Let’s be honest. While fun, sometimes we need a short break from our vacations, where itineraries can become overly packed. While visiting the Greater Williamsburg area, be sure to carve out some time for a quick breather involving fresh air and exercise. Whether you’re interested in a hiking or biking trail, water activities, wildlife watching or a playground for children, consider stopping by one of these highly rated parks during your visit. In Williamsburg experience Life. At Your Pace.
Freedom Park
With a deep history dating back to the 1650s, Freedom Park is a 600-acre forested area with trails (2 miles are multi-use trails and more than 20 miles of mountain bike trails) through historical sites. It also includes the Williamsburg Botanical Garden and Go Ape Treetop Adventure Course and Treetop Junior Course.
Waller Mill Park
This tranquil lake setting includes a 2,705-acre park surrounding a reservoir open for water activities including fishing, boating, pedal boating, canoeing and kayaking. The park is ideal for having a picnic, and it has two dog parks for furry friends.
Veterans Park (shown above at the top of the page)
If you have young children and you’re looking for them to burn off some energy, Veterans Park is the place to go. The 19-acre park includes the newly renovated Kidsburg, a 30,000 square foot playground. The park features multiple play areas, a ship replica, zip lines and more.
Jamestown Beach Event Park
For a mini beach getaway from town, Jamestown Beach Event Park is a perfect spot for relaxing by the water. This beach park is family and dog friendly, and it has picnic areas and a fishing area. This park is also a great for watching sunsets!
York River State Park
Located on the York River and designated as a Chesapeake Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, this beautiful park has river and marsh views and more than 30 miles of hiking, biking and equestrian trails. It also has fresh and saltwater fishing spots, playgrounds and boat and recreational equipment rentals.
Yorktown Beach
While in Historic Yorktown, check out this 2-acre public beach, which is conveniently located near a variety of lodging accommodations, restaurants and shops. Swimming, fishing and boating are popular activities here, plus there are bike, kayak and paddleboard rentals available. Also consider booking a ticket on the Schooner Alliance for a sail on the York River.
Plan on contacting the parks before your visit for more information, including updates on COVID-19 requirements.