Visit Yorktown For Historic Sites and Annual Events

Yorktown Victory Center - Yorktown, VA

Continental Army Encampment

Visitors explore the re-created Continental Army encampment at the Yorktown Victory Center.

On October 19, 1781, Yorktown was the site where British General Cornwallis surrendered to the colonists, ending the Revolutionary War and officially cutting ties between America and the mother country half a world away. If the first bullet fired during the Revolutionary War was truly "the shot heard 'round the world," then Yorktown is the site of the surrender that altered the world. Yorktown, one of three points in the Historic Triangle that also includes Colonial Williamsburg and the Jamestown Settlement, is just a 15-minute scenic drive along the Colonial Parkway from Williamsburg. Adventure, architecture and history converge at Yorktown to please and delight visitors of all ages and interests.

Some must-see sights at Yorktown include:

• Yorktown Battlefield- Maintained by the National Park Service, this site includes the actual battlefield site of the Siege of Yorktown as well as the Moore House, where the British Army's formal surrender terms were negotiated. See the Yorktown Victory Monument as well as galleries and exhibits.
• Yorktown Victory Center- This living history museum gives all visitors the opportunity to experience life during the American Revolutionary Period. Featuring a military encampment, an 18th century farm and indoor and outdoor exhibits and re-creations, all enhanced through the insight of historical interpreters, the Victory Center lets you step back in time to live life as a soldier, farmer or Yorktown citizen, all in one day!
• Yorktown of Today- Today, Yorktown is the county seat and represents some of the best colonial architecture found anywhere in the United States. Established in 1691, Yorktown contains some of the oldest colonial structures, including private residences and historical homes maintained by the National Park Service. Two historic houses are the Thomas Nelson Junior residence (whose former owner signed the Declaration of Independence!) as well as the Cole Digges House. Yorktown also has its share of unique shops, featuring furniture and decorative arts.
• Riverwalk- This brick walkway along the York River is the perfect spot for sunbathing, swimming, watching the cruise ships dock, or just resting your feet in a beautiful spot. Currently under construction and scheduled to be complete in Spring 2005, is the new Riverwalk Landing complex: a plaza of retail shops, a restaurant, two T-shaped piers and a bi-level parking terrace.
• Watermen's Museum and Gift Shop- Serving as a tribute to the Chesapeake Bay's longtime history of living from the bounty of the waters, this museum features everything maritime. Highlighting the fisherman's way of life, the Watermen's Museum lets visitors observe the boat building process, see a replica of the British supply ship Betsy and even to choose from a number of cruises. There are fishing trips, dinner cruises, evening "Hauntings" cruises and "Moonlight & Mysteries" tours.
• Special events throughout the year- Proud of their heritage and contribution to U.S. history, the citizens of Yorktown never miss an opportunity to celebrate a special occasion with a family-oriented festival or free concert on such holidays as the 4th of July, Yorktown Day (October 19), as well as during the entire holiday season of November and December.

A combination of historical sites, beautiful architecture, unique shops and family attractions makes Yorktown a great place to spend a day or two on your trip to the Williamsburg area. You're guaranteed to leave with a greater appreciation for the events that shaped our country, as well as a few souvenirs and lots of great memories!