The American Revolution Museum at Yorktown tells the story of the Revolution from its first stirrings to the creation of the new nation, and it does so with real flair. Run by the Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation, the same state agency as Jamestown Settlement, it replaced the old Yorktown Victory Center with a much larger museum, and it is the best place to understand why the siege at Yorktown in 1781 mattered. Indoors, the galleries follow the road from colonial protest to independence through original artifacts, immersive environments and short films, and the highlight is The Siege of Yorktown, shown on a 180-degree surround screen that puts you in the middle of the bombardment. Outdoors, costumed interpreters run a Continental Army encampment, where you can learn about medical treatment, camp life and cooking and watch flintlock musket firings, and a Revolution-era farm based on a real 18th-century family, where visitors can help with chores in the fields and kitchen. It suits families and history lovers equally well, and it is the natural partner to the battlefield itself. This page links to the official museum page; the combination ticket with Jamestown Settlement is sold on the Jamestown Settlement page.
How to visit: the museum is on Water Street at the edge of the town of Yorktown, about 25 minutes from Colonial Williamsburg along the Colonial Parkway, with free parking. It is open year-round from 9:00 to 17:00 daily, except Thanksgiving, 26 November 2026, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. A combination ticket with Jamestown Settlement saves money over two single tickets, and the 7-day pass on Viator covers both museums.
What to expect: allow two to three hours. Watch The Siege of Yorktown film early, because it sets up everything else, then explore the galleries before heading outside to the encampment and the farm, where demonstrations run through the day. Most of the outdoor area is level and easy to walk.
Making the most of it: pair the museum with Yorktown Battlefield, a few minutes’ drive away, on the same day, seeing the museum in the morning and the siege lines and Surrender Field in the afternoon. Free admission is offered to veterans and service members and their families on Veterans Day, 11 November, so expect a busier day.
What to expect
The experience
Indoor galleries and a 180-degree siege film, followed by outdoor living history at an army encampment and a Revolution-era farm.
Best time
Morning, before heading to the battlefield in the afternoon light.
How long
Two to three hours, including the film and the outdoor demonstrations.
Tips
Watch The Siege of Yorktown film first, check the day’s demonstration times on arrival, and use the combination ticket if you are also visiting Jamestown Settlement.
Quick picks
- Best for
- History buffs and families who want the whole story of the Revolution in one engaging stop.
- Families
- Children love the musket firings and helping out at the farm, and the immersive film holds their attention.
- Couples
- Spend the morning here, then walk the Yorktown Riverwalk and have lunch by the York River.
- Pair with
- Yorktown Battlefield a few minutes away, or Jamestown Settlement with the same 7-day pass.
- Time needed
- Half a day, or a full day with the battlefield.
Good questions
What are the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown hours?+
The museum is open daily from 9:00 to 17:00 all year. It closes on Thanksgiving, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
Is there a combination ticket with Jamestown Settlement?+
Yes, a combination ticket covers both museums and costs less than two single tickets. The 7-day pass sold on Viator works the same way.
Is the museum the same as Yorktown Battlefield?+
No, the museum is run by the Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation, while the battlefield is part of Colonial National Historical Park. They are a few minutes apart and need separate admission.
How long should I spend at the museum?+
Most visitors spend two to three hours. Add the battlefield for a full Yorktown day.
Is parking free at the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown?+
Yes, parking at the museum is free. The town of Yorktown and the riverfront are a short walk or drive away.
