Is Colonial Williamsburg Worth the Visit: Engaging with History

When planning a trip to Colonial Williamsburg, you might wonder if the experience is truly worth the time investment. In my case, a planned one-day visit turned into two days of engaging immersion. I recommend spending a profound amount of time preparing for your trip by immersing yourself in the history and literature of early American history. This preparation will not only enrich your experience but also make it truly memorable.

Read Up or Watch Pre-Visit

Before going to Colonial Williamsburg, I highly recommend that you read or watch as much as possible about early American history. This can include documentaries, podcasts, or books that delve into the era. For instance, the recent The Pioneers: The Heroic Story of the Settlers Who Brought the American Ideal West by David McCullough provides a rich background on the settling of the western frontier. My Dear Hamilton: A Novel of Eliza Schuyler Hamilton by Stephanie Dray and Laura Kamoie offers insights into the lives of the founding figures of America.

The detailed knowledge you gain from these resources will help you engage more meaningfully with the actors and staff at Colonial Williamsburg. You can participate in fun, challenging, and witty conversations, which can be just as enlightening as historical debates recorded in history books. I found that investing time in background knowledge allowed me to have insightful conversations with characters like John Randolph, discussing their political rivals, social lives, and personal anecdotes.

Engage with Costumed Characters

To get the most out of your experience, it's vital to engage with the costumed characters who inhabit the town. These first- and third-person actors can provide a vivid and engaging portrayal of life in the 18th century. Read the article How to Interact With Costumed Characters at Living History Museums And Incorporate Imaginary Play Into Adulthood for tips on navigating these interactions. Engage fully with the actors by asking questions, making jokes, and participating in debates. These interactions can make your experience at Colonial Williamsburg truly enriching.

Personal Conundrum and Lessons

During my visit, I faced the challenge of keeping a guest's interest in a live debate. I discovered that a lack of interest from one guest was not an issue at all, as another guest actually enjoyed my interactions. This experience reinforced the idea that the value of the experience is largely determined by your own engagement and investment in the knowledge you bring to the trip. The more you bring to the table—literature, history, and a willingness to participate—the more you will get out of your visit.

I firmly believe that every experience is worth it, no matter what. By investing in the preparatory work and being fully engaged during your visit, you can ensure that your time at Colonial Williamsburg is a rewarding and enriching experience.