This past weekend, I was down in Williamsburg, Virginia for my older brother's college graduation from William and Mary College. It is a gorgeous area, especially considering all the historical context that it holds, but this city also holds many exciting attractions and fun things to do not only with friends but the entire family. If you are ever down in the area, or are planning on taking a visit, there are many activities to choose from. Here are just a few of the many.

1. Busch Gardens Europe

Named "world's most beautiful theme park" for the 22nd year in a row, this theme park is very kid-friendly as well as hosting thriller rides appealing to those who want a little more than the Battering Ram or Escape From Pompeii. Thrillers such as Apollos Chariot, Verbolten, Griffon, and their newest coaster, Tempesto, will have guests screaming at the top of their lungs.

2. Water Country USA

Staying on the topic of theme parks, Water Country USA has an assortment of rides that will have you and your friends and family laughing and having a good time the entire day. Kick back and enjoy the sun while getting a splash to cool off at this theme park.

3. Great Wolf Lodge

Carrying a similar vibe to the aforementioned theme parks, Great Wolf Lodge is a great place to go, summer or winter, to kick back, relax, and enjoy the inside water park.

4. Colonial Williamsburg

If you are a history buff, then this is the place for you. Take a tour of CW and explore what was once a part of our country. With people dressed up as if it was the 1700s, you can explore the stores and Governor's Palace in just one day.

5. Cheese Shop

Located in Colonial Williamsburg, this shop not only has a variety of cheese to choose from, but also a sandwich shop in the back where you can create your own sandwich with the various cheeses and their homemade "house" dressing.

6. William and Mary

Established in 1693, this college campus is definitely somewhere to go before you die. Home for a while to some of our most famous presidents like Thomas Jefferson, John Tyler, and James Monroe, this campus is overall gorgeous with the brick and cobblestones located all around. With many traditions on the campus, one for the incoming freshmen is walking into the campus through the Ren Building, while in their senior year, they walk out.

7. Access to Jamestown

If you are ever bored in Williamsburg (which is unlikely), Jamestown is right down the road. In Jamestown, you and your family can not only explore and learn about the settlement itself, but also learn about Pocahontas' role in the settlement as well as the struggles the explorers had to face.

8. And Yorktown

Continue down the Colonial Parkway and head to Yorktown to complete the Federal Triangle.

9. The Outlets

Take a break from all the history and thrill and shop at the Williamsburg Premium Outlets. Stores such as Nike, Adidas, Nine West, and more are hosted here to give you the discounts to meet your needs.

10. New Town

Another way to take a break and relax is by catching a movie at the Regal Cinema, grabbing a bite to eat, or exploring what is around New Town. It appeals to all ages for a night of fun.

11. Travel down to Newport News

Only located about 20 minutes away, Newport News is down the road with more attractions for the entire family to enjoy.