Eight Ways to Enjoy Freedom Park in Williamsburg, Virginia
We recently spent a beautiful spring weekend in Williamsburg, Virginia and on our way into town, we stopped at Freedom Park, about 15 minutes north west of the famed Colonial Williamsburg. The 600 acre park has dozens of miles of trails for biking and hiking, a 18th century cemetery and a botanical garden. Part of the park was once the site of one of America’s first Free Black Settlements.
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Eight Things to Do in Freedom Park:
- Learn about the history of the area in the Interpretive Center. There are interactive kiosks that feature the history of the area. Check out the LOVE Works installation outside the Center. Travel Notes: The Center is open from 10am-5pm, has a small concession stand with snacks and drinks available for purchase, and is staffed with knowledgeable park rangers; restrooms are located inside the center; plenty of free parking in front of the center; free to visit.
- Ride some of the 25 miles of trails for biking and an additional two miles of trails designated for hiking.The trails range from a half mile to five miles in length. See the full map here.
- Bear witness to one of America’s first Free Black Settlements. In the early 19th century, formerly enslaved people, freed by William Ludwell Lee, lived on the property. Three recreated cabins accurately display artifacts dating back to the early 1800s.
- Pay your respects at an 18th century cemetery and the location of the Revolutionary War’s Battle of Spencer’s Ordinary in 1781.
- Climb through the trees at Go Ape Zipline and Adventures Park. The park has two courses (Treetop Adventure for ages 10+ and Treetop Journey for all ages) that include aerial crossing, rope ladders, net bridges, swings, and zip lines. There’s also axe throwing and an escape room for groups. The main admissions cabin is located past the Interpretative Center and before the playground.
- Smell a variety of flowers and plants in the Williamsburg Botanical Garden. The two acre garden includes a heirloom garden, therapy garden, a goldenrod garden, shade garden, even a rock garden for kids to enjoy. Cross the green bridge near the main parking lot and the paved road through the gate into the garden. Some areas are shaded and others are in direct sunlight, so dress appropriately and wear sunscreen and bug spray; see the full garden map here.
- Have a picnic. There are shelter areas (with multiple picnic tables, grills, and coverings) located throughout the park available for reservation and several picnic tables spread out throughout the park.
- Swing, jump, and explore the playground. It’s shaded, close parking, and has several benches to rest. The playground is located at the end of the parking lot past Go Ape! It’s also available for rental for parties.
Looking for more adventures in the Williamsburg area? Check out our features of the American Revolution Museum and Historic Yorktown in Yorktown, Jamestown Settlement and Historic Jamestowne in Jamestown and Berkeley Plantation in nearby Charles City.
