Yorktown: The Perfect Place for a Spontaneous Getaway 

August is like the Sunday of summer. Just because the sizzling season is about to end, that doesn’t mean you can’t squeeze in a last-minute, spontaneous trip to one of the best kept secrets in Virginia. Whether you’re visiting for romance, adventure, relaxation, or history, we’ve got a few suggestions on how to make the most of your time in Historic Yorktown.

Sunrise across York River

Romantic Rendezvous 

Wake up to breathtaking sunrises on the York River from the Yorktown Beach Hotel or York River Inn Bed & Breakfast. These accommodations offer the perfect opportunity to capture a picturesque memory from your romantic rendezvous.

Once you’re up and ‘em, head to Riverwalk Landing to snap a picture in front of the LOVE Letters (between Water Street Grille and the Freight Shed) and enjoy Yorktown Beach for a day of leisure and relaxation.

Instead of walking back to the hotel, hop on the nostalgic Yorktown Trolley. Snuggle up with your partner while you focus on the unique scenery of the area. The Trolley runs from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily and stops at 11 convenient locations, all within walking distance of Historic Yorktown’s hotels or B&Bs.

Family paddle boarding on York River

Engaging Escapade

Where there’s water, there’s fun! If you enjoy watersports, visit Patriot Tours & Provisions to rent paddleboards and kayaks. Their store is just a few feet away from the York River where you’ll be free to float and explore the York River.

If you prefer to stay on land, Patriot Tours & Provisions offers beach cruisers as well as standard and electric bikes for rent. They also offer Segway-guided tours so you can roam around Historic Yorktown and receive a history lesson along the way. Reserve your rental here.

Speaking of history lessons, the Yorktown Battlefield Visitor Center will get you up close to the events of the Siege of Yorktown on two separate driving tours as well as ranger-led walking tours.

Carrot Tree menu items

Delicious Detour

On Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., head to Riverwalk Landing for the weekly Yorktown Market Days’ farmers market, where you can purchase fresh seasonal produce, snacks, beverages, sweets, and even indoor/outdoor decor. There’s also live entertainment and, on occasion, the Fifes and Drums of York Town perform.

Historic Yorktown is also the perfect location for foodies! Our selection of waterfront restaurants is just what your tummy ordered to fulfill your lunch or dinner cravings. Enjoy sushi at Umi Sushi; seafood and American fare from Water Street Grille, Larry’s, and Yorktown Pub; and wraps, sandwiches, soups, salads, and delectable desserts from Carrot Tree and Mobjack Bay Coffee Roasters and Petite Café.

American Revolution Museum at Yorktown indoor exhibit

Educational Escape

Engage your brain on a journey through history and the American Revolution. The American Revolution Museum at Yorktown tells the story of the nation’s founding through interactive indoor galleries, immersive environments, and engaging films, including “The Siege of Yorktown,” a 180-degree show with special 4-D effects. You can also venture outside to visit the re-created Continental Army encampment and explore a Revolution-era farm. The museum is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.

After the museum closes and you grab a bite to eat, discover the dark side of Historical Yorktown with Yorktown Ghost Walks. Learn true historical accounts and spooky tales from real paranormal investigators.