News Summary
The Stoodley family from Pennsylvania enjoyed a memorable summer getaway in Williamsburg, Virginia, exploring its rich history and engaging attractions. From thrilling water parks to cultural experiences, the family found joy in the vibrant community and diverse activities including visits to Great Wolf Lodge, Water Country USA, and multiple dining experiences that catered to all ages. Their adventure combined fun with education, showcasing Williamsburg’s appeal as a family destination.
Williamsburg, Virginia: A Family-Friendly Summer Getaway
Williamsburg welcomed a family of six for a summer getaway, blending adventure and history during a long weekend outing. The Stoodley family, originating from Pennsylvania, embarked on a six-hour journey to experience the area’s diverse attractions, drawing excitement from both parents and children alike.
The Stoodley children were particularly enthusiastic about roller coasters and water slides, while their parents looked forward to exploring the rich history of the region. Their adventures included stays at notable venues and visits to several family-friendly attractions throughout Williamsburg.
Great Wolf Lodge
The family kicked off their vacation at Great Wolf Lodge, renowned for its indoor water park boasting pools that maintain a comfortable 84-degree temperature year-round, along with thrilling water slides. The older boys, aged 8 and 10, enjoyed playing independently, while the younger children, 1-year-old Roman and 4-year-old Winter, delighted in the wave pool and various slides. The lodge also featured attractions such as Build-A-Bear, glow-in-the-dark golf, bowling lanes, a ropes course, and the immersive lodge-wide MagiQuest.
Evening activities included lively lobby dance parties and bedtime story sessions. The family’s room featured a cozy “log cabin” nook with bunk beds and a TV, enhancing their stay. Mornings began with breakfast at The Loose Moose Bar & Grill, where they praised the service and enjoyed refillable drink options.
Water Country USA
Another highlight of their trip was a day spent at Water Country USA, Virginia’s largest water park. The family enjoyed attractions suitable for all ages, like the Colossal Curl mega slide and several designated play areas for younger children, such as Cow-A-Bunga and Lil’ Surfers Splash Pad. They also made use of the Lazy River and the Surfer’s Bay Wave Pool while appreciating the park’s cashless entry system for convenience.
Dining Experiences
Dining in Williamsburg was equally memorable. At Water Street Grille, the family made wishes by tossing coins into a fountain while enjoying meals with scenic views of the York River. Ashlee rated her fish tacos as a perfect 10, while her children opted for burgers and mac and cheese.
Additionally, Anna’s Brick Oven Pizza offered authentic Italian cuisine, featuring a special birthday celebration for one of the children, Hudson, complete with cake and a cheering rendition of “Happy Birthday.” The family also visited the Williamsburg General Store, which had a variety of souvenirs and the popular Bubba’s Ice Cream Shack, where they enjoyed waffle cones filled with sprinkles and cookie dough.
Another delightful stop was Emily’s Donuts and Café, celebrated for its impressive selection of donuts and iced coffees, windfalling relaxation after a busy day.
Historical Attractions
Engaging with history was a significant part of the Stoodley trip. The American Revolution Museum at Yorktown featured interactive exhibits and live demonstrations that allowed the children to immerse themselves in history, observing a simulation of the Continental Army encampment and how families lived during the Revolutionary War. The Jamestown Settlement highlighted early colonial life, showcasing replicas of 17th-century ships and interactive displays.
Entertainment Options
The Stoodley family also discovered the Electric Circus Taco Bar at Precarious Beer Hall, noted for its lively atmosphere and delicious street tacos. The indoor arcade provided entertainment for the entire family. For mini-golf enthusiasts, Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf offered themed decorations, while Go-Karts Plus featured thrilling tracks, bumper cars, and indoor arcade games.
Outdoor Adventures
On their trip, the family had the opportunity to bike along the Virginia Capital Trail, surrounded by beautiful scenery and live music at Spoke + Art Provisions Co.. The trip culminated with a visit to Busch Gardens Williamsburg, featuring nine themed villages and exhilarating rides, including the renowned Alpengeist and Loch Ness Monster roller coasters.
Throughout their stay, the Stoodley family noted the area’s cleanliness, family-friendly atmosphere, and focus on safety, making their summer getaway a memorable and enjoyable experience that combined the thrill of entertainment with the charm of history.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Economic Uncertainty Grows in Northern Virginia
Williamsburg Boy Marks Year of Hope After Double Transplant
Tragic Helicopter Crash Claims Six Lives in the Hudson River
Additional Resources
- WJLA: Williamsburg Spring Break Family Trip
- Wikipedia: Williamsburg, Virginia
- Williamsburg Families: Best Things to Do in November
- Google Search: Williamsburg Virginia attractions
- Greater Long Island: Virginia Beach and Colonial Williamsburg
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Williamsburg
- Mommy Poppins: Best Things to Do in Williamsburg, VA for Kids
- Google News: Family Vacation Williamsburg Virginia
Author: STAFF HERE WILLIAMSBURG WRITER
WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER The WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWilliamsburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Williamsburg, James City County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Williamsburg Farmers Market, Yorktown Market Days, and Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce and Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, plus leading businesses in education and hospitality that power the local economy such as College of William & Mary, The Williamsburg Winery, and Sodexo. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREVirginiaBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Virginia's dynamic landscape.
