Explore these historical landmarks of The Old Dominion to experience its past.
Visit Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania National Military Park to gain knowledge about four battles from America’s bloodiest war, explore its museum exhibitions, then step outside for conversations with civilian and soldier reenactors.
1. Jamestown Settlement
On May 14, 1607, English colonists arrived at Jamestown to establish their first permanent colony in America. Jamestown met all of the criteria established by Virginia Company when selecting its location: being both island-like and far inland.
Explore the settlement’s fascinating past through comprehensive gallery exhibits and immersive films. Wander around re-creations of its 1610-14 fort and Paspahegh Town; step aboard replica ships that brought them here; all are part of this experience!
2. George Washington Birthplace
George Washington was born and resided here until he was three. This park contains his family cemetery as well as remnants of his original house.
In 1931, this site was transformed into a memorial house and farm to recreate George Washington’s birthplace. Here lies peace and beauty that have not been compromised by time; visitors can witness park rangers demonstrate traditional trades as they make tobacco for making into tobacco cigars while learning spinning and weaving themselves! In addition, visitors can learn more about our nation’s first hero with Colonial-era buildings where visitors can watch park rangers demonstrate traditional trades or take a tour and try spinning or weaving themselves!
3. Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello
Thomas Jefferson, author of the Declaration of Independence and third president of the United States, designed Monticello’s neoclassical mansion and gardens to symbolize how history shapes our present. It stands as a testament to his legacy.
Home and its Academical Village precinct (including its Rotunda modelled after the Pantheon ) are listed on the National Register of Historic Places; visit to learn about Jefferson’s life as well as those enslaved people who worked his farm.
4. Covington’s Humpback Bridge
Humpback Bridge stands as one of seven covered bridges still standing in Virginia and dates back to 1857, crossing Dunlap Creek.
Engineers believed a bridge’s roof protected its decking from sun and rain–and the Humpback Bridge proved them correct by withstanding floods, fires and even the Civil War!
By 1929, US 60 bypassed the bridge, leaving it neglected until public and private groups raised funds to restore it – now serving as a five-acre wayside park.
5. Yorktown Victory Center
Virginia was at the epicenter of Civil War conflict, offering witness to both of Manassas’ battles as well as Yorktown’s Siege. Here you can witness first and second Manassas battles as well as Yorktown Siege site.
At the American Revolution Museum, gallery exhibits and an evocative film illustrate life during the Revolution from both citizen’s perspectives as well as soldiers’. Outside you can visit an exact recreation of Continental Army encampments as well as 1780s farms staffed with costumed interpreters who provide historical interpretation.
The Center features one of Virginia’s oldest remaining covered bridges – and only humpback bridge in Virginia! This landmark structure dates back to 1687!
6. Washington’s Tobacco Plantation
Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania National Military Park provides an unprecedented overview of Virginia’s role in America’s bloodiest conflict, featuring four of its key battles.
Visit the battlefields where Lee surrendered to Grant and witnessed the final Union breakthrough that ended the conflict at Chancellorsville and Wilderness.
7. Jamestown National Monument
Focusing on the foundations of American democracy, this National Monument features reconstructed 17th-century buildings and replica ships from this era. Part of the Historic Triangle that also includes Colonial Williamsburg and Yorktown Battlefield.
Preservation Virginia, a non-profit, has owned Jamestown Island and New Town since 1893. Working together with the National Park Service, Preservation Virginia manages Historic Jamestowne which offers reenactments of 17th-century life as well as archaeological research; making this one of the best ways to experience Virginia history.
8. George Washington’s Mount Vernon
Mount Vernon honors America’s first president through its preservation. Enjoy visiting his cherished residence along the Potomac River and experience 21 rooms that faithfully reflect his daily life and legacy.
Uncover how George Washington helped shape American society by leading the Continental Army to victory and becoming its first president; then furthering national unity through his National Bank Bill.
Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association owns this two-story Georgian mansion overlooking the Potomac River, complete with gardens, tombs, and an operating farm.
