Settlement FAQs

how long does it take to tour jamestown settlement

by Dr. Coleman Robel PhD Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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We recommend you plan at least two hours for your visit, but many visitors end up staying longer when they see how much history is actually here. Make sure you wear comfortable shoes as the Historic site is about three-quarters of a mile long.Oct 23, 2019

Full Answer

How long does it take to tour Jamestown?

Historic Jamestowne offers much to see and do. A typical visit can last 2 to 3 hours, but those wishing to delve deeper into Jamestown's history can easily spend half a day or more exploring the island. See archaeology in action as the Jamestown Rediscovery team continues to excavate parts of the island.

What should you know when you visit Jamestown Settlement and Historic Jamestowne?

Here’s what you should know when you visit Jamestown Settlement and Historic Jamestowne. Jamestown, founded in 1607, was the site of the first permanent English settlement in the New World.

How long are Jamestowne tickets good for?

Historic Jamestowne tickets are good for seven consecutive days and also cover admission to Yorktown Battlefield at the other end of Colonial National Historical Park. This post includes affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

What is historic Jamestown?

Welcome to Historic Jamestowne, site of the first permanent English settlement in North America. Jamestown is a place of many beginnings representing the very foundations of whom and what we are as a people and a nation.

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Can you do Yorktown and Jamestown in one day?

It's possible to do Colonial Williamsburg in one day and do one of the Jamestown and one of the Yorktown sites on the second day.

Can you walk around Jamestown Settlement for free?

There is no fee to walk around, however, you cannot go inside the buildings. We just walked around, but DID do Jamestown Settlement and it's sister museum in Yorktown (discount for doing both) and they were phenomenal! You go to the museums and then walk the grounds.

Is Jamestown Settlement worth visiting?

Historic Jamestowne is known for being the site of the first colonial settlement in America, and this is why it's worth a day trip. A visit to Virginia's most historic locations can yield a wealth of information and give visitors an appreciation for on which the country was founded.

How much does it cost to visit Jamestown Settlement?

general admissionAdult (16 & over)$30Child (15 & under)Free

Which is better Jamestown Settlement or historic Jamestown?

The biggest difference is historic jamestowne is the actual spot and ongoing archaeological dig, while Jamestown settlement is a living history museum with an expensive indoor museum and costumed staff who give you hands on learning about life of a colonist, a sailor on the three recreation ships, or a Powhatan Indian.

How long is the Jamestown ferry ride?

approximately 15-20 minutesHow long is the ride on the ferry across the river? The ferry takes approximately 15-20 minutes to cross the river one way.

How long does it take to walk through Colonial Williamsburg?

about two to three daysTo fully experience Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia you need about two to three days. With that, you can visit the all the shops, city sites and homes.

What is the difference between Jamestown and Williamsburg?

Jamestown is where the first English settlement was established. Colonial Williamsburg is where the American Revolution first started. And Yorktown is where the British surrendered. All three are living history museums with re-enactments, people dressed in period costumes, etc.

Is one day enough for Colonial Williamsburg?

While I'd recommend at least two full days to get the most of your visit to Colonial Williamsburg, you can certainly experience quite a bit in one day. A day in Williamsburg will give you enough time to hit the highlights and try a couple of the great places to eat in Williamsburg.

Is Yorktown worth visiting?

It was the site of the last battle of the Revolutionary War and is a waterfront town with battlefields, museums, living history programs, shops, restaurants and outdoor recreation opportunities. You can easily spend a whole day or weekend in Yorktown as there are plenty of things to see and do.

Can I walk around Colonial Williamsburg for free?

No. You do not need a pass to go to the Colonial area. You can go and walk the area, and even eat in Chownings or King's Arms Tavern. You can also visit the market square area, and shop stores in both places.

Is Yorktown Battlefield free?

ENTRANCE FEES The seven-day combination pass fee is per adult and allows unlimited access to both Historic Jamestowne and Yorktown Battlefield during regular operating hours. Children 15 and under are admitted free.

Is any part of Jamestown free?

Both the historical site and recreation site, Jamestown Settlement, have fees. Historic site with archeological sites is $14/adult; the settlement is $17/adult.

Can I walk around Colonial Williamsburg for free?

No. You do not need a pass to go to the Colonial area. You can go and walk the area, and even eat in Chownings or King's Arms Tavern. You can also visit the market square area, and shop stores in both places.

Is everything open at the Jamestown Settlement?

Colonial National Historical Park is open daily, year-round with the exception of Thanksgiving Day, December 25th, and January 1st. On these days the gate and all park buildings and grounds on Jamestown Island will be closed to visitor access.

Do you have to pay for Williamsburg?

The Colonial Williamsburg Historic Area is open to the public for free, but you do need a ticket to get into any of the historical sites or trade shops. Open sites have a flag posted out in front. Make sure to pick up a map and daily schedule at the Visitor's Center to help you plan your day.

How many days to visit Yorktown?

There are two Yorktown sites,and two Jamestown sites. I generally recommend one day for the 2 James towns and one day for the 2 Yorktowns, plus 2 days for CW. For an overview and a taste, you'll be OK. You'll probably start planning your next trip on your way home, though, if you love it like I do!

What time is Yorktown Battlefield open?

Yorktown Battlefield Visitors Center is open 9am-5pm, but the grounds don't close until sunset. Your time will be tight but you can get a decent overview. Go to www.nps.gov/york/planyourvisit/index.htm and determine what you want to do. You'll probably arrive by 3:30pm, go to the visitors center, several historic bldgs close at 4:30pm so see what you can quickly and take the self guided auto, about an hour, and that will probably take most of your time. You may want to have dinner on the Yorktown riverfront. One day in CW will be fine, although it's easy to spend more time there; Monday in Jamestown with some time for shopping will work too. Enjoy the area.

plan your visit

Explore this interactive map to learn about all of the things to see and do at Historic Jamestowne, from visiting the Archaearium museum to seeing an active excavation.

tours & programs

Explore the James Fort site with an archaeologist who has troweled the ground, a Park Ranger who has studied the stories, or an educator who can bring the past to life.

family activities

Learn more about the fun and educational programs for our younger visitors.

hours & schedule

Find current operating hours and see what programs are offered this week.

events calendar

Check for upcoming living history events and other special days on the island.

How long does it take to visit Jamestown?

Jamestown is the beginning of America. We recommend you plan at least two hours for your visit, but many visitors end up staying longer when they see how much history is actually here. Make sure you wear comfortable shoes as the Historic site is about three-quarters of a mile long.

What was the first permanent English settlement in North America?

Welcome to Historic Jamestowne, site of the first permanent English settlement in North America. Jamestown is a place of many beginnings representing the very foundations of whom and what we are as a people and a nation. There were other European settlements in America before Jamestown, but our language, the majority of our customs ...

What to bring to the settlers in the late spring?

During the late spring and summer months the "air is alive with a buzz" according to the settlers, so bring some insect repellant. And bring sun screen and plenty of water during the summer months as temperatures are often in the high 90's but seem like the 100's when you add the humidity.

Does Jamestowne have a cafe?

Historic Jamestowne has both snack and drink machines, as well as a cafe. Use this link to our "Where to Eat"web page.

What time does the American Revolution Museum open?

Open year-round 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, except Christmas and New Year's days. Outdoor living-history areas open 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. In 2021, save on a value-priced combination ticket with the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown: $28.90 adults, $14.45 ages 6-12. Free parking. Buy Tickets.

When did the English colonists arrive in Virginia?

Discover the world of 17th-century Virginia, from the arrival of English colonists in Jamestown in 1607 to the cultural encounters and events that planted the seeds of a new nation, through gallery exhibits, films and outdoor living history. Enjoy the museum safely with new protective protocols .

What does the historic settlement give you?

4) The historic settlement itself gives you a feel for how people lived their daily lives, caught and grew food, delt with seasonal weather conditions and delt with visitor and invaders alike. Amazing to see how the first Europeans tried to survive and thrive in a new and very harsh land.

How far in advance can you cancel a trip on TripAdvisor?

Buy tickets in advance on Tripadvisor. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel at least 24 hours before the start date of your tour for a full refund.

What are the parts of the Indian settlement?

There are two parts to the settlement. The first is a museum of the history of the area . The second is a reenactment of the actual settlement. there is an Indian village with people working the fields and making pottery. a woman gave us a detailed explanation of the houses. Then there is a fort where the colonists lived with several building to tour and craftsmen making leather and tin goods. Finally there are several ships that can be toured. We were lucky enough to see a demonstration of men climbing the masts to fix the sails. After that we toured the museum and saw many artifacts. Make sure you take about 3 hours to see all of this wonderful site.

Is Jamestown a good place to live?

Jamestown is an awesome place for both adult and kids!

Do you have to pay admission to visit Jamestown?

4) The two sites are nearby each other but, you must pay two admissions to visit each. The historic Jamestowne site is more for adults and the older crowd as it's truly a step back in our history and you should be into the past to get a feel for all that you will see and experince. It's visual - less hands on. The modern site and re-creations at The Jamestown Settlement are best for families and kids as they have hands on exhibits and villages and projects that keep the kids attention.

Is it easy to drive from Williamsburg to Jamestowne?

1) It was easy to drive from Williamsburg down to Jamestowne. Quick roads, easy signage and prompt parking and check-in across from the site.

Does the Colonial Highway have turn offs?

The Colonial Highway has turn offs along the way , with information about the sites in the area. We stopped at all the turn offs on our way back to Williamsburg.

How long is the Jamestown tour?

Scheduled throughout the year as staffing allows, these tours last about 30 to 45 minutes and cover about 200 to 400 yards of the historic site (weather permitting). Many of our Park Rangers and Guides have been providing these interpretive programs for many years and each gives a unique perspective on the history of Jamestown. Walk with one of our Rangers as you retrace the steps of Captain John Smith or Pocahontas.

How long is the Jamestown Rediscovery tour?

Join a Preservation Virginia volunteer or staff archaeologist on a 45-minute walking tour of the excavation site inside of the rediscovered 1607 James Fort. Learn about the history of the on-going Jamestown Rediscovery archaeological project and receive news on the most recent discoveries.

Can you get a refund for Jamestown tour?

Unfortunately we are unable to issue refunds unless the tour or program is cancelled by the Jamestown Rediscovery Foundation. However if your plans change and we can accommodate you on another specialty tour that is the same price, we will be happy to do so. Please email [email protected] if you have purchased a specialty tour or program ticket and would like to see if it can be transferred to another date.

Is Jamestowne a good place to visit?

Exploring Historic Jamestowne on your own is a great way to see the island, but guided tours offer a way to learn more about the site from one of our many experts. Below are answers to some frequently asked questions to help plan your visit to get the most out of the experience.

How much time do you have to spend in Colonial Williamsburg?

How much time do you have? You can see a lot in two days at Colonial Williamsburg - but it's easy to spend 5 or more days at CW and still not see everything you're interested in. Get an early start, stopping at the Glasshouse at Historic Jamestowne on your way in, because it open before HJ, eat lunch at either Jamestown location, and spend the afternoon at Jamestown Settlement. You'll see and do a lot and will likely want to return. You could also take in dinner at a tavern and/or an evening program at Colonial Williamsburg after spending time at the Jamestown sites.

Where to take the free Jamestowne-Scotland ferry?

To VAP's fine advise, I'd suggest you take the free Jamestowne-Scotland Ferry next to the Glass House across the river and visit Smith's Fort Plantation just south of the ferry landing. This was the fall back position directly across from Jamestowne chosen by the colonists in the event of attack and the earthworks of the fort remain.

How long is the Dog Street tour?

Reference CW: 2 days will get you through the main buildings like the Palace, Capital, et.al. and up and down DoG Street but there is so much more, particularly the museums which are truly remarkable. Try to spend as much time there as possible both to savor the village and not have to rush.

How many days can you spend in CW?

You can easily spend two days in CW! The multi-day (3-day) tickets aren't that much more expensive than the daily tickets, so see if you can extend your trip a bit. :)

Is Yorktown a good place to visit?

Don't leave out Yorktown. Its self-guided auto tour of the battlefield and the surrounding area shouldn't be missed. On the waterfront are several nice restaurants from local watering hole to upscale, and don't overlook a cruise on the schooner Alliance from the waterfront pier.

Is Jamestown a living history museum?

Both Jamestown Settlement and the Museum of the American Revolution are living history museums and are separate ( though located very near) the actual sites. I find the actual sites (Yorktown Battlefield and Historic Jamestown...both of which are National Parks) can be a bit abstract for kids. You get a better sense of what went on (especially for kids) when you start at the living history museums.

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