|
In May, the Queen of England crossed the ocean to join the 400th Anniversary celebration of the first permanent English settlement in America at Jamestown, Virginia. Families should give Jamestown a go this summer. Sounds a bit stuffy? Just visit Jamestown’s Website, www.historyisfun.org and to get a different view.
Families can explore the Powhatan Village where Pocahontas grew up and James Fort where Captain John Smith and the colonists settled in. At the Riverfront Area visitors can board the replica ships Godspeed, Discovery and the Susan Constant.
Historical, costumed interpreters demonstrate weaving, cooking, canoe building, blacksmithing and musket firing. Hands-on activities include grinding corn and playing corncob darts or ninepins (bowling). Youngsters can even try on English armor.
After your fill of seventeenth-century amusements, a visit to nearby Busch Gardens might be in order. The world’s tallest floorless dive coaster, Griffon, just opened this season. If the 90-degree plunge isn’t your cup of tea there are plenty of rides suited to mellower tastes.
The Fireworks Extravaganza on July 1, 2, 3 and 4 will light up the night sky and is included with general admission, which is $54.95 for adults and $47.95 for children ages 3 to 9. Visit www. Buschgardens.com for more information about multi-day passes, entertainment and rides at the European-themed park.
Less than an hour’s drive from Williamsburg is the Virginia Living History Museum in Newport News where you can see The Skies of Jamestown at the planetarium theater. It highlights the navigational difficulties colonists faced as they crossed the ocean. Also, they have Survivor: Jamestown Maze, which challenges families to test their survival skills as they weave through a maze in the role of Jamestown colonists. Look at www.Americas400thanniversary.com for more information about area attractions and events.
Diana Erbio celebrated Jamestown’s 399th birthday last year with her family.
Box: For lodging, dining and package information visit www.gowilliamsburg.com or call 800-211-7165.