The Hidden Attraction in Virginia That People Still Seek Out to This Day

Mention Mount Rushmore, and most people will tell you about the massive heads of Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt, and Lincoln, carved in the South Dakota mountain. Yet, ask about President Heads in Williamsburg, Virginia, and you’ll probably receive a blank stare from anyone outside of the Commonwealth and surrounding areas. But locals know all about the 42 carvings of the former U.S. presidents that we think are the true definition of 'Only in Virginia,' —well, somewhat. These gigantic sculptures were part of a popular tourist attraction, but are now hiding in a field, cracking under the pressure of Mother Nature. To this day, this hidden attraction in Virginia still draws a crowd, even though it’s only open for special events. 

The Story Behind The Hidden President Heads

The President Heads weren’t always this unusual oddity in Virginia. In fact, the original park, Presidents Park, was a low-key tourist attraction hosting many visitors before it fell into financial despair. After seeing Mount Rushmore, sculptor David Adickes partnered with entrepreneur Everette H. “Haley” Newman III to create their own version that placed visitors up close and personal with the larger-than-life busts of the former presidents. Three different sets of sculptures were created: one in Virginia, another in South Dakota, and the other in Texas.

The $10 million Virginia project opened in 2004 as a historical roadside attraction. Forty-Two giant busts, ranging between 18 and 20 feet tall, of all the presidents from George Washington to George W. Bush, were laid out in the 10-acre park with educational plaques. Unfortunately, due to its remote location away from the popular tourist hub of Williamsburg, high maintenance costs, and low attendance, the park was forced to close in 2010. Luckily, instead of destroying the sculptures, contractor Howard Hankins moved them to his private land in Croaker, Virginia. 

Today, after years of sitting outdoors with a lack of maintenance and weather damage, the sculptures feel more like a surreal, post-apocalyptic display, a stark difference from their former glory. The statues have gaping holes and cracks in the fiberglass, and the land looks like it’s being reclaimed by nature, making the artwork feel more like something from a haunted movie. Although the heads are on private property, occasionally, special tours and photography events are offered. An upcoming tour is scheduled for Labor Day weekend. What makes this tour fascinating is that this might be the last time to see these busts in their current dilapidated state before they’re restored to be placed in a new park.    

Why People Still Visit Today

Not surprisingly, the sculptures gained more attention after the park closed, as they sat alone in this desolate field. Once they became decaying, abandoned structures, off-limits to the public, they rose to fame as an internet sensation, piquing the curiosity of photographers and bloggers. Many major networks covered the story of the heads, and they eventually became arguably one of the weirdest attractions in Virginia. 

Since it’s on private property and not freely open to the public, a trip here feels exclusive, as you can only access the heads via pre-ticketed events. Typically, eight events are scheduled throughout the year and are announced on the official President Heads website. So, you’ll need to do some extra planning for your chance to walk amongst this presidential graveyard. If you’re a history buff or you’re into weird, eerie places, this tour might be just up your alley. 

What to Know Before You Go

As mentioned above, you will need a ticket to see the busts, and this upcoming tour might be the last time you get to see them in their current dilapidated status. Rumor has it that the heads are in purchasing negotiations and might be moved to a new location soon. If you land tickets for the two-hour tour, come prepared to be in a field that could be muddy in certain spots. Wear proper shoes, apply sunscreen, and wear a hat because there is no shade. Dogs on leashes are welcome on the tours, so feel free to bring Fido and the little ones along. An email will be sent with full details about what to expect during your tour of this hidden gem in Virginia. 

Virginia has a lot of historical places to visit, like the world-famous city of Williamsburg. But I’d argue that the President Heads might just be one of the most unusual attractions in the state. There’s something quite surreal about walking amongst the towering statues that seem like they’re the aftermath of a disaster.

Not only do the giant heads appeal to history buffs, but anyone who enjoys abandoned or creepy places will be captivated as well. And remember, we don’t know how much longer the sculptures will be in this field, so it’s a good idea to book one of the upcoming tours before they’re moved and transformed into a more polished tourist attraction in Virginia.