how long to tour jamestown settlement

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.

Should you visit Jamestown Settlement and Historic Jamestowne in Virginia?

When visiting Virginia’s Historic Triangle area, you really should plan to add a day visiting Jamestown Settlement and Historic Jamestowne to your Colonial Williamsburg itinerary. Here’s what you should know when you visit Jamestown Settlement and Historic Jamestowne.

How much does it cost to go to Jamestown?

Valid for seven consecutive days at Historic Jamestowne, Yorktown Battlefield, Jamestown Settlement, the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown, and Colonial Williamsburg. Adults (16 & older): $106.40 Youth (6-15): $46.95 Children (5 & under): Free

How do I get to Jamestown Settlement?

Your visit to Jamestown Settlement will start at the large visitor’s center. Once you purchase your tickets (or check in with your multi-site, multi-day pass) and pick up a map, you’ll be directed to the exhibit area. Start with the video that shows in the theater every half hour or so, “1607: A Nation Takes Root.”

Can you do Jamestown and Yorktown in one day?

You do need at least two days to get the full experience, but three are recommended. As you make your plan, consider the driving time between sites, which can be up to 40 minutes. We recommend doing Yorktown and Jamestown in the same day, and then doing Colonial Williamsburg on its own day.

Is Historic Jamestown 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.

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.

How long does it take to tour historic 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.

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.

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.

How much does it cost to visit Jamestown Settlement?

General Admission Rates – July 1, 2022 - June 30, 2023Jamestown SettlementCombination TicketAdultsYouthAdults$18.00$9.00$30.00

What do you do on the trip to Jamestown?

Visitor Center. Set the stage for your island exploration by watching a video about this land in 1607 and enjoying exhibits that fit Jamestown into a worldwide story. ... Footbridge. ... Wildlife. ... Tercentennial Monument. ... Angela Site. ... New Towne. ... Monuments. ... Pocahontas Statue.More items...

Do you have to pay to go to Jamestown?

Both the historical site and recreation site, Jamestown Settlement, have fees. Historic site with archeological sites is $14/adult; the settlement is $17/adult. Check the websites for admission fees for children, seniors, etc.

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.

How late can you walk around Colonial Williamsburg?

9 a.m. to 5 p.m.General Information and Hours. Colonial Williamsburg is open 365 days a year. Most Historic Trades and Sites are open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. After hours, check out Evening Programs, which run well into the night.

What is the best way to visit Colonial Williamsburg?

Your first stop at Colonial Williamsburg will be at the large Visitor's Center. This is where you will park (for free), buy your tickets (if you haven't bought online already), and catch the shuttle to the Historic Area. You can also walk to the Historic Area. It's a pleasant walk of about a third of a mile.

How much does it cost to visit Jamestown Settlement?

General Admission Rates – July 1, 2022 - June 30, 2023Jamestown SettlementCombination TicketAdultsYouthAdults$18.00$9.00$30.00

Can you 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.

How do you tour Jamestown?

Your visit to Jamestown Settlement will start at the large visitor's center. Once you purchase your tickets (or check in with your multi-site, multi-day pass) and pick up a map, you'll be directed to the exhibit area.

Is 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.

When is Jamestown Settlement open?

Jamestown Settlement is open:Sun - Sat 9:00 AM - 5:00 PMBuy tickets in advance on Tripadvisor. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel at leas...

Do you need to book in advance to visit Jamestown Settlement?

We recommend booking Jamestown Settlement tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours befo...

What hotels are near Jamestown Settlement?

Hotels near Jamestown Settlement: (4.17 mi) Williamsburg Sampler Bed and Breakfast (4.32 mi) A Williamsburg White House (5.08 mi) Fife and Drum Inn...

What restaurants are near Jamestown Settlement?

Restaurants near Jamestown Settlement: (3.20 mi) Duck Donuts Williamsburg (1.81 mi) Five Forks Cafe LLC (5.07 mi) Fat Canary (5.21 mi) Le Yaca Fren...

What attractions are near Jamestown Settlement?

Attractions near Jamestown Settlement: (0.00 mi) Jamestown-Scotland Ferry (0.16 mi) Billsburg Brewery (0.19 mi) Jamestown Discovery Boat Tour (0.19...

Where can I buy Jamestown Settlement tickets?

You can purchase Jamestown Settlement tickets ahead of time online or at the large Jamestown Settlement visitor center. There are a variety of multi-day and combination tickets available (some are “web only” specials). 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.

How to continue Jamestowne?

If you are so inclined, after you walk through Historic Jamestowne, you can continue your visit by doing the Island Drive. There’s a short loop and longer loop option, neither of which are very long. Both are clearly marked, just follow the signs from the Visitor Center parking lot. As you make your way around the island, interpretational signs will provide more information about what went on there.

How many ships were there at Jamestown?

Once you’ve had your fill of the Jamestown Settlement indoor exhibit galleries, you can make your way to the outdoor exhibits. There you’ll find re-creations of the three ships that brought 104 settlers to Jamestown, the Susan Constant, Discovery, and Godspeed. When we were there, all three ships were open for visitors to climb aboard and poke around. Living history interpreters answer questions about the ships and what the voyage may have been like.

What ships did the Jamestown settlers use?

They have full-scale models of the three ships that brought the first settlers to Jamestown (Susan Constant, Discovery and Godspeed) as well as re-creations of James Fort and a Powhatan village. Historical interpreters are on hand to answer questions about many aspects of what life was like at Jamestown, from cooking to weapons and armor.

How many times did the Ambler Mansion burn?

This ruin is all that remains of the Ambler Mansion. Originally built in about 1750, it burned three times before it was abandoned in the late 19th Century. Photo: Plan, Ready, Go

Where are the archaeological finds in Jamestown?

Archaeological discoveries they have made over the last 25 years are on display at the Voorhees Archaerium at Historic Jamestowne. Items there include coins, personal items, armor and even human remains. I highly recommend both visiting Jamestown Settlement and Historic Jamestowne if you can.

What to do after leaving the theater?

After you leave the theater, you’ll want to spend some time reviewing the exhibits in the galleries especially if you’re the kind of person who’s interested in myth busting. You’ll learn more about what life was really like for the English settlers, the native Powhatans (including Pocahontas) and those first Africans who were enslaved and forced to come to the New World.

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 .

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.

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 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.

regularly scheduled programs

The programs below are included with admission to Historic Jamestowne. All programs are currently held outdoors, weather permitting, and are subject to change. We kindly ask that all guests be mindful of physical distancing guidelines..

history and archaeology tours

Walking tours provide insight into 17th-century Jamestown and the research conducted by the Jamestown Rediscovery team. Offerings include an introduction to Jamestown, an overview of the archaeology of James Fort, a trip back in time with a living history interpreter, and in-depth discussions of particular aspects of Jamestown’s history.

Archaeology in Action

Our archaeology team is hard at work uncovering new information about early Jamestown. Check out excavations in progress outside the fort, near the East Bulwark. Visitors are welcome to observe and to ask questions, but we ask that you please respect the safety ropes. The field team is generally excavating Monday through Friday, weather permitting.

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.

How long are tickets good for at Yorktown Battlefield?

ticketing policy. Tickets are good for seven consecutive days and include admission to Yorktown Battlefield. Online tickets are non-refundable. To redeem your ticket, provide your name and the order number found on your email confirmation to one of our Visitor Services Associates upon arrival.

Is Jamestowne a national park?

Historic Jamestowne, part of Colonial National Historical Park, is jointly administered by the National Park Service and the Jamestown Rediscovery Foundation (on behalf of Preservation Virginia). Tickets are good for 7 consecutive days and include entrance to the James Fort Site, New Towne, the Archaearium Museum, the Glasshouse, ...