Raleigh Tavern
The most famous tavern of the colonial era, where legislators met in secret after the governor dissolved the assembly to discuss boycotts of British goods and other acts of resistance.
The Raleigh Tavern stands on the east end of Duke of Gloucester Street. In the 18th century it was the social and commercial center of Williamsburg, hosting balls, auctions and banquets. After the governor dissolved the assembly in 1769 and again in 1774, Washington, Jefferson and other legislators moved to the Apollo Room here to continue meeting. There they planned a boycott of British goods and the convening of a Continental Congress. The present building was reconstructed in the 1930s and can be toured with a guide. The bakery next door sells gingerbread and other colonial-style treats.
Opening hours
About 09:00–17:00
Nearby sights
- Capitol (Colonial Williamsburg)
- Colonial Williamsburg Historic Area
- Merchants Square
- Governor's Palace
- Bruton Parish Church
- George Wythe House
- Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg
- Wren Building, College of William & Mary