Routes are provided to and from the key historic attractions in Colonial Williamsburg and Jamestown. Unfortunately due to construction on the Colonial Parkway, major sections will be closed for the next year or so. However, Yorktown is an easy drive down either Rt. 143 or Rt. 64. To help you get a "lay of the land", following are some of the key attractions in the area:
Colonial Williamsburg - the historic area is about 1 mile long and 1/2 mile wide. There are approximately 90 original structures and reconstructed buildings. You may walk the streets without an admission ticket but to gain access to many of the facilities you will need to purchase tickets. They are available at the Visitor's Center, in Merchant's Square in Colonial Williamsburg or online.
Historic Jamestowne Island is part of the Colonial National Historic Park and sits on the west end of the Colonial Parkway. It was the site of the first capital of Virginia and there are ongoing digs in process. There is a fee to get access, which includes access to the Yorktown Battlefield as well. Tickets can be purchased at the Visitor Center which is located on the right as you enter the Island. Lifetime National Park Service Senior passes are honored and can be purchased at the Visitor Center for $80. Annual Senior passes are $20. (must be 62 or older). However, it is highly unlikely you will be asked for a pass if you are just cycling the Island or the Battlefield.
Jamestown Settlement- lies next to the Historic Jamestowne on the James River. It is a museum of 17th century Virginia History and includes an outdoor re-creation of a Powhatan Indian Village, three English ships and a colonial Fort. We will be using the Parking lot of the Jamestown Settlement as one of our start points for rides.
Yorktown - founded in 1691 with many original buildings still standing. Lies along the York River with a scenic waterfront and a couple of nice waterfront restaurants. We will use the Yorktown Riverfront as one of our start points.
Yorktown Battlefield - located on the eastern end of the Colonial Parkway, is administered by the National Park Service and is the site of the last major battle of the Revolutionary War in 1781. The battlefield makes a nice bicycling route.
Revolutionary War Museum (formally Yorktown Victory Center) - is a museum of the American Revolution. Completely renovated and expanded in 2017. Entrance fee can be combined with Jamestown Settlement.
James River Plantations - There are a number of plantations located along Rt. 5 West towards Richmond located along the James River. The most popular are Shirley Plantation, Berkeley Plantation, Piney Grove at South Hall's Plantation, Westover and Sherwood Forest Plantation.
Busch Gardens - amusement park about 3 miles from Williamsburg. NOTE: Busch Gardens will be setup for "Howl-o-scream" during this period. The park is specially decorated for Halloween.
College of William & Mary - second oldest institution of higher learning in the US.
Williamsburg Winery- largest winery in Virginia and is along a couple of the routes that go from the Powhatan resort.
Colonial Parkway - Runs from Jamestown, through Williamsburg and on to Yorktown, it is a 23 mile scenic roadway operated by the National Park Service. It is "bicycle friendly" since the speed limit is 45 mph. One of our bicycle routes going to/from Jamestown will use the Colonial Parkway for at least part of the route. The surface, consisting of concrete aggregate can be a bit jarring after awhile, especially on a "skinny tire" bicycle. Also be aware of open seams between the concrete sections. NOTE: major sections of the Colonial Parkway will be closed during the 2024 event for rehabilitation. HERE is a good summary of the closures and dates.
Chippokes Plantation State Park - Just across the James River from historic Jamestown, Chippokes Plantation is one of the oldest continually farmed plantations in the country. A working farm since 1619, the park offers modern recreational activities and a glimpse of life in a bygone era. Visitors tour the historic area with its antebellum mansion and outbuildings, stroll through formal gardens, and view antique equipment at the Chippokes Farm and Forestry Museum. The Chippokes Plantation State Park is on all the bicycle routes which go over the ferry to Surry County.
Williamsburg Premium Outlets - there are a couple different outlet plazas in Williamsburg but this is the biggest and best.