The Governor’s carriage

When I came up with the Girlfriend Getaway idea for this blog, I never thought I’d be writing about what to date has been my most favorite getaway of all: A getaway with my 10-year old daughter Maddie.

Mads and I had the chance to tour Colonial Williamsburg this summer while on assignment for another publication. And we had the most delightful time, from her dressing up in period costume (despite the sweltering temperatures and equally sweltering humidity) to both of us dancing at the Governor’s Palace, to a mother – daughter tavern dinner that included an astounding magic show that we still marvel over. (Where did  those oranges come from?)

Colonial Williamsburg is a real American Girl getaway – so bring Felicity and Elizabeth if you’ve got them — this is their story come to vivid life. It is so easy to get caught up in Revolutionary times – from the dramas being reenacted in front of the Capitol to the gracious evenings spent dancing to the tavern sing-along at dinner.

So this week, Maddie and I want to take you to the ultimate spot for an all-American mother/daughter getaway: Colonial Williamsburg.

DAY 1: Get your bearings in Colonial Williamsburg; a map and guide to each week’s activities is a must. Peruse said map and guide over a leisurely meal or beverage in the garden at Chowning’s, one of the town’s eateries. (Be sure to spring for the $10 refillable plastic mug if you’re a soft-drinker – you’ll save buckets of money.)

The keys to exploring Williamsburg are pacing yourself, planning ahead and also taking a break from all the history – and there are plenty of diversions to be had.

Next stop is outfitting yourselves – or at least your daughter – in period costume. Dresses are readily available, either from the Market Square Stands or the Mary Dickinson Shop. Rentals cost about $20/day or $50 and up to purchase; hats and caps are only available for purchase – about $25 and 6, respectively.

 Maddie in her colonial costume

 Then, perhaps a carriage ride through town – either in the splendid Governor’s carriage, with its leather seats and hand-painted trim, or a simpler, open-topped carriage – is in order. The short (15 minutes or so) rides offer an overview of the town – as well as allow us ladies to practice our parade waves.

Swing by one of the Revolutionary City activities, which take place throughout the city throughout the day. The historic interpreters are scattered though the crowd to pull visitors into the action.

Then it’s time to wander. A favorite of all children is definitely the Powell House, where kids eagerly jump into the chores of the day – mashing vegetables or rolling out dough in the kitchen, making beds, feeding the chickens. Once the chores are done, there is a bit of fun – learning Colonial parlor games or practicing a new dance.

At the Powell House, learning parlor games…

…and how to roll the hoops.

DAY 2: This morning, indulge in a hearty breakfast – either at the bountiful buffet in the dining room of the Williamsburg Inn, or a more casual breakfast at the Lodge – because it’s time for some real work, Colonial-style.

Become a farm apprentice or get muddy in the brickyard, stomping the clay to make it pliable enough for the brick molds. When the hard work is over, take in one of the day’s programs.

After lunch – it may be time to get back to the future – if only for a while. Head into Yorktown to explore the James Riverfront, take a sail on the Schooner Alliance, or explore the downtown boutiques. Or spend the afternoon at Busch Gardens Europe, screaming on roller coasters.

DAY 3: Put the period costumes back on for a final day of colonial life. Pop into the Coffee House backyard to see what kind of ‘Delightful Diversions’ are on for the day, wander through the historic buildings (you can tell which are open by the flag out front) and catch a fife & drum program. That evening, join in a dance at the Governor’s Palace, and finish with a grown-up girl’s dinner at the King’s Arms Tavern.

At the Coffee House backyard, an interpreter brings the day’s events to life.

MUST STAY: In Williamsburg – and the options are plentiful, from the elegant Williamsburg Inn to the charming historic Colonial Houses. Maddie and I stayed in a house, and we loved it – our own little colonial place to call home.

Prices for Williamsburg lodging range from budget through luxury; the Inn, Lodge and Colonial Houses offer the best walking access to the city, not to mention the sounds of cannon fire and the chance to explore the city and its charms at any moment. Online: Program, lodging and general information about Colonial Williamsburg is online at www.history.org. Note that CW is a ticketed attraction; admission ticket/hotel packages are available.