If you only know Yorktown, Virginia for its storied battlefield and popular Riverwalk Landing, you might be surprised to discover that there’s a whole world of off-the-beaten-path curiosities waiting for you to discover. From quirky landmarks to majestic monuments, Yorktown’s lesser-known attractions and other noteworthy sites deliver historic intrigue, artistic inspiration, and local flair in equal measure.
Yorktown Battlefield’s Redoubt #10: Hamilton Was Here
Visit the place where the decisive final battle of the American Revolution was fought. Explore Yorktown Battlefield’s Redoubt #10 to see the earthen fort where Alexander Hamilton led a legendary assault during the last battle of the Revolutionary War, helping to seal America’s victory.
Also in Yorktown’s Colonial National Historical Park, find a wealth of monuments, earthenworks, and overlooks that will deepen your understanding of the Siege of Yorktown. Discover them on the Yorktown Battlefield Auto Tour, which features multiple driving routes to significant sites on and around the battlefield. Pick up a free map or purchase the CD Audio Tour at the 🔺Yorktown Battlefield Visitor Center, or get a free, GPS-enabled audio tour on the The Liberty Trail Virginia app. If you’d prefer to let someone else do the driving, Yorktown and Company offers hour-long narrated tours aboard open-air steamer wagons.
Moore House: Site of the British Surrender
Continue your exploration of Revolutionary War history with a visit to the 🔺Moore House. Located in Colonial National Historic Park in Yorktown, this farmhouse is where General Cornwallis’ British Army officially surrendered to George Washington in 1781. The interiors are open seasonally with limited hours, but you can explore the grounds and read the historical markers no matter when you visit.
Yorktown Victory Monument
Colonial National Historical Park is where you’ll find this white marble wonder rising high above the landscape. First erected in 1884, the 🔺Yorktown Victory Monument is a celebration of the American triumph at the Battle of Yorktown. Among its intricate carvings are 13 female statues representing the original 13 American colonies. Take a short stroll down to the riverfront beach to take in panoramic York River views.
Mobjack Bay Coffee Roasters and Petite Café
Refuel for more Yorktown adventures at a charming stop on Main Street: 🔺Mobjack Bay Coffee Roasters and Petite Café. It’s located in the historic Cole Digges house (circa 1726), built before the Revolutionary War. In the 1890s, the building was a tea house and store operated by Elizabeth Cooper. More than 100 years later, the building is again woman-owned and serving up delicious tea (and more). Pop in for a handcrafted espresso beverage or cup of tea to pair perfectly with a sandwich or pastry.
In addition to expertly roasting their coffee beans onsite, the café also offers beer on tap and wine by the glass and bottle. Take home a bag of their Craft & Forge coffee for a tasty souvenir that also supports the research, preservation, and educational programs of the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation.
LOVE Letters
Yorktown’s Riverwalk Landing is home to a can’t-miss photo op. Standing 16 feet long and over six feet tall and redecorated for each new season, the whimsical 🔺LOVE Letters display makes a picture-perfect backdrop for selfies and family photos. Stop for a snap or two while you’re out enjoying waterfront dining and boutique shopping along the York River.
Watermen’s Museum
History lovers should make time to explore this fascinating institution near Riverwalk Landing. At the Watermen’s Museum, learn about the history of sailing and boat-building in the Chesapeake Bay through interpretive displays and preserved watercrafts, from modern military ships to early dugout canoes. Be sure to stop by the gift shop to browse a selection of nautical jewelry, books, T-shirts, hats, and home décor.
Gallery at York Hall
One-of-a-kind pieces aren’t hard to find at this welcome center-meets-art market on Main Street. At the Gallery at York Hall, browse the work of over 300 local artists who specialize in painting, pottery, jewelry, stained glass, quilts, and more disciplines. Find something you like? Take it home with you – and feel good about your purchase, the proceeds of which will help fund local performing and visual arts programs.
Grace Episcopal Church
Around the corner from York Hall, historic Grace Episcopal Church (circa 1697) was attended by revolutionary-era leaders. Its long history includes occupation by British General Cornwallis, who used it as a powder magazine. Notable graves in the church cemetery include the final resting place of Thomas Nelson Jr. – a signer of the Declaration of Independence, successor to Thomas Jefferson as governor of Virginia, and brigadier general during the siege of Yorktown.
Cornwallis' Cave
Add a bit of intrigue to your beach day. Nestled in a stony bluff just off Yorktown Beach, Cornwallis’ Cave is rumored to be the final hideout of General Cornwallis before his surrender following the Battle of Yorktown. While modern historians cast doubt on this story, the local lore around the earthen hideaway makes it an interesting stop if you’re exploring near Water Street.
Yorktown Fishing Pier
Near Cornwallis’ Cave, the Yorktown Fishing Pier extends into some of the deepest waters of the York River. You can fish for free, and whether you’re a local or visitor, no fishing license is needed. Or, just snap some photos and enjoy the view – you might see bald eagles, ospreys, pods of dolphins, a Navy destroyer, or a tall ship. The pier is open year-round and is wheelchair accessible. At nearby Patriot Tours and Provisions, you can rent kayaks and paddleboards to explore the Yorktown coastline.
PRO TIP: Take the Trolley
Hop on the free, air-conditioned, wheelchair-accessible 🔺Yorktown Trolley to discover the popular sights and hidden gems around Yorktown.
Explore More
Once you’ve started exploring these hidden gems, you’ll be eager for more. Discover more off-the-beaten-path treasures nearby in Jamestown and Williamsburg.