Colonial Williamsburg Architectural Tour: Preservation Insights
5.0
4 Ratings
Williamsburg
Discover the preservation insights behind the restoration of Colonial Williamsburg. Explore the architectural philosophies between Europe and the US and the vision of Rev. W.A.R. Goodwin and John D. Rockefeller, Jr.
Duration: 4 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Colonial Williamsburg Visitor Center - They will see original and reproductions of Colonial Williamsburg’s architecture and watch films, if desired.
  • Governor’s Palace - We will enter the Governor’s Palace and tour the exterior and interior of the palace, surrounding buildings and gardens.
  • Colonial Williamsburg Capitol Building - We will view the interior and exterior of the Capitol building.
  • Bruton Parish Episcopal Church - We will view the exterior and interior of the church.
  • The College of William and Mary - We will view the exterior and interior of the Sir Christopher Wren building.
What's Included
  • Colonial Williamsburg Day Pass included
What's Not Included
  • Lunch
  • Brunch
  • Dinner
  • Snacks
  • Bottled water
  • Private transportation
Additional Information

We will be engaging in a conversation regarding the divergent philosophies of architectural preservation between Europe and the United States during the late 19th and 20th Century, especially as they relate to the restoration of Colonial Williamsburg. The materials used for this restoration were selected to give the illusion that they originated from the 18th Century. For instance, the roofs of several reconstructed buildings were artificially composed of fire-retardant components, and the masonry mirrored the original boundaries of the public structures.

The Main College was subsequently renamed the Wren building, a homage to the renowned English Architect, Sir Christopher Wren. But there’s no evidence supporting this attribution. The structural design of this building leans more towards a Flemish style rather than an English bond. The Wren building, as it stands today, is a reconstructed version of the structure that existed in 1733.

The discussion will also delve into the vision of Rev. W.A.R. Goodwin and John D. Rockfeller, Jr. that culminated in the creation of Colonial Williamsburg.

  • Not recommended for children and teenagers younger than 17
Location
Colonial Williamsburg Visitor Center
Visitor Center Drive
Meet at the ticket desk
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
5.0
(4 Ratings)
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Nolasaintsfan1971
Mar 20, 2023
Great tour, knowledgeable guide! - We had a great experience with Dennis touring some of our nation's most historic buildings, learning different architectural designs and touring inside Colonial Williamsburg's buildings. Two thumbs up!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Elainerswartz
Mar 20, 2023
Architectural Tour of Williamsburg - Excellent tour. The leader was very knowledgeable and personable. He answered all my questions. I would highly recommend this tour to anyone who wants in-depth information on the buildings in Colonial Williamsburg
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Steve
Mar 20, 2023
Informative and Insightful - I’ve been to CW many times and never stopped to looked closely at the intricate architectural detail of the buildings. This tour provided a detailed and intimate look at period design and architecture. The host was a wealth of knowledge and information, describing details one may normally overlook when experiencing the history of CW. I learned things I never knew before and strongly recommend this tour for any history of architecture lover. Come prepared for a great educational experience. I would not recommend this tour for children, as it does go in depth into architecture and leaves out the “entertainment” factor kids would likely desire from CW.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Bambi_w
Nov 26, 2022
Worth every penny, I would highly recommend this tour, top rate, five-star - Five-star tour to learn about Colonial Williamsburg architecture and restoration. I was extremely impressed how he connected the British and Colonial architecture to Palladianism. The history of Williamsburg was explained in detail without being boring and our tour guide's enthusiasm and sense of humor was wonderful. The Governor's Palace was the prime example of Palladianism and Georgian designs. I was surprised that the tour included us with a one-day pass for Colonial Williamsburg buildings. It was worth every penny.
Review provided by Viator
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