A trip to DisneyWorld seems to be a right of passage for children, but families might want to swap the theme parks of the south for one to Williamsburg, Virginia -- an educational institution and cultural destination dedicated to the preservation, restoration, interpretation, and presentation of 18th-century Williamsburg. Guests of all ages are invited to be part of the story as they enjoy the Historic Area and museums.
In its inaugural 2011 Traveler's Choice Family Awards, the Williamsburg Inn was named the number one family-friendly spots to discover in the United States. Destinations were chosen based on the greatest number of recommendations from TripAdvisorreviewers who traveled withfamily. Top family-friendly hotels were determined from the highest review ratings from those who traveled with family.
These honors recognize Colonial Williamsburg's interactive family programs and hands-on activities that engage parents and children alike in the stories of America's first citizens. With warmer weather on the way and the unveiling of new and exciting programming, spring is the ideal time for families to discover the destination has to offer.
For the first time, junior interpreters will have roles in the award-winning Revolutionary City, making the already-accessible daily street theater program even more exciting. "Live after Five" and its robust schedule of evening programs allows families to extend the fun and enjoy storytelling, ghost tours and dancing.
The "Spring Bounce" package, available for stays March 25–June 16, starts at $305 per night for a family of four, the three-day/two-night package includes:
- Nightly accommodations at the Williamsburg Woodlands, an Official Colonial Williamsburg Hotel
- Three-in-one tickets for unlimited general admission to Colonial Williamsburg's Historic Area and Art Museums, Busch Gardens and Water Country USA (valid for up to seven consecutive days)
Package pricing is based on a two-night stay in a standard guest room for two adults and two children, with Sunday-Wednesday arrival. Rates vary with check-in day.
For more information, visit www.colonialwilliamsburg.com.
AirTran serves Newport News-Williamsburg, Va. (nonstop from Atlanta) at one-way rates starting from $79. Sale rates are available for purchase through March 24 for trips finished on or before June 22.
Sale airfares are always subject to change. Every seat on every flight is not offered at the lowest rate. Since only a limited supply of seats is available, act quickly to make your purchase.
Clara Bosonetto is a retired travel consultant.
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