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In Yorktown, The Outdoors Never Looked So Inviting
Yorktown makes spreading out and exploring the outdoors look like a vacation. Because it can be! From picnicking on the beach to rolling through history on a Segway to self-guided reflective activities like bicycling and kayaking—there are plenty of ways to explore the outdoors in Yorktown.
Historic Yorktown's pedestrian Riverwalk is the perfect place for casual strolling and serious power walking... with an amazing view. The path runs alongside a beautiful two-acre beachfront open for swimming, sunbathing, and fishing. The fishing pier is open year-round and it doesn't matter if you’re a local or visiting from out of state—you don’t need a license to catch your supper. Depending on the time of year, you can haul in everything from Chesapeake Bay blue crabs to puppy drum. The pier is also a great spot for sightseeing since just off the end is the deepest water of the York River. We’ve seen fevers of sting rays, pods of dolphins, and several military ships and vessels (including submarines) pop up unexpectedly from the water.
If you’re looking for a relaxing way to actually get out on the water—Patriot Tours & Provisions rents out kayaks and standup paddle boards. The launch point is away from the hustle of the main channel - down on the private beach at the Watermen’s Museum. A portion of your rental is donated to the Museum to help fund educational programs. This outdoor adventure is an inexpensive way to explore the shoreline while floating along the glistening water of the York River. They have both single and tandem kayak rentals as well as SUPs.
Another unique way to explore town is to book a guided Segway tour! You’ll learn fascinating history not just about the American Revolution but many of our sites throughout town. There are both one-hour and two-hour tours available daily.
If you aren’t feeling quite that adventurous—a strolling tour with a Historian may be more your speed. These special walks are hosted by Mobjack Bay Coffee Roasters’ very own historian and American History educator. With certifications from the National Park Service, the guides will take you inside the National Park, onto the Battlefields, and inside the historic buildings of Main Street! It's an exclusive experience that begins and ends at the shop where you can snag an iced coffee or ice cream sandwich in the summer or a hot cup of "drinking chocolate" in the cooler season.
If you want to learn a little history you won’t find in the books, come explore Yorktown after the sun goes down! By day, our tiny village town is alive with tourists, fishermen, and shoppers. But deep beneath this peaceful allure, spirits of the past still cry out from the bloodstained soil. They emerge from the shadows to peer down from windows and wander through the darkened streets. You may catch a glimpse back in time, as residual hauntings replay themselves before your very eyes. Some have also encountered intelligent spirits that reach to them from beyond the veil. That’s the sales pitch from the paranormal investigators who lead evening Yorktown Ghost Walks. Their claims are based on a mix of compelling historical accounts, legends, and what they tout as real-life experience. Click here to purchase your ticket (groups are limited to 10 through the pandemic) or call 757.759.1320.
Soon, you won't be able to leave Yorktown without noticing the beautiful tall ship docked at Riverwalk Landing Piers. Starting June 1, the Schooner Serenity will sail four times a day with a kid-centric Pirate Adventure Cruise in the morning, history sightseeing sails during the day, and a romantic sunset sail at dusk. Make fun memories with your family, friends, or significant other when you hit the historic waters aboard this local treasure. Tickets sell out quickly so we recommend you book in advance of your trip by reserving them online through Yorktown Sailing Charters.
If you want to visit by your own boat—tie up at our piers and step ashore to take advantage of our beautiful beach, restaurants, shopping, history, and special events!
