Colonial National Parkway

Colonial National Parkway, located in Virginia, is a scenic roadway that spans approximately 23 miles and connects historic sites related to the colonial history of the United States. The parkway begins in Yorktown, where the allied forces led by General George Washington defeated the British, securing American independence in 1781. From there, the parkway stretches eastward, passing through the Jamestown and Williamsburg areas before terminating at the York River.

The parkway preserves and showcases significant historical sites from the colonial era, providing visitors with a journey into the nation's past. At Jamestown, visitors can explore the birthplace of the first permanent English settlement in America, established in 1607. The Jamestown Visitor Center offers exhibits and artifacts that shed light on the hardships and accomplishments of the early colonists. Additionally, the Jamestown Glasshouse provides demonstrations on the art of glassblowing, and the Jamestown Settlement Living History Museum offers interactive displays and replicas of the original fort.

Continuing along the parkway, visitors arrive at the renowned Colonial Williamsburg, a living-history museum presenting a fully restored 18th-century city. Here, visitors can stroll along the cobblestone streets, interact with costumed interpreters, and experience the sights and sounds of colonial life. The city’s numerous restored buildings, such as the Governor's Palace and the Capitol, offer glimpses into the lives of the nation's early leaders.

Beyond historic sites, the parkway also offers opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding area. Scenic overlooks provide panoramic views of the James and York rivers, while serene picnic areas invite visitors to relax and soak in the tranquility. Additionally, visitors can explore numerous hiking and biking trails that wind through lush forests and wetlands.

Those seeking further exploration can access Yorktown Battlefield, where the decisive battle of the American Revolution took place. This site preserves the earthworks and fields where the British surrendered to the Continental Army, marking the end of colonial rule in America.

Overall, Colonial National Parkway in Virginia offers a fascinating journey into the country's colonial history. The array of historical sites, combined with the parkway's picturesque landscapes, make it a significant destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Colonial National Parkway is a scenic roadway located within the beautiful state of Virginia in the United States. This historic 23-mile long parkway sits on a thin strip of land nestled between the James River and the York River, two prominent waterways that play a significant role in the state's geography. The parkway starts at Jamestown, where the James River meets the Chesapeake Bay, and stretches to Yorktown, where the York River empties into the same bay. Running parallel to these majestic rivers, Colonial National Parkway not only offers stunning views of the water but also takes visitors through lush forests, rolling hills, and picturesque landscapes. Its unique location provides a gateway to explore the vibrant history and natural beauty of Virginia, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

Address & Contact

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

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit Colonial National Parkway for pleasant weather and fewer crowds is in the months of April and May. During this time, the average maximum temperature ranges from 70°F to 78°F, while the average minimum temperature ranges from 48°F to 58°F. Additionally, the average monthly precipitation is around 4.1 inches in April and 4.2 inches in May. These months offer ideal conditions for outdoor activities, with milder temperatures and lower chances of rain. While visitor counts increase gradually during this period, it is still relatively less crowded compared to the peak summer months.

Activities

Some of the activities you can do in Colonial National Parkway 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 Parkway: 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 Parkway

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

Hotels within or near Colonial National Parkway

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

Economy Inn and Suites

With a stay at Economy Inn and Suites in Newport News (North Newport News), you'll be within a 10-minute drive of Fort Eustis and Mary Immaculate Hospital. Featured amenities include express check-out, a 24-hour front desk, and laundry facilities. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 15237 Warwick Blvd, Newport News, Virginia 23608
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

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

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

Monticello at Powhatan Apartments

When you stay at Monticello at Powhatan Apartments in Williamsburg, you'll be within a 10-minute drive of Williamsburg National Golf Club and Busch Tennis Courts. Featured amenities include a business center and coffee/tea in a common area. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 3500 Carriage House Way, Williamsburg, Virginia 23188
Web: Link