Historic Yorktown
A revolutionary riverfront treasure.
Historic Yorktown, a 15 minute drive from Williamsburg along the scenic Colonial Parkway, is most remembered as the site of the pivotal victory in the American Revolutionary War.
This picturesque waterfront village offers history, art, concerts, special events, shopping and water fun – it’s a must-see for visitors to America’s Historic Triangle. Visitors also enjoy strolling the quaint streets and riding the free trolley. The sounds and precision marching of The Fifes and Drums of York Town set the stage with patriotic music complementing the other historical attractions.
Yorktown Battlefield and Visitor Center is a national park where tours include battlefield earthworks, Washington’s Headquarters, Washington’s tent and Surrender Field. Visitors step back in time walking through the battlefield, past the Yorktown Victory Monument, and then past Moore House where surrender terms were negotiated. Yorktown Victory Center is a living history museum of the American Revolution. Indoor galleries and exhibits tell the powerful stories of men, women and children who lived during the war. Outside, a recreated military encampment depicts life in the military including the use of medicine in Colonial times. At a simulated 1780s farm site, visitors can learn about growing crops, preserving and preparing food, and turning flax and wool into cloth.
Main Street offers a variety of unique shops and galleries offer antiques, paintings, rugs, photography, glass, jewelry and more, as well as fine dining at the Carrot Tree in the Cole Digges House. Patriot Tours & Provisions offer guided Segway PT tour through historic Yorktown or rent a bicycle for a self-guided tour. Kites, beach provisions, snacks and various sundries are available.
Riverwalk Landing, located along the York River, offers a collection of retail shops and dining with a water view along the pedestrian walkway. Waterfront restaurants offer seafood and other fine cuisine with a relaxing view of the York River. Or visitors can grab an ice cream cone and stroll by the river or sit on the beach.
From April through October, the Schooner Alliance is docked at the pier and offers daily sails, including breathtaking sunsets. New this year is Schooner Serenity offering pirate cruises. The Watermen’s Museum tells the story of Virginia’s working watermen and women. For generations, these watermen have earned their living harvesting the rivers and tributaries of the Chesapeake Bay for its abundant seafood year round.
Hours: Some museums and shops are closed on Monday.
Admission: Tickets are required for entry into most historic sites, museums and attractions. The Gallery at York Hall offers brochures, maps and area information. Don’t miss the FREE trolley (Spring through Fall) and enjoy a ride to though historic Yorktown.
Contact Information
Location from Williamsburg - take the scenic Colonial Parkway 13 miles east to Yorktown
York County Tourism Development
P.O. Box 532
Yorktown, VA 23690
Phone: 757-890-3300
Historic Main Street