Yorktown, Virginia: Kid-friendly Historical Fun

We recently spent a weekend exploring Yorktown, Virginia with some family friends. While I had been to Williamsburg and Jamestown before, this was my first time visiting the third point in Virginia’s Historic Triangle. I quickly discovered that Yorktown has the perfect blend of history, scenery, and kid-friendly activities for our little family. Continue reading for more information about four fun attractions in Yorktown, as well as tips for exploring the rest of Virginia’s colonial playground.

American Revolution Museum at Yorktown

The American Revolution Museum at Yorktown (see link for ticket options) is a thorough indoor-outdoor experience that could easily take hours to explore. The indoor exhibits provide a detailed history of the American Revolution as a whole, in addition to Yorktown’s role in the conflict. There is a noticeable attempt to weave the stories of indigenous and enslaved populations into the narrative, with an emphasis on making sure that racism is openly acknowledged and discussed.

While Daughter #1 really enjoyed The Siege of Yorktown, a 14-minute 4D film that runs continuously in the museum’s Siege Theater, she truly gravitated toward the outdoor living history exhibits. These sites include a soldier encampment, cannon demonstrations, and a Revolution-era farm. All sections are interactive, and costumed historians are available to answer questions and provide a glimpse into 18th century life.

Yorktown Battlefield

Yorktown Battlefield, together with Historic Jamestowne and Colonial Parkway, compose the NPS’s Colonial National Historical Park. Ages 16 and up pay $15 to access the majority of the sites (there is an extra charge for several of the locations in Historic Jamestowne). I was very impressed with the quality and kid-friendliness of Yorktown Battlefield’s Visitor Center. The Center is home to an informative video that provides details about the battle and subsequent British surrender at Yorktown. There are several interesting exhibits, including a display of General Washington’s actual campaign tents, but both of my kids were most fascinated with exploring the giant ship replica from top to bottom.

After combing through the Visitor’s Center, we headed out to drive around the Yorktown Battlefield. I highly recommend downloading the Yorktown Tour Guide app prior to departing on a battlefield drive, as it offers audio tours that explain the stops along the route. We didn’t quite get to see everything before Daughter #2 decided it was time for lunch, but we did have a nice visit at the Moore House, which is where General Cornwallis negotiated the terms for British surrender at Yorktown.

Yorktown Beach

I knew there was a small beach in the area, but I was pleasantly surprised by Yorktown Beach’s convenient, in-town location. This lovely stretch of sand on the banks of the York River is a wonderful place to relax, play, and swim. Another great feature of Yorktown Beach is the availability of a Mobi-mat and Mobi-chair, making the beach and water accessible to people who use wheelchairs. We visited one evening while we were out for dinner at the Yorktown Pub, just across the street. We placed our order, and then my husband stayed at our table while I took the kids to the beach to burn off some energy until our tasty food arrived. It really was the perfect way to spend an evening.

Riverwalk Landing

Located steps from the beach, Riverwalk Landing is a picturesque riverfront shopping and dining district filled with family-friendly establishments. Children will delight in fresh baked goods from Carrot Tree or ice cream from Ben and Jerry’s. They’ll also have fun picking out beach toys at Patriot Tours and Provisions, while parents check out the store’s tour and rental options for both land and water activities. For some gently used picture books to read by the water, head across the street to Yorktown Bookshop. And of course visiting families can partake in my kids’ favorite pastime: running up and down the brick pathways in search of passing boats, followed by hopping from letter to letter of Yorktown’s LOVEwork. Whether you spend your time indoors or outdoors, Riverwalk Landing has something for everyone.

Nearby Fun

While we were easily able to fill up a weekend exploring Yorktown itself, there are enough attractions in the greater area to build a full one- or two-week vacation. Here are some suggestions:

History – As I mentioned earlier, Yorktown is part of the Historical Triangle, along with Williamsburg and Jamestown. Colonial Williamsburg is a beautiful recreated town that depicts life in the bustling community during the 1700’s. Jamestown Settlement, sister to the American Revolution Museum described above, is an immersive museum with engrossing indoor exhibits and outdoor replicas of colonist ships, an indigenous community, and James Fort. Historic Jamestowne is an active archeological zone located at the site of the original colony.

Amusement and Adventure Parks – Busch Gardens is a huge amusement park with rides that appeal to various age groups. Water Country USA is home to aquatic attractions that range from toddler splash pads to thrilling water slides. Go Ape is a zipline and ropes course built into the trees of Freedom Park. All three of these exciting destinations can be found in Williamsburg, within 30 minutes or less of Yorktown.

State Parks – Just 12 minutes from Yorktown is Machicomoco State Park, which is home to a unique indigenous interpretive center that tells the story of the people who lived on the land for thousands of years (read my Machicomoco blog post here). Less than 30 minutes from Yorktown, York River State Park offers beautiful views of its namesake, as well as canoeing and kayaking opportunities on Taskinas Creek.

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I truly fell in love with Yorktown on our little trip. I can’t wait to go back and explore even more of this fascinating corner of Virginia. Do you have a favorite destination in Virginia’s Historic Triangle? Please let me know in the comments!