If you’re looking for something fun to do in Tidewater Virginia this summer consider taking a trip to Chippokes State Park in Surry, Virginia. This park, located on the James River has something for everyone. Hikers, bikers, beach enthusiasts, equestrian trail riders, fossil/shark teeth hunters, camping, history and natural beauty lovers alike can find something they will enjoy at Chippokes State Park.
Chippokes was once home to fruit orchards and my guide Joel, explained that this was once the site of one of Virginia’s few legal distilleries.
Rich in early American history Chippokes is said, to be named for the Algonquian Chief, Choapoke who had befriended the settlers. The first records indicate the plantation area was once owned by Capt. William Powell who came to the area on the third resupply ship to Jamestown in 1609. Starting off as a 500 acre land grant to Capt. Powell it grew to over 1,400 acres by 1646. Now a park and museums the property opened to the public in 1971.
Farm and Forestry Museum
The Farm and Forestry museum at Chippokes is an antique lovers dream.
As one of the oldest continuously farmed properties in the country Chippokes State Park has deep roots in farming and the land as well. The Farm and Forestry museum on property is an antique lovers dream. The Farm and Forestry museum contains a variety of over 600 antiques on display in a self-guided museum setting. The museum admission is included in your park fee and well worth the visit to Chippokes State Park itself.
The area across from the Farm and Forestry Museum has several live farm animals to view and a working cultural garden area. During certain times there are programs that include teaching about the livestock and animals on the farm. Visitors should check the Chippokes monthly calendar before their visit to see the list of current Interpretive Programs.
Jones-Stewart Mansion and the River House
Tour of the Mansion, grounds and gardens of Chippokes Plantation The River House Circa 1830The Mansion House was constructed by Jones in 1852
Chippokes State Park is home to two historic houses. The River House Circa 1830 was occupied initially by owner Albert Carroll Jones. The second house known as the Mansion House was constructed by Jones in 1852, along with the accompanying brick kitchen. This stately structure was even built using materials from the property.
The Mansion House is available for interior and exterior tours as part of the park admission.
At the time of Jones’ ownership Chippokes was the home of fruit orchards and my guide Joel, explained that this was once the site of one of Virginia’s few legal distilleries. People even claim this plantation survived the Civil War because Jones sold brandy to both sides during the war.
The River House is only viewable from the outside at this time and is in the process of being restored. The Mansion House however, is available for interior and exterior tours as part of the park admission. Victor and Evelyn Stewart were the last owners of the property and donated Chippokes to the Commonwealth of Virginia in 1967 with the purpose of it being used as a park. The Stewarts are buried on the property as well in the Paradise Gardens.
Things to do a Chippokes
Trails at Chippokes State Park
The visitors center should be a first stop and has a plethora of information about ongoing programs at the park, trail maps, and information about the local area. Park Packs are available as well for checkout from the Visitors Center to explore the park.
Taking a fossil walk with a Park Interpreter or finding sharks teeth on the beach (that you can keep) is a unique opportunity at Chippokes State Park that visitors should definitely take advantage of when visiting. For horse lovers the park has marked equestrians areas for trailer parking and trail ride exploration. In addition to these activities picnicking areas that include rentable shelters with grills and drinking water is an option for visitors who want to relax and enjoy nature.
Camping at Chippokes
On the grounds of Chippokes State Park is a well laid out campground with tent and RV style sites. The campground is laid out in a traditional loop style consisting of two loops. If you’re interested in spending the night you can rent a yurt or bring your own RV, camper or tent. Chippokes also, has cabins for rent on the property.
Walnut Valley House at Chippokes State Park available for nightly rentals.
In the campground there is a bathhouse with showers and restroom facilities. The campground has a dump station, laundry, firewood and an amphitheater where welcoming campfires take place. Group sites are available as well to rent.
Bathhouse at Chippokes State Park Surry, VirginiaCamping site Chippokes State Park Surry, VirginiaInside the showers of the bathhouse at Chippokes State Park Surry, VirginiaInside the women’s restrooms at Chippokes State Park Surry, Virginia
The sites are mostly wooded and it was a very quiet area when I camped. Each site had a trash pole, firepit and picnic table as well as ample room to set up a tent or park a rv. The site I rented also, had a nice elevated gravel area for tent camping or sitting.
Things to note if you’re interested in camping at Chippokes:
•the bathhouse is a little dated, but it was always very clean and well maintained during my stay
•the park is rustic and isn’t a KOA or privately owned campground
•campsites fees included 6 people and 2 vehicles
•the campground allows pets if registered prior and this campground does not allow generator use.
•from the campground it is a quick free (car) ferry ride across the James River to Jamestown, Colonial Williamsburg, Busch Gardens and Yorktown.
•the swimming pool was closed during my visit July 2023 and will be closed through the year
•I would recommend coming with a cooler or refrigerator of food if you’re planning to stay as there aren’t many places close by for grocery or food service.
Fossils, Beaches and History
If you’re looking for a fun day trip, something to add to your Historical Triangle vacation or a stop to setup camp that’s outside the bustle of the city Chippokes State Park has a lot to offer. From fossil/ shark tooth hunting, picnicking, beautiful beaches and history you’re bound to find something for everyone to enjoy at Chippokes. The park is very peaceful and even when the campground is fully occupied the spots are roomy enough to still feel connected to nature.
Thank you for reading! Don’t forget to pin this idea on your vacation board for your next trip inspiration and to check out my other travel posts. If you are a hotel, campground or business and would like me to visit and write a blog for you please contact me at krystle@takeawalkinmyflipflops.com .
I would describe Chincoteague Island, Virginia as a peaceful and a quiet piece of paradise. The island is know for its wild horses and a slower pace of life. The town itself is very charming and has many unique shops, delicious restaurants and prestine shores. In this blog post I’m going to tell you three reasons you need to book a trip to Chincoteague Island, Virginia for yourself.
What is so unique about Chincoteague Island?
In front of the Island Theater in Chincoteague Island, Va you can see Misty’s hoof prints 🐴
If you’re not familiar with the book Misty by Marguerite Henry (written on the island) or seen the 1961 movie you might not know about Chincoteague Island’s unique tradition. The local fire department on the island is know for its annual pony auction fundraiser where the saltwater cowboys go onto Assateague Island and head up the wild horses that roam there.
Statue of Misty on Main Street in Chincoteague Island, Va
The horses are vet checked and swam across the Assateague Channel to Chincoteague Island where foals from the herd are auctioned off to the highest bidder. The proceeds go to future wild horse care and to the fire department. Afterwards the adult ponies and a buy back foal (one bought to return to the island) are then swam back to the island.
This unique tradition is known worldwide and if you’re a horse enthusiast seeing the wild ponies is quite exhilarating. It is worth the visit to Chincoteague Island in itself to be able to see the untouched beauty of these animals. You can learn more about Pony Pinning ,as well as experience the island’s rich history and local culture on your trip to Chincoteague Island, Virginia.
Where to stay on Chincoteague Island
Key West Cottages Chincoteague Island, Virginia Pool at Key West Cottages Chincoteague Island, Virginia
There are a lot of choices from traditional hotels and motels to Bed and Breakfasts, rentals and Air B&B when you’re looking at lodging in Chincoteague Island. The newest and one of the most unique choice for lodging in Chincoteague is the Key West Cottages. From the pastel hues and bay-front accommodations this new resort will bring a tropical vibe to your Chincoteague Island, Virginia vacation. During my trip I stayed in one of their Conch Cottages which was very roomy and had a stocked kitchen equipped with a microwave, dishwasher, blender, coffee maker, full refrigerator/freezer and small table.
The views of the Chincoteague Bay from the cottage and the sunset was spectacular.
In addition, this cottage had a sitting area with tv, separate bedroom with a queen bed and wall mounted tv along with a walk- in shower and ample storage space. The views of the Chincoteague Bay from the cottage and the sunset was spectacular. Key West Cottages was close to many local attractions and dinning. The resort has so many fun amenities though you don’t even have to leave.
Grilling up dinner at the Key West Cottages Chincoteague Island, VirginiaBring your drink mix and Key West Cottages will supply the blender for your visit to Chincoteague Island, VirginiaFresh tuna, grilled lobster and shrimp all from a local store and cooked on the grill at Key West Cottages in Chincoteague Island, VirginiaWeber grill for use at Key West Cottages in Chincoteague Island, Virginia
One of my favorite things about staying at the Key West Cottages was the ability to grill and dine in. The area outside the cottages had several Weber grills and grilling utensils for use. While staying I was able to go to the local grocery store for fresh fish and to grill for dinner. Furthermore there are several places nearby to launch your boat and charters available too if you want to catch your dinner. The cottage had a nice kitchen area for food preparation.
The kitchen at Key West Cottages even has a blender for your enjoyment The kitchen at Key West Cottage is full stockedImagine sitting and enjoying a tropical drink while lounging in the pool at Key West Cottages in Chincoteague Island, Virginia
Being able to stay in after a day of exploring or enjoying the private beach or pool was an added bonus of this beautiful location. In addition to all the essential plates, cups and silverware needed the cottage even had a blender. Making drinks to enjoy on the Key West Cottage private beach or Bayside cottage porch definitely made this trip feel like a tropical vacation. Key West Cottages thought of everything, including a camping lantern in the room that could be used outside and an umbrella incase it rained.
Things to do and see on Virginia’s Eastern Shore
The wildlife refuge on Virginia’s Eastern Shore has plenty of nature to see and beautiful photo opportunities.
There are so many beautiful overlooks and wildlife areas around Chincoteague Island, Virginia and on Virginia’s Eastern Shore. The area it’s truly an outdoor lover’s dream. On the drive north after coming across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel there is a refuge that has a visitor’s center, butterfly trail, a marsh overlook, boat launch and lots of information on the area. I would recommend stopping here. Though the weather was a bit gloomy and it did rain when I was there it was still a pretty area to visit. Plenty of signs are visible after crossing the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel to direct to parks and overlooks.
The ghost fleet at Kiptopeke State Park on Virginia’s Eastern Shore
Another stop to make is at Kiptopeke State Park. This park has some cool views and from the shore one can also, see the ghost fleet of Kiptopeke. The ghost fleet is comprised of old cement ships used during WWII to transport commodities. When no longer needed they were moored off the coast to stand as a jetty. On a clear day more details can be seen, but in the mist they looked quite eerie. Both of these areas are an easy stop on the way up north to Chincoteague.
While you’re visiting Chincoteague Island I would highly suggesting booking a cruise with Daisey Island Cruises. Their cruises are very affordable and offer views of the island you can’t get while on land. They offer Dolphin cruise, wildlife boat cruises and they can also, customize special cruise to fit you or your groups needs. Imagine being able to get up close to the wild horses of Chincoteague and Assateague Island. This certainly is a once and a lifetime experience that you will treasure for years to come.
Dining in Chincoteague
After all the exploring you’re sure to have an appetite and if you love fresh seafood you’re going to especially enjoy many of the restaurants on Chincoteague Island. You’ll find multiple choices that specialize in fresh and local seafood. I would definitely suggest checking out Don’s Seafood while you’re visiting. This hotspot has been serving up local favorites since 1973! The food at Don’s was very flavorful and there were ample choices of fish and seafood on the menu plus other items. The crab legs were especially delicious and the portions were huge.
Peach Melba and French Toast brunch at Bill’s Prime Chincoteague Island, VirginiaCracking crabs at Don’s Seafood Chincoteague Island, VirginiaMade to order donut at the Sandy Pony Chincoteague Island, Virginia
While visiting Chincoteague Island, Virginia I also, enjoyed brunch at a cute little place called Bill’s Prime on Main St and I recommend them. The staff were very friendly and the food was delicious. Tourist and locals alike were standing out the door waiting to be served. If you’re not looking for a sit down and more of a quick bite there are choices for quick service too. I would suggest ordering some delicious made to order donuts while you’re in town from the Sandy Pony.
The lighthouse at Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge
Wild horses, fresh seafood and nature are calling
From the foodie looking to explore new restaurants, the fresh seafood lover or someone that enjoys fishing for your own dinner Chincoteague Island, Virginia has you covered. The location makes it easy to get outdoors too and visitors can find a slower pace of life by walking or bike around breathing in the fresh sea breeze. Chincoteague Island, Virginia and Virginia’s Eastern Shore truly has something for everyone! Book your own stay todaywild horses, fresh seafood and nature are calling.
Thank you for reading! Don’t forget to pin this idea on your vacation board for your next trip inspiration and to check out my other travel posts. If you are a hotel, campground, or business and would like to collaborate please contact me at krystle@takeawalkinmyflipflops.com .
(UPDATED 2025) The holiday season is the perfect time to embrace festive cheer, and what better way to do that than by visiting a holiday pop-up bar? I recently enjoyed two incredible experiences in Virginia that truly captured the magic of the season. First, I explored the Miracle Pop-Up at Waterside in Norfolk, part of an exciting national themed pop up collection, and then I delighted in the tropical charm of Rum and Reindeer at Island Shrimp Company in Rockett’s Landing, Richmond. Both venues offered vibrant décor, unique cocktails, and an atmosphere brimming with joyful celebration and ideal for creating unforgettable memories this holiday season!
Miracle at Waterside Drive Pop Up Holiday Bar
Miracle on Waterside Drive Pop Up Bar
Miracle on Waterside Dr. Holiday Pop Up bar is located in the Waterside District in Norfolk, Virginia and is packed with festive decor. They had a whole menu of speciality holiday themed cocktails (mocktails) and small bites. I liked the photo opps that were offered too. During the experience I chose to prepay to building a gingerbread house. The gingerbread house was in a kit and had everything I needed to build it during my visit.
Miracle on Waterside Dr Pop Up Norfolk, Va
This Pop Up experience would make for the perfect girls night out or a date night. If you’re local to or visiting Virginia and want to go you’ll need reservations to check this out at Waterside in Norfolk, Virginia before it ends Jan 1. If you’re not local check online because there may be a Miracle Popup bar near you.
Reindeer and Rum Bar+ Igloo Experience Island Shrimp Co.
Rum and Reindeer Bar and Igloo Experience is located at Island Shrimp Co. Rockett’s Landing in Richmond, Virginia. During my experience we enjoyed tropical drinks with holiday themed names at the holiday decorated bar and then were led outside on the restaurant’s deck to our private igloo.
Inside Rum and Reindeer Bar + Igloo Dinning Richmond, Va
The igloo is reserved for two hours and seats four people. The igloo included a personal faux fireplace heater, blankets, a faux fur loveseat and a table. We enjoyed drinks and a delicious dinner with dessert followed by adult milk and cookies. All this while being cozy inside our igloo and looking at views of the illuminated Richmond, Virginia skyline. This experience was very unique and memorable!
5 Reasons You Should Visit a Holiday Pop Up Bar this Season
1. Festive atmosphere: Holiday pop-up bars are often decorated with cheerful and festive themes, creating a unique and enchanting atmosphere. This can help people get into the holiday spirit and feel the joy and excitement of the season.
2. Novelty and experience: Pop-up bars offer a temporary and limited-time experience that adds an element of novelty. People enjoy the idea of visiting a place that is only available for a short period, making it a special and memorable occasion.
3. Socializing and gathering: Holiday pop-up bars attract friends, families, and even strangers who come together to enjoy the festivities. It provides a communal space for people to connect, socialize, and celebrate the holidays with loved ones or meet new people who share similar interests.
4. Unique drinks and offerings: Many holiday pop-up bars feature specialty cocktails, seasonal beverages, and creative menu items that are not typically found in regular bars. These unique offerings can be a draw for people seeking new flavors and experiences.
5. Escape from everyday life: Holiday pop-up bars allow individuals to escape the daily routine and immerse themselves in a whimsical and magical setting. It can provide a temporary reprieve from the usual stresses and responsibilities, offering a chance to relax and have fun.
Ultimately, visiting a holiday pop-up bar can be a delightful way to embrace the holiday season, create lasting memories, and enjoy a festive and joyful atmosphere with others.
Experiencing a Pop Up Bar
Overall I think these themed pop up bar experiences are really cool. Both of the pop up bars I visited added to my celebration of the holidays and making new memories. For someone that loves taking pictures both of these locations offered plenty of photo opportunities too. If you’re looking for something unique to do this holiday season I would recommend checking out a pop up bar near you!
There is something magical about holiday decorations and this time of the year. The twinkling lights, the smell of cookies baking, and the cozy feelings that come with the holidays. Not everyone wants to put up an elaborate display of their own though and going to visit a holiday light display is a great way to enjoy beautiful decorations without the stress.
A list of some of the holiday activities this year at Gaylord National. This post contains affiliate links. If you click on one of them, and make a purchase I’ll receive a commission at no charge to you.
The Gaylord National is one of my favorite holiday displays to visit. Not only is the atrium always beautifully decorated and full of Christmas lights, but the hotel also, has many themed activities. Some of the holiday activities for purchase this year include the I Love Christmas Movies walk-through, holiday Build-A-Bear popup, Sweet Shoppe, Tree Lot bar, a rendition of the Christmas Story, and a holiday light show in the atrium (free).
I Love Christmas Movies Experience
Some of my favorite Christmas movie props
One of the new activities this year is the I Love Christmas Movies features a unique walk-through. This experience emerges the visitor in some of the classic Christmas Movies sets such as Year Without a Santa Clause, Christmas Vacation, Christmas Story, The Polar Express, and Elf. In the experience, one can walk into areas with backdrops and props from these movies. Santa’s workshop from Elf, the train from Polar Express, the house from Christmas Vacation, and the town from Year Without a Santa Clause were my favorites of the experience.
Outside the Snow Factory the Build-A-Bear popup shop has many holiday plush to choose from.
Outside the walk-through is a gift shop featuring many products from classic Christmas movies and the Snow Factory area which has many fun holiday-themed activities. Some of the activities this year include an ice hill for tubing, snowball fight games, a Build-A-Bear popup shop, Gingerbread house decorating, a scavenger hunt, and other activities like ice bumper cars. There is enough to keep young and young at heart entertained for the day.
Sweet Treats and Food Options
The Holiday Sweet Shoppe had Hot Cocoa and Eggnog plus the choice of additional alcohol for that extra kick and lots of yummy treats.
The hotel restaurant Old Hickory Steakhouse is a great option if you have time to sit down and enjoy a meal during your visit. I would suggest making reservations in advance if you want to dine there though. Other food options include a marketplace for quick service eats and a popup pizza place in the atrium. There are plenty of options for festive holiday drinks and treats as well in the atrium.
The Tree Lot bar had lots of choices for seasonal holiday drinks.
At the popup Holiday Sweet Shoppe, I tried eggnog with a choice of fireball for an extra kick. The Shoppe also, contained gingerbread houses, holiday treats, Yule log cakes, and desserts to tempt. There was a popup-themed Tree Lot bar in the atrium that had some delicious seasonal drink options as well. I tried the Home for the Holidays cocktail there featuring rum and clove. Both drinks and the macaroon cookies I had at these locations were delicious.
The light show inside the atrium is a must see!
Visiting Gaylord National kicks off our Christmas season and I can highly recommend going to the Gaylord National to celebrate the holiday season. We have made coming to Gaylord National part of our holiday traditions and our first Christmas activity each year. My favorite part of the night is grabbing a drink and watching the light show inside the atrium each year. If you’re local to the National Harbor area the Gaylord National is perfect for a day trip and if you’re a few hours away like me booking an overnight stay extends the fun of this wonderful holiday experience. This would be the perfect place to start a holiday tradition.
I have heard a lot about Great Wolf Lodge since it was built in Williamsburg, VA and it has been one of my places to visit for a while. As an adult in my mid-30s with no children, I kept looking over many reviews, comments, concerns, and complaints dealing with topics related exclusively to people with children. I was hesitant to book a stay at Great Wolf Lodge because of the lack of reviews about adult-only visits. I wasn’t sure if there would be enough for adults to do or if it would be too noisy for us.
Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg, Virginia a break from adulting!
Make no mistake Great Wolf Lodge’s main focus is on children, but we found there was plenty to do to keep us (adults) entertained as well. I felt that a review of the lodge from an adult without children was due. I should mention we are kids at heart and love theme parks. From the time we arrived at Great Wolf Lodge, we honestly had a blast! For our first visit, we chose to go during Halloween. We figured a lot of people might take their children out and maybe not as many people would be vacationing. During our visit, we found the lodge to be busy, but not packed. (Note: The resort did have Halloween activities for children including trick or treating for Halloween.)
Outside the entrance of Great Wolf Lodge in Williamsburg, Va. Wolf ears hey why not!
Inside the lobby of Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg, VirginiaOutside Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg, VirginiaGreat Wolf Lodge is beautifully laid out and definitely has a rustic feel to it.
Upon arrival, I was shocked at the homey feel of the lodge and the lack of a smell of chlorine from the water park. In the lobby when we arrived was a group of children on the floor in front of the fireplace doing a staff-led craft. We used the mobile self-check-in on the app and when we arrived our room was ready for us. Upon check-in in we received an envelope with our wristbands for our stay. We opted to link our credit card to our wristbands putting a $100 hold on the account for charges. This is something to consider if you don’t want to lug around a credit card while you’re at the water park.
Lodging at Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg, Virginia
Family Fireplace Suite at Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg, Va
The wristband is also, your room key and will unlock the door outside the lodge going to the parking lot as well (this feature is not on the children’s bands). The lodge was busy, but it wasn’t overwhelming. We easily located our room. The family fireplace suite was spacious with 2 queen beds, a full-size bathroom with a shower/tub combo, a kitchen area with a microwave and mini fridge, a sofa, 2 TVs, and a fireplace which we especially. The lodge has many types of rooms including themed rooms too with cabin bunk areas for children.
Spring Breakout at Great Wolf Lodge Willamsburg, Virginia and a tour of the Majestic Bear Suite
Dining at Great Wolf Lodge in Williamsburg, Virginia
Food Options at Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg, Virginia
There are several dining options at Great Wolf Lodge without having to leave the lodge. I liked being able to stay on the property and relax with some bar drinks, not having to worry about taking an Uber or taxi. The Loose Moose is off of the main lobby and is a buffet-style restaurant with a bar. They are open for breakfast and then close and reopen at 5 for dinner. We ate here twice during our stay for dinner and enjoyed our food and our bar drinks. Great Wolf Lodge has a frozen Jack and Coke that is good by the way!
The bar menu and some of the food options we tried while eating at the Loose Moose inside Great Wolf Lodge in Williamsburg, Virginia. Themed food (like these for Halloween) are normally on the buffet.
I was most impressed at their concern for dietary restrictions. A staff member came out and went over items that didn’t contain any meat for me and addressed any concerns I had on vegetarian or vegan choices. The salad bar area was full of delicious fresh veggies, pasta salads, potato salad, and a variety of greens. They had a great selection of side dishes too including veggies and an area for main dishes/meats (fish was an option too). Everything we had here was flavorful and tasted fresh.
Other choices for food include pizza and take-and-go salads/sandwiches downstairs from the lobby called the Hungry as a Wolf. There is also, a walk-up restaurant in the water park area called Buckets, a waterpark bar, and an ice cream parlor beside Hungry as a Wolf. In addition, the resort has its own Dunkin’ Donuts in the lobby and we had donuts from there one morning. I enjoyed the ability to place an order on my phone from the resort dining and then pick up my food. It made it hassle-free even to order from our room by using the app.
Turkey and avocado sandwich with Cajun fries from Buckets. They also, have salads and snack options like Bavarian pretzels.Dunkin’ Donuts inside the lobby at Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg, VirginiaFresh fruit and Greek yogurt from Buckets
During our time inside the water park, we enjoyed food from Buckets as well as drinks from the bar inside. The bar also had the football games showing on two TVs on Sunday. Just outside the parking lot of Great Wolf Lodge is another food option in the form of a non-lodge restaurant called Sportsman’s Grill. The restaurant is within walking distance of Great Wolf Lodge and stays with the wilderness theme.
Frog legs at Sportsman’s Grill Williamsburg, Virginia Venison stew Sportsman’s Grill Williamsburg, VirginiaSteak and potato at Sportsman’s Grill Williamsburg, VirginiaTuna fish sandwich with fries Sportsman’s Grill Williamsburg, VirginiaThe menu at Sportsman’s Grill is unique with items such a frog legs and venison stew. They also, had generous cuts of beef and seafood options such as a tuna fish sandwich.
Sportsman’s Grill is similar to a game lodge and the walls are covered in taxidermy animal trophies. The menu is unique too with items such as frog legs, venison stew, and alligator gumbo. They also had a nice beer/wine list. We enjoyed having lunch there during our stay.
Things to do at Great Wolf Lodge (Paid Activities)
In addition to the water park, there are many fun activities to do at Great Wolf Lodge. Most are geared directly towards children like the MagiQuest game which has a spot to buy a wand and play an interactive game through the resort. However, as adults, we enjoyed several of the other activities. The lanes at Ten Paw Alley were shorter and it was similar to duckpin bowling with smaller balls and short pins. This bowling was a bit more challenging than normal bowling and we had fun playing.
Playing laser tag at Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg, VirginiaMy Mom bowling at Ten Paw Bowling inside Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg, VirginiaHalloween at Build a Bear Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg, VirginiaEnjoying some of the (paid) activities inside Great Wolf Lodge including Build a Bear, the Northern Light’s Arcade, Ten Paw Alley and Laser Tag during Halloween at Great Wolf Lodge.
We also visited the Build a Bear during our stay where I stuffed my wolf plush to take home. I’m already a Build-a-Bear fan and was excited about the exclusive options only offered at Great Wolf Lodge. We enjoyed playing a game of laser tag and even had the whole game to ourselves one night. For late-night fun, the Northern Lights arcade is open late, is adult friendly and has many fun traditional-style games that bring back nostalgic feelings.
The price of the tokens was typical of arcades and with $50 worth we enjoyed chasing each other on motorcycles, racing each other in cars, and playing skeetball and basketball against each other. Many of the arcade games give out tickets to redeem for prizes and several of the claw machines allow for play until a prize is won. I felt like a kid again playing some of the games all while enjoying drinks we had gotten from the Loose Moose bar.
Great Wolf Lodge Water Park in Williamsburg, Virginia
Inside the water park at Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg, Virginia
On our first day, we didn’t go into the water park until around 4. They were open from 9-7 the days we visited. On our first time inside we walked around and visually checked out the area. Though the water park was busy we didn’t feel overwhelmed by the foot traffic or by children enjoying the fun.
We opted to go to bar and get some tropical drinks and then go into the 21+ hot tub. The adults-only hot tub is huge and near a family hot tub for people who want to sit with their children. It’s a cozy area and we enjoyed relaxing and having a few drinks before going back to our room when the water park closed.
For those not staying at the lodge there were ample lockers to rent to store belongings, a small necessities shop for things one might have forgotten to bring, and showers/changing rooms. The layout of the park has multiple restrooms too and I never saw people having to wait.
Forget something or want to take home a souvenir? Visit Buckhorn Exchange gift shop inside Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg, Virginia
On our full day at the water park, we rode all of the rides and enjoyed the Howlin’ Tornado the most. Though the rides are inside the water park doesn’t skimp on the size of the tubes and slides with many going outside of the building and looping back in. We liked that there were areas just for smaller children to play, areas geared towards teens/adults, and things families could ride or enjoy together like the wave pool all under the same roof. The Crooked Creek lazy river was one of our favorites and between it and visits to the hot tub, we felt relaxed. We enjoyed being able to ride things together in a double tube.
Review of Great Wolf Lodge in Williamsburg, Virginia
We don’t live far from Great Wolf Lodge in Williamsburg, Virginia so we didn’t venture out during our stay and are familiar with the area. However, for adults that haven’t been to Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown, or nearby Yorktown this could be the perfect hotel to use as a base. The lodge rooms can be accessed without going into the children’s areas or the water park for a quieter stay. The rooms are very spacious and clean. The location of the Great Wolf Lodge would make the lodge great for conferences.
I would highly recommend a trip to Great Wolf Lodge in Williamsburg, Va. We are kids at heart and we can’t wait to go back!
Overall we enjoyed our stay at Great Wolf Lodge and would go again. If you’re looking for a quiet couples weekend this might not be the place for you, but if you love adventure and feeling like a kid again I would highly recommend a trip to Great Wolf Lodge in Williamsburg, Va. I didn’t see anyone else visiting without children or grandchildren, but I don’t feel like people without children are excluded from the lodge. This was a perfect staycation for us as adults and we were glad we tried Great Wolf Lodge out. This trip was a good break from adulting and who couldn’t use more days like that?
Return Visits to Great Wolf Lodge in Williamsburg, Virginia
Valentine’s treats during a February visit to Great Wolf Lodge in Williamsburg, Virginia
New updated stage area for the children’s events at Great Wolf Lodge in Williamsburg, Virginia (2023)
Since first writing this blog we have returned to Great Wolf Lodge five times and even went to check out the holiday decorations for Snowland. I honestly like going in the off-season when the lodge is less crowded. During our most recent trips, I have noticed staffing issues have affected Great Wolf Lodge like many establishments. I have seen some ride and amenity closures like the bar running on limited hours or closing down some rides to alternate staff. Guests still get a quality experience but have to be patient with the staff of Great Wolf Lodge.
On our latest visit I liked how the entry to the lobby at Great Wolf Lodge in Williamsburg had been updated. The lobby was always very crowded during the children’s event times with people checking in/being at the front desk and parents watching their children. Now a designated area with a stage has been made for the children’s programs in the lobby and it is not blocking the entryway to the resort. This lobby update was very much needed. I hope to see Great Wolf Lodge continue to improve and renovate the lodge.
Spring Breakout at Great Wolf Lodge in Williamsburg, Virginia
If you have any questions about my visits to Great Wolf Lodge in Williamsburg, Virginia drop me a comment.
The Virginia Hype Girl: Uncovering the Best of Virginia + Nearby Adventures! 
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