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Yorktown Battlefield
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Historical site
Yorktown Battlefield in Virginia is the site of the decisive 1781 victory by American and French forces over the British Army during the Revolutionary War. Under the joint command of General George Washington and the French Count de Rochambeau, the siege of the town where Lord Cornwallis had entrenched his troops began in late September. Following weeks of intense bombardment and a critical naval blockade by the French fleet in the Battle of the Chesapeake, Cornwallis surrendered on October 19, 1781. This victory effectively ended major land combat in the American Revolution and paved the way for the Treaty of Paris in 1783, which officially recognized American independence. Today, the battlefield is managed as part of the Colonial National Historical Park, preserving original earthworks, trenches, and artillery positions. Visitors can take self-guided tours to see key locations like Redoubts 9 and 10, which were famously stormed by Allied troops. The Yorktown Victory Monument stands as a tribute to the Franco-American alliance that secured the nation's freedom.
- Location: United States
- Top sights: Lee Hall Roadside Park · Butler Creek · Aids to Navigation Museum
- Nearby: Newport News (11 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Sep, Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 4 | 5 | 9 | 14 | 19 | 24 | 27 | 26 | 23 | 18 | 12 | 7 |
| Rain mm | 74 | 72 | 85 | 88 | 98 | 113 | 131 | 138 | 130 | 104 | 82 | 92 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Yorktown Battlefield is open to the public as a National Historical Park. The visitor center and outdoor areas (including the earthworks) are accessible.
Typical hours
The park typically opens daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with extended hours in summer. Exact times may vary seasonally - check the official website before your trip.
Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the grounds, including the visitor center. Do not use flash in exhibition areas with sensitive artifacts.
Time needed
Allow about two hours to tour the visitor center and walk the battlefield. History enthusiasts can easily spend three to four hours.
Combine with
Combine your visit with the nearby Yorktown Victory Center, which presents America's independence in an interactive way. The historic downtown of Williamsburg is also a short drive away.
Getting there
The battlefield is about a 15-minute drive east of downtown Yorktown and is easily accessible by car. Free parking is available at the visitor center.
Insider tip
First visit the visitor center to watch the orientation film - it gives an excellent overview of the battle. Allow time for the short audio walk along the earthwork lines.
Geography
Facts
- The Siege of Yorktown lasted from September 28 to October 19, 1781.
- About 8,000 British soldiers were taken as prisoners of war following the surrender.
- The French fleet under Admiral de Grasse blocked British naval reinforcements from arriving.
- Alexander Hamilton led the famous nighttime bayonet charge on Redoubt 10.
- The Yorktown Victory Monument was commissioned in 1881 for the battle's centennial.
- The battlefield encompasses approximately 4,300 acres of protected historical land.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Yorktown Battlefield (18)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What happened at Yorktown?
Here the American army won the decisive victory in the Revolutionary War.
How do you explore the battlefield?
By car on a scenic driving tour.
When are the operating hours?
The visitor center is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm.
Is the area family-friendly?
Yes, the expansive grounds offer plenty of space for walking.
What is in the surroundings?
Historic Yorktown village and the Colonial Parkway.
Yorktown Battlefield: where is it located?
Yorktown Battlefield is located in United States.
Yorktown Battlefield: what is there to see?
Highlights include Lee Hall Roadside Park, Butler Creek, Aids to Navigation Museum.
Yorktown Battlefield: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Sep, Oct.
Yorktown Battlefield: why is it worth visiting?
Yorktown Battlefield in Virginia is the site of the decisive 1781 victory by American and French forces over the British Army during the Revolutionary War.
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