Location – Williamsburg, VA
Colonial Williamsburg offers an 18th-century living-history experience in the faithfully preserved and restored former capital of Virginia. Colonial Williamsburg combines a historic experience with all the amenities of a 21st-century resort—gracious accommodations, superlative dining in colonial-era taverns, sublime shopping with a historical touch, museums, and a 301-acre Historic Area resplendent with characters and structures of the times. A walk around the grounds may lead to personal interactions with historical characters, observations of craftsmen from the era and historical vignettes, inspiration from the drum and fife corps, or a firing of the canon by the local militia. Temperatures are expected to be warm and humid.
Jamestown and Yorktown settlements are nearby and complete America’s Historic Triangle. Jamestown (11 miles to the south) is the first permanent English settlement in North America, and Yorktown (13 miles to the east) is the site where independence for the U.S.became a reality. Jamestown features two sites (separate admissions): the site administered by the Commonwealth of Virginia features a museum, full-size replicas of the three ships bringing the original settlers, and reconstructions of the early fort and a Powhatan village; the other site operated by the National Park Service features an archeological excavation of the 1607 fort, the 17th century church tower, and a glasshouse where artisans demonstrate 17th century glass-blowing. Yorktown features include a self-guided, seven mile tour of the battlefield and a museum illustrating the life and times of those who witnessed the American Revolution.
The Hotel
The 2012 Conference will be held in the Williamsburg Lodge. Charmingly appointed with furnishings inspired by the collections of the nearby Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum, guest rooms have modern amenities, including WiFi. Just steps from the Lodge, the Historic Area provides a unique way to explore our country’s beginnings. Recreational opportunities include golf, swimming, tennis, and an acclaimed spa. Several other hotels are available close by, ranging from the premium Williamsburg Inn to the family friendly Governor’s Inn.
Getting there and around
Non-stop flights to Richmond (RIC-45 min), Norfolk(ORF-45 min), or Newport News/Williamsburg (PHF-20 min) are available from 29 airports. The hotel does not have shuttle service to the airports, however, Carey/VIP Limo (757-220-5466) provides transportation between the Lodge and the various airports. Free on-site parking is available at the Williamsburg Lodge. The Colonial Williamsburg bus service circles the circumference of the Historic Area (9:00 am-10:00 pm), and there is a stop at the Williamsburg Lodge. The Shuttle to Jamestown and Yorktown leave from the visitor center every 30 minutes.