I was there about 20 years ago, also for a conference. I went to Jamestown and Colonial Williamsburg and frankly didn't find either to be particularly compelling. I suspect it depends on what you like to see and do. Some of what goes on is more than a little cheesy.

Williamsburg is nothing like it used to be. But I still love Jamestown. some of the historical sites offers a free admission day (or used to) on Veterans Day. I can't imagine anybody not enjoying Jamestown especially on a freebie. Maybe that date will work out for you?

Thanks for that VD tip, Moonie. We shhould be there then. I was surprised at all of the commercialization in the hotel offerings. I'm so excited to stay at this gorgeous house from way back. I know we will do lots of exploring, especially of the Bay area

When we lived in Northern Virginia, which was some time ago. Wiliamsburg and Jamestown were the places to see, on a visit, or for travelers. Once. and my DH and I did that. My friends and I made many trips to the pottery, just for fun, and shopping, and a couple times my husband and I would shop for Christmas there.

From what I have read, I think it is not like it used to be. Probably a good trip if you are just passing through. Who was it who said "Nothing is like it used to be."?

sleeper - I was trying to search to find out if admission is still free on VD but all I have right now for internet use is my phone and I don't search well with it. Please check into that and not take my word! Over the years that could have changed to a lower admission rate. Also, Yorktown may be another freebie? I think I just saw that while trying to search.

Sue - you're right... nothing is like it used to be! The Pottery is only a fraction of what it once was but it seems like most everyone really enjoys it as well as the other outlets. I think the restaurants/taverns/bakeries are awesome! I have never been unhappy eating at anyplace I've been to.

Sorry to be so late in responding to your post. Busy, busy, busy. Would love to meet with you while you're visiting, but not sure we'll be here. We are heading for the Outer Banks in November,but not sure of the dates yet. Usually like to go in October but missed so much golf this year, I wanted to put it off until after the golf season. DH still working on getting our favorite place. I just heard yesterday at bridge that they will be opening a new museum in Yorktown in October. They say it's wonderful. Also have a museum in Jamestown. If touring Colonial Williamsburg, start with the movie at the Visitor's Center. You can also pick up a schedule of what special activities are going on for the week. Williamsburg has changed considerably the past 20 years. Someone mentioned the Pottery....you can forget that. It use to be a fun place with some great buys but they tore down the decrepit buildings and rebuilt. Not worth the time! Lots of new restaurants. Several in town on Duke of Gloucester Street (DOG). Just outside of town is New Town. Opus 9 is great for lunch....they have a special menu 10 for $10 and if you like fried oysters, they have a fried oyster appetizer on the regular menu that is delicious and more than enough for a meal. In New Town there's also a Bonefish. I know it's a chain, but the food there is pretty good and pretty reliable. One of the better chains. My favorite restaurant is LeYaca on High Street....just out of town.... both for lunch and dinner. Fat Canary on DOG street is good, but pricey and noisy. DOG Street Bistro is good but extremely noisy!! The taverns have never been noted for their food however, the chef from our club just left and is now in charge of the Taverns so even I would be willing to give them another try. I think Christiana Campbell's would be the one to go to.

The good news is that you won't be going in the heat of summer! We lived in Richmond and visited WB a few times. It's nice to see and do a little shopping and dining, but overall, it's a bit meh.

Gosh, years ago, we used to drive down to the Pottery from PA. It was quite the thing back then.

I've been to WB several times, the last time about 15 years ago. Always loved it! The historic preservation area ia a bit like a colonial Disney Land. I loved the restaurants, Christiana Campbell's, chownings Tavern etc. I live the peanut soup and the brusnwich stew. I live how people are living in the restoration area in 18th century houses and trying to hids every evdince of modern living.
Sorry to hear the Pottery has deteriorated, that was always fun.
Stay with the real historic stuff, don't be caught up in the kitch.