Williamsburg named among Good Housekeeping’s best U.S. travel destinations for 2026

WILLIAMSBURG – Williamsburg is the recipient of another prestigious honor, this time from one of the nation’s most well-known magazines.

The city was selected as a Good Housekeeping 2026 Travel Award winner.

Visit Williamsburg announced the honor on Wednesday, citing the area’s history, charm and appeal to families as reasons for the honor.

“This recognition reinforces what families have known for generations – Williamsburg is a place where history, discovery and connection come together,” said Edward Harris, President & CEO of Visit Williamsburg.

The accolade comes as the Historic Triangle prepares to take center stage for the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States.

As one of America’s most notable historic destinations, Virginia’s former colonial capital will play a leading role in America250 commemoration initiatives.

Major events planned for 2026 include a Great American Birthday Quilt collaborative art project and Sail250 America, a gathering that will bring a fleet of tall ships from across the world to dock in Yorktown.

Another initiative titled Colonial Williamsburg’s Path to 2026 will commemorate the 100th year of the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, inviting scholars, museums and civic leaders to reflect on America’s founding.

Several new attractions and community experiences are also slated to launch next year, according to Visit Williamsburg. From Feb. 19-22, the city will host the Virginia Black Film Festival, recognizing diverse voices in film through screenings, panels and community events.

In April, Colonial Williamsburg will welcome the new Colin G. and Nancy N. Campbell Archaeology Center. The state-of-the-art educational facility will aim to further strengthen the nation’s understanding of colonial America.

Other events on the horizon for 2026 include the return of the family-friendly Pancake Festival and the debut of the Williamsburg African American Heritage Trail, which will share untold stories of the local Black community through art and immersive interpretation.

“Williamsburg is where America’s story began, and we’re honored to lead the nation’s celebration of our shared story,” Harris said. “From hands-on experiences that bring history to life to initiatives like The Great American Birthday Quilt and Sail250 America, Williamsburg continues to inspire visitors of all ages to explore the rich history and wide range of new attractions that create lasting memories.”

Good Housekeeping‘s editors highlighted not only Williamsburg but also “its neighbors Jamestown and Yorktown,” noting that the three localities are “packed with activities that bring the Revolutionary War… to life.” 

The American Revolution Museum at Yorktown was among the area’s featured destinations, receiving a nod for its outdoor encampment that brings into focus the ways soldiers lived, traveled and survived during the Revolution.

This year’s award winners were determined based on the assessments of hundreds of travel experiences spanning five continents. 

More than 125 travel testers, comprised of industry experts, editors and consumer evaluators, rated destinations according to their attractions, accessibility, lodging variety and safety, as well as the overall appeal and quality of the travel experience.

The full list of Good Housekeeping 2026 Travel Award winners can be found at goodhousekeeping.com/travel2026. For more information about Williamsburg and its upcoming 2026 programming, visit visitwilliamsburg.com.