What makes us unique?

An 18th Century-Style Retail Village The plan was to relocate the scattered shops in the district to a central location along what is now known as Duke of Gloucester Street, between William & Mary and the Historic Area. Merchants Square was designed to incorporate the many perspectives that helped shape the British Colonial and early American landscape, mixing the designs of American architects, such as Thomas Jefferson, with the building influences of Caribbean warehouses.  Today, Merchants Square boasts more than 40 shops and restaurants. Both locals and visitors flock to Merchants Square for the one-of-a-kind shopping, dining, special events or just for a scenic stroll along the bricks. Take a retail adventure into the mix of nostalgic shops and chic boutiques at Merchants Square. This historic retail village showcases posh apparel and fashions from distinguished designers. The square also houses jewelry stores, colonial-inspired souvenir shops, a classic candy store and William & Mary campus store. Specialty shops include cooking and kitchen supplies, and fine houseware items to transform your home into a swanky abode. The restaurants within Merchants Square range from upscale eateries to quaint cafés and pub fare. Local restaurants entice visitors with a wide range of rich and

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

Within a one-mile radius, you will find specialty shops, museums, and a variety of riverfront restaurants catering to both the pickiest and most polished of palates.  Whether it’s oysters, tuna, or softshell crabs you crave, fresh seafood is always on the menu at Yorktown Pub, Umi Sushi, Riverwalk Restaurant, and Water Street Grille. Choose from brick oven pizzas, gourmet burgers, and more than two dozen local craft beers when you dine at Water Street Grille. Indulge in steak, pasta, and special cocktails at Riverwalk Restaurant. At Carrot Tree Kitchens, enjoy scratch-made cakes and Southern favorites like Brunswick Stew and Ham Biscuits. Satisfy your sweet tooth with decadent frozen treats from Ben & Jerry’s. Or savor scrumptious tacos, burrito bowls, quesadillas, and sandwiches from Coastal Thirst. Sit on the sand or benches as you watch boats and wildlife pass by while enjoying your meal. Traditional Brunswick Stew In addition to the many restaurants, you’ll find several stores designed in the spirit of Colonial architecture, offering nautical-inspired home decor, custom-made jewelry, historical books, beach supplies, and other unique items and services. Walk in the footsteps of our nation’s founders and beloved patriots—men like George Washington, Alexander Hamilton, and the Marquis de Lafayette—when