Fun And Historic Things To Do In Yorktown, Virginia

History surrounds us here in Virginia. In fact, you’d be hard-pressed to find a town or city in the Old Dominion without a significant place in our country’s history. One prime example is the small town of Yorktown, Virginia. Located in the aptly-named historic triangle along with Williamsburg and Jamestown, Yorktown is the more often overlooked area. Yet few people realize just how much Revolutionary War history is preserved here. Without further ado, here are some unique and historic things to do in Yorktown, Virginia.

Welcome to Historic Yorktown! Located on the Virginia coast, this town is one that's filled to the brim with charm, history, and character.

Yorktown County was established as one of the original eight shires of Colonial Virginia, founded in 1682. The town was established on the York River as a port for colonists to export tobacco and other goods to Britain.

By 1750, Yorktown had a population of nearly 2,000 along with almost 300 buildings.

Yorktown is perhaps most famous for its role in the Revolutionary War. On October 9th, 1781, General Charles Cornwallis surrendered to General George Washington and the French fleet.

The Revolutionary War wasn't the only war fought on Yorktown soil. The town played a significant role in the Civil War, acting as the port for whichever army happened to hold Yorktown at the time.

Visit Yorktown today, and you won't help but feel part of the history. Many of the buildings date back to -- or in some cases predate -- the Revolutionary War.

One prime example is Grace Church, which dates back to 1697, although it was more recently updated in the Greek Revival style.

Today, visitors are invited to tour Historic Yorktown to experience the preservation of history. One of the best places to enjoy a walking tour is along historic Water Street.

Have you visited this historic town before? What were some of your favorite things to do in Yorktown, Virginia? Feel free to share them with us in the comments below — we would love to hear from you! For related content, check out our list of beautiful and charming small towns in Virginia.

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Few People Realize How Much Revolutionary War History Is Preserved In The Small Town Of Yorktown

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