Historic Jamestowne
Step back to 1607 at the site of America's first permanent English settlement, with living history, ships, and archaeological discoveries.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Historic Jamestowne
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back to 1607 at the site of America's first permanent English settlement, with living history, ships, and archaeological discoveries.
"It's always a great experience when visiting the Jamestown Settlement. So much history and education in one spot."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across different historical areas. :athletic_shoe:
Check the Weather
Much of the experience is outdoors, so be prepared for sun, heat, or wind. :sunwithface:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The 1607 Ships
The Dock
Step aboard replicas of the Godspeed, Susan Constant, and Discovery. Imagine the arduous journey across the Atlantic.
Jamestown Fort
The Fort
Explore the reconstructed James Fort, complete with living history interpreters demonstrating crafts and daily life.
Paspahegh Town
Native American Village
Discover the recreated Paspahegh village, offering insight into the lives of the indigenous people who inhabited the area.
Jamestown Glasshouse
Glasshouse
Witness live glassblowing demonstrations, recreating the first attempted industry in colonial America.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Immerse Yourself in History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across different historical areas. :athletic_shoe:
Check the Weather
Much of the experience is outdoors, so be prepared for sun, heat, or wind. :sunwithface:
Interactive Demonstrations
Engage with living history interpreters; they're knowledgeable and friendly! :speech_balloon:
Book 'Inside the Vault'
Get an exclusive look at artifacts with this special tour. :ticket:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across different historical areas. :athletic_shoe:
Check the Weather
Much of the experience is outdoors, so be prepared for sun, heat, or wind. :sunwithface:
Interactive Demonstrations
Engage with living history interpreters; they're knowledgeable and friendly! :speech_balloon:
Book 'Inside the Vault'
Get an exclusive look at artifacts with this special tour. :ticket:
Cafe & Gift Shop
Grab a bite at the cafe or find souvenirs in the well-stocked gift shop. :coffee:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Historic Jamestowne for its educational value and immersive living history experience. The reconstructed fort, ships, and village, along with knowledgeable interpreters, bring 17th-century Virginia to life. While the outdoor nature requires weather preparedness, the engaging exhibits and archaeological insights make it a highly recommended destination for all ages.
"It's always a great experience when visiting the Jamestown Settlement. So much history and education in one spot. The museum is an awesome building that is beautifully organized. Wonderful viewing and walk in exhibits. Great for a visit any day. While we were there, the heat index was over 100 so you could learn something while staying cool. The education continues as you walk outside through James Port to the dock and then returning through the Paspahegh town. The actors are all amazingly nice and approachable with in depth knowledge of all things Jamestown. The ships are always fun. The shop and cafe inside have a little bit of everything and everyone there was very personable. We really enjoyed the trip."
Joel Fletcher
"I loved the weekend visit. While we got there around noon, we stopped by their cafeteria first for a light meal before making our way to the different museum exhibits, then outside for the sights and demonstrations. It was a beautiful day too. They had locals with tables displaying honey prominently. There was a hive too! We got to see a musket demonstration while discussing the results of bows and arrow vs guns between the locals and colonists. They had two ships to board and explore right on the water! It was a wonderful visit, that concluded in the gift shop, where I got some honey for home. It was worth the 3 hour drive definitely!"
Sarah Oakley
"The Jamestown Settlement was an absolutely amazing experience! The indoor museum was beautifully designed and packed with fascinating information. Even inside, it felt like stepping back in time.
But the real magic happened outside. The reconstructed Jamestown fort was incredible—we watched a blacksmith at work and visited the baker, who even let our kids help make a type of cookie! At the armory, a knowledgeable guide shared all about the weapons used during the settlement era.
We then explored a full-scale replica of one of the ships that brought settlers to Virginia, which was both impressive and educational. Finally, we visited the Native American village area. Although no interpreters were there at the time, walking through and seeing how the homes were constructed was still an incredible experience.
This place is unforgettable. I truly loved every part of it and highly recommend it to anyone interested in history."
Incubus 311
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Historic Jamestowne is located at 1368 Colonial Pkwy, Jamestown, VA 23081. It's easily accessible by car, and there's ample parking available. Many visitors combine a trip here with nearby Williamsburg and Yorktown.
Public transportation options are limited. Driving is the most common way to reach Historic Jamestowne. Consider ride-sharing services if you're not driving.
While they are in the same general area, walking between Colonial Williamsburg and Historic Jamestowne is a significant distance (several miles). Driving or taking a shuttle is recommended.
Many visitors opt to drive their own vehicle for flexibility. Alternatively, consider guided tours that cover all three historic sites, or use local shuttle services if available.
Yes, there is dedicated parking available for visitors at Historic Jamestowne. It's generally convenient and close to the entrance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices are typically around $15 for adults and $5 for children aged 6-15. Children under 5 are usually free. It's always best to check the official website for the most current pricing.
While not always mandatory, purchasing tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak season or holidays, to save time. You can often buy them online.
Historic Jamestowne is generally open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, with the entrance gate closing around 4:30 pm. They are typically closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and January 1st.
Children under 5 often get free admission. While specific free days are not common, check the official website for any potential special offers or programs.
Historic Jamestowne is the actual archaeological site of the 1607 settlement, managed by the Colonial National Historical Park. Jamestown Settlement is a living-history museum nearby that recreates the fort, ships, and a Powhatan village.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Explore the archaeological site, see the 1607 ships, visit the recreated James Fort, and discover the Paspahegh Town. Live demonstrations by historical interpreters are a highlight.
Yes, guided tours are offered, including the popular 'Inside the Vault' tour which provides an in-depth look at artifacts. Check the schedule for availability and booking.
Absolutely! Children often enjoy the interactive exhibits, living history demonstrations, and climbing aboard the ships. It's a great educational experience for families.
Most visitors spend around 1.5 to 3 hours exploring the site, depending on their interest level and how much they engage with the outdoor exhibits and demonstrations.
Yes, photography is generally allowed, but be mindful of interpreters and other visitors. Some areas might have restrictions, so always check signage.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe on-site offering cafeteria-style food, snacks, and drinks. It's a convenient option for a quick meal during your visit.
Picnic areas are often available, making it a good option to bring your own food and drinks, especially if you want to save money or have specific dietary needs.
The cafe typically offers a variety of casual dining options, including sandwiches, salads, and hot meals, along with snacks and beverages.
Yes, the surrounding Williamsburg area has numerous restaurants, from casual eateries to fine dining, offering a wide range of cuisines.
Sometimes local vendors or interpreters offer local products like honey. It's worth checking with the staff or looking for displays during your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The 1607 ships docked, the reconstructed fort buildings, and the Paspahegh village offer picturesque backdrops. The James River views are also lovely.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national parks and historic sites for safety and preservation reasons. Check the official park regulations before flying.
While the site is open during daylight hours, the late afternoon light can be beautiful for photography. Check closing times to ensure you can capture the best light.
Specific photography tours are not commonly advertised, but the 'Inside the Vault' tour might offer unique perspectives. Focus on capturing the historical atmosphere.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is recommended to capture details from a distance and wide shots of the reconstructions. A tripod can be helpful for low-light conditions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The recreated fort and village offer plenty of space for kids to explore and imagine. Consider the 'Inside the Vault' tour for older children interested in archaeology. Pack snacks and water, as a good portion of the visit is outdoors. The on-site cafe offers kid-friendly options, and the gift shop has souvenirs. Weekday visits are often less crowded, making it easier for families to navigate the site.
🏛️ History Buffs
+1Don't miss the 'Inside the Vault' tour for an in-depth look at artifacts and the archaeological process. Engage with the living history interpreters to gain nuanced perspectives on colonial life and the interactions with the Powhatan people.
The site provides a rich context for understanding the challenges and complexities of early colonial America. 🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples
The living history interpreters provide engaging insights, and the reconstructed environments are perfect for immersive exploration. Consider visiting during off-peak hours for a more peaceful experience. The 'Inside the Vault' tour can be a great way to connect with the site's deeper historical narratives.
Enjoy the scenic views along the James River and take your time absorbing the rich history. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Archaeology of Historic Jamestowne
+1Visitors can see some of these ongoing excavations and learn about the meticulous process of artifact recovery and preservation. The 'Inside the Vault' tours offer an exclusive glimpse into the archives, where archaeologists and curators work with the unearthed treasures. This dedication to historical accuracy makes Historic Jamestowne a truly unique and educational experience.
Key findings include the original fort walls, the remains of early structures, and a wealth of everyday objects that tell the story of survival, conflict, and cultural exchange in 17th-century Virginia. The site continues to yield new information, making each visit potentially a discovery.
Living History at the Fort and Village
Visitors can interact with these interpreters, asking questions about their lives, the tools they use, and the historical context of their existence. This immersive approach allows for a deeper understanding of the period, moving beyond textbook facts to a more tangible connection with history. The recreated James Fort and the Paspahegh Town provide the authentic settings for these living history experiences.
From musket demonstrations to discussions about agriculture and trade, the interpreters offer a dynamic and engaging way to learn about the complex relationships between the English settlers and the indigenous Powhatan people. It’s a chance to witness history being made, as it was centuries ago.
The Significance of the 1607 Ships
These ships were not just modes of transport; they were floating communities carrying the hopes, dreams, and challenges of the colonists. Exploring their decks provides a tangible sense of the scale of the undertaking and the cramped conditions faced by those who sailed across the Atlantic.
Standing on the recreated ships, visitors can appreciate the engineering of the era and the bravery required to embark on such a journey. It's a powerful reminder of the foundational moments in American history and the risks taken to establish a new life.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit