Yorktown is a must-see for anyone who wishes to fully understand the story of our nation’s birth.
Visit Historic Yorktown
Immerse yourself 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 & breakfast, you’ll find yourself within walking distance of beautiful sandy beaches and a charming waterfront village nestled along the York River. Discover diverse riverfront restaurants, an expert coffee shop and roastery, specialty boutiques, museums, and outdoor recreational activities.
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 the 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 secure 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 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 showcases the role Chesapeake Bay watermen played in shaping our nation, from pre-colonial times to the present day.
As you reflect on the events that led to the creation of our nation, step back into the 21st century, where locally-owned shops and culinary delights await. Yorktown features several unique eateries with diverse menus, including fresh seafood, artisan pizzas, gourmet burgers, and even sushi. No matter the season, you’ll find beautiful views of the York River at every turn.
Take a stroll down Main Street to visit 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. Stop by their charming candy shop next door, in the historic Somerwell House, for ice cream, homemade chocolates, and other treats.
Hop on the Stanley Steamer Wagon for a guided tour that includes memorable moments in history, and picturesque backdrops perfect for snapping photos. Rent a bicycle for a relaxing ride along the Riverwalk and Historic Main Street. If you’re a water lover, rent a kayak or paddleboard for more fun on the York River. Set sail aboard Yorktown’s home-ported schooner, the Alliance II, or take the kids on a pirate adventure cruise.
Whether it’s reliving America’s struggle for independence, taking a leisurely stroll down Riverwalk Landing with an ice cream cone in hand, or listening to the Fifes and Drums march down the street, there’s always something happening in Yorktown!
To book your next day trip or family vacation, check out VisitYorktown.org
This article: Historic Yorktown has been curated from our friends at Go Williamsburg and the original in it's entirety can be found here: https://gowilliamsburg.com/historic-yorktown/
