Berkeley Plantation Virginia
Step into history at Berkeley Plantation, home to the 1619 Thanksgiving and a stunning 1726 mansion.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blooming gardens, pleasant weather
Berkeley Plantation Virginia
Best Time
Blooming gardens, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into history at Berkeley Plantation, home to the 1619 Thanksgiving and a stunning 1726 mansion.
"Our tour guide was so informative and we learned so much. The grounds are absolutely beautiful."
Wear Comfy Shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Lots of walking on the grounds and inside the house. You'll want to be comfortable!
Book Tickets Online :ticket:
Save time by purchasing your tickets in advance, especially during busy periods.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Mansion Tour
Main House
Step back in time in the 1726 mansion, filled with 18th-century furnishings and rich history.
First Thanksgiving Site
Commemorative Marker
Discover the site of the 1619 Thanksgiving, a pivotal moment in American history.
+1
Beautiful Gardens & Grounds
Exterior
Wander through meticulously maintained gardens and enjoy scenic views of the James River.
George the Cat
Throughout the Plantation
Meet George, the resident feline who often joins visitors on their tours!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Comfortable Footwear is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfy Shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Lots of walking on the grounds and inside the house. You'll want to be comfortable!
Book Tickets Online :ticket:
Save time by purchasing your tickets in advance, especially during busy periods.
Engage with Your Guide :speaking_head:
The tour guides are incredibly knowledgeable and make history come alive. Ask questions!
Don't Miss George the Cat :smiley:
The plantation's resident cat often makes an appearance and adds to the charm.
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfy Shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Lots of walking on the grounds and inside the house. You'll want to be comfortable!
Book Tickets Online :ticket:
Save time by purchasing your tickets in advance, especially during busy periods.
Engage with Your Guide :speaking_head:
The tour guides are incredibly knowledgeable and make history come alive. Ask questions!
Don't Miss George the Cat :smiley:
The plantation's resident cat often makes an appearance and adds to the charm.
Capture the Views :camera:
The grounds offer stunning photo opportunities, especially with the James River backdrop.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Berkeley Plantation for its informative tours, beautiful grounds, and rich historical significance, particularly the site of the 1619 Thanksgiving. The knowledgeable and engaging guides, along with the charming presence of George the cat, are frequently highlighted as positive aspects. While most reviews are overwhelmingly positive, some may find the interior photography restrictions a minor drawback.
"We loved our visit to the Berkeley Plantation. Our tour guide was so informative and we learned so much. The grounds are absolutely beautiful and located on the James river. We enjoyed walking the grounds and seeing some of the monuments and having George the cat tag along. Definitely make this one of your stops when traveling through Virginia."
Hiker 4Him
"What a great visit! Our tour guide was pleasant, knowledgeable and funny too. We ordered our tickets online the night before but you can buy at the door too. A lot of walking after the house tour so wear good shoes. George the cat was an added extra tour guide. Recommend, we learned some history and enjoyed our visit. We’d go back."
Sal
"This is a great place to stop and see some British/ American history. The staff are wonderful and did a fantastic job. Beautiful location. What amazing history can be found. If your in the area or on 295. Take a short detour and stop. You won't be disappointed."
Rob Johnson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Berkeley Plantation is located in Charles City, Virginia, about a 30-40 minute drive from Williamsburg. You can take I-64 West and then exit onto VA-155 South. Many visitors find driving to be the most convenient option.
Public transportation options are very limited for reaching Berkeley Plantation. It is best accessed by car. Consider ride-sharing services if you are not driving yourself.
From Richmond, take I-64 East towards Norfolk/Virginia Beach. Take exit 205 for VA-155 South towards Charles City. Follow signs for Berkeley Plantation. The drive is approximately 30-40 minutes.
Yes, ample parking is available on-site for visitors. You'll find designated parking areas upon arrival.
Yes, it's possible to visit Berkeley Plantation as a long day trip from Washington D.C., though it's a significant drive (around 2.5-3 hours each way). Many prefer to stay overnight in the area to fully enjoy the historic triangle.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees can vary, but generally include a guided tour of the mansion and access to the grounds. It's recommended to check the official Berkeley Plantation website for the most current pricing and any special offers.
Yes, you can typically purchase tickets at the door. However, booking online in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your preferred tour time.
Berkeley Plantation is generally open daily, but hours can vary seasonally. Always check their official website for the most up-to-date operating hours before your visit.
Discounts may be available for seniors, military personnel, or children. Check the official website or inquire at the ticket counter for current discount information. Homeschool groups have also been hosted.
General admission typically includes a guided tour of the main house and access to the grounds, gardens, and other historical buildings like the kitchen house.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can take a guided tour of the historic 1726 mansion, explore the beautiful gardens, visit the farm, and learn about the site of the 1619 Thanksgiving. Don't forget to look for George the cat!
Most visitors spend 2-3 hours exploring the mansion and grounds. If you plan to linger in the gardens or learn more about the history, you might want to allocate a bit more time.
Generally, pets are not allowed inside the mansion or on guided tours. However, service animals are typically permitted. It's best to confirm their pet policy on their website.
Yes, Berkeley Plantation can be educational and engaging for children. The grounds offer space to explore, and the history can be presented in an age-appropriate manner by guides.
Photography inside the main house is usually restricted to protect the historical furnishings and artifacts. However, you are generally free to take photos of the grounds and exterior.
📸 📸 Photography
The gardens, the exterior of the mansion, and the views of the James River offer fantastic photo opportunities. The commemorative marker for the 1619 Thanksgiving is also a significant spot.
Typically, photography inside the historic mansion is not permitted to preserve the delicate furnishings and artifacts. Always check for signage or ask your tour guide.
The 'golden hours' – early morning and late afternoon – often provide the best natural light for photography, especially for the exterior and gardens.
Most historical sites have restrictions on drone usage to protect the property and ensure visitor safety. It's advisable to check Berkeley Plantation's specific drone policy before flying.
Professional photoshoots may require special permits or arrangements. Contact Berkeley Plantation directly to inquire about their policies for professional photography sessions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider focusing on the stories of daily life, the farm animals, and the significance of the 1619 Thanksgiving to make the history relatable. The beautiful gardens also offer a pleasant break for kids to enjoy the outdoors. Remember to wear comfortable shoes for everyone, as there's a good amount of walking involved.
🏛️ History Buffs
Pay close attention to the stories shared by the guides, as they often reveal fascinating anecdotes and lesser-known facts about the period. The site's connection to the first Thanksgiving and its role in the lives of early American leaders make it a profoundly significant destination.
+1📸 Photographers
Aim for the 'golden hours' of early morning or late afternoon for the most flattering light. While interior shots of the mansion are restricted, the exterior and grounds offer ample opportunities to capture the beauty and history of this Virginia landmark.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Significance of the 1619 Thanksgiving
+1This proclamation at Berkeley Plantation highlights the diverse origins of early American traditions and the contributions of various groups to the nation's founding. It's a powerful reminder of the complex tapestry of history that unfolded along the James River. Visitors can see a commemorative marker on the grounds that honors this significant event.
Exploring the Historic Mansion
During the guided tour, knowledgeable docents share fascinating stories about the family, the architecture, and the daily life within the home. You'll learn about its role during the Civil War and its significance as the birthplace of two U.S. presidents. While photography inside is restricted, the experience of walking through these historic rooms is unforgettable.
The Beautiful Grounds and Gardens
The plantation also features a working farm, providing a look at agricultural practices of the past. The scenic location on the James River adds to the charm, offering beautiful vistas and a sense of the plantation's historical importance as a working estate. It's a perfect place for a leisurely walk and to appreciate the natural beauty surrounding the historic structures.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit