Have you finished your holiday shopping yet?
If not, don’t panic! Williamsburg, Virginia has plenty of places for great shopping! Whether you are looking for something familiar or something one-of-a-kind, you can find it at one of the many shops located here.
We’ve made a list of our Top 3 Best Places for Holiday Shopping in Williamsburg, Virginia! We’ve also included a few places NOT to visit, to help you save some time and frustration!
Best: Williamsburg Premium Outlets
If you’re shopping for a specific brand name, the Williamsburg Premium Outlets will probably have what you’re looking for. With 135 stores, such as Tommy Hilfiger, Kate Spade, Ann Taylor, and Nautica, you’re sure to find your favorite brand names here. And best of all, you’ll get these items at the lower outlet pricing! Perfect for last minute, one-stop shopping!
Best: Colonial Williamsburg’s Merchants Square
If you’re looking for unique items you’ll find only in Williamsburg, you must visit the shoppes in Merchants Square. This shopping center makes up the downtown Williamsburg area and features lots of local establishments that are completely unique. Some of our favorite shops are Mermaid Books, The Peanut Shop, Scotland House Ltd, and Williamsburg at Home! We highly recommend taking a stroll through Merchants Square while you’re here. Chances are, you’ll find something you love!
Best: New Town
Just a few miles away from downtown Williamsburg is the New Town community area. This community is a modern area with shops, restaurants, businesses, and even new housing! Just as the name would suggest, it really is the “New Town” section of an otherwise historic distination. This area is perfect if you’re looking for a place to spend the day while getting in a little shopping. New Town offers 170 shops, a movie theater, parks, walking trails, and more! We definitely recommend setting aside some time to explore this up and coming area of Williamsburg.
Now that you know where to go, we also wanted to tell you about a few places that you can skip while you’re here.
Worst: The Williamsburg Pottery
Many years ago, the Williamsburg Pottery was a “must-see” on your trip to Williamsburg. It hosted unique, artisan items from guest artists and offered great prices on these high-quality pieces. In recent years, the Williamsburg Pottery rebranded, no longer housing the same artisan goods. It’s also quite a drive from the downtown area. We just don’t think it is worth the time. You can read the reviews here.
Worst: Strip Malls
There are quite a few strip malls you will find throughout Williamsburg, especially in the tourist areas. Some have stores that claim to have great “souvenirs”, along side familiar stores, like Marshall’s and Ross. This is great for personal shopping and quick necessities, but if you’re looking for quintessential Williamsburg gifts, you won’t find them here.
Do you have a favorite shop in Williamsburg, Virginia?