Colonial Williamsburg Goes Digital: A New Virtual Experience

Colonial Williamsburg has teamed up with Google to launch a fresh online platform that lets people explore the historic area from their computers or phones. The new site lives on Google Arts & Culture and features 60 short stories that illustrate everyday life in the 1700s, along with projects that highlight American history such as caring for rare animal breeds and restoring a school that once taught Black children. Visitors can also view about 3, 500 photographs and artifacts from the museum’s collection, as well as dozens of 360‑degree tours that let them move through streets and buildings just like a street‑view map. An AI chat helper, powered by Google’s NotebookLM tool, answers questions about the Revolutionary era using more than 150 carefully chosen primary and secondary sources. The platform is separate from Colonial Williamsburg’s own website, which still handles ticket sales and event schedules.More than 70 staff members from across the organization worked on the project, which began two and a half years ago. The launch comes as the United States celebrates 250 years of independence and Colonial Williamsburg marks its own centennial. Leaders at both institutions noted the importance of digital history tools in keeping people engaged, especially after a survey showed that many Virginians are unaware of the significance of 2026. While nothing can replace a visit to the physical site, the virtual experience broadens access for those who cannot travel and offers deeper learning for past visitors. The partnership reflects a shared belief that technology can breathe new life into historic stories and inspire future generations.