Hike through Historic Yorktown

This is a fantastic hike through the history of the early United States. And one with many interactive exhibits and recreation opportunities.

From the Visitor Center, head onto the path towards the Yorktown Historic District.

The historic district begins at the Dudley Digges House. Buildings that are open to the public for tours include the Nelson House and the Poor Potter site, though they are open only during the summer and only as staffing allows. All other buildings are either private residences or are being operated as businesses, including a few museums and art galleries. 

From the Digges House to the end of town is a five or six block walk. Once at the Swan Tavern the end of the historic district is reached. Take the street down to the river to explore the business district. In addition to shops and restaurants, you can rent kayaks, sign up for river cruises, and even go to the beach. 

To complete the loop back to the Visitor Center, take the Riverwalk. This is a scenic, paved path that runs along the York River until reaching the eastern edge of town. Information signs along the way tell the history of Yorktown.

At the end of Riverwalk is a parking lot. Once there, look towards the forest on the right for the start of the Tobacco Road Trail. This path will travel through the forest. The trail is slightly uphill, but it is still an easy hike. It is .4 mile from here back to the Visitor Center.