Whether you are a local or a visitor, grab your sunscreen, flip-flops and beach towels because a summer of fun is waiting for you in Yorktown! From music, history, water sports, food and shopping, Yorktown has something for everyone.
For merrymakers
Join in the 20th anniversary celebration for one of Yorktown’s most beloved landmarks — Riverwalk Landing!
In 2005, York County constructed the popular shopping and dining venue along the Yorktown waterfront that has been home for so many memorable events, such as the annual concert series, Yorktown Market Days, holiday celebrations and much more. During a five-day extravaganza celebrating the 20th Anniversary of Riverwalk Landing, guests will enjoy live music, food, family-friendly activities, raffles, games and even special discounts! Schedule of events.
For music aficionados
Bring your lawn chairs, coolers and dancing shoes to one of our FREE outdoor concerts!
The Sounds of Summer concert series features regional bands who perform rock, R&B, beach, ’80s, country, jazz and more! From May 22 to Aug. 14 (except July 3), join us on Thursdays from 6:30 to 9 p.m. by the York River. Four new bands this year will be rocking out on the Riverwalk Landing Stage — the Tiki Bar Band, En’Novation, Tidewater Drive Band and Bon Journey.
On July 4, come celebrate where our independence was won! Lounge on the beach and listen to live music, including a patriotic concert in the evening. Take advantage of other free, family-friendly events leading up to the big fireworks finale. The celebration begins at 9 a.m. and ends at 9:45 p.m. Schedule of events.
For a night of beautiful music under the stars, join us at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 30, at Riverwalk Landing for a performance by the Virginia Symphony Orchestra.
For history lovers
Discover where America won her independence!
On June 1, stop by Riverwalk Landing Piers from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. to watch competitors race small, medium and large workboats along the York River during Yorktown’s Workboat Races. In addition to all the fun on the water, onlookers will be able to view a model boat show in the Yorktown Freight Shed and learn how workboats play an important role in maritime activities in Virginia.
The Kalmar Nyckel returns to Riverwalk Landing Piers in 2025, offering 2 1/2-hour day sails on the York River. Climb aboard the square-rigged full-scale replica of the Swedish warship that brought settlers to North America in 1638 and explore life as a 17th-century sailor. Tickets for day and evening sails from Wednesday, June 11 to Saturday, June 14 are available for purchase. If you aren’t able to make those dates, don’t worry! The beautiful Schooner Alliance II also offers day and evening sails through October.
One of Yorktown’s must-sees is the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown. The museum showcases the stories of citizens and soldiers through exhibits, films and outdoor living history. Meet with troops in a re-created Continental Army encampment and assist with chores at the Revolution-era farm. On July 4, take in the Liberty Celebration and salute the anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Visitors can enjoy interpretive programs, artillery demonstrations and learn about the challenges that faced our nation’s founders.
For more history of the area, join a ranger for a guided walking tour of the Yorktown Battlefield and the 18th-century town. You’ll see several fortifications, cannons, the Moore House and Surrender Field.
TIP: Avoid the hassle of commuting from one attraction to the other by taking Yorktown’s complimentary air-conditioned and wheelchair-accessible Trolley, which makes many stops in between the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown to the Yorktown Battlefield Visitor Center.
If you are a bit more adventurous, explore Yorktown at night with Yorktown Ghost Walks. You’ll hear a mix of compelling historical accounts, ghost stories, legends and personal paranormal experiences. Don’t be surprised if you make a new friend — of the supernatural kind!
Don’t miss a trip to the Watermen’s Museum. This local gem will give you an understanding of the role Chesapeake Bay Watermen, from pre-colonial to modern times, have played in the shaping of our nation. Be sure to stop in the gift shop, where they have nautical- and seaside-themed jewelry and decor, children’s books, T-shirts, hoodies and other great gifts.
For water enthusiasts
Put on the sunscreen and head out onto the water for one of these fun aquatic adventures!
Rent a paddleboard or kayak from Patriot Tours & Provisions for a relaxing day on or along the York River.
If you’d prefer that someone else do the paddling, hop aboard the Schooner Alliance II! This 18th-century replica tall ship sails on the beautiful York River, offering history sightseeing sails during the day and romantic sunset sails at dusk. Families will also love the kid-friendly Pirate Adventure Cruises where pint-sized recruits help raise the sails, tie knots and steer the ship.
If you have your own vessel, dock it at our public pier to take advantage of our beautiful two-acre beach ideal for sunbathing, swimming and gathering shells. Or, head to the wheelchair-accessible Fishing Pier for fishing and sightseeing! Whether you’re a local or visiting from out of state — you don’t need a license to fish here. Grab a rod and reel because just off the dock is the deepest water of the York River!
For shoppers
Yorktown is a shopper’s paradise! Our unique storefront gives you the opportunity to find a treat for the family, friends or dogs in your life.
Spectacular views, handmade gifts and fresh produce await you during Yorktown Market Days from 8 a.m. to noon on Saturdays at Riverwalk Landing. Be sure to mark down the dates for our special-themed markets, as well! One such market occurs on July 12! Join us for the Fun in the Sun Market where you can shop local vendors while enjoying lawn games, steel drum music, bubbles and a performance by The Fifes and Drums of York Town.
Learn how farmers markets play a vital role in our nation’s food system during National Farmers Market Week. Bring your family to Riverwalk Landing for Yorktown Market Days from 8 a.m. to noon on Aug. 2 and 9 to support the farmers who sell homegrown fruits, vegetables and flowers.
Be sure to visit the shops at Riverwalk Landing to find other keepsakes and treasures. For those four-legged family members, spoil your pooch by picking up some toys or all-natural, gourmet dog biscuits, donuts and cakes from Gangsta Dog, and then treat yourself to a beautiful piece of handmade jewelry from Viccellio Goldsmith. If you’re a bookworm, browse for used, discounted books and collectible memorabilia at the Yorktown Bookshop. Do you need something special for the home? Shop for handcrafted American-made art at Auntie M’s American Cottage.
In June, the Gallery at York Hall will feature the beautiful botanical paintings by Linda Miller. In July, an exhibit of stained glass is sure to inspire. In addition, the Gallery displays pottery, jewelry, woodcarvings, quilts and other creations from more than 300 local artists. Throughout the summer, they’ll also host book signings and feature live music. Check out the Exhibit Calendar for dates and times.
For foodies
Bring your appetite to Historic Yorktown! Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, artisan pizzas, gourmet cakes or expertly roasted coffee, our restaurants are sure to satisfy.
Enjoy a delicious breakfast or lunch at Mobjack Coffee Roasters & Petite Café, located in the Historic Cole Digges House! Their freshly brewed coffee is a local favorite and the perfect way to start your day.
Stroll to their sister store, Little York Confectionery, and take a nostalgic trip to a simpler time at this old-fashioned candy shop. Homemade chocolate, ice cream and candies await you!
Stop by Carrot Tree Kitchens for a fresh-from-scratch wrap, gourmet salad, soup and the best ham biscuits around. Don’t forget to treat yourself to their decadent carrot cake — another local favorite!
Sushi lovers won’t be disappointed at Umi Sushi. This locally-owned Japanese restaurant offers authentic oriental dishes such as sushi, salads and a signature Korean dish known as Bibimbap.
Choose from indoor or outdoor seating at Water Street Grille with its stunning waterfront views of the York River. You’ll find 20 microbrew beers on tap daily.
Right next door is Riverwalk Restaurant, where you can enjoy fresh seafood, meats, tapas, specialty pasta dishes and daily specials.
After some fun on the beach, walk across the street to Yorktown Pub where you’ll find a full bar, plus sandwiches, seafood and Carrot Tree’s signature desserts.
With more than 30 flavors to choose from, Ben & Jerry’s never disappoints. Popular flavors include Chunky Monkey, Cherry Garcia and Caramel Chocolate Cheesecake.
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There is even more to explore in Historic Yorktown. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok for event announcements, product alerts, new menu items and more!
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