Colonial National Historical Park

Located in Virginia, Colonial National Historical Park is a revered historical site that commemorates the early English settlement of the region. It consists of two primary locations: Historic Jamestowne, the original site where the first permanent English settlement was established in 1607, and the Yorktown Battlefield, where the decisive Battle of Yorktown took place in 1781, effectively ending the American Revolutionary War.

Historic Jamestowne offers visitors a glimpse into the daily life of the early English settlers. The archaeological remains of the original settlement can be explored along with reconstructed buildings such as a church, fort, and houses. The Archaearium Museum displays numerous artifacts found during excavations, providing valuable insights into the colonial past. Additionally, visitors can witness ongoing excavations and interact with historical interpreters to gain a deeper understanding of this significant period in American history.

Yorktown Battlefield, on the other hand, allows visitors to experience the location where General George Washington led a combined force of American and French troops to victory over British forces in 1781. The battlefield features historical structures, earthworks, and cannons, offering a tangible connection to the crucial Revolutionary War event. Visitors can take a self-guided driving tour or join ranger-led programs to learn about the military strategies and tactics employed during the battle.

Apart from the main locations, the park also encompasses the scenic Colonial Parkway, a 23-mile roadway that connects Historic Jamestowne with Yorktown Battlefield while passing through beautiful landscapes and offering opportunities for outdoor activities such as walking, biking, and picnicking. This picturesque drive provides stunning views of the James and York Rivers, as well as access to several attractive beaches and recreational spots.

Several attractions are conveniently located near Colonial National Historical Park. Just a short drive away lies the historic city of Williamsburg, renowned for Colonial Williamsburg, a living history museum full of restored and reconstructed buildings from the 18th century. The city also offers unique shopping, dining, and entertainment options, making it an excellent complement to a visit to the park.

In conclusion, Colonial National Historical Park in Virginia presents a fascinating journey through the early years of English settlement in America. With the two primary locations of Historic Jamestowne and Yorktown Battlefield, along with the scenic Colonial Parkway, visitors can immerse themselves in the rich history and natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the nearby attractions in Williamsburg provide a well-rounded experience for those interested in colonial history and culture.

Colonial National Historical Park is strategically situated within the southeastern region of the beautiful state of Virginia. It spans across two prominent counties, namely James City and York County. The park's unique location is noteworthy, as it encompasses a significant stretch of the Virginia Peninsula, which is bordered by the mighty James River to the south and the tranquil York River to the north. This idyllic position creates a stunning juxtaposition of natural and historical sights, as visitors can explore the park's exquisite landscapes while also immersing themselves in the rich historical heritage of the area. The geographical location of Colonial National Historical Park perfectly complements its mission to preserve the colonial-era history of America, inviting visitors to embark on a captivating journey through time within this splendid corner of Virginia.

Address & Contact

1000 Colonial Parkway
Yorktown, VA 23690
Driving Directions
Phone: 7578982410
Web: Link

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit Colonial National Historical Park, in order to enjoy pleasant weather for outdoor activities while avoiding large crowds, would be in the months of April, May, and June. During these months, the average maximum temperatures range from 70°F to 85°F, and the average minimum temperatures range from 48°F to 66°F. The average monthly precipitation during this period is around 4 inches. Additionally, visitor numbers gradually increase from January to June, indicating that these months may provide a balance between favorable weather and manageable crowds.

Activities

Some of the activities you can do in Colonial National Historical Park are: Guided Tours Self-Guided Tours - Walking Junior Ranger Program Arts and Culture Biking Road Biking Auto and ATV Scenic Driving

Topics

Learn about these topics at Colonial National Historical Park: Animals Birds Transportation Fish Burial, Cemetery and Gravesite American Revolution Wars and Conflicts American Revolutionary War Civil War Roads, Routes and Highways National Cemetery

Visitor Centers

Yorktown Battlefield

Yorktown Battlefield Visitor center is open for access to the Eastern National Bookstore which is open 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Day and New Years Day. The Moore House, Cemetery Lodge, and Poor Potter are closed, but their grounds are open for visitation. On some weekends, the Nelson House will be open.

Passport Stamp locations

The following locations have passport stamps for your "Passport to Your National Parks" booklet: Yorktown Battlefield.

Campsites within or near Colonial National Historical Park

This park doesn't have any campsites within its boundaries (or we haven't found them yet)).

Hotels within or near Colonial National Historical Park

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Williamsburg East (Busch Garde

With a stay at Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Williamsburg East (Busch Gardens), VA in Williamsburg, you'll be within a 15-minute walk of Carter's Grove Plantation & Park and Quarterpath Park. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, express check-in, and express check-out. Planning an event in Williamsburg? This hotel has facilities measuring 400 square feet (37 square meters), including a meeting room. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 7135 Pocahontas Trl, Williamsburg, Virginia 23185
Web: Link

Hampton Inn & Suites Williamsburg-Richmond Rd.

Located in Williamsburg, Hampton Inn & Suites Williamsburg-Richmond Rd. is in the business district, a 4-minute walk from Ripley's Believe It or Not! and within a 5-minute drive of Williamsburg Premium Outlets. Featured amenities include a business center, express check-out, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1880 Richmond Rd, Williamsburg, Virginia 23185
Web: Link

The Mulberry Inn and Plaza at Fort Eustis

Located in Newport News (North Newport News), The Mulberry Inn and Plaza at Fort Eustis is within a 5-minute drive of Fort Eustis and U.S. Army Transportation Museum. Featured amenities include a business center, express check-out, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. This hotel has 3 meeting rooms available for events. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 16890a Warwick Blvd, Newport News, Virginia 23603
Web: Link

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Williamsburg Historic Area, VA

A stay at Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Williamsburg Historic Area, VA places you in the heart of Williamsburg, within a 5-minute drive of Ripley's Believe It or Not! and Colonial Williamsburg Visitor Center. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a business center, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 400 Bypass Rd, Williamsburg, Virginia 23185
Web: Link

Yorktown Motor Lodge

With a stay at Yorktown Motor Lodge in Yorktown, you'll be within a 5-minute drive of Colonial National Historical Park and Newport News Park. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 8829 George Washington Hwy, Yorktown, Virginia 23692
Web: Link

George Washington Hotel Busch Gardens

Located in Williamsburg, George Washington Hotel Busch Gardens is within a 5-minute drive of Colonial Williamsburg and Quarterpath Park. Featured amenities include a business center, express check-out, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Planning an event in Williamsburg? This hotel has facilities measuring 20000 square feet (1858 square meters), including a conference center. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 500 Merrimac Trail, Williamsburg, Virginia 23185
Web: Link

Comfort Inn Newport News/Williamsburg East

Located in Newport News (North Newport News), Comfort Inn Newport News/Williamsburg East is within a 5-minute drive of Fort Eustis and U.S. Army Transportation Museum. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, express check-out, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Planning an event in Newport News? This hotel has facilities measuring 500 square feet (45 square meters), including a meeting room. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 16890 Warwick Blvd, Newport News, Virginia 23603
Web: Link

Crown Inn Motel

Located in Yorktown, Crown Inn Motel is in the historical district, within a 5-minute drive of Colonial National Historical Park and Newport News Park. Featured amenities include dry cleaning/laundry services, a 24-hour front desk, and laundry facilities. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 7833 George Washington Memorial Highway, Yorktown, Virginia 23692
Web: Link

Motel 6 Newport News, VA - Fort Eustis

With a stay at Motel 6 Newport News, VA - Fort Eustis in Newport News (North Newport News), you'll be within a 5-minute drive of Fort Eustis and U.S. Army Transportation Museum. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 15540 Warwick Blvd, Newport News, Virginia 23608
Web: Link

Fort Eustis Inn

Located in Newport News (North Newport News), Fort Eustis Inn is within a 5-minute drive of Fort Eustis and U.S. Army Transportation Museum. Featured amenities include a 24-hour front desk and laundry facilities. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 16924 Warwick Blvd, Newport News, Virginia 23603
Web: Link