News Summary
Merchants Square in Williamsburg offers a vibrant shopping and dining experience that is often overlooked by locals due to misconceptions about crowds, prices, and parking. This unique destination features iconic eateries like The Cheese Shop and Fat Canary, along with diverse shops such as Eleva and The Carousel. Upcoming events, like the Spring Sidewalk Sale, aim to engage the community and showcase the area’s offerings. With free parking available until August 2025, it’s an excellent time for both locals and visitors to explore what Merchants Square has to offer.
Williamsburg – Merchants Square, a unique shopping and dining destination in Williamsburg, is often overshadowed by misconceptions surrounding tourist crowds, high prices, and parking issues. Local residents tend to overlook the vibrant assortment of shops and eateries available, missing out on the interesting finds and unexpected bargains that the area offers. With several businesses situated on the south side of the square, there is a notable variety of options for both residents and visitors.
Merchants Square has been home to some long-standing businesses, while others are more recent establishments, together creating a diverse shopping experience. All featured businesses maintain websites that provide information about their hours of operation, services, and seasonal offers, making it easier for shoppers to plan their visits.
Iconic Eateries
Among the landmarks of the square, The Cheese Shop has been a staple in Williamsburg for nearly 50 years, renowned for its gourmet cheese selection and popular sandwiches. The Cheese Shop staff offers expert advice on pairing choices, suggesting items like charcuterie, dried fruits, freshly baked bread, and specialty condiments. In addition, patrons can explore a basement Wine Cellar with over 4,000 bottles of wine and more than 120 craft beers, alongside outdoor seating for leisurely people-watching.
Adjacent to The Cheese Shop, Fat Canary provides an award-winning fine dining experience on its main level, while the basement offers a more casual dining option. This establishment enhances the culinary landscape of Merchants Square, attracting both locals and tourists alike.
Unique Shops to Explore
The square also houses Eleva, a coffee shop located on Boundary Street, which seeks to elevate the coffee experience with a range of beverages, baked goods, desserts, tapas, and wine offerings. Nearby, Wythe Candy and Gourmet Store, in operation for over 50 years, presents a delightful selection of candy, gourmet foods, and seasonal items, including nostalgic, old-fashioned sweets.
For family-oriented shopping, The Carousel stands out as a children’s boutique that has been operating for over 30 years, offering a range of clothing sizes, from infant to size 16, along with gift items. In close proximity is Chico’s, a women’s clothing store providing high-quality professional and casual attire complemented by jewelry and accessories. Additional clothing options include FatFace, with its focus on sustainable, outdoor-inspired women’s clothing; J. McLaughlin, known for its traditional menswear; and Scotland House Ltd., which imports premium apparel from the UK.
Also present is Walkabout Outfitter, large on outdoor gear and recreation clothing, which sponsors various community activities such as hiking and paddling events. For those interested in unique jewelry, Penny and a Sixpence specializes in custom designs. R. P. Wallace & Sons General Store, having been in business since 1919, offers affordable gifts and souvenirs specifically tied to the history of Williamsburg and William & Mary.
Local Attractions and Events
For book lovers, the Colonial Williamsburg Bookstore features titles relating to the region’s history in a relaxed environment with comfortable seating. Meanwhile, Everything Williamsburg sells Colonial-branded apparel and souvenirs, providing an assortment of toys, games, books, and gourmet foods.
Entertainment options include the Kimball Theatre, operational since 1933, which hosts films, live performances, concerts, and lectures, enriching the local cultural scene. To encourage community engagement and support for local businesses, Merchants Square will host its Spring Sidewalk Sale from April 25 to April 27, 2025, featuring shopping, dining, and community activities.
Parking and Accessibility
Local residents and visitors can take advantage of free 2-hour parking in several nearby lots until August 26, 2025. It is crucial to use the Passport app to manage both paid and free parking, as strict fines are imposed for violations, with various lots featuring differing time limits for complimentary parking.
Overall, Merchants Square is a hidden gem in Williamsburg, offering a unique blend of shopping and dining experiences that merit a visit from locals and tourists alike.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
August Events Bring Community Together in Williamsburg
Colonial Williamsburg Announces Lafayette Arrival Area Redevelopment
Muscarelle Museum Invites Artists for Water-Themed Exhibition
Remembering Myrt Power, Co-founder of The Cheese Shop
Beloved Founder of The Cheese Shop Passes Away
Fantastic Cat to Perform at Merchants Square Concert Series
Williamsburg Live Concert Series Set to Begin This Weekend
Williamsburg Celebrates Graduation Weekend with Community Events
Biking and Walking Unite Williamsburg at Mary’s Walk
Discover the Blend of History and Modern Charm in Williamsburg
Additional Resources
- Williamsburg Families: Parking in Colonial Williamsburg
- Wikipedia: Williamsburg
- Williamsburg Families: Free Outdoor Sunday Movie Night
- Google Search: Williamsburg Merchants Square
- Williamsburg Families: Merchants Square Sidewalk Sale
- Google Scholar: Merchants Square Williamsburg
- Williamsburg Families: Sip Slow Sundays
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Williamsburg
- Williamsburg Families: Merchants Square Concert Series
- Google News: Merchants Square Events
