Yorktown: A Shore Bet for Summer Fun

Get ready to spend some fun in the summertime in Yorktown! Whether you enjoy music, history, water sports, food, or shopping, Yorktown has a little something for everyone this sultry season. 

Yorktown Beach

For music aficionados

Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, and coolers to one of our FREE outdoor concerts.

The Sounds of Summer Concert Series features regional bands who perform R&B, beach, country, jazz, and more! Boogie with us on Thursdays from 7-9:30 p.m. June 2-August 11 (except July 7) by the York River. 

Sounds of Summer

July Fourth Weekend, come celebrate where our independence was won! Lounge on the beach and listen to live music, including a patriotic concert in the evening. Take advantage of other free, family-friendly events leading up to the big fireworks finale. The celebration begins at 8 a.m. and ends at 10 p.m. Schedule of events.

Girl wearing patriotic wings on beach

If classical music is more your jam, join us at 6 p.m. on Saturday, September 3 at Riverwalk Landing for a performance by the Virginia Symphony.

View of the crowd during the Labor Day Weekend Performance of the Virginia Symphony

For history lovers

Discover where America’s independence was won!

Visit the American Revolution Museum to run through the timeline of the American Revolution. The museum exhibits stories of citizens and soldiers through films and outdoor living history. Meet with troops in a re-created Continental Army encampment and assist with chores at the Revolution-era farm. 

Join a ranger for a guided walking tour of the Yorktown Battlefield and the 18th-century town. You’ll also see several fortifications and cannons, the Moore House, and Surrender Field.


TIP: Avoid the hassle of commuting from one attraction to the other. Take Yorktown’s complimentary air-conditioned trolley from the American Revolution Museum to the Yorktown Battlefield Visitor Center.

American Revolution Museum at Yorktown Homeschool Program Days
Bradley and Annabelle boarding the trolley

You can also stop by the York County Historical Museum (located inside York Hall at 301 Main Street) to explore artifacts representing Yorktown from the time of the earliest Native Americans all the way through World War II. Call ahead because hours are based on availability (757.890.4122).

Explore Yorktown after sunset during a tour with Yorktown Ghost Walks. You’ll hear a mix of compelling historical accounts, ghost stories and legends, and personal paranormal experiences.

Don’t miss a trip to the Watermen’s Museum. The local gem will give you an understanding of the role Chesapeake Bay Watermen, from pre-colonial to modern times, have played in the shaping of our nation. Be sure to stop in the gift shop, where they have 4,000 items, including nautical- and seaside-themed jewelry and decor, children's books, T-shirts, hoodies, and other great gifts.

Watermens Museum Alexanders Photography

For water enthusiasts

Put on some sunscreen and head out onto the water for one of these amazing aquatic excursions.

Rent a paddleboard or kayak from Patriot Tours & Provisions. Then wade your way onto the York River to explore the beaches and relax on the water.

Patriot Tours Kayaking

Hop aboard the Schooner Alliance! The 18-century replica tall ship sails on the beautiful York River, offering history sightseeing sails during the day and a romantic sunset sail at dusk. Families will also love the kid-friendly Pirate Adventure Cruises where pint-sized recruits help raise the sails, tie knots, and steer the ship.

Schooner Alliance sailing on the York River
Pirate Cruise

Dock your boat at our public pier to take advantage of our beautiful two-acre beach ideal for sunbathing, swimming, gathering shells, and watching boats cruise by. Or, head to the wheelchair-accessible Fishing Pier for fishing and sightseeing! Just off the dock is the deepest water of the York River. Keep an eye out for fevers of sting rays and pods of dolphins.

Yorktown Beach
Fishing Pier

For shoppers

Yorktown is a shopper’s paradise! Our unique storefront gives you the opportunity to find a little something for the family members, friends, or dogs in your life.

Take advantage of spectacular views, handmade gifts, and fresh produce during Yorktown Market Days from 8 a.m.-12 p.m. on Saturdays in the summer at Riverwalk Landing. Be sure to mark down the dates for our special themed markets, as well; many of those have extended hours!

Yorktown Market Days Collage

Spoil your precious pooch by picking up some all-natural, gourmet dog biscuits, donuts, cakes, and toys from Gangsta Dog.

Treat yourself to a piece of beautiful, handmade jewelry from Viccellio Goldsmith.

Browse for used, discounted books and memorabilia at the Yorktown Bookshop.

Shop for handcrafted American-made art at Auntie M’s American Cottage.

Find antique prints, custom hand-painted floor cloths, maps, and more at Black Dog Gallery.

If you’re an art admirer, visit one of our five art galleries located within 10 minutes of each other by foot.  

On the Hill Gallery 3

In June, the Gallery at York Hall will feature the beautiful work of Shirley Whitnack, a local photographer. Stop by to admire her breathtaking images of parrots and flamingos. Then in July, shop their annual Christmas in July Sale with 15% off everything! This local gem displays paintings, pottery, jewelry, stained glass, quilt, and other beautiful creations from more than 300 local artists. Throughout the summer they’ll also host book signings and feature live music. Check out our Events Calendar for dates and times. Throughout August, stop in for their exhibit on local pottery.

Parrot Photography
Gallery view

For foodies
Bring your appetite to Yorktown! Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, artisan pizzas, gourmet cakes and desserts, or expertly roasted coffee, our restaurants are sure to satisfy. 

Take your sweet tooth to Mobjack Bay Coffee Roasters for the newest item in their pastry case: the Mobjack Mud Pie! Made with two chewy chocolate cookies filled with delicious fudge cream and drizzled with more fudge, this decadent treat was created in house by Mobjack’s head baker. Grab a cup of coffee or tea to go with it! This charming shop also offers spectacular history tours throughout the year. Check out their summer schedule here. 

Mobjack Mud Pie
Mobjack Bay Coffee Roasters

Stop in Carrot Tree Kitchens for a fresh-from-scratch wrap, gourmet salad, or soup. 


Quench your thirst with hometown-brewed Larry’s Hard Lemonade and a spectacular view of the York River at Larry’s. 


Sushi lovers won’t be disappointed at Umi Sushi. 


Choose from indoor or outdoor seating at Water Street Grille. You’ll find 20 micro-brew beers on tap daily.


After some fun on the beach, walk across the street to Yorktown Pub where you’ll find a full bar, plus sandwiches, seafood, and Carrot Tree’s signature desserts.


With more than 30 flavors to choose from, Ben & Jerry’s never disappoints.

Ben and Jerrys ice cream bowls cones and shakes

There is even more to explore in Yorktown. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram for event announcements, product alerts, new menu items, and more!