Virginia Colonial Panoramic Road

Embark on a journey through history with the Virginia Colonial Panoramic Road! Starting in Jamestown, this 34 km journey will take you through Williamsburg before ending in Yorktown. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to explore historical sites such as the Jamestown Settlement, the Governor's Palace, and the Yorktown Battlefield. It is recommended to take one day to complete the drive, and the best time of year to do so is during the spring and summer months. The roads are in good condition, making the journey comfortable and enjoyable for all drivers. This road trip is the perfect way to experience the colonial history of Virginia while staying within a moderate budget. So, don't wait - book your trip now and create unforgettable memories!

Jamestown, Virginia is the perfect starting point for the Virginia Colonial Panoramic Road. Located in the Hampton Roads region, this city is steeped in history. It was the first permanent English settlement in the New World, and the early colonists established the first representative government in the Americas. The Historic Jamestowne Visitor Center is a must-see for any visitor to Jamestown. There, you can explore the settlement’s original fort and the remains of the original settlement. You can also learn about the original inhabitants of the area, the Powhatan Indians, and their interactions with the colonists. Also worth a visit is the Jamestown Settlement, which is a living history museum that recreates the early colonial period. There, you can experience what life was like for the early colonists, as well as learn about their struggles and successes. For those traveling to Jamestown by air, the closest international airport is Norfolk International Airport (ORF). There are numerous car rental options available at the airport to get you started on the Virginia Colonial Panoramic Road. Jamestown is the perfect start to a road trip down the Virginia Colonial Panoramic Road. With its storied history, Jamestown is an ideal destination for anyone looking to explore the past.

Welcome to the Jamestown to Williamsburg stage of your road trip! This 10-mile stretch of road will take you fewer than 1 hour to drive and is packed with history and interesting sites to explore. Start your journey in Jamestown, the first permanent English settlement in the New World, and visit the Jamestown Settlement and the Historic Jamestowne. Make sure to explore the living-history museum, the re-created fort, and the original site of the 1607 fort. Continue your journey to Williamsburg, the capital of Virginia from 1699 to 1780. This city is home to the Colonial Williamsburg Historic Area, where you can explore the Revolutionary City and its many historic sites, including the Governor’s Palace and the Capitol Building. Don’t forget to also visit the world-renowned Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your trip!

Welcome road-trippers! Get ready to embark on an amazing journey from Williamsburg to Yorktown, a distance of 12mi that can be covered in less than an hour. Start your adventure in Williamsburg, home to the colonial capital of Virginia and the restored 18th-century area of the Historic Triangle. Visit the Governor’s Palace, the Capitol Building and the Bruton Parish Church. Then, head to Yorktown, the site of the decisive battle of the American Revolution. Here, you can explore the battlefields, the Victory Monument and the Yorktown Monument. This is just one of the stages of your tour, so make sure you don’t miss a single detail! For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the “Itinerary” section of this stage. Now get ready for a memorable journey!

Yorktown is the perfect ending point for the Virginia Colonial Panoramic Road. This small town, located in the eastern coast of the United States, is a great place to visit and explore. Here, you can find a plethora of historical sites and monuments, such as the Yorktown Battlefield, the Yorktown Victory Monument, the Yorktown National Cemetery, and the Yorktown Monument. You can also take a tour of the battlefield and learn about the Revolutionary War and the siege of Yorktown. Take a stroll around the quaint downtown area and explore the many shops and restaurants. You can visit the historic Yorktown Waterfront and enjoy the views of the York River. Or, you can take a boat tour of the York River and get a glimpse of the area's wildlife. For those who are traveling by car, the closest international airport to Yorktown is Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport (PHF). From there, it's a short drive to the town. No matter your mode of travel, Yorktown is a great place to visit and explore. With its rich history and natural beauty, Yorktown is a must-see destination for any road trip. Make sure to stop in and experience all that Yorktown has to offer.

Before you set off

The Virginia Colonial Parkway is a scenic byway stretching 23 miles (37 km) that connects the historic sites of Jamestown, Williamsburg, and Yorktown, collectively known as America's Historic Triangle. This picturesque route offers travelers a journey through the heart of Virginia's colonial history, with each location playing a pivotal role in the development of early America.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

• Jamestown Settlement: Often referred to as `where America began,` it was the first successful English settlement in North America, established in 1607. Visitors can explore replicas of the original settlers' ships, fort, and a Powhatan village, as well as archaeological sites where the foundations of America were laid.
• Colonial Williamsburg: This restored and reconstructed living-history museum is one of the largest of its kind in the world, offering an immersive experience into 18th-century life with actors and tradespeople dressed in period attire, restoring historic buildings, and engaging in colonial-era activities.
• Yorktown Battlefield: The site of the Siege of Yorktown in 1781, where the British forces under General Cornwallis surrendered to General George Washington's allied American and French troops, effectively ending the American Revolutionary War and securing independence for the United States.

Best Time to Go:

Spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) are ideal to visit, with milder temperatures and colorful foliage enhancing the experience. Summers can be hot and busy, but the extended hours at attractions make it a popular choice for families.

Potential Risks:

While the Colonial Parkway is generally a safe and peaceful drive, it's important to stay alert for wildlife crossing, especially during dawn and dusk. During peak tourist seasons, the Roads may become congested, and parking at historical sites can be challenging.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

• The Colonial Parkway is part of the National Park Service and is free of commercial traffic and advertising, preserving its historical integrity and natural beauty.
• The design of the Parkway's bridges and tunnels was meticulously planned to blend with the historical and natural landscape.
• It's recommended to allocate a full day or even several days to fully appreciate the depth of history and activities at each site.
• The area hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, including historical reenactments and holiday celebrations, adding to the educational and entertainment value of the Trip.

A good choice for:

This Road Trip is a treasure trove for history buffs, families, and international visitors alike, offering a tangible connection to the formative years of the United States. With an array of historical landmarks, educational programs, and natural beauty, the Virginia Colonial Parkway is a journey through the past that leaves a lasting impression on all who travel it.