Things to Do in Historic Yorktown, Virginia

Enjoy the many attractions, beaches and activities that our area of Coastal Virginia has to offer. Yorktown is located 20 minutes from Colonial Williamsburg and Busch Gardens and 30 minutes from Jamestown.

History is alive and well in Yorktown, VA. Whether it’s the historic battlefields and homes or outdoor activities that interest you, there’s a way for everyone to enjoy their time at the Marl Inn Bed and Breakfast.

We are located one-half block from the restored area of historic Main Street. The inn is an easy commute to many great parks, historical sights, shopping, dining and more. Or take a short walk to the Colonial National Historic Park Visitor Center to learn about the siege of Yorktown and the location of the last major battle of the American Revolutionary War. While staying with us, there is something for everyone. Wooded bike trails are nearby or take a stroll through notable colonial homes and feel our shared history come to life. The Yorktown Beach is less than a 10-minute walk from the inn.

Yorktown is one hour from the Richmond International Airport (RIC), 45 minutes from the Norfolk International Airport (ORF) and 15 minutes from the Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport (PHF). Amtrak has train stations in nearby Williamsburg and Newport News.

Marching band dressed in American Colonial uniforms performing for people

Historical Tourism

Yorktown is located in the Historical Triangle of Virginia. The Colonial Parkway that connects the Historic Triangle (Williamsburg-Jamestown-Yorktown) is accessible less than one mile from the inn. Tour the Yorktown museums that are within walking distance from the inn.

Enjoy listening to a Fife and Drum Performance at the many events held in Yorktown. Make Yorktown your history tourism homebase and enjoy many other historical attractions within a 30-minute drive from the inn in the nearby towns of Williamsburg, Newport News and Hampton.

American Revolutionary Museum at Yorktown – Journey through expansive exhibition galleries that span from the start of colonial unrest to the creation of the Constitution. Enjoy a 4-D theater where the Siege of Yorktown is re-created with wind, smoke and cannon fire.
Colonial National Historical Park – This National Park includes the Yorktown Battlefield, the Colonial Parkway and Jamestown Island. Visit Surrender Field where the British army laid down its arms.
Watermen’s Museum – Located at the riverfront in Yorktown, this museum showcases the history of the people that make their living on the water.
The Fifes and Drums of York Town – This volunteer corps of boys and girls ages 10-18 brings Revolutionary War era fife and drum music to the historic village of Yorktown. The public can enjoy one of their many performances presented throughout the Spring, Summer and Fall.
Visit York County – Check out the York County website for the most up-to-date news on upcoming events including concerts, festivals and farmers’ markets.
Jamestown Settlement – Explore America’s first permanent English colony including living history activities in outdoor re-creations of a Paspahegh town, colonial fort and ships that sailed to Virginia in 1607.
Colonial Williamsburg – Go back in time and meet the people who made America. Explore the world’s largest living history museum including Colonial- era churches, shoppes, and taverns.
The Mariners’ Museum and Park – Discover remarkable vessels from around the world.
Virginia War Museum – Discover American military history through a collection of artifacts, weapons and posters.
Virginia Air and Space Science Center – The visitor center for NASA Langley Research Center and Langley Air Force Base. Enjoy the interactive exhibits and fascinating galleries.
Casemate Museum and Fort Monroe – The largest stone fort ever built in the United States. During the Civil War, Fort Monroe was Union-held and helped shelter thousands of slave refugees.

Two pink, purple, light blue kayaks on a sandy beach with a large bridge in the background

Explore the Outdoors

The village of Historic Yorktown is located at the mouth of the York River where it meets the Chesapeake Bay. Enjoy the many ways to explore the outdoors in the area including swimming, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, fishing, boating and bicycling.

At the riverfront, Patriot Tours provides Segway tours, electric and traditional bicycle rentals, stand-up paddleboards and kayaks.

The battlefields provide a beautiful and shaded setting to explore by bicycle. Newport News Park is also accessible by bicycle directly from the battlefields (near Washington’s encampment).

In just a short drive from the inn you can enjoy several theme parks. If you want a quieter setting in nature, explore nearby state parks and York county parks.

Yorktown Beach – Grab a picnic lunch and walk two blocks to the beach. Or enjoy one of the riverside restaurants with a fantastic view of the water.
Patriot Tours and Provisions – Offering kayak, paddleboard, bike and electric bike rentals. Segway tours are available for one or two hours.
Sailing on the Schooners Alliance and Serenity – Take a relaxing two-hour sail along the York River and enjoy the narrated history sail. View wildlife such as ospreys and eagles. You’ll likely see dolphins on your tour too!
Busch Gardens Williamsburg – Ride thrilling world-class rollercoasters and experience award-winning shows and concerts.
Water Country USA – Voted as one of the top ten water parks in the U.S. This park features waterslides, pools and rivers.
York River State Park – This is a great park for hiking and mountain biking. Beautiful views of the York River.
First Landing State Park – This park is where English colonists first landed in 1607. It features 1.5 miles of Chesapeake Bay coastline. The park has 20 miles of trails that include bald cypress swamps and a maritime forest.

Two people standing behind a display case filled with cookies and pastries

Dining

Enjoy great riverfront dining from a variety of choices. In addition, explore historic Main Street one block from the river and savor a cup of great coffee at Mobjack Bay or enjoy a delicious ice cream cone at the Little Yorktown Confectionary.

Yorktown Pub – Enjoy amazing fresh seafood dishes and a variety of pub fare. Local craft cold brews on tap.
Water Street Grille – Fresh seafood, tapas and American eats; 20 micro-brews on rotated tap; live music every weekend.
Carrot Tree Kitchens – Offering a variety of lunch selections and homemade desserts.
Mobjack Bay Coffee Roasters and Petite Cafe – Freshly roasted coffee and specialty coffee and tea drinks, extensive pastry case and delicious sandwiches. Located on historic Main Street.
Umi Sushi – Fresh and well-prepared sushi and some Korean
Larry’s Restaurant – Enjoy fresh seafood and sandwiches and 26 beers on tap. Indoor and outdoor seating with waterfront views.
Little Yorktown Confectionary – Located in the historic Somerwell House C 1700 on Main Street featuring ice cream, homemade chocolates, candies and treats.
Coastal York River Oyster Company (in nearby Gloucester Point) – Restaurant and waterfront bar with coastal views dining in or outside.
Scoots BBQ (in nearby Hayes) – Quality meats and fresh seafood featuring indoor and outdoor dining.

Red brick sign that says Historic Yorktown surrounded by multiple colors of flowers

Shopping

Discover a variety of shopping options. These include a book shop, an all American made shop, a jeweler, a pet store, beach provisions and souvenirs and several art galleries.

The Gallery at York Hall – The Gallery serves as a Yorktown welcome center and features a variety of art from over 300 artists. You can find paintings, pottery, jewelry and many other items.
On the Hill Gallery – On the Hill Gallery showcases the work of more than 40 artists. The shop includes a wonderful collection of original art and prints, notecards, pottery, soap and more.
Auntie M’s American Cottage – Handcrafted art made in America. The artwork is hand-picked work from local, regional, and other artists across America.
Yorktown Bookshop – A bookstore featuring a collection of gently used unique and classic books, treasures and memorabilia.
Gangsta Dog – A special dog store with authentic and all-natural dog treats, toys, supplements, food, chews and more.
Viccellio Goldsmith – Showcasing beautiful and unique custom-made designs and specially chosen design collections.
Black Dog Gallery – Specializing in hand-crafted picture frames, custom-painted floor cloths and antique and contemporary prints and art.
Patriot Tours and Provisions – Beach supplies and gifts, souvenirs, beach chair and umbrella rentals.
Alexander Photography – Provides portraiture and commercial photography, located at Riverwalk Landing.

Close up view of pink flowers and a pink metal sun garden decoration

Give the Gift of Yorktown, Virginia

Gift certificates make the best gifts. Come enjoy everything Yorktown, Virginia has to offer.

Order Now

220 Church Street Yorktown, VA 23690
Phone: 301.807.0386
email | website
accessibility | privacy | site map