Are you curious as to what exciting things there are to do in Williamsburg, VA? If yes, then we’ve compiled a helpful list below to help make your time in Williamsburg more enjoyable! Before we jump right to it, we wanted to share some interesting history of the city. Williamsburg was founded in 1632, and around 1699 it became the capital city of the colony of Virginia. While you’re walking around the city, it can truly feel as if you’re back in the 1600s. From the old and beautiful architecture to the many art museums, Williamsburg makes it a goal for you to experience the history of the city. Alongside colonial history, it simultaneously provides a modern experience. It is considered as one of the best family vacations spot in the US. The renowned William & Mary University draws in thousands of students each year who make up a large percentage of the people living here. Being a college town makes the nightlife so much more lively and enjoyable! So go check out some of these places we have below.
Contents
- What is Williamsburg Known For?
- 16 Best Places to Visit in Williamsburg VA Nightlife
- 1. The Virginia Beer Company
- 2. DoG Street Pub
- 3. Green Leafe Cafe
- 4. Kimball Theatre
- 5. Axe Republic
- 6. Josiah Chowning’s Tavern
- 7. The Ghosts of Williamsburg Candlelight Tours
- 8. Paul’s Deli Restaurant
- 9. The Corner Pocket
- 10. Fat Canary
- 11. Brickhouse Tavern Williamsburg
- 12. Second Street American Bistro
- 13. Cogan’s Deli & Sports Pub
- 14. Berrets Seafood Restaurant and Taphouse Grill
- 15. Bonefish Grill
What is Williamsburg Known For?
As mentioned above, with such a rich history, the city attracts millions of tourists each year. The most famous historical area is known as Colonial Williamsburg. The area of Colonial Williamsburg isn’t the only place, though. Williamsburg is full of various museums, centers, gardens, parks, and other iconic architecture. Some other iconic sites to check out while you’re here are the Governor’s Palace, Colonial Williamsburg Visitors Center, and Busch Gardens Williamsburg. Although the town may feel more laid back in nature, the nightlife of Williamsburg features lively areas with exciting entertainment, food, drinks, ambiance, and a great overall experience.
16 Best Places to Visit in Williamsburg VA Nightlife
If you’re exploring Williamsburg, VA, and want to dive into its vibrant nightlife, you’re in luck! From craft beers and delicious food to live music and historic venues, Williamsburg offers a diverse array of activities for a memorable evening out. Here’s a guide to the top things to do in Williamsburg for a fantastic nightlife experience:
1. The Virginia Beer Company
The Virginia Beer Company is a brewery found on 2nd Street. With its wide selection of beers accompanied with delicious appetizers to a food truck parked outside, live music, a wide variety of board games, and a clean environment with an outdoor patio, your Williamsburg nightlife would be the envy of all beer enthusiasts! Its friendly and accommodating staff make you feel welcomed and served as you enjoy your drinks and food. It is a fun-filled taproom, and a great place to enjoy a relaxing evening with great beers and food.
2. DoG Street Pub
A well-known hotspot is the 401 West Duke of Gloucester Street is the DoG Street Pub. It is a gastro bar, notable for an excellent craft beer, cocktail, and wine selection. Further, its distinguished cuisines, including the bar’s food, make this a great place to spend your evening. Furthermore, the pub’s interior and architectural style with free Wi-Fi and outdoor seating are great supplements to a fulfilling night out.
3. Green Leafe Cafe
Among other popular nightlife places for locals is the Green Leafe Cafe at 765 Scotland Street. It is a pub offering casual American options of beers, cocktails, and happy hour foods. A chill atmosphere perfected with a generous portion of bar foods and an impressive selection of craft beer on tap. Plus, numerous televisions with sports playing on them are dotted across the cafe. Coming here will provide a relaxing and enjoyable evening out.
4. Kimball Theatre
The historic venue for hosting diverse types of entertainment that started way back in 1933 is the Kimball Theatre in Merchant Square 428 West Duke of Gloucester Street. It hosts different shows, concerts, plays, classic films, and dance performances. Many first-time visitors return on another occasion, with Kimball theatre hosting a wide array of unique and exquisite performances. Its classic atmosphere and interior design, such as sconces, old box office, chandeliers, curtains, and narrow staircases add to this unique experience. Stopping by this venue is an exceptional addition to your Williamsburg nightlife experience.
5. Axe Republic
Eat, drink, aim, throw, and have fun. This is what the Axe Republic at 4919 Courthouse Street provides to visitors. It is a lounge perfect for night-outs, corporate events, and other parties. If you like throwing darts and you’re wanting to upgrade your simple darts to an ax, then come check out this place whenever you are in town. The owner, staff, and instructors are friendly and approachable, making your stay relaxing and fun. Moreover, beers, non-alcoholic drinks, and yummy food are served to add to the fun.
6. Josiah Chowning’s Tavern
Another way to spend the night at Williamsburg is to go to Josiah Chowning’s Tavern, located at 109 East Duke of Gloucester Street. This family-friendly dining place is also perfect for nightlife. With its Colonial-inspired pub fare, historic atmosphere, and live music, your Williamsburg nightlife will be one of a kind. The tavern offers indoor and outdoor seating, either at an enclosed tent or in the garden. Also, this tavern offers – entertainment, games, music, singing, and dancing. So, if you like to experience nightlife in Colonial Williamsburg, hit up this place whenever you are around.
7. The Ghosts of Williamsburg Candlelight Tours
If you are looking for something out-of-ordinary to experience during the night, trying The Ghosts of Williamsburg Candlelight Tours at 345 West Duke of Gloucester Street might be your thing. This candlelight-guided ghost tour on the streets of Colonial Williamsburg lets you know the town’s history, ghost stories, and legends. Also, it might be your chance to encounter and capture some paranormal activity. It is one of the most cheapest thing to do in Virginia
8. Paul’s Deli Restaurant
Experience Williamsburg nightlife at Paul’s Deli Restaurant. This family-owned bar is located at 761 Scotland Street. This classic and casual restaurant has been operating since 1977, and offers a menu of Italian and Greek cuisine. Great for large groups, university students, and travelers. It is the ideal place to grab a bite to eat and catch the game on one of their many TV’s.
9. The Corner Pocket
Are you looking for a casual nightlife place with a mature crowd? If so, then The Corner Pocket at 4805 Courthouse Street is an excellent spot for you. It is a casual restaurant with a pool/billiards room, darts area, live music, karaoke nights, outdoor seating, and a television for watching sports. Additionally, there is a bar on site with a great food menu, beer, and cocktail selection. It has a calm atmosphere perfect for stopping by with friends, or colleagues.
10. Fat Canary
Are you looking for something more upscale and cozy? Then the Fat Canary fixed at 410 West Duke of Gloucester Street is the perfect place for you. It serves a seasonal menu consisting of contemporary American fare, along with a rich selection of wines and cocktails that are chosen to pair perfectly with your meal. If you know you’ll be in Williamsburg, make sure you put in your reservation in advance. They also provide a downstairs area of eating which is available starting at 5 pm and is on a first come first serve basis. Its ambiance, selection, and services make your visit to this restaurant a great Williamsburg nightlife experience.
11. Brickhouse Tavern Williamsburg
Garnering the crowd’s attention at night is the Brickhouse Tavern Williamsburg situated at 755 Scotland Street. This sports bar is famous for its fantastic atmosphere, excellent service, and superb food choices. As a perfect accompaniment to the tasty dishes is an incredible alcoholic drink selection. Plus, free WiFi and outdoor seating are available.
12. Second Street American Bistro
An American restaurant with a casual and romantic atmosphere is the Second Street American Bistro, located at 140 2nd Street. Although many people visit this restaurant for a relaxing and upscale dining experience, it is also a great nightlife place. Its outdoor seating, a wide variety of food choices from children’s meals to happy-hour foods or drinks, including late-night eats, and various amenities like a bar on site and free internet connection make your stay worthwhile.
13. Cogan’s Deli & Sports Pub
Situated at 4324 C-2 New Town Avenue, Cogan’s Deli & Sports pub offers a relaxing dining atmosphere during the day and a dynamic ambiance at night. This pub is ideal for people who like to spend the night with casual fares such as beers, cocktails, and sandwiches at a reasonable price. Plus, live music and bands are present to complete your Williamsburg nightlife. This intimate dining experience can fill up quickly, but if you snag a table, you can enjoy their delicious food and music.
14. Berrets Seafood Restaurant and Taphouse Grill
Located in Colonial Williamsburg’s Merchant Square, Berrets Seafood Restaurant and Taphouse Grill at 199 S Boundary Street is living up to the expectation of nightlifers. It has an outdoor grill & microbrews with outdoor seating, fireplace, live music, and regional offerings, letting you experience one of your best nightlife encounters in town.
15. Bonefish Grill
Another seafood restaurant that will catch your attention is the Bonefish Grill situated at 5212 Monticello Avenue. It is a contemporary grill chain perfect for families, tourists, and large groups. Further, it has complete amenities like a salad bar, a bar on-site, free Wi-Fi, and high chairs for kids. Offering a vast seafood menu plus steaks, wines, beers, cocktails, and other late-night food and happy hour drinks, hanging out in this place at night is worthwhile.
Enjoying your night at Williamsburg, VA to its full extent is possible by having your own place in town. If you are a vacationer visiting Williamsburg, look for vacation rental properties at Rentaltrader.com. Numerous vacation rental property owners list their properties here. Visit our website to learn more and see the amazing opportunities available through Rental Trader