Lesson learned: The Historic Powhatan Resort boasts its own piece of colonial Americana -- a manor house circa 1735.
By Valerie Moloney
Chances are, if I said Old Dominion, not everyone would know the reference to my home state of Virginia. Now allow me to make a statement that resonates with everyone: Virginia is a hotbed for cheap spring vacations. While my hometown Virginia Beach, Va. is one of the beach capitals on the East Coast, I was always partial to the place that enriched my understanding of 1770s America: Williamsburg. And besides, the theme parks kicked butt.
Home to the second- oldest college in America (The College of William and Mary), Williamsburg is known first as a love letter to colonialism. You’ll still hear muskets being fired, see how slaves labored on farms and visit workshops where various smiths – blacksmiths, silversmiths, gunsmiths and more – might be engaging in their craft – fire, tools and all.
I love that in between the water park –Water Country USA — and the Eurotastic theme park – Busch Gardens Williamsburg – kids can also soak up a compelling lesson in history.
In terms of price and location, the condo retreat Historic Powhatan Resort can’t be beat. With rates anywhere from the low $100s to low $300s depending on the season, the 250+acre property hosts families comfortably with one-, two- and three-bedroom layouts, full kitchens, hot tubs and patios.
And for that extra dose of Americana: Visit the circa 1735 manor house on site, a stunner with fully landscaped gardens and a gazebo. All that’s missing from this scene is you in a powdered wig, but we’re pretty sure you can get one of those in town.
Related resources