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Keep Nice and Dry With These 8 Thrilling Indoor Activities in Williamsburg, VA
Sometimes the weather throws you a curveball, no matter what season you’ve planned your getaway for. While Williamsburg has some beautiful weather year-round, annual rainfall is slightly above average so it’s good to have one or two backup plans up your sleeve — especially if your trip is centered around somewhere like Busch Gardens theme park.
Luckily, plenty of indoor activities in Williamsburg, VA can give you a thrill while keeping you warm and dry. Add some of the best rainy-day activities in the Jamestown-Yorktown-Williamsburg area to your list and get the most out of your getaway — no matter the weather.
1. Great Wolf Lodge
If the rain puts a damper on your Busch Gardens Williamsburg trip, the Great Wolf Lodge can help lift your spirits. While there’s no roller coaster, this indoor water park can give you plenty of thrills. It features an indoor pool that’s kept a comfortable 84 degrees year-round. The pool area also has a four-story water fort, lazy river, and thrilling water slides. Pack your swimsuit!
I know we promised to keep you dry – and there are plenty of fun things to do here if you hate splashing around. The MagiQuest is an interactive fantasy adventure that transforms the Lodge into amazing other worlds — or you could add miniature bowling onto your getaway’s itinerary.
2. The Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg
Williamsburg is the perfect place for American history buffs and art lovers alike. When it starts drizzling, you can spend hours upon hours looking at historical art. The Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg house both the Dewitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum and the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum under one roof, so you can visit them both without bearing the cold.
Dewitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum
Lovers of the finer things in life love wandering through this museum. It contains a mix of decorative arts from Great Britain and America, including the largest collection of southern furniture worldwide, the largest collection of British Ceramics outside of England, and an interactive education studio.
There’s also a large portrait collection celebrating early Americans, from Indigenous Americans to colonists who came to the area in the 18th century.
Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum
This museum houses one of the largest collections of American folk art. The collection features over three thousand objects, including sculptures and textiles crafted through multiple centuries. There’s no better way to trace the evolution of America’s story than to see how the art of its people has transformed over time.
Both museums are open daily and regularly host special exhibitions, making them worth revisiting every time you’re in Virginia. To find out what’s on display, check their website.
3. Ripley’s Believe It or Not
Looking for something strange? Ripley’s Believe It or Not in Williamsburg is sure to delight visitors of all ages. From dinosaur bones to shrunken heads, it’s a great place to add some zest to an otherwise dull, rainy day. Plus, if the rain clears up while you’re in the museum, you can play a game of mini golf.
4. Governor’s Palace
Rain puts a damper on your plans if you want to immerse yourself in living history by walking around Merchant’s Square, but you can take a quick trip to the Governor’s Palace to get your fix.
This historical site is a great place to be no matter the weather. While the grounds are wonderful to tour when the sun is out, touring the inside of the building is just as breathtaking. The Governor’s Palace was the official residence of royal and post-colonial governors before the capital moved to Richmond. Inside, you can experience guided tours that begin every ten minutes or take it all in at your own pace between 4 and 5 pm.
5. Alewerks Brewing Company
If you were looking forward to relaxing at Virginia Beach but a storm killed the vibe, consider kicking back at the oldest microbrewery in town instead. Not only does the brewery carry a wide range of craft beers, but they also host regular events that include live music, yoga sessions, and more.
6. Movie Tavern
A unique movie-going experience is the perfect way to brighten a dismal day – and the Movie Tavern offers you just that with delicious cuisine you can get delivered to your luxury, leather-lined seat. Sit back, enjoy your snacks, and immerse yourself in some good old-fashioned Hollywood escapism until the bad weather blows over.
7. The Wagsters Magic Theatre
Speaking of interesting theater experiences, you can also check out the Wagsters Magic Theatre. This show won the title of best magic show in Virginia. This spellbinding show has wowed thousands of viewers and is the perfect way to find some excitement indoors.
8. Bounce House Family Entertainment Center
Need an indoor playground to help your kids burn off some energy during a rainy day? The Bounce House Family Entertainment Center is perfect for you with 30,000 square feet of family fun, including huge inflatables, a bungee ride, and laser tag. It’s the perfect way to put a smile on your kids’ faces (despite the rain).
Don’t Let the Rain Dampen Your Spirits
When storm clouds threaten your good time, these indoor activities in Williamsburg, VA can save the day. Then – once the storm has cleared – you can check out our blog for all the best outdoor activities in the area. No matter what kind of weather you have during your vacation, we’re your virtual visitor center for all things fun in Williamsburg. You can also find tips & tricks for your travels at relaxandchill.us!