What makes us unique?

Museum’s reopening after a two-year closure bridges past and present with an ambitious expansion and an extraordinary Michelangelo exhibition. By Hannah Serrano / Photo Above By Stephen Salpukas/William & Mary After nearly two years of closure, the Muscarelle Museum of Art at William & Mary is unveiling a transformation that will shape its future for generations. In February 2025, the Muscarelle reopened with an ambitious expansion and an extraordinary Michelangelo exhibition, marking a defining moment in the history of the museum, originally established in 1983. A Bold Evolution What was once an intimate museum is now a far more commanding presence. The $46 million expansion, funded largely by a $20 million estate gift from Martha Wren Briggs, adds 42,000 square feet of gallery and educational space, nearly tripling its exhibition capacity.  Designed by Pelli Clarke & Partners, the new structure honors the museum’s past while boldly embracing its future. Notably, the iconic color tubes on the front facade—an artwork by Gene Davis from the 1980s—have been preserved, maintaining a visual link to the museum’s original identity.  The reimagined Muscarelle is designed for immersion. A grand atrium, anchored by a floating staircase and sky bridge, opens into 14 galleries on the

Douglas Pons, Mayor On behalf of City Council and our residents, welcome to the Greater Williamsburg area. We are a unique community, having the charm of a small town and the sophistication and vibrancy of a 21st-century city. This makes Williamsburg a wonderful place to live and visit. Here you can be a part of the story at Colonial Williamsburg, the internationally renowned living history museum that brings the 18th century to life. Watch skilled tradespeople demonstrate 18th-century craftsmanship, and interact with historic interpreters in a “Revolutionary City” street scene to debate issues that are just as relevant today as during the Revolution. Nearby you will find further opportunities to explore our rich history at Jamestown and Yorktown. Williamsburg is also home to William & Mary, one of America’s oldest institutions of higher learning (boasting Thomas Jefferson among its illustrious alumni), and the students and faculty add energy and creativity to our city. Throughout the year we offer an exceptional array of visual and performing arts as well as outstanding shopping and dining. For modern thrills and entertainment, Busch Gardens and Water Country, USA are here, too. Finally, Williamsburg is a green community, so you can easily leave your car