YORK COUNTY— Riverwalk Landing is celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2025.
The waterfront area on the York River boasts shopping, dining and recreation activities. Even before it became Riverwalk Landing, the area had a unique history.
According to the York County Office of Economic and Tourism Development, in the late 1980s, the Yorktown waterfront looked very different from today’s vibrant and beautiful setting. Back then, buildings sat shuttered and in disrepair. Erosion threatened the shoreline, and tropical storms flooded the area. After extensive research and citizen input, the York County Board of Supervisors initiated a plan to revitalize the five-acre area and create a gathering place for residents, visitors, shoppers and diners.
In 2004, the county began construction of the $24 million development that would be known as Riverwalk Landing. The project included a shopping and dining venue featuring nine buildings with over 21,000 square feet of retail and restaurant space, performance areas, a parking terrace and piers. In addition, engineers installed an extensive shoreline protection system consisting of revetments, breakwaters, and sand nourishment. Likewise, the historic Freight Shed was relocated to its current location, where it now serves as a popular event space.
The project was completed in May 2005 and Historic Yorktown had a new community space to welcome citizens and visitors from around the world. The grand opening celebration began on May 28, 2005, and featured three days of festivities complete with musical performances, fireworks, and visits from dignitaries including Sen. George Allen.
Kristi Olsen-Hayes, who planned the ribbon cutting for the area 20 years ago, is impressed with how far it has come.
“This anniversary holds personal meaning for me. It’s been remarkable to see how Riverwalk Landing has grown over the years — from expanded year-round programming and special events to visits from tall ships and strong collaborations with local businesses. The transformation has been both exciting and rewarding to watch,” Olsen-Hayes said.
The original area had three shops that still stand today; Ben & Jerry’s, Riverwalk Landing Restaurant and Viccellio’s Goldsmith.
“Having grown up in Yorktown, my dream was to have my goldsmith studio in the historic area near the waterfront. When the plans for Riverwalk Landing first emerged, I knew that I wanted to be there. Being a part of Riverwalk Landing for the past 20 years has surpassed my highest expectations. Our relationship with York County has been exceptional and they have always gone above and beyond to make this a special place for business owners and for visitors and locals. I love it here,” said Hank Viccellio, owner of Viccellio’s Goldsmith.
To commemorate the 20th anniversary of the area, York County has planned an extensive celebration that will take place from May 22 through May 26.
On May 22 from 6:30 to 9 p.m., the first Sounds of Summer Concert featuring BrassWind will kick off the celebration. The concert will also include food trucks, lawn games and raffles at the Visit Yorktown tent.
A concert will also take place on May 23 from 6 to 9 p.m. in front of the Water Street Grille. Trevor Daniel & the REEF will be providing entertainment and select stores will remain open as late as 8:30. Raffle prizes will also be available at the Visit Yorktown tent.
May 24 kicks off with Yorktown Market Days from 8 a.m. to noon. There will also be a performance from magician John Kingry from 10 a.m. to noon. Special entertainment will continue from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. as guitarist Chris Basford performs at the Riverwalk Landing shops.
To close out the celebration, Riverwalk Restaurant will be holding a customer appreciation party from 6 to 8 p.m.
For the most up-to-date information on the celebration, head to visityorktown.org.