Williamsburg is a small town with new attractions
Williamsburg draws people for several different reasons. Every year, thousands come here to go to the private University of the Cumberlands, located in the middle of the city. However, in the 2010s, the local scenery shifted a little when residents voted to allow alcohol sales in the city’s restaurants and stores. “It’s like totally rebuilt,” says Deb Rockey, a Realtor with Century 21 Advantage Realty. “Restaurants have really taken over the downtown, and it’s a destination now for walking around at night and a little bit of nightlife. It was a sleepy little town before.” Williamsburg also borders the Daniel Boone National Forest, a massive outdoor destination. Then in 2022, the city welcomed a gambling venue, the Mint Gaming Hall. But despite the new energy, Williamsburg remains a slower-paced community of just over 5,000 people. “It still has that small town feel,” Rockey says.
Neighborhoods have hilly and wooded lots
Homes in Williamsburg are spread out across flat and hilly lots. Many narrow roads with no sidewalks cross the city’s neighborhoods, while patches of mature trees surround some homes. Houses include ranch-style, Craftsman bungalow and Colonial Revival homes. Conditions play a role in prices. Costs go from about $140,000 for a home needing some work to $320,000 for one built after 2020. “For a starter home, you can get something decent for $175,000,” Rocky says. “It’s unusual to find something for $350,000 or $400,000. There are a few nice subdivisions there.” However, homes here don’t often go up for sale, as only seven sold between January and August 2025. Also, more than half of the city rents.
Downtown has pizzas, burgers and bourbon
Many here go downtown to dine out. The Hunt & The Harvest has anything from deviled eggs and mussels to chicken wings and burgers. These meals may be paired with a cocktail or bourbon. The Brick Oven makes handcrafted pizzas, while The Butcher's Pub has bar fare and cold beers. Other popular restaurants in the city include Torres Mexican Steakhouse, a Tex-Mex staple. Walmart offers grocery and retail shopping. Those looking for locally-grown produce may visit the Whitley County Farmers’ Market. The market occurs at two locations, with one being the Goldbug community north of Williamsburg. The Goldbug market usually runs from May to August.
City has quick access to water park, kayaking and campgrounds
The city is close to national forest sites like the Cumberland River Campground. The Cumberland River passes through this area, providing kayaking and fishing spots. The city is also less than 20 miles southeast of Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, well known for its gorge and waterfalls. Some may also time their visit to catch a glimpse of a moonbow, a rare kind of rainbow created by moonlight. “It’s massive,” says Connie Hunt, a Realtor with Century 21 Advantage Realty, about the national forest. “There are a lot of trails in it. People like to hike and horseback ride. It’s beautiful.” The city’s amenities include the Kentucky Splash Waterpark & Campground, where features include a wave pool and sets of twisting and spiraling slides. Williams City Park has a playground and a couple of baseball fields for Little League games.
Williamsburg City School offers career prep
The community has Williamsburg City School, which covers prekindergarten to 12th grade. The school, which has an enrollment of 800 students, receives a B-minus grade from Niche. The school offers courses in growing fields like computer science and virtual reality. While still in high school, students may take dual-credit classes and earn an associate’s degree from the University of the Cumberlands. The area is also served by Whitley County School District, which gets a B-minus grade. Its schools include Whitley County Central Primary, which receives a B and covers prekindergarten to second grade. There’s also Whitley Central Intermediate School, which gets an A-minus and serves third to sixth graders. Whitley County High School receives a B-minus.
Old Fashioned Trading Days is a long-time tradition
One of the city’s traditions is Old Fashioned Trading Days. In September, the city closes off downtown for a few days to let residents browse many craft and food vendors. The smell of grilled meats and barbecue fills the air during the event, as bands play bluegrass tunes for the crowds. Children may also get their faces painted or play in bounce houses.
Commuters quickly get on I-75
Interstate 75 passes through the city, providing commuters a direct route to nearby communities. The interstate goes directly to Knoxville, about 70 miles south. Many in Williamsburg would go to Knoxville for services like air travel. The Knoxville area’s McGhee Tyson Airport is one of the closest hubs for commercial flights. Williamsburg residents also need to leave the city for some medical care. Located 14 miles north, Baptist Health Corbin is one of the nearest hospitals.
