Williamsburg Inn, an official Colonial Williamsburg Hotel

Williamsburg Inn

"Visiting storied battlegrounds and revolutionary settlements is a rite of passage for any American kid, but those who’ve done it know it’s not always so exciting—who cares where our ancestors churned butter?—and that more often than not, it entails tiring tours, tepid guides, and honky hotels, where the only thing that feels historic is the musty décor. Not so at the Williamsburg Inn, just steps from the Revolutionary City. This 62-suite Colonial Revival hotel built by John D. Rockefeller, Jr. in 1937 is hardly tired or stale: Rooms in shades of custard and pale blue are decorated in the early 19th century Regency style, with carved wooden tables and damask upholstered Queen Anne sofas lending real, refined elegance rather than revolutionary kitsch. An extensive renovation in 2001 enlarged each of the suites, adding a new tearoom and bar lounge to boot. Perhaps somewhat ironically, you’ll be treated like royalty here: Despite the highfalutin’ garb, the totally unpretentious staff offers turndown service, and will even come and light the fireplace for you. The hotel also offers discounted tickets to Williamsburg—basically a colonial theme park—where kids can join an angry mob (no taxation without representation!) or pretend to march to Yorktown to declare independence. For parents, there’s a much-beloved spa and a golf course with 45 walkable holes. And did we mention the free hot chocolate in the lobby? Don’t be surprised when your kids beg you to come back—we’ll just say we told you so."