Second Siege Parallel
Walk the grounds of the decisive battle that secured American independence, a pivotal moment in history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring
Second Siege Parallel
Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Walk the grounds of the decisive battle that secured American independence, a pivotal moment in history.
"So much history! Must see while you are in town."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven terrain. :athletic_shoe: Explore the battlefield comfortably!
Download the NPS App
Enhance your visit with maps and historical info. :iphone: Great for self-guided tours.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Yorktown Battlefield
Colonial National Historical Park
Walk the grounds where American and French forces secured victory, marking a turning point in the Revolutionary War.
Moore House
Yorktown Battlefield
Site of the surrender negotiations that ended the siege, a crucial location for understanding the war's conclusion.
Surrender Field
Yorktown Battlefield
Stand where British General Cornwallis surrendered his army to General George Washington, a moment that changed history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Hamilton's Echoes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven terrain. :athletic_shoe: Explore the battlefield comfortably!
Download the NPS App
Enhance your visit with maps and historical info. :iphone: Great for self-guided tours.
Connect with Hamilton
Listen to the 'Yorktown' song beforehand to appreciate the historical context. :musical_note:
Visit Moore House
Don't miss the site of the surrender negotiations. :scroll: It's a key historical spot.
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven terrain. :athletic_shoe: Explore the battlefield comfortably!
Download the NPS App
Enhance your visit with maps and historical info. :iphone: Great for self-guided tours.
Connect with Hamilton
Listen to the 'Yorktown' song beforehand to appreciate the historical context. :musical_note:
Visit Moore House
Don't miss the site of the surrender negotiations. :scroll: It's a key historical spot.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Yorktown Battlefield for its immense historical significance and its role in securing American independence. Many appreciate the opportunity to walk the grounds where such a pivotal event occurred. Some visitors note that while the site is historically rich, it can be enhanced by a deeper understanding of the events, perhaps through listening to related music or engaging with interpretive materials.
"Gonna go back an explore more but very cool"
Ryan McDonnell
"So much history! Must see while you are in town."
Adriana VH
""
Alexey Batchenkov
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Second Siege Parallel is part of the Yorktown Battlefield, located within Colonial National Historical Park in Yorktown, Virginia. Visitors typically drive to the park. Parking is available at the Yorktown Battlefield Visitor Center.
Public transportation options directly to the Yorktown Battlefield are limited. It's best to plan for travel by car.
From Williamsburg, take US-17 North. From Newport News, take US-17 South. The park is well-signposted.
Yes, the Colonial Parkway connects Yorktown to Williamsburg and Jamestown, offering scenic biking routes.
Yes, ample parking is available at the Yorktown Battlefield Visitor Center and designated areas throughout the battlefield.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
A pass is required to enter Colonial National Historical Park, which includes the Yorktown Battlefield. You can purchase passes at the Visitor Center or online.
The Yorktown Battlefield grounds are generally open from dawn to dusk. The Visitor Center has specific operating hours, which can vary seasonally.
Entrance fees are typically per vehicle and can be purchased as a 7-day pass for Colonial National Historical Park. Check the official NPS website for current pricing.
Yes, the Moore House is accessible as part of your park visit. Guided tours may be available, check the NPS schedule.
Discounts may be available for seniors, active military, and children. Check the National Park Service website for details.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the battlefield where the decisive siege took place, visit the Moore House, see earthwork fortifications, and learn about the Revolutionary War.
Most visitors spend 2-4 hours exploring the battlefield and its key sites. You can easily spend longer if you enjoy in-depth historical exploration.
Ranger-led programs and guided tours are often available. Check the park's schedule upon arrival or on the NPS website.
Many areas of the battlefield are accessible, but some trails may be uneven. The Visitor Center and Moore House are generally accessible.
The site commemorates the Siege of Yorktown in 1781, the decisive battle that led to American independence.
📸 📸 Photography
The Surrender Field, the earthworks, and views of the York River offer great photographic opportunities. The Moore House is also a picturesque historical building.
Generally, yes, but always be respectful of the tour guide and other visitors.
Photography for personal use is usually permitted. Commercial photography may require a permit.
Early morning or late afternoon light provides the best conditions for landscape and historical site photography.
Drone usage is typically restricted in National Parks. Check the NPS regulations for Yorktown Battlefield before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the visit more dynamic, listen to the 'Yorktown' song from Hamilton before or during your trip. This can help children connect with the historical narrative and the key figures involved.
📚 History Buffs
Consider taking a ranger-led tour for in-depth historical context and to ask specific questions. Researching the battle beforehand, perhaps by listening to historical podcasts or reading accounts, will greatly enrich your experience. The Second Siege Parallel itself is a testament to the engineering and determination of the besieging forces.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Significance of the Siege of Yorktown
This event is famously depicted in the song 'Yorktown (The World Turned Upside Down)' from the musical Hamilton, which highlights the contributions of figures like Lafayette and Hamilton, and the immigrant spirit that fueled the Continental Army's success. The song captures the revolutionary fervor and the unexpected nature of the victory, emphasizing how the world's political landscape was indeed turned upside down by this American triumph.
Visitors can walk the grounds where these historic events unfolded, seeing the earthworks and fortifications that were crucial to the siege. The Moore House, where the terms of surrender were negotiated, stands as a tangible link to this pivotal moment in history. Understanding the military strategy and the political ramifications of the Siege of Yorktown provides a profound appreciation for the birth of the United States.
Connecting with History Through Hamilton
When visiting the battlefield, listening to the song can enhance the experience, bringing the historical narrative to life. The lyrics, such as 'Immigrants, we get the job done,' resonate with the diverse forces that fought for American independence.
While the musical offers a dramatic interpretation, it serves as an excellent gateway to understanding the actual historical significance of the Siege of Yorktown. The battlefield itself provides a solemn and educational experience, allowing visitors to connect with the sacrifices and triumphs of the past in a tangible way.
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