Williamsburg to Washington DC Via Charlottesville
Road Trip Summary
- Begin: Williamsburg Va
- End: Washington D.C.
- Distance: 240 Miles
- Drive Time: 4 ½ hours
- Best Time of the Year: Summer and Fall
This road trip will have you stepping back in time to some of the earliest moments and important events in our country’s history. Along the way you’ll walk in the footsteps of our ancestors and experience first hand what life was like in the 17th and 18th century, before being able to visit some of the most iconic places in the Nation’s Capital.
Some of the must see places include:
Jamestown -The Jamestown area offers 3 historical sites all worth seeing. Jamestown is an archaeological site where the original settlers landed in 1607. Close by is the Jamestown Settlement which is a re-enactment museum that will give you and your family insight into the first settlers, their homes, as well as the type of homes the nearby native Americans inhabited. At the Yorkstown visitor center explore the site of the last major battle of the Revolutionary War..
Colonial Williamsburg – This themed historic park will transport you in time as you walk among people dressed in the clothing of the day . Visitors can enjoy a number of different day time tours, as well as a night time ghost walk and even the ability to taste 18th century inspired meals.
Monticello – The home of the writer of the Constitution and the 3rd President of the United States. Thomas Jefferson’s home offers a beautiful display of architecture. You’ll learn a great deal about the founding father who lived here as well as have the opportunity to visit the beautiful Monticello gardens.
Highland – A nearby neighbor to and complete opposite of Jefferson’s home is the Highland – the humble dwelling of James Madison.
Lincoln Memorial – The Lincoln Memorial is a larger than life-size monument to the countries 16th president. It is one of the country’s most beloved National Monuments.
Vietnam and Korean War Memorials – Both these monuments are well worth seeing and brings home the number of American soldiers who gave their lives for people of a culture far different from their own.
Smithsonian Institute – The Smithsonian Institute is made up of 20 museums and galleries as well as a zoo. It would take a lifetime to see everything the Institute has to offer but there is something of interest for everyone.
U.S. Holocaust Museum – This sobering museum is worth seeing for those who want a deeper understanding of one of the darkest periods in the history of the world.
Washington Monument and White House – The 555 foot Washington monument towers over Washington D.C. And was built to honor President Washington. Just a short distance away is 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue and the White House where every president has lived since Adams in 1800.
Autumn in Washington can often be cool, so be sure to pack a jacket and check the weather before heading out to do any sightseeing.