4.5Colonial Williamsburg(12.6k reviews) - Great day for the entire family Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • History Museums
Colonial Williamsburg, a 301-acre living history museum, brings travelers back in time to colonial Virginia through immersive experiences, historical reenactments, museums, and events. Prominent landmarks like the Raleigh Tavern, the Capitol, and the Governor’s Palace have been lovingly reconstructed, and travelers can walk through the entire historic area free of charge—although there are also ticketed attractions to enjoy, such as carriage rides around the historical center. Be sure to buy advance tickets to watch staged adaptations of historical events, from 'Cry Witch' to 'To Hang a Pirate'. – TripadvisorSee more..
5.0Arlington National Cemetery(9.567 reviews) - Great and humbling experience Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Historic Sites • Cemeteries
Veterans of every American war from the Revolution to the country's most recent conflicts are buried at Arlington, which was officially declared a military cemetery in 1864. Among the more than 260,000 dead are three unidentified service members, buried at the Tomb of the Unknowns, and John F. Kennedy, whose gravesite is marked by an eternal flame.See more..
4.5Monticello(7.125 reviews) - Fascinating and impressive! Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM Spent More than 3 hours Historic Sites • Gardens
Monticello and its many historical rooms, gadgets, furniture, buildings, and artifacts tell us a lot about Thomas Jefferson, the president who built it and lived there.See more..
4.5Historic Jamestowne(5.491 reviews) - Awesome, but expensive. Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM Spent More than 3 hours Historic Sites • History Museums
Historic Jamestowne is the original site of the first permanent English settlement in America. Ongoing archaeology at the site of James Fort has changed our understanding of the struggles and triumphs of early 1600s life in Virginia. Living history programs and an archaeology museum tell the story of this dramatic rediscovery. The site is jointly administered by the National Park Service and Preservation Virginia.See more..
4.5George Washington's Mount Vernon(4.771 reviews)from $28.00 - Enslaved People of MV Tour highly recommended Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Speciality Museums • Historic Sites • Architectural Buildings
Come share the fascinating moments of America’s first family with yours at George Washington’s Mount Vernon. Explore the beautiful mansion and grounds and get to know the man, the ideas and the values that founded a nation. Dive into history through action-packed theaters, fascinating exhibits and meet characters from Washington’s world. Admire the view of the peaceful Potomac, or hop on board a sightseeing cruise. It’s a place where history truly comes to life.See more..
4.5Jamestown Settlement(4.380 reviews) - A MUST See and Visit! Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Historic Sites • Ships
We purchased the Single Day Combo ticket (includes): Jamestown Settlement and the American Revolution Museum. This allows a (1) Single day visit ticket to each museum. Meaning you get (1) visit to each museum location. There are many combination tickets you can get but this worked the best for our visit. These museums are GREAT and are WELL worth the price of admission. Allow enough time to see both. We thought 1-2 hours would be enough but it would not be. So allow yourself not to be rushed and enjoy the history. The museum and staff here do a wonderful job and are friendly. FYI, the National Park service operates the " Historic Jamestown" just around the corner which has the Glasshouse and other exhibits (separate and a fee). These are independent of this museum.See more..
Quaint old seaport section of Alexandria on the National Register of Historic Places.See more..
4.5Governor's Palace(2.536 reviews) - Palace is lovely! Wednesday: 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM Historic Sites
The luxurious palace of the loyalist governor, complete with meticulously replicated late 18th century furnishings.See more..
4.5Natural Bridge State Park(2.097 reviews) - Pretty location, a little pricey for families Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Geologic Formations
Once owned by Thomas Jefferson and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the 215-foot tall Natural Bridge is a limestone gorge carved out by Cedar Creek. The park is more than just the bridge; beautiful forests and rolling meadows showcase the area’s karst terrain, and vistas of surrounding mountains and the James River valley display nature’s splendor. Access these via 6 miles of hiking trails, including the accessible Cedar Creek Trail that leads from the bridge to the Monacan Indian Village and Lace Falls with its 30-foot cascade. Living history programs connect you to the past and cover how people once used the area’s resources for survival and inspiration. Start at the visitor center where you will find exhibits and a gift shop. A shuttle from the visitor center to the bridge trail is available for those not wishing to take the stairs.See more..
4.5Yorktown Battlefield(1.665 reviews) - Very Informative Historic Sites • Battlefields
There is a visitor center with some exhibits and a 15 minute video which is helpful in understanding what happened at the battle. There was a ranger giving a talk outside, but there was no published schedule of when those programs were happening. We downloaded the (free) app and took the driving tour. You are able to go at your own pace and stop at each place and get out to look around. Definitely recommend getting out at the Redoubts (walk down the path to the left to see the redoubt structure) and Surrender Field (there is an overlook and a path down to see the cannons that were surrendered by Cornwallis). Recommend doing the "red" tour as a minimuim, but the "yellow" route was also interesting. Our 13 year old was very interested, and kids 15 and under are free. You can save your receipt and get a 50% discount at Historic Jamestown within 7 days. (If you have already visited Historic Jamestown, then the battlefield is free)See more..
4.5American Revolution Museum at Yorktown(1.381 reviews) - Engaging for the whole family. A must-see. Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Historic Sites • Battlefields • History Museums
Museum where you can find all types of displays regarding the momentous events and activities during Revolutionary times.See more..
4.5Cape Henry Lighthouse(1.292 reviews) - Go back in history Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Lighthouses
Dune Restoration Project in Progress The dune at Cape Henry Lighthouse is currently undergoing restoration and the lighthouse tower is temporarily inaccessible for climbing. The project is expected to be completed in spring 2019. During construction, we will remain open with walking tours every hour from 10:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Cape Henry Lighthouse is the first federally funded public works project of the newly formed United States government. It was authorized by George Washington and overseen by Alexander Hamilton. The Lighthouse is situated near the “First Landing” site where English settlers first set foot on their way to settle in Jamestown. Built with the same Aquia sandstone as much of Washington, D.C, the lighthouse guided sea travelers to safety for almost 100 years. The distinctive black and white striped “New” Cape Henry Lighthouse was built in 1881 but remains closed to the public.See more..
4.5James Madison's Montpelier(1.241 reviews) - Enlightening and Inspiring Tour with a Top-Notch Guide Wednesday: Spent 2-3 hours Historic Sites
Montpelier is the lifelong home of James Madison, fourth President of the United States, Father of the Constitution, and Architect of the Bill of Rights; and his wife, Dolley, America's first "First Lady." Montpelier was also home to six generations of enslaved individuals. The historic house, grounds, gardens, "The Mere Distinction of Colour Exhibition," and 8 miles of walking trails are open to visitors. Guided "Highlights of Montpelier" are currently offered 9:30AM-3PM, and the Museum Shop is currently open 10AM-4:30PM. The Gilmore Cabin is open on weekends, and the Train Depot is open during business hours. Montpelier is administered by The Montpelier Foundation and is a National Trust Historic Site. Montpelier is a monument to James Madison and the Enslaved Community, a museum of American history, and a center for constitutional education that engages the public with the enduring legacy of Madison's most powerful idea: government by the people.See more..
4.5Virginia Capitol Building(1.077 reviews) - Great Docent Tour Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Historic Sites • Architectural Buildings • Government Buildings
Inside the white, columned state capitol building, designed by Thomas Jefferson to resemble a first-century Roman temple in France, is the only sculpture of George Washington produced in his lifetime.See more..
We didn't plan for enough time. We had about an hour and a half when we visited in June, but when we arrived and got the guided tour times, wanted to go on one that a role player was leading (played a 19th century war reporter). We barely had enough time to see the visitor center, the tour, and pop into a few buildings. We hope to go back and spend some more time. Recommend planning on half a day!See more..
4.5James Monroe's Highland(949 reviews) - Take the guided tour Wednesday: 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites
Part of William & Mary, this historic site is the home of James Monroe, fifth president of the United States.See more..
The pre-Civil War residence of legendary Confederate general Robert E. Lee, this Greek revival mansion was taken over by Union troops, and the estate was used to bury the war dead. Overlooking the Potomac and the grounds of what is now Arlington National Cemetery, the home has been restored as a memorial to Lee.See more..
4.5Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and Museum(729 reviews) - Learned more about Wilson's beginnings Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums • Historic Sites
As the official Presidential Library for Woodrow Wilson, we are an educational institution dedicated to the study of both his life and the times in which he lived - from pre-Civil War to post World War I. Come and learn about Wilson, take a stroll through our historic gardens, immerse yourself in a WWI trench exhibit, and view his Pierce-Arrow Presidential limousine that still runs to this day!See more..
I wasn't sure what to expect; but this was my favorite part of our visit to Fredericksburg. The park rangers were incredibly knowledgeable and very passionate about their work, as was the historic reenactor. We did the self-guided tour but the map and the signage was really interesting and informative and I liked that it was a tour you could do in about an hour without spending all day there.See more..
4.5University Chapel & Galleries(540 reviews) - University Chapel, Art Galleries worth visiting! Wednesday: 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Historic Sites • History Museums
The University Chapel of Washington and Lee University is a National Historic Landmark in Lexington, Virginia. It was constructed during 1867–68 at the request of Robert E. Lee, who was president of the school, and after whom the university is, in part, named.See more..
4.0Edgar Allan Poe Museum(536 reviews) - Well worth a visit Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Speciality Museums • Historic Sites • History Museums
Illustrations of the famous poem "The Raven" and numerous other artifacts surrounding the life of this great American author, the father of the psychological horror story, are housed in a series of buildings, including Richmond's oldest.See more..
Explore the historic Mabry Mill, located on the entire Blue Ridge Parkway. Experience live milling demonstrations, as this gristmill still grinds flour more than a century since its original construction. See the nearby Matthews Cabin, blacksmith shop and interpretive area. National Park Service staff conducts demonstrations on blacksmithing, carding, spinning and basket making. On Sundays throughout the summer, local folk and mountain music performers appear live here. Then visit the Mabry Mill Restaurant & Gift Shop and enjoy a country-style menu. Breakfast is served all day. Lunch and dinner entrees also are featured. Our gift shop features Virginia crafts and foods, as well as a selection of Mabry Mill and Blue Ridge Parkway-inspired clothing, books, music and souvenirs.See more..
4.5Berkeley Plantation(494 reviews) - A Must See Plantation on the James River Wednesday: 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM Historic Sites • Battlefields
First settled in 1619, this historic estate is the birthplace of Benjamin Harrison V, a signer of the American Declaration of Indepenence, and his son William Henry, who later became president of the United States.See more..
5.0St. Luke's Historic Church & Museum(478 reviews) - St. Luke’s church, a hidden gem! Wednesday: Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums • Historic Sites • Religious Sites
Visit Virginia's Oldest Church Building & Cemeteries in Smithfield, Virginia. Whether your interest is ancient cemeteries, 17th-century Virginian and Early American History, or architectural history, a visit to the Museum, "The Old Brick Gift Shop", and park and hiking trail is a must thing to do while in the Greater Williamsburg and Coastal Virginia regions. St. Luke's Historic Church & Museum is operated and owned by Historic St. Luke's Restoration, and is a fully-tax deductible, 501(c)3 education-based, non-profit organization.See more..
4.0American Civil War Museum- Historic Tredegar(433 reviews) - A must see for Civil War buffs! Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Military Museums • Historic Sites • History Museums
Founded in 1837, the historic Tredegar Iron Works was one of the country’s largest industrial sites before the Civil War and the largest in the Confederate States. Our new building houses the Museum’s visitor services desk, museum store, and our flagship exhibit, A People's Contest. It features hundreds of original artifacts, dynamic theater experiences, and compelling imagery. There is also a self-guided tour of the historic ironworks site and conversion of the historic Foundry Building into multiple-use space for meetings, weddings, and other events. The mission of The ACWM is to be the preeminent center for the exploration of the American Civil War and its legacies from multiple perspectives: Union and Confederate, enslaved and free African Americans, soldiers and civilians.See more..
In 1774 Thomas Jefferson and Filippo Mazzei created Virginia's first commercial wine company and vineyard on our estate. Four decades ago, we introduced quality modern viticulture to Virginia. Our wines range from delicate and refreshing, to elegant, full-bodied and rich. We are one of the highest awarded Virginia wineries for Viognier (the state grape). In 2001 we bottled one of Virginia's first Petit Verdot varietals. We continue extensive experimentation with these two varietals, skin fermented white wines and a range of small batch estate reserve wines that reflect the best of our Virginia terroir. We are located 1 mile from Monticello and Jame's Monroe's Highland Estate.See more..
Some of the Visitor Center was closed off. The gift shop was open and provided maps of the battlefield area. There is a tribute to Stonewall Jackson note the place he was accidentally shot by one of his troops. Lost of trails but bring bug spray. Civil War educational site. Lot's of parking. Free to guests.See more..
4.5Shirley Plantation(420 reviews) - Oldest plantation in Virginia Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites
A National Historic Landmark on the James River off scenic Route 5 between Richmond and Williamsburg, Shirley stands as a testament to Colonial life and early American history of the indigenous, settlers, indentured, and the enslaved. An active family farm, Shirley is currently home to the 11th and 12th generations of the Hill Carter family. The wooden pineapple crowning the manor house has been welcoming visitors for centuries. Please check our website for details on our daily hours as they vary seasonally.See more..
We went here for service on New Year’s Day 2023. We were interested in the history of the church and thought a service would be a nice way to visit. After the service we were looking around a bit and a parishioner took the time to point out George Washington’s pew and Robert E Lee’s too. He and another parishioner spent a generous amount of time telling us about the interesting parts of the church—old and new—and share some church history. Amazing experience.See more..
4.5Stonewall Jackson House(411 reviews) - great historical house Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Historic Sites
Experience family life on the eve of the American Civil War as you explore the finely preserved home and gardens of the man who became Stonewall Jackson.See more..
The Castle provides Guided Tours, Gift Shopping, & Tourist Information on Mondays, Fridays, and Saturdays between 10 a.M. And 5 p.M. And Sundays between 12 and 5 p.M. Grounds are open 365 days a year between dawn and dusk. Built in 1665, Bacon's Castle, originally known as the Arthur Allen Brick House, is British North America's oldest brick structure, North America's only surviving example of Jacobean Architecture, and has North America's oldest, preserved 17th-century English Formal Garden. Since 1973, Preservation Virginia restores, preserves, and presents the 40-acre historic site as a museum. The Site has a gift shop, restrooms, tourist information desk, guided house tours, Oldest Tidewater Virginia Barn (early-18th-century), 1850s Smokehouse, 1829/1849 Slave Quarters, and self-guided grounds and garden tours. Preservation Virginia's Bacon's Castle is proud to announce it is a Virginia Green certified Attraction and encourages others to participate in responsible practices. The grounds are accessible 364 days of the year between dawn and dusk.See more..
4.5St. John's Episcopal Church(405 reviews) - Well Worth a Visit for the History Wednesday: Spent < 1 hour Historic Sites • Churches & Cathedrals
Historic St. John's Church - where Patrick Henry gave his 'give me liberty or give me death' speech. Tickets to our events and programs here: https://historicstjohns.ticketspice.com/2023-tour-ticketsSee more..
4.5Chatham Manor(393 reviews) - Beautiful and Historic Mansion Historic Sites
Chatham Manor was built in about 1770. It is a wonderfully preserved example of georgian archictecture. The site is delightful, on a hill overlooking the Rappahannock river and Fredericksburg, surrounded by gardens. The building was used as the local Union headquarters during the civil war, and as a civil war hospital. The interior has displays which tell the history of the building and of the people who lived here.See more..
Poplar Forest is Thomas Jefferson’s personal retreat home and plantation located just outside Lynchburg, VA. It is one of only two homes Thomas Jefferson designed for his own use. Designated a National Historic Landmark by the Secretary of the Interior, today it is an exciting opportunity to experience the award-winning rescue, archaeological exploration and restoration of one of America’s most important national landmarks. The Corporation for Jefferson's Poplar Forest's mission is to preserve, inspire, and tell the emerging story of the free and enslaved people who lived and worked at Thomas Jefferson's Poplar Forest. Visitors can experience ongoing archaeological digs, historically accurate restoration and conservation work in the historic house, and exhibits throughout the house and the grounds that tell the full story of Jefferson, his family, and the enslaved men, women, and children who lived at Poplar Forest.See more..
5.0Bassett Hall(360 reviews) - Don't miss Bassett Hall! Historic Sites
Home of Mr. and Mrs. John Rockefeller Jr. decorated in 18th-century furnishings.See more..
5.0Pamplin Historical Park(357 reviews) - Common soldiers. Great History and tours Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Historic Sites • Parks • History Museums
Featuring the engaging National Museum of the Civil War Soldier, Tudor Hall Plantation, a recreated Military Encampment, and some of the best preserved earthworks in existence, this 424-acre park relives the life and times of a soldier during America's "War Between the States."See more..
4.0The Homestead(324 reviews) - Expensive, Worth a Visit, Remember it is Historic and Not New. Historic Sites • Golf Courses • Spas
We love The Homestead. It is amazing. And nice to see that Omni is investing in it to bring it back up to standards. But there remain issues. The air-conditioning in our room did not work. It cycled on and off and the fins were clogged with dust which could have been the cause of the problem. There was a thick layer of dust on the tile at the top edge in the bathroom. The rooms are expensive, which should be expected. But additional taxes by the state and local government plus resort fees add an extra $100. It is annoying that after charging all that amount, they try to get another $5 whole dollars to go from 10 mbps to 30 mbps on the internet. Really, $5?! If you have never been here, it is worthwhile staying for a night or two. It is stunning. If you are a golfer, the courses are great. But remember that you are staying at a historic hotel and not a new (and sterile) copy of a chain hotel. Expect some surprises, some pleasant and others not.See more..
After nearly a 200-year hiatus and a multi-million dollar reconstruction, George Washington's Distillery & Gristmill is back in business - producing grain products powered by a 16-foot waterwheel and the same rye whiskey that made the Founding Father the nation's most successful whiskey producer in the years after his presidency. Located at the original site, George Washington's Gristmill highlights his vision for America's future as "granary of the world;" while his Distillery is the only site in North America that demonstrates 18th-century distilling from seed to barrel.See more..
Explore the fascinating work of Edgar Cayce, documented psychic and the "father of holistic medicine." Founded in 1931 to research and explore transpersonal subjects such as holistic health, ancient mysteries, personal spirituality, dreams, philosophy, reincarnation, and intuition. Join us daily for free lecture, film and tour. Visit our library, bookstore and gift shop, relaxing meditation garden, or stone labyrinth. Enjoy a healthy meal at the Leaping Lizard Café or relax in our holistic spa. Visit our Web site for a full schedule of events for our non-profit organization.See more..
4.5Downtown State Street(284 reviews) - State street is a beautiful unique place. Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks
Bristol has a proud heritage going back more than 150 years of being both a fun place to visit and a “Good Place to Live”. With so much to do and enjoy, everyone feels at home in Historic Downtown Bristol. As a Certified Main Street Community, Downtown Bristol has more to offer every day – more activities, more shops, more homes, more offices and more life. Believe in Bristol is a nonprofit 501 ( c ) 3 organization composed of dedicated citizens, business owners, government officials and other friends of Bristol who recognize the role a vital downtown plays in preserving and furthering our communities identity, spirit and economy.See more..
5.0McLean House(259 reviews) - General Lee surrenders to General Grant Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Historic Sites
Historical site where Robert E. Lee surrendered to Ulysses S. Grant in 1865.See more..
A National Monument is the site where four generations of Washingtons lived.See more..
4.5The Rising Sun Tavern(247 reviews) - 1760 home of Charles Washington Wednesday: 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Historic Sites • History Museums
While not serving food or drink since 1827, the Rising Sun Tavern Museum provides a lively interpretation of late 18th-century Tavern life. Charles Washington, George Washington's youngest brother, built this landmark in the 1760's as his private residence. After being sold outside the Washington family, the building was leased as a tavern in 1792. Operating as a stopover for travelers for 35 years in the bustling town of Fredericksburg, it was a popular diversion for travelers and locals alike. Today, costumed guides entertain visitors as though they have just stepped off their coaches into the late 18th-century life. See how bygone visitors slept, learn what they ate and drank, and immerse yourself in the now eccentric customs of historic travel and lodgings. The original 18th-century structure contains period furniture and artifacts.See more..
4.5Woodlawn & Pope-Leighey House(241 reviews) - Pope-Leighey House a true gem! Wednesday: Historic Sites • History Museums
Woodlawn Estate and the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Pope-Leighey House are two iconic architectural sites of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, located on the same property in historic Alexandria, Virginia, just outside Washington D.C. Our Federal Georgian Mansion, built in 1805 for Nelly Parke Custis Lewis and Lawrence Lewis and our Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Usonian House, built in 1940 and moved to our property in the 60's both sit in a beautiful landscape. Visitors are encouraged to explore the contrasting architectural and historical stories of these two masterpiece homes, set in glorious landscape. Our site is also home to the non-profit farm, Arcadia Center for Sustainable Food & Agriculture. We host extraordinary catered celebrations in our luxury event space with exclusive partner, Design Cuisine. Do come and visit us!See more..
4.5Washington and Lee University(234 reviews) - Plenty to do and see on this beautiful and historic 19th century university campus! Historic Sites
Established in 1749, Washington and Lee University is the ninth-oldest college in the United States.See more..
4.5Oatlands Historic House & Garden(230 reviews) - You will learn a lot. Wednesday: Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • Gardens • Scenic Walking Areas
A historic garden property administered by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. We are currently closed for our off season, but will reopen to the public on April 18, 2019.See more..
Always amazed with the experience. Perfect blend of historical architecture & modern updates. Went this time to see Star Wars - top notch cinema & sound. Fantastic experience!! Food was good and service was acceptable.See more..
Built by George Washington's sister, Betty Washington Lewis, and her husband, Fielding Lewis, this beautiful, Georgian-style, eighteenth-century brick mansion reflects the pre-Revolutionary-War wealth and status of the Fredericksburg merchant.See more..
This 18th-century building restored as the Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop presents a vivid living history interpretation of Revolutionary-era medical practices. Leeches, lancets, and snakeroot are all found in this 18th-century doctor's office and pharmacy. Visitors can hear about the popular treatment of the day for a lady's hysteria or a medicine so potent that it would, according to one wealthy plantation owner "cheer a man with a bad wife." The Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop is one of the Washington Heritage Museums and is within short walking distance of its other sites: the Mary Washington House, Rising Sun Tavern, and St. James' House. Please allow 45 minutes for your visit.See more..
