One of the two outdoor pools
We headed to King’s Creek Plantation resort in Williamsburg, Virginia for a spring break stay and found the perfect hub for area exploration. This family-friendly resort of tree-lined streets that wind through an assortment of cottages and town houses is next to Water Country USA waterpark. Busch Gardens, Colonial Williamsburg, historic Jamestown and Yorktown, are just a quick drive away. In a little over an hour we made it to Virginia Beach for a day trip.
The Aquatic Center and Resort Check-in
King’s Creek’s ambiance and offerings created a peaceful, easy-going respite between our site-hopping jaunts in this part of Virginia. Within minutes of our arrival—registration is at the Aquatic Center, we had towel passes for the pool, a car tag permit, a list of the weekly activities, a map of the resort, and our cottage keys.
A two unit cottage
Our two-bedroom cottage for 6 people was airy, tastefully decorated, and well-appointed with everything that one could want for a make-everyone-happy vacation.
The main living space included the kitchen, living room and dining area. A stacked washer/dryer unit was tucked in a closet, and a half-bath was part of the upstairs arrangement. Because of the vaulted ceiling, large windows, and open floor plan, the resulting light and space was lovely. With a flip of a switch, the electric fireplace took the chill out of one of the colder nights.
As I poked around, opening kitchen drawers and cabinets to reveal their wares, I thought, “We should cook.” We did. Pots, pans, mixing bowls, casserole dishes and a baking sheet were put to good use. A dishwasher, glass top electric stove, refrigerator, blender, a microwave and a coffee maker rounded out the appliances. Six sets of tableware, glasses (including wine glasses), plates and cups were neatly arranged in kitchen cabinets. Potholders, dish towels, a small bottle of dish soap, dishwasher detergent, one packet of laundry detergent and extra garbage bags were included. Most importantly there were several coffee filters and two packs of coffee.
A well-equipped kitchen of the 2 bedroom cottage
If you have a hankering to grill—we did, gas grills are located throughout the resort’s property. The one we used was right across the street from our cottage and was brand new.
In our cottage configuration, the bedrooms were downstairs from the main living area. The master bedroom had the king size bed and the other room had two twins. Each bedroom had a full bath. Washcloths were folded into fans and tucked into the hand towels for a lovely touch. Shampoo, soap and lotion were included. The iron and ironing board were in the master bedroom walk-in closet.
Each bedroom, like the living room, had a flat-screen TV and DVD player. If you don’t have DVDs, Kings Creek Plantation has an extensive assortment for $2 a night. Board games are free to use. The assortment ranges from Candyland to Connect 4.
Along with renting a DVD, we enjoyed the resort’s 18-hole putt putt golf course. Shuffleboard, tennis and basketball are other offerings.
2nd bedroom in the two bedroom cottage
The Aquatic Center’s pool was big enough for a game of volleyball, lap swimming and splashing around. One of the hot tubs was inside and one outside. For dry level exercise, I headed to the fitness center with its circuit machines, treadmills, bicycles and elliptical. Both the men’s and women’s restrooms had showers, a sauna, and a steam room.
Because it was still cool, people weren’t swimming in the two outdoor pools, but I expect when it’s warmer, these are busy.
Aquatic Center pool is a multi-generational hub
We bought groceries at Target within shouting distance. Literally, it was close enough to walk there.
Lodging ranges from one bedroom cottages to town house estates that can sleep 10. Rates range from $115 to $539 depending upon the size of the unit and the time of year.
**This is also a time share property, as well as a resort for those not in a time share mode. I took the bait almost two years ago at the Ohio State Fair and prepaid for a deal that included two tickets to Colonial Williamsburg and two tickets to Jamestown/Yorktown. No, we didn’t buy a timeshare after the requisit presentation but we thoroughly enjoyed our stay. I found making reservations incredibly easy. The staff was friendly, helpful and met all of our needs with a smile. I would come back.
The tennis courts include basketball hoops
Although check out was at 10 am, we were allowed to extend until 11. After checkout, we were welcome to use the resort’s facilities for the rest of the day if we wished.
You can make reservations at King’s Creek Plantation’s website. You do not have to attend a time share presentation if you just book a stay as a regular guest. You can even make a booking through Booking.com or other online hotel booking sites.
Post and photos by Jamie Rhein, member of the Midwest Travel Writers’ Association
