Yorktown Battlefield
Site of the decisive 1781 siege that secured American independence, offering a powerful connection to Revolutionary War history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more reflection.
Yorktown Battlefield
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more reflection.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Site of the decisive 1781 siege that secured American independence, offering a powerful connection to Revolutionary War history.
"Standing on the battlefield and imagining the war was a powerful feeling."
Download the NPS App
Enhance your visit with the official NPS app for maps and audio tours. :iphone:
Utilize the Free Trolley
A free trolley connects key sites, making exploration easy. :bus:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Surrender Field
Yorktown Battlefield
Stand where British General Cornwallis surrendered, marking a pivotal moment in American independence.
Moore House
Yorktown Battlefield
The site where the terms of British surrender were negotiated, a crucial location in the war's conclusion.
Redoubts 9 & 10
Yorktown Battlefield
Explore these reconstructed fortifications, vital to the siege and a testament to the military strategies employed.
Victory Monument
Yorktown Battlefield
A towering obelisk commemorating the decisive victory that secured American independence.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Embrace the Auto Tour
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Download the NPS App
Enhance your visit with the official NPS app for maps and audio tours. :iphone:
Utilize the Free Trolley
A free trolley connects key sites, making exploration easy. :bus:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on the battlefield. :athletic_shoe:
Check for Events
Living history demonstrations and special screenings often occur. :calendar:
Tips
from all over the internet
Download the NPS App
Enhance your visit with the official NPS app for maps and audio tours. :iphone:
Utilize the Free Trolley
A free trolley connects key sites, making exploration easy. :bus:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on the battlefield. :athletic_shoe:
Check for Events
Living history demonstrations and special screenings often occur. :calendar:
Bring a Picnic
Enjoy a meal with a view on the historic grounds. :sandwich:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Yorktown Battlefield for its powerful historical significance and the immersive experience of standing on the ground where American independence was secured. The driving tour and key historical sites like Surrender Field are frequently highlighted as impactful. Some note that while the battlefield itself is vast, the on-site museum's exhibits might be less extensive compared to other Civil War battlefields.
"Such a fantastic piece of history. Standing on the battlefield and imagining the war was a powerful feeling. The visitor center has a movie and a display with cornwalis items, Washington items, and many other artifacts from the war. The car tour doesn't have too much to see when stacked against something like Gettsyburg but the battlefield was still an awesome experience to hike through."
Alex Monsrud
"Several tid bits here: 1. This is a FEDERAL park. Any NPS passes get you in. 2. The museum here is fine, but if you're in a crunch - see the Yorktown State Museum and skip this museum. 3. Drive the Battlefield loop to see right where the events happened. Yes, it's a big field, but the significance of what happened here is enough to make any one bow their heads in respect. Not to mention; several of history's greatest men walked these fields so to walk in the steps of greatness is awe-inspiring. 4. To our knowledge, you can drive the loop at no cost. You have to pay to go in the museum, but the stops on the loop were available to anyone driving along the Historic Colonial Parkway. 5. Be sure to at least see Surrender Field, Moore House and Redouts 9 & 10 - purely from their historical significance. 6. Kids 15 and under are free. Adults are $15 each."
Dannielle Rice
"Great way to learn about the history of the last major conflict of the revolutionary war. Not a lot of original fortifications remain but it's worth a stop if you're already in the area. Definitely watch the park video and download the audio tour before you start the driving tour."
Craig Woodruff
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Yorktown Battlefield is part of Colonial National Historical Park in Yorktown, Virginia. It's accessible by car, and many visitors use the Historic Colonial Parkway for scenic drives. The park has a visitor center that serves as a good starting point for exploring the battlefield.
Yes, Yorktown offers a free trolley service that stops at the Battlefield Visitor Center, making it convenient to access from other parts of town.
Biking is a popular way to explore the battlefield and the Colonial Parkway. Many visitors enjoy cycling the 17 miles of battlefield trails.
The most recommended way to explore is via the self-guided driving tour, which covers about 10 miles of the battlefield. Downloading the audio tour or NPS app beforehand is highly advised. +1
Yes, Yorktown Battlefield is part of the Historic Triangle, along with Williamsburg and Jamestown, making it easy to visit all three in a single trip.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the Yorktown Battlefield grounds is generally free, but there is a fee to enter the museum. However, if you have an NPS pass, it covers admission to the museum.
While the battlefield itself is free to explore, the museum has an admission fee. Adults are typically $15, and children 15 and under are free. NPS passes are accepted.
The park grounds are generally open from dawn to dusk. The Visitor Center and Museum have specific operating hours, which can vary seasonally, so it's best to check the official NPS website.
Yes, you can drive the battlefield loop and explore the grounds without paying for museum admission. However, the museum offers valuable exhibits and artifacts.
Children 15 and under are free. Additionally, holders of National Park Service passes receive free admission to the museum.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see Surrender Field, the Moore House, Redoubts 9 & 10, and the Victory Monument. The battlefield itself offers a vast landscape where you can imagine the events of the Revolutionary War. +1
Absolutely! The self-guided driving tour is a highlight, covering about 10 miles of the battlefield with numerous interpretive stops. +1
The Battle of Yorktown was the last major land battle of the American Revolutionary War, leading to the surrender of British forces and securing American independence. 
Yes, living history demonstrations and reenactments, often featuring British Redcoats, are held periodically, offering an immersive experience.
Kids can enjoy the open spaces for running around, learn about history through exhibits and the driving tour, and participate in Junior Ranger programs if available.
📸 📸 Photography
The Victory Monument, Surrender Field, and the various redoubts offer iconic backdrops. The open fields with historical markers also make for great shots. +1
Yes, photography is generally allowed throughout the battlefield and visitor center areas, allowing you to capture the historical significance.
Late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour lighting, while early mornings can provide a serene atmosphere with fewer visitors.
Drone usage is typically restricted in National Parks to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Always check the NPS regulations before flying a drone.
The Moore House and Nelson House (though part of the town) are significant historical structures that make for compelling photographs.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the museum has an admission fee, the battlefield itself is free to explore, making it a budget-friendly outing. Consider packing a picnic to enjoy on the grounds, adding to the family adventure. Look out for any Junior Ranger programs that might be available, as these are designed to make history fun and interactive for children.
🏛️ History Buffs
Take advantage of the self-guided driving tour and the audio guide to gain in-depth historical context. Visiting the Yorktown State Museum (distinct from the NPS museum) is also recommended for a broader perspective on the era's artifacts and stories.
🚶♀️ Active Explorers
The Colonial Parkway also provides a beautiful route for cyclists, connecting Yorktown with Williamsburg and Jamestown. Remember to wear comfortable athletic shoes and bring water, especially during warmer months. The open terrain allows for ample movement, making it a great place to combine historical exploration with physical activity.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Significance of the Siege of Yorktown
+1Visitors can walk the grounds where these pivotal events unfolded. Key areas like Surrender Field and the Moore House, where the terms of surrender were negotiated, offer a tangible connection to this historical turning point. The Victory Monument stands as a lasting tribute to this crucial triumph.
Understanding the military tactics, such as the construction and assault of Redoubts 9 & 10, adds depth to the experience. The battlefield's preserved landscape allows for a powerful visualization of the siege, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in American history.
Exploring the Battlefield: Driving Tour & Beyond
Beyond the driving tour, visitors can explore the battlefield on foot or by bicycle. The Colonial National Historical Park encompasses the battlefield, and many find walking the grounds offers a more profound connection to the past. Comfortable shoes are a must, as you'll be traversing historical terrain.
+1For those seeking a broader understanding, the Yorktown Battlefield Visitor Center houses exhibits, a gift shop, and a mini-theater that screens a film about the battle. While the museum has an admission fee, the battlefield grounds themselves are free to access, and NPS passes are accepted for museum entry.
Living History and Special Events
Special events, such as screenings of documentaries like Ken Burns' "The American Revolution," have been held on the battlefield itself, providing a unique and immersive experience. These occasions offer a chance to connect with history in a profound way, often drawing large crowds.
These events are a fantastic way to deepen your understanding and appreciation of the American Revolution, making your visit more dynamic and memorable. Checking the official Visit Yorktown and NPS websites for upcoming events is highly recommended.
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