Indoor Activities Williamsburg: 10 Things to Do on a Rainy Day

Rain in Williamsburg? Dive into a treasure trove of indoor attractions and hidden gems perfect for those drizzly days. Discover history, art, and adventure without getting wet.

It’s true. Williamsburg is best explored under the warmth of the sun, with its colonial streets alive with history and culture. But if the skies decide to be moody and the day offers droplets instead of sunbeams, you don’t have to be a rain-soaked traveler. Keep reading to discover indoor activities Williamsburg VA!

There are dozens of Williamsburg VA indoor activities waiting to be discovered so don’t let a little water dampen your spirit! Follow along as we dive into some of the coziest, most fascinating indoor activities Williamsburg, VA. You’d be surprised to know that some of the popular outdoor attractions also offer indoor adventures! So, beat the weather blues and experience these thrilling Williamsburg indoor activities.

Colonial Williamsburg

Address: Colonial Williamsburg, 137-173 W Duke of Gloucester St, Williamsburg, VA 23185, United States

Looking for the best rainy day activities Williamsburg VA has? Colonial Williamsburg is often touted as a sun-soaked journey back in time, but even on those unpredictable rainy days, visiting it remains one of the free things to do in Williamsburg VA.

This historic gem is home to a myriad of attractions, from cozy taverns where stories of the past come alive to interactive exhibits where you can dive deep into 18th-century life. Wander its interiors, meet the skilled interpreters, and you’ll soon forget about the drizzle outside.

Rainy days call for indoor adventures! It’s one of the “indoor things to do near me” with a historical twist!

man in period clothing holding white horse with fence and trees in background at Presidents' Weekend George Washington at Colonial Williamsburg in Williamsburg, Virginia, USA
photo credit: Visit Williamsburg via Facebook

DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum

Address: 301 S Nassau St, Williamsburg, VA 23185, United States

Seeking indoor activities near me on a rainy day? For those seeking respite from unpredictable weather, the DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum is a gem among indoor activities in Williamsburg VA. Nestled in the heart of the historic district, this museum invites visitors to step back in time and revel in the exquisite craftsmanship of yesteryears.

From ornate furniture and intricate textiles to mesmerizing paintings and ceramics, every artifact tells a story of America’s artistic heritage. Whether you’re an art aficionado or just looking for a cozy escape from the rain, you will enjoy the museum’s serene atmosphere filled with rich tales of creativity and history.

Busch Gardens Williamsburg

Address: 1 Busch Gardens Blvd, Williamsburg, VA 23185, USA

If you’re brainstorming Williamsburg rainy day activities and think the theme park might be a washout, think again! Ideally, you’ll want to visit Busch Gardens Williamsburg on a sunny day. However, since rain falls throughout the year in Williamsburg, this beloved theme park ensures the fun doesn’t stop even when the clouds roll in and rain starts pouring.

Among indoor rides and attractions designed specifically for wetter days is the all-new DarKoaster™, North America’s First All-Indoor Straddle Coaster. Dash through King Ludwig’s eerily abandoned fortress on a snowmobile, evading not just the external tempest but mysterious, supernatural forces within!

Stop scouring the internet for “things to do inside near me”. This electrifying, heart-pounding journey is just one of the indoor rides at Busch Gardens that promises an exhilarating escape like no other!

guests splashing through water on the Griffon Roller Coaster at Busch Gardens in Williamsburg, Virginia, USA

Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum

Address: 301 S Nassau St, Williamsburg, VA 23185, United States

When you’re exploring indoor activities in Williamsburg VA and find yourself enchanted by the DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum, you’re in for an added treat! Housed in the same building is the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum, a tribute to the vibrant tapestry of American folk art.

As the nation’s oldest continuously operating institution dedicated to this genre, it showcases a remarkable collection of artifacts that reflect the heart and soul of American artisans. Take time to look at the whimsical weathervanes, colorful quilts, handcrafted toys, and so much more.

SeaQuest Lynchburg

Address: 3405 Candlers Mountain Rd, Lynchburg, VA 24502, United States

On the lookout for the perfect rainy day activities in Williamsburg VA? If you’ve explored the town and still have the energy for more “things to do indoors near me”, venture a bit further to SeaQuest Lynchburg, an underwater realm right in the heart of Virginia.

This indoor attraction, perfect for days when the sky decides to pour, offers a captivating dive into the wonders of our oceans and freshwater habitats. Meet curious stingrays, playful parrots, and maybe even a slithering python!

Small girl standing next to a mermaid in the water with a big white flower in her hair

Governor’s Palace

Address: 300 Palace Green St, Williamsburg, VA 23185, United States

Exploring the Governor’s Palace should be on your list of indoor things to do in Williamsburg VA when it rains. The intricate gardens outside might beckon on sunnier days, but when the rain patters against the windows, there’s a distinct charm in immersing yourself in the stories held within the palace’s walls.

Once the lavish residence of Virginia’s colonial governors, this architectural marvel transforms into a sheltering haven from the rain, offering history buffs and curious visitors a unique indoor exploration.

Before you know it, the rain has passed while you meander through opulent rooms adorned with period furnishings, uncover tales of the past from knowledgeable guides, and marvel at an impressive display of weaponry.

Alewerks Brewing Company

Address: 189B Ewell Rd, Williamsburg, VA 23188, United States

If you’re in the mood for a more adult-friendly escape amidst your search for indoor activities Williamsburg VA, look no further than Alewerks Brewing Company. This brewery has long been pouring passion into each pint, offering an impressive array of craft brews that cater to all palates.

Join the engaging indoor tours which offer a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the art of brewing. Then, as the rain taps gently against the windows, cozy up in the taproom and savor the rich flavors of meticulously crafted beers.

friends having beer together at a brewery
Leo Patrizi / Getty Images

Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum & 4D Theater

Address: 1735 Richmond Rd, Williamsburg, VA 23185, United States

Looking for a quirky twist to your rainy day exploration in Williamsburg? Step into the fantastical world of Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum & 4D Theater, another best thing to do at Williamsburg Virginia when it rains. 

Wander through galleries filled with oddities, relics, and mind-bending illusions, then get your adrenaline pumping with a 4D movie that promises an immersive cinematic experience. Prepare to be amazed, astounded, and perhaps even a little befuddled, but never bored!

Bassett Hall

Address: 522 Francis St E, Williamsburg, VA 23185, United States

On a rainy day, exploring Bassett Hall can be a delightful experience. If you’re looking for “indoor attractions near me”, explore its well-curated exhibits showcasing the rich history of the region.

For those seeking free things to do in Williamsburg, VA this weekend, Bassett Hall offers educational tours and informative displays that provide insights into the colonial era. The ambiance of the historic building itself adds to the charm, making it an ideal destination for a rainy day adventure.

Staycation at a Williamsburg Lodging

Sometimes, the best adventures in Williamsburg aren’t found wandering its historic streets but tucked away in the plush comforts of a local resort. If rain’s in the forecast, consider a staycation at the elegant Greensprings Vacation Resort.

Dive into the warmth of their indoor pool. Indulge in the rejuvenating embrace of their spa. Or unwind in the sophisticated suites.

For those keen on exploring more Williamsburg lodging options, Tripster has a treasure trove of accommodations that promise a memorable Williamsburg experience, come rain or shine.

Street with a horse and carriage and historical houses on it with large trees in Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia, USA

Williamsburg Vacation Packages

Whether the sky is painted with sunbeams or draped in drizzles, Williamsburg Vacation Packages offered exclusively by Tripster ensure your adventure remains undeterred. Start by selecting a cozy lodging that suits your style- a luxurious resort or a quaint inn.

Next, sprinkle in some Williamsburg attraction tickets. Curating an itinerary that resonates with your interests, be they historical sites or a thrilling theme park. The choice is yours as an architect of your own unique experience!

Williamsburg’s charm isn’t just in its sunlit colonial streets or the golden hues of its landscapes. Rain might drench the pathways, but it can’t dampen the spirit of this historic gem. So even if the forecast predicts a pour, don’t hesitate.

There is a myriad of things to do indoors Williamsburg VA waiting to be explored, come rain or shine. The drizzle might just add a magical touch to your adventures!

Indoor Activities Williamsburg VA FAQs

Yes, Williamsburg, VA does experience a fair amount of rainfall, being the rainiest of the major college towns in Virginia on average from the years 2000 to 2020. However, this precipitation adds to the lush greenery and vibrant atmosphere of the region, providing a refreshing backdrop for exploration and outdoor activities.

August, July, and September are typically the rainiest months in Williamsburg, VA, with precipitation levels peaking during this period. Despite the rainfall, these months also bring lush green landscapes and provide ample opportunities to enjoy indoor attractions and cultural experiences in the area.

What Indoor Things To Do Williamsburg VA Did We Miss?

What would you add to our things to do as it rains Williamsburg list? Leave us a comment below!


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Written by Nicole King

There are only two things that make Nicole really happy–books and travel! When her head’s not buried in a book, she’s most likely...


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