Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum, Williamsburg (must see)

The Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg offer a captivating journey through American history and culture, showcasing an extensive collection of fine and decorative arts from the 17th to the 19th centuries. Comprising the DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum (DWDAM) and the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum (AARFAM), this cultural enclave provides visitors with a multifaceted exploration of artistic expression in early America. Originally established in 1985, the museum has undergone expansions and renovations, including a forthcoming enhancement slated for 2019 with a new street-level entrance.

The DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum immerses visitors in the elegance and craftsmanship of British and American fine and decorative arts spanning the period from 1670 to 1840. From exquisite furniture and paintings to silverware and ceramics, the museum's diverse collections offer insights into the cultural and social fabric of colonial America. Attendees can also explore numismatics, textiles, weaponry, and more from the Colonial Williamsburg collection, with opportunities to engage in hands-on activities, attend lectures, and enjoy musical events in the Hennage Auditorium.

Adjacent to the DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum, the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum celebrates the vibrancy and authenticity of American folk art. Founded as the nation's first continually operated museum dedicated to folk art, it owes its inception to the generosity of Abby Aldrich Rockefeller and her husband, John D. Rockefeller Jr. Visitors can admire colorful and whimsical creations by amateur artisans, gaining a deeper appreciation for this cherished cultural heritage.