Historic Jamestown – Where to Live and What to Do There

Several years ago, when my family and I were moving to Williamsburg, we had no idea what to expect. We had only visited before on vacation, and our only real reference point was the living history museum in Colonial Williamsburg. We had been living in a small town in coastal Texas, and I remember worrying that the pace here was going to be just as slow. Those worries didn’t last very long, because once we moved in we quickly found out just how much there is to do here!

Get Outside –
Our family loves spending time outdoors, but it had been years since we had access to quality trails and waterways. One of our favorite finds since moving to Williamsburg has been Jamestown Island. While it may be famous among visitors as being the first English settlement in the United States, it is also the site of several outdoor attractions. There are tons of places to hike, bike and birdwatch. My family and I love to cruise on our bikes through the cornfields of the Greensprings Trail and stopping off at Spoke and Art for snacks (or drinks). From there you can ride the Virginia Capital Trail all the way to Richmond, if you ever feel so inclined. 

Get In the Water –
Greater Williamsburg is nestled between the three historic waterways of the James, Chickahominy, and York rivers. Kayaking, paddle boarding, boating and fishing are all popular pastimes here, and there is no shortage on adventures to be had. There are many small craft launches around town, but few are quite as stunning and serene as the Jamestown Beach Event Park. With its swimming coves and shallow waters, it is an ideal place for to launch and get acclimated before heading out into the greater James River. If you are new to watercraft, Paddle ON of Williamsburg offers paddle board lessons and rentals, and both Jamestown Marina and the Beach Event Park rent Kayaks and Canoes.

Don’t Just Visit Jamestown. You Can Live Here! – 
The waterfront communities surrounding Jamestown are as unique as they are beautiful. Whether you prefer the luxury of a 5-star country club or the down-to-Earth feel of a community boat launch, Jamestown has a neighborhood sure to make you feel right at home. The most notable community is sure to be Governors Land. This riverfront neighborhood offers luxury living with sweeping views of the James, an immaculate golf course and clubhouse, and idyllic walking paths throughout. Drummond Field, Landfall, Powhatan Shores, and Peleg’s Point are just a few of the others nearby that offer adventure friendly living with water access and close proximity to Jamestown Island. 

Watch below to learn more about the best places to live, eat, and play in Jamestown, or keep scrolling for links to fun activities and resources.