Colonial Parkway

The Colonial Parkway is accessible from multiple points, connecting directly to Jamestown, Williamsburg, and Yorktown. You can enter from Route 31 near Jamestown, Route 199 near Williamsburg, or Route 134 near Yorktown.

No, the Colonial Parkway is a scenic byway and does not have any tolls. It's a free and open road for visitors to enjoy.

Most visitors drive the parkway from one end to the other, typically starting at Jamestown and ending at Yorktown, or vice versa, to experience the full 23-mile route.

Yes, cycling is permitted on the Colonial Parkway. However, be aware of vehicle traffic and use caution, especially on curves.

Public transportation is limited directly on the parkway. It's best experienced by car, though some local tour operators may offer guided drives.

No tickets are required to drive or access the Colonial Parkway. It is a public scenic road.

The Colonial Parkway is generally open 24 hours a day, year-round. However, specific overlooks or facilities may have seasonal hours.

There are no entrance fees for the Colonial Parkway itself. However, you will need to pay admission fees for the historic sites at Jamestown, Williamsburg, and Yorktown if you plan to visit them.

You can stop at designated overlooks and pull-offs along the Colonial Parkway. Please do not stop on the roadway itself for safety reasons.

The Colonial Parkway is a two-lane road with some curves and can be challenging for very large RVs or trailers. It's generally suitable for standard passenger vehicles and smaller RVs.

The parkway connects the historic sites of Jamestown, Colonial Williamsburg, and Yorktown. It also features scenic overlooks and access to the Virginia Capital Trail.

The drive itself is about 23 miles and can take 30-45 minutes without stops. However, to truly enjoy it, plan for at least 2-3 hours to stop at overlooks and explore.

Restroom facilities are available at some of the larger overlooks and visitor centers along the parkway, particularly near the historic sites.

You might spot deer, various bird species, and other small mammals in the wooded areas and along the rivers.

While a beautiful drive, the Colonial Parkway has a history of unsolved crimes known as the Colonial Parkway Murders. Visitors are advised to be aware of their surroundings and avoid isolated stops, especially after dark. +1

The overlooks offering views of the James and York Rivers are prime photography locations. The tree-lined sections also provide beautiful scenic shots, especially during fall foliage.

Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and golden hues. Sunrise and sunset can be particularly stunning over the rivers.

Drone usage is restricted in National Park Service areas, which includes much of the Colonial Parkway. Always check current regulations before flying a drone.

The bridges over the rivers, the historic structures visible from overlooks, and the winding tree-lined roads themselves are popular photographic subjects.

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive river views and landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting.