Yorktown Battlefield
The basics
The last major battle of the Revolutionary War, Yorktown saw General George Washington’s Continental Army overwhelm British General Charles Cornwallis’ troops, effectively paving the way for the war’s end. Today, visitors can relive that dramatic historical turning point when visiting the Yorktown Battlefield.
The battlefield captures a pivotal moment in American history, featuring a visitor center with exhibition areas, restored earthworks and fortifications, historic cannons, and landmarks like Moore House (where negotiations for Cornwallis’ surrender occurred). It’s easy to explore independently, while the site is also featured on tours of Virginia’s “Historic Triangle,” which also stop at Colonial Williamsburg and Jamestown.
Things to know before you go
Some parts of the park are accessible to disabled visitors, including most of the Visitor Center and some battlefield trails.
To preserve the fragile battlefield, stick to the designated paths, and avoid disrupting the on-site earthworks.
Visitors to the Yorktown Battlefield must pay for entry to the Colonial National Historical Park; kids under 15 enjoy free admission.
Dogs are permitted in most battlefield areas but must be leashed at all times.
How to get there
The Yorktown Battlefield is located in the small town of Yorktown, Virginia. If driving from Colonial Williamsburg, take the Colonial National Historical Parkway; the site can also be reached via nearby hubs like Norfolk, Richmond, and Newport News via I-64. If using public transportation, travel by Amtrak train or Greyhound bus to Colonial Williamsburg, a short drive or taxi trip away.
When to get there
The Yorktown Battlefield’s Visitor Center is open daily, from morning until early evening, except for select public holidays (including Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day). If exploring independently, note that the battlefield’s tour roads are open until sunset daily. The park can close suddenly due to inclement weather; keep an eye on the forecast.
Other highlights of the Colonial National Historical Park
The Yorktown Battlefield is one of several landmarks related to the Virginia colony that are included under the Colonial National Historical Park umbrella. Other highlights include Historic Jamestowne (the site of the first permanent English settlement in America), the Green Spring Plantation, and the Cape Henry Memorial. The Colonial Williamsburg and the Jamestown Settlement living history museums are also nearby.
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