Christmas in Williamsburg

Day 1 – Friday,

7:00 AM – Depart

Begin your journey with a comfortable motorcoach departure. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic ride as we make our way toward historic Virginia.

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1:30 PM – Included Lunch at Cul’s Courthouse Grill

Arrive in Charles City for a delicious lunch at Cul’s Courthouse Grill. Enjoy classic American fare in a warm, welcoming setting—perfect to fuel up before an afternoon of exploration.

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2:30 PM – Depart

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3:00 PM – Arrive and Check-In at Berkeley Plantation

Visit the beautiful Berkeley Plantation, located along the James River. This historic site was the location of the first official Thanksgiving in 1619. Explore the stunning grounds, rich history, and learn about the birthplace of a national tradition.

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4:30 PM – Depart

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5:45 PM – Check-In at SpringHill Suites Williamsburg

Settle into your accommodations for the evening at the modern and comfortable SpringHill Suites, conveniently located near Williamsburg attractions.

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7:00 PM – Depart

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7:15 PM – Included Dinner at The Whaling Company

Enjoy a memorable included dinner at The Whaling Company, a cozy, old-school eatery styled like a New England boathouse. Specializing in local seafood and steaks. (Menu TBD)

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8:45 PM – Return to Hotel for the Evening

Return to the hotel and rest up for a full day of historical adventure and festive celebrations tomorrow.

 

 

 

Day 2 – Saturday

 

7:30 AM – Included Breakfast at the Hotel (DI)

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel to prepare for a full day of exploration and history.

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8:30 AM – Depart for Colonial Williamsburg

(Approx. 3 miles / 10-minute drive)

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9:00 AM – Arrive at Colonial Williamsburg Visitor Center

Meet your Colonial Connections guide at the Group Arrivals Entrance (107 Visitor Center Drive) and begin your immersive experience in 18th-century America.
Highlights include:

• Visits to the Blacksmith, Cooper, and other historic tradespeople still using 18th-century methods.

• Guided tours of The Capitol, Governor’s Palace, and several restored colonial homes and government buildings.

• Explore beautiful colonial gardens, taverns, and public spaces across the 173-acre Historic Area.

• Visit the Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg, including:

  • Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum

  • DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum

  • Bassett Hall

You’ll gain insight into the lives of the patriots who helped shape America's founding ideals.

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12:00 PM – Lunch on Your Own & Free Time in Colonial Williamsburg

Stroll through Merchants Square, the bustling shopping and dining district at the head of Duke of Gloucester Street. Choose from charming cafés, unique shops, and historic taverns for your lunch and free time.
(One guide will stay with the group while another departs.)

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2:45 PM – Depart

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3:00 PM – Return to the Hotel for Rest & Warm-Up

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4:00 PM – Depart for Grand Illumination

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4:30 PM – Explore Colonial Williamsburg’s Grand Illumination

Experience one of Williamsburg’s most beloved traditions! Originally used to celebrate significant events in the 18th century, today’s Grand Illumination features:

• Beautiful decorations throughout the Historic Area

• Live musical performances on multiple stages

• Candle lighting ceremonies at historic homes, including:

  • Raleigh Tavern

  • George Wythe House

  • Randolph House

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5:15 PM – Seasonal Music Throughout the Historic Area

Highlighted ensembles and community performers bring holiday cheer to life with festive music and caroling.

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6:00 PM – Yule Log Procession

Follow the Yule log from Capitol Circle to Market Square with music, celebration, and historic flair. Make a wish and toss a sprig of greenery into the bonfire!

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7:00 PM – Fireworks Display

Marvel at a multi-location fireworks show launching from:

• The Governor’s Palace

• The Capitol Building

• The Magazine

A dazzling conclusion to your immersive colonial holiday experience!

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7:30 PM – Meet the Motorcoach and Depart

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8:00 PM – Included Prime Rib Buffet Dinner at Embassy Suites Williamsburg

Arrive at Embassy Suites Williamsburg for a delicious Prime Rib Buffet Dinner at the Atrium Café, conveniently located inside the hotel. (Menu TBD)

 

 

Day 3 – Sunday

 

7:00 AM – Included Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy a relaxing breakfast to fuel up for another exciting day of history and holiday cheer.

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8:00 AM – Depart for Yorktown

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9:00 AM – Guided Visit at the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown

Step into the story of America's fight for independence with a guided tour of this world-class museum.
Explore:

• Interactive exhibits

• Authentic artifacts

• Outdoor living-history experiences in the Continental Army encampment and Revolution-era farm

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11:30 AM – Depart

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12:00 PM – Arrive at Jamestown Settlement & Lunch on Your Own

Dine at the Jamestown Settlement Café, then enjoy a little time to explore the gift shop or grounds before the afternoon program.

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1:00 PM – Jamestown Christmas Guided Tour

Celebrate the holidays with a special Jamestown Christmas experience. Your guide will walk you through the story of America’s first permanent English colony—decorated for the season.
See:

• Re-creations of the Powhatan Village, James Fort, and 17th-century ships

• Special seasonal displays and demonstrations

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2:45 PM – Depart

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3:00 PM – Return to the Hotel to Freshen Up

Take a short break before an evening of lights and magic at Busch Gardens.

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4:00 PM – Depart for Busch Gardens

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4:30 PM – Christmas Town: A Busch Gardens Celebration

Step into a winter wonderland! Christmas Town transforms Busch Gardens into a glowing holiday spectacle with over one million twinkling lights.

Enjoy:

• All-new attractions and live holiday shows (Show schedule TBA)

• Strolling entertainment, festive shopping, and interactive holiday experiences

• A visit to Santa’s Workshop

• The dazzling 45-foot-tall animated Christmas Tree

• Seasonal treats like hot chocolate and fresh-baked Christmas cookies

• Dinner on your own while exploring the park’s many food options

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9:00 PM – Depart Christmas Town

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9:15 PM – Return to the Hotel for the Evening

 

 

Day 4 – Monday

 

8:00 AM – Included Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy one last leisurely breakfast before heading out for a memorable closing day at one of the nation’s most iconic estates.

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9:00 AM – Depart for Mount Vernon

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12:00 PM – Included Lunch at Mount Vernon Inn

Dine at the Mount Vernon Inn, located right on George Washington’s estate. Enjoy traditional American fare in an authentic Colonial-style setting. (Menu TBD)

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1:30 PM – Mount Vernon Christmas Visit

Experience the holiday season at George Washington’s Mount Vernon during this festive time of year.
Highlights include:

• A self-guided or guided tour of the Mansion, beautifully decorated for Christmas

• Seasonal exhibits, historical reenactments, and stories of holiday traditions at the Washington estate

• Time to explore the gardens, museum, education center, and gift shops

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4:00 PM – Depart for Home

Board the motorcoach for the return trip, reflecting on a weekend filled with history, holiday cheer, and unforgettable memories.

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8:30 PM – Approximate Arrival

Return home with C&R Bus Tours. Thank you for joining us for this special holiday getaway to Colonial Williamsburg and beyond!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

7:00am Departure from C&R Bus Tours - Saint Clair

 

Overnight Departures from Saint Clair ONLY

 

Baggage Handling will be available - 1 Checked Bag per Guest - You will be responsible for all carry-ons

 

Luggage Tags and Itienary will be mailed 2 to 3 weeks prior to departure date:

 

We recommend travel cancellation and medical insurance to protect your investment.

TravelGuard Insurance