Let’s be honest: vacationing with a 10- and 13-year-old is a high-stakes gamble. You’re aiming for wholesome family bonding; they’re aiming for maximum Wi-Fi, TikTok scrolling, and the freedom to completely tune you out. But this spring, I actually managed to crack the code during a long weekend getaway to Williamsburg, Virginia, with my two nieces.
Our home base was Marriott’s Manor Club at Ford’s Colony, a vacation club property that all three of us came to love. On Friday night, we checked into a two-bedroom suite that was giving thoughtful great aunt’s house vibes more than boilerplate condo.
Our suite was clean, well-appointed and gave us the travel commodity I value most: plenty of room to spread out. With comfy beds, flat-screen TVs, and a screened-in balcony perfect for lazy afternoons, the kids’ only complaint after checking in was why we were having pizza for dinner, again! These girls actually prefer salads. The full kitchen made in-room dining a breeze. We enjoyed breakfasts in our pajamas, and orange juice in stem glasses—something we definitely don't do at home.
Every details of Marriott Manor at Ford's Colony was laced with history, including padded headboards and artwork throughout the suite.The resort itself is tailored for families who want to stay active without feeling forced. We spent our afternoons playing mini-golf, paddleball and cornhole. But the biggest draw for the girls was swimming. We hopped between the indoor and outdoor pools at least twice each day.
The game room—complete with pool, foosball, ping pong and multiple gaming consoles and a library of games—was a great diversion for a rainy morning. The front desk also lets you check out board games and puzzles to take back to your room—a great touch for late nights. For a quick afternoon pick-me-up, we grabbed fresh fruit smoothies from Bistro 1699 on-site. We tried all three flavors—strawberry, raspberry and mango—and they were all fresh, fruit-filled refreshers.
The girls enjoyed playing ping pong, both indoors at out.As the sun went down, we gathered around the property’s crackling fire pit, roasting marshmallows and making messy s’mores under the stars.
Eventually, we had to leave our little resort bubble to do what you're supposed to do: travel back in time. The drive from the Manor Club right into the heart of Colonial Williamsburg is an easy, 15-minute straight shot—about seven miles away. We spent a gorgeous morning exploring the historic grounds. The absolute highlight for the girls was the majestic Governor’s Palace. It’s grand, slightly imposing, and surrounded by beautifully manicured gardens that look straight out of a period drama. We even spent a good chunk of time trying to navigate our way through the famous hedge maze out back.
Historical reenactors truly brought the Colonial Williamsburg experience to life.For dinner, we leaned entirely into the theme and snagged a table at the iconic King’s Arms Tavern on Duke of Gloucester Street. Opened back in 1772, the place is an absolute trip. The staff is dressed in authentic period garb, the dining rooms are intimate and lit by pewter candlesticks, and we were even serenaded by a live tavern musician playing traditional tunes. The girls got a total kick out of the authentic language and instructions for cooking on the menu, and eating by candlelight felt like a genuine step back in history.
Related: The 9 Best Things to Do in Williamsburg
After another day of hanging out at the resort, we headed into the historic downtown which is only about five miles. It took a few minutes to hunt down a parking spot, but the hassle faded once we were on foot. The downtown area is incredibly charming and walkable, packed with local boutique shops and enticing restaurants.
The Amber Ox Public House served a delicious elevated Southern meal to end a perfect day in Williamsburg.We had dinner at Amber Ox Public House on Prince George Street, a trendy, industrial-chic spot known for its elevated Southern food. The 13-year-old had clams for the first time and ate every single one! The atmosphere was lively, the meal was excellent, and it gave us a taste of the city's modern culinary scene.
This spring retreat turned out to be the perfect reset button. We unplugged, played a ridiculous amount of games, and actually talked to each other. I’m already looking at the calendar to see when we can go back.
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