Wish you could spend a night at The White House? Want to know where presidents and celebrities go for vacation? Here’s some insider information for you!
A long winding road shaded by canopy of trees leads you to an expansive resort in the woods. You pass by homes of all sizes, lush golf courses, manicured tennis courts and natural ponds, arriving at a 7,000-square-foot private estate with panoramic views of the James River, where notable individuals such as President Barack Obama, President George H.W Bush, and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi have previously stayed.
The Estate at Kingsmill
Formally known as Pettus House, Kingsmill Resort has gated, manicured, residential grounds. It was the private mansion for the Busch family, who is known for Budweiser Beer and Busch Gardens.
After a $3 million worth of renovations, – featuring beautiful interiors transformed with distinctive furnishings, lighting, textiles and décor from RH, Restoration Hardware – the Estate at Kingsmill looks like a modern villa with high ceilings, teardrop glass chandeliers, luxurious bathrooms (bigger than some of your lofts), distinctive art, gilded mirrors, retractable glass and floor to ceiling windows. A private terrace overlooks an infinity pool, hot tub, and perfect sunrise and sunsets over the James River. And if self pampering is your style, bring your private chef along or hire a butler to cook meals for your family in this state of the art kitchen.
While you can rent this four-bedroom Estate for your next vacation, small wedding, a milestone birthday getaway, or a corporate retreat, there are other more affordable accommodations on the property at well.
The Resort
I stayed at one of the condo style accommodations at Kingsmill Resort. My private unit had parking directly in front of the building. In addition, it did not have hotel hallways or corridors. The entrance truly made me feel like I am walking into my private apartment. Inside, there was a spacious living room with fireplace and television, a dining room, full kitchen, laundry, separate king bedroom, bath, and a balcony overlooking the river. As the units were well spaced out and there were hardly any guests at the resort, it was peaceful and quiet. I mostly watched ducks, rabbits and deer enjoying the vast green spaces while sipping wine from my patio.
A few people decided to rent Cottages at the James for a long term stay during COVID-19. Surrounded by mature trees, wildlife, water and cooler temperatures, Kingsmill Resort has 3,000 acres. Also, it is the perfect escape from busy and cramped city spaces. Pets are also allowed!
Kingsmill Resort also offers onsite amenities such as golf, tennis, spa treatments, yoga and Pilates classes, two luxury SUVs, customized golf carts, private jet skis, personal shoppers, laundry service, and personalized menus and music selections. There are four restaurants on site. However, dining services have been modified and there’s to-go menu only through Kingsmill Express.
Championship Golf
Kingsmill Resort is Virginia’s Only AAA Four Diamond condominium resort. Moreover, it features two renowned 18-hole golf courses, a celebrated golf academy and year-round golf instruction. There’s a good chance that your fellow celebrity guests and diplomats have practiced their swings at the River Course, rated one of the best golf courses in Virginia.
Water Activities
One of Kingsmill’s popular activities include the marina located on the scenic James River, which begins in the Appalachian Mountains and flows 348 miles to the Chesapeake Bay. While you can sit on the deck or beach and enjoy water views, you can also kick up your adrenaline on a jet ski, kayak or paddle board. Boat and pontoon rentals, as well as fishing equipped is available just a few feet from your room. Enjoy summer with a dip in the outdoor swimming pool or slide along the lazy river.
Historic Williamsburg
Williamsburg was the capital of the Virginia Colony from 1699 to 1780 and played a significant role in the American Revolution. It forms the “Historic Triangle” together with Jamestown and Yorktown. It is noted that the British settlers first arrived in the Williamsburg area in 1607. This is also where Pocahontas once walked and where America was born.
There are numerous attractions located within minutes of the Kingsmill. You can learn about American history, taste some of the best pancakes in the country, and enjoy some thrilling rides. Further, plan to visit Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown Settlement, American Revolution Museum at Yorktown, Historic Jamestown, Yorktown Battlefield, the Williamsburg Winery, and Busch Gardens – to name a few.
Getting There
Kingsmill Resort is located on the James River off I‐64 between Richmond and Norfolk. You can fly in to either airport and rent a car or taxi to get to the resort. You can also do a road trip from Washington DC, while checking out other historic sites and Virginia beaches along the way.
Staying Safe
As destinations continue to reopen safely, please make sure to check out the local Williamsburg tourism website and Kingsmill Resort for updates on travel restrictions, social distancing and mandatary protocols. The state of Virginia requires everyone to wear a mask indoors in public places.
