Sail the York River

Take advantage of the wealth of water bordering Williamsburg by sailing the York River on a tall ship with Yorktown Sailing Charters. Open from late March to early November, board one of two tall ships, Serenityor Alliance, and lend a hand setting sail, watch for wildlife such as dolphins and osprey, or simply sit back and enjoy the views of the Yorktown Victory Monument and Battlefield, the site of the last battle of the American Revolutionary War. Two-hour cruises depart three times daily from Riverwalk Landing Pier in Yorktown. sailyorktown.com

Pairing

Try mead, a honey wine that’s one of the most historic fermented drinks in the world, at Silver Hand Meadery. Sample the ancient beverage and learn how it’s made and reimagined at a free tasting offered in-store, or go in-depth with a 35-minute reserve tasting experience.  silverhandmeadery.com

Go Ape

Take a cue from our primate friends and zip along the treetops at the Go Ape adventure course at Freedom Park, just a 20-minute drive from downtown Williamsburg. Climb, swing and fly over 38 obstacles, including rope ladders, net bridges, trapezes, Tarzan swings and ziplines in two- to three-hour experiences for adults and children over 10. Booking in advance is recommended. goape.com

Pairing

Lift an award-winning pint at Alewerks Brewing Company’s taproom patio on Mooretown Road. Choose from one of its classic year-round offerings, such as the Chesapeake Pale Ale with aromas of citrus, seasonals, such Berlinerweisse with tropical notes available from May to July, or limited editionpours. The taproom is located directly beside the brewery, so be sure to head over for a guided tour. alewerks.com

Busch gardens

Roller coasters and rides, the state’s biggest water park, and live performances are what’s in store at Busch Gardens, a European-themed amusement park. Visit the streets of Paris, the hamlets of Scotland, German Oktoberfest celebrations and more at the park’s nine villages before cooling off at the Water Country USA water park just five kilometres down the road. Friday to Sunday from May 25 to July 1, sample dishes from around the world, 30 different wines, 25 craft beers and 20 cocktails at the park’s Food & Wine Festival.

Pairing

Just 15 minutes down the road, enjoy award-winning wines made from eight varietals — merlot, vidal blanc, traminette, cabernet franc, chardonnay, viognier, petit verdot, albarino —at Williamsburg Winery at Wessex Hundred. Sip the aromatic and bright Wessex Hundred viognier, the unofficial state grape of Virginia, while overlooking 40 acres of rolling vineyards. williamsburgwinery.com