Yorktown is a must-see for anyone who wishes to fully understand the story of our nation’s birth.
Visit Historic Yorktown
Immerse in an area as rich in American history as it is in modern-day charm. Whether you book a riverfront hotel room or choose a quaint bed and breakfast, you will find yourself within walking distance of beautiful, sandy beaches and a charming waterfront village nestled along the York River. You’ll find several different riverfront restaurants, an expert coffee shop and roastery, specialty boutiques, museums and outdoor recreational fun.
Yorktown is a must-see for anyone who wishes to fully understand the story of our nation’s birth. Travel back to October 1781 and tour the home where the commander of the Virginia militia negotiated terms of surrender that effectively ended the Revolutionary War. The original brick walls of the Nelson Home still bear the scars of cannonballs fired during that final clash at Yorktown. Explore the battlefields and walk in the footsteps of our founders—such as George Washington and Alexander Hamilton. Pay tribute to those who sacrificed their lives to ensure our independence at the Yorktown Victory Monument—a statue first commissioned at the end of the war and completed almost a century later in the late 1800s. Take a trolley ride down the road to the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown which offers a comprehensive look at the struggles and victories from the twilight of the colonial period to the dawn of the Constitution. The educational Watermen’s Museum demonstrates the role Chesapeake Bay watermen played in the molding of our nation from pre-colonial to modern times.
And as you reflect on the events that led to the creation of our nation, step back into the 21st century where art galleries, locally owned shops, and culinary temptations await. Yorktown includes several one-of-a-kind eateries with vast menus featuring fresh seafood, artisan pizzas, gourmet burgers and even sushi. Everywhere you turn, you will find beautiful views of the York River, no matter the time of year.
Take a stroll down Main Street to find Mobjack Coffee Roasters and Petite Cafe located in the Cole Digges House c 1726 and enjoy expertly roasted coffees, espressos, teas, sweets and much more. Visit their charming candy shop next door in the historic Somerwell House and enjoy ice cream, homemade chocolates, candies and treats.
Rent a bicycle to take a relaxing ride along the Riverwalk and historic Main Street. Or hop on a Segway for a guided tour that includes some lesser-known (but equally memorable) moments in history, and beautiful backdrops for snapping pictures. For the water lovers, rent a kayak or paddleboard for more fun on the York River. Set sail aboard Yorktown’s home-ported schooners, the Alliance II and Serenity or take the kids on a pirate adventure cruise.
Yorktown is joined by the scenic Colonial Parkway which travels from Jamestown to Williamsburg, and is located just 12 miles east of Williamsburg. While it remains much as it was during the waning days of the Revolution, it has become a premier travel destination for fine dining, shopping, outdoor recreation and special events. Whether it’s reliving the chronicles of America’s struggle for independence, taking a leisurely stroll down the Riverwalk with an ice cream cone or listening to the Fifes and Drums march down the street—there’s always something going on in Yorktown!
To book your next day trip or family vacation, check out VisitYorktown.org
