: A popularly acceptable dining option offering a blend of contemporary American dishes
- Berret’s Seafood Restaurant: A must-visit for seafood lovers, known for its fresh, locally sourced menu
- Second Street Bistro: A family-friendly restaurant with a variety of American favorites
Overall, while the lack of an on-site dining facility may seem like a downside, the flexibility of having a full kitchen and the proximity to excellent restaurants ensures that you’ll never go hungry.
Local Attractions
One of the biggest draws of Vacation Village at Williamsburg is its location, which places guests near some of Virginia’s most iconic and historically rich attractions. Whether you’re a history buff, an adrenaline junkie, or a family seeking fun-filled adventures, the area surrounding Williamsburg offers something for everyone. With various museums, theme parks, and historical landmarks just a short drive away, your stay at Vacation Village will be filled with exploration and excitement. Below, we explore the top nearby attractions that make Williamsburg a prime vacation destination.
Colonial Williamsburg
Just 3 miles from Vacation Village at Williamsburg, Colonial Williamsburg is a must-see destination for anyone. As the largest living history museum in the United States, Colonial Williamsburg transports visitors back to the 18th century. Here, costumed interpreters and reenactors glimpse what life was like during the American colonial period. Visitors can tour authentic, well-preserved homes, watch skilled tradespeople at work, and even engage in interactive demonstrations like blacksmithing and printmaking. The historic district is also home to the Governor’s Palace, the Capitol Building, and numerous other significant landmarks. Whether walking the cobblestone streets or enjoying a guided tour, Colonial Williamsburg offers a fascinating, immersive experience for all ages.
Busch Gardens Williamsburg
Busch Gardens Williamsburg is the place to be if you’re looking for thrills. Located less than 7 miles from the resort, this European-themed amusement park is known for its award-winning roller coasters, vibrant shows, and beautiful landscapes. The park features diverse rides, from high-speed coasters like Griffon and Apollo’s Chariot to more family-friendly options like Sesame Street Forest of Fun and the Escape from Pompeii water ride. Busch Gardens also hosts seasonal events that bring a unique flair to the park—Howl-O-Scream transforms the park into a haunted haven during Halloween. At the same time, Christmas Town delights visitors with holiday decorations, seasonal treats, and heartwarming shows. Whether visiting with kids or seeking an adrenaline rush, Busch Gardens will make your stay at Vacation Village even more memorable.
Jamestown Settlement
A 15-minute drive from the resort, Jamestown Settlement offers a deep dive into the history of America’s first permanent English colony, established in 1607. The colony provides an array of interactive displays and exhibits that narrate the tale of the settlers of Jamestown, their encounters with Native Americans, and the difficulties they encountered upon arriving in the New World. Visitors can take guided tours of replicas, including the ancient fort, the Powhatan village, and the three ships that brought the settlers to Virginia. The museum also features multimedia exhibits, artifacts, and costumed interpreters who help bring history to life. For families, Jamestown Settlement is an educational and entertaining way to spend a day learning about the nation’s early beginnings.
Water Country USA
If you’re visiting during the warmer months, cool off at Water Country USA, the largest water park in the Mid-Atlantic. Located just 6 miles from Vacation Village at Williamsburg, this water park offers a variety of slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers that appeal to both kids and adults. Some of the park’s most popular attractions include the Colossal Curl, a high-speed raft ride, and the Surfer’s Bay Wave Pool, one of the largest in the country. Kritter Korral is a water playground with mini-slides and splash zones for younger children. Water Country USA is an excellent choice for families looking to add excitement and refreshment to their summer vacation.
Yorktown Battlefield
For history enthusiasts, visiting the Yorktown Battlefield is an essential stop. Just 15 miles from Williamsburg, this is the site where, in 1781, General George Washington’s army and its French allies secured the American victory over British forces, ending the Revolutionary War. The battlefield is part of the Colonial National Historical Park and features tours led by park rangers, historical reenactments, and exhibits that explore the strategies and events leading up to the pivotal Battle of Yorktown. Visitors can also tour the nearby Yorktown Victory Center, which offers exhibits on the Revolutionary War and daily life in the 18th century. Exploring Yorktown gives visitors a deeper understanding of the events that shaped the nation’s early history.
Williamsburg Premium Outlets
For those looking to indulge in a little retail therapy during their stay, the Williamsburg Premium Outlets is just a 10-minute drive from Vacation Village. This open-air shopping center features over 120 designer and brand-name outlet stores, offering discounted prices on everything from clothing and accessories to home goods. Popular stores include Nike, Coach, Kate Spade, and The North Face. Whether you’re looking for a new wardrobe, gifts, or souvenirs, the Premium Outlets provide a convenient and enjoyable shopping experience for guests staying at the resort.
The Williamsburg Winery
Wine lovers will want to schedule a visit to The Williamsburg Winery, located just 7 miles from the resort. This picturesque vineyard is one of the most popular in Virginia, offering tastings of locally produced wines, tours of the winemaking facilities, and access to their on-site restaurant, The Gabriel Archer Tavern. Whether you prefer a light Chardonnay or a bold Merlot, the winery offers a variety of tastings to suit your palate. The beautiful vineyard setting is also great for couples to relax and unwind, making it a perfect afternoon outing.
Guest Reviews and Experiences
One of the best ways to evaluate any resort is to consider the feedback from past guests. Reviews for Vacation Village at Williamsburg are generally positive, with many guests praising the resort for its spacious accommodations and convenient location. Families, in particular, appreciate the range of activities available for children and the proximity to Busch Gardens and Colonial Williamsburg. Many guests also highlight the full kitchens and in-room laundry facilities, which increase the convenience of staying here, especially for longer trips. However, some reviews mention that certain rooms could benefit from minor updates, such as fresh coats of paint or new furniture. These comments are usually about older units, and the resort constantly works to renovate and improve these areas.
Pros:
- Spacious suites with full kitchens
- Family-friendly amenities and activities
- Prime location near major attractions
Cons:
- Some rooms need minor updates
- No on-site dining facility
Overall, the reviews suggest that Vacation Village at Williamsburg is an excellent option for families and groups looking for a comfortable, well-located base to explore the area.
Resort Fees
Here’s a table outlining the typical resort fees for Vacation Village at Williamsburg. These fees can vary based on the season, room type, and length of stay, so confirming the exact details with the resort before booking is always recommended.
Fee Type | Amount | Description |
Resort Fee (per night) | $25 – USD 30 | It covers general amenities like pool access, a fitness center, and Wi-Fi. |
Parking Fee | Included | Complimentary self-parking for all guests. |
Wi-Fi | Included | Free high-speed internet access throughout the resort. |
Housekeeping Fee | Varies (if applicable) | Additional charge for daily housekeeping services (optional). |
Late Check-Out Fee | $50 – USD 75 | Applies for check-out after the standard time (varies by hours). |
Pets Fee | Not allowed | The resort does not allow pets. |
Towel Exchange Fee | $10 – USD 15 | There is a fee for additional towel exchanges beyond what is provided. |
Extra Bed (Rollaway) | $25 – USD 50 | Available upon request; fee per night for extra bed. |
Crib (Infant Bed) | Complimentary | Cribs are available for no additional charge upon request. |
This table gives a general idea of what to expect regarding resort fees at Vacation Village in Williamsburg. Double-checking any charges when making a reservation is always a good idea.
Key Takeaways:
- Prime Location: Proximity to Williamsburg’s historical landmarks and family attractions.
- Family-Friendly Amenities: Spacious suites with kitchens, pools, fitness centers, and kids’ activities.
- Affordable Fees: Reasonable resort fees, but some services, such as towel exchanges and rollaway beds, may incur extra costs.
- Wide Variety of Nearby Attractions: Near the resort, there’s something for everyone, from history to amusement parks.
FAQs
What is the location of Vacation Village in Williamsburg?
The resort is about 3 miles from Colonial Williamsburg and within a short drive to other attractions like Busch Gardens, Jamestown Settlement, and Water Country USA.
Which facilities does the resort offer?
The resort has a tennis court, a fitness center, a playground for kids, indoor and outdoor pools, and more. Rooms have fully equipped kitchens, washers/dryers, and private balconies.
Are there resort fees?
Yes, a resort fee ranges from $25 to $30 per night, covering amenities like pool access and Wi-Fi. Additional fees may apply for services like extra towels and late check-out.
Does the resort have dining options?
Although the resort has no restaurant, its convenient location offers easy access to numerous dining options in Colonial Williamsburg and the nearby area. Suites also feature full kitchens.
What nearby attractions are there?
Top attractions include Colonial Williamsburg, Busch Gardens, Jamestown Settlement, Yorktown Battlefield, and The Williamsburg Winery.
Resources
- Vacation Village Official Website – Provides comprehensive details on room types, fees, and amenities.
- Guest Reviews – Platforms like TripAdvisor and Google Reviews offer insight from past guests.
- Local Attraction Websites—Visit the Sites for Colonial Williamsburg, Busch Gardens, and Jamestown for detailed information on nearby activities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Vacation Village at Williamsburg is a solid choice for travelers seeking comfort, convenience, and affordability. The resort’s proximity to top attractions like Colonial Williamsburg and Busch Gardens makes it an ideal base for exploring the area. The spacious suites, with full kitchens and laundry facilities, are particularly appealing for families or those planning longer stays. While some rooms could use a bit of updating, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, with many guests returning year after year. The well-equipped kitchens in each suite and nearby dining options mitigate the need for an on-site restaurant. In short, if you’re looking for a family-friendly resort with plenty of amenities and easy access to Virginia’s best attractions, Vacation Village at Williamsburg should be on your list.