Governor's Palace
The basics
Offering a glimpse into the early days of American history, the Governor’s Palace is one of Colonial Williamsburg’s architectural and historical highlights. Formerly used for essential government functions and social occasions, the landmark was the hub around which life in colonial Virginia was occupied. Rebuilt in the 1930s and later renovated, it has been restored to its 18th-century looks.
As a highlight of Colonial Williamsburg, the Governor’s Palace is on numerous sightseeing itineraries, from private walking tours to tours based on the site’s Black history. It can also be seen on self-led tours and scavenger hunts.
Things to know before you go
While the Governor’s Palace and other Colonial Williamsburg sights are free to admire, you must purchase a ticket to enter the landmark.
The Governor’s Palace is accessible to disabled visitors.
Weather can be unpredictable, and visitors to Colonial Williamsburg are recommended to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring layers.
Don’t miss the chance to explore the grounds of the Governor’s Palace, which include formal gardens and a hedge maze.
How to get there
The Governor’s Palace is located in the heart of Colonial Williamsburg, which can be explored on foot, by bike, or by the complimentary shuttle service. Trains and Greyhound buses, which link Colonial Williamsburg to hubs like Washington DC, stop at the nearby Williamsburg Transportation Center, just a few minutes away on foot.
When to get there
Colonial Williamsburg is open daily throughout the year, and the Governor’s Palace typically is as well, from morning until early evening. Free tours of the Governor’s Palace are hosted every 15 minutes from when it opens; visitors can explore the site independently during the last hour of every day.
Colonial Williamsburg highlights
It’s worth setting aside at least one full day to explore all Colonial Williamsburg offers. Other popular landmarks include the Capitol, the Courthouse, and the Randolph Property; the living history museum’s two art museums, the DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum and the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum, are also worth exploring.
- Things to do in Virginia
- Things to do in Washington DC
- Things to do in Philadelphia
- Things to do in Brooklyn
- Things to do in New York City
- Things to do in Pittsburgh
- Things to do in Long Island
- Things to do in Greenville
- Things to do in Charleston
- Things to do in Buffalo
- Things to do in Niagara Falls
- Things to do in Niagara Falls & Around
- Things to do in Savannah
- Things to do in Pennsylvania
- Things to do in New York