historic jamestowne

Pemichongan

We enjoyed the history. Standing where our founding fathers stood. A must to see. Museums are interesting and the artifacts are so interesting.

Nb2307

We went in March over Spring break and it wasn't too crowded yet. It was rainy when we went but there were ponchos available in the gift shop. They have an archeology dig each day at 11 but it was too rainy to do it. We got in for $5 each using the senior agency pass which included the historical sights of Jamestown (church, fort, archaerium (suggested donation), statues, short scenic drive, short video and museum at the visitors center) There was also a glassblower located on the drive into Jamestowne that is a must see. It was one of the better demonstrations that I've seen on how they make blown glass.

NHFlowergirl

Do not miss this fantastic piece of history. Check prior to arrival and book a tour if you can. Our tour was led by one of the archaeologists from the site. It was extremely informative and very interesting. New discoveries are constantly being made. The walk along the James River is lovely and takes you through the ruins of the community of Jamestown. Visit the museum for items uncovered on site.

flgirl98

This was a very interesting place to visit. It was very cold the day we went, but still worth it! We went on a tour with a real archaeologist who showed us where they are currently digging. He said if you go when it's warmer, you will get to see them pulling artifacts from the ground daily. How cool! The museum and glass house were interesting too. I'd definitely recommend you spend yout time and $ on the real thing instead of the expensive tourist museum.

VT68

There are two Jamestown attractions located within about one mile of each other. One is Historic Jamestowne (part of the Colonial National Historical Park operated by the National Park Service) which is the original site of Jamestown. The second is Jamestown Settlement which includes a re-created fort and three replica ships. This review is for the first mentioned, Historic Jamestowne. This is a National Park Service facility with a small Visitor Center. A short film describes the history of the site. Beyond the Visitor Center is a walking area which includes recreated foundations that outline excavated buildings, and an archeological museum with artifacts from excavation of the area. This may not be the best destination for families or those who want to see something more visual than recreated foundations and artifacts. On the other hand, if you want to stand on the same ground that John Smith and early settlers occupied, that became the center of government and Virginia’s main port of entry in the 1600s, this is the place for you.

Rambler308

This is not the recreated Jamestown village, but the actual site of the original fort, which emphasizes the archaeological research currently taking place. There is a simple reconstruction of the fort, along with a great interpretative center that gives you the history of the fort and its importance in American history. The guides were friendly and knowledgeable, and I was even able to meet the lead archaeologist who discovered the remains of the fort, long thought to be lost to the James River. Overall this place was more informative and enjoyable than the recreated village down the road, although tastes may differ depending on what you want.

Annos

The tour was interesting. It was a cold day and the weather prevented us from seeing all of the property.

CLKtrips

This is the way history should be learned! No stuffy textbooks and boring lessons! We visited Historic Jamestowne as part of the Colonial Williamsburg/ Yorktown trio. The main attraction is a walking guided tour of an Indian village, the Jamestowne fort, and aboard one of the ships. The guides really knew their history, once in awhile debating facts and dates between themselves. The museum also had people in colonial dress available if you had any questions. Comparing Colonial Williamsburg and Jamestowne, I liked Williamsburg better. Maybe that's because I'm not much of a museum type of person? This is a short drive from Williamsburg so it's really convenient to hit up 2 spots for one vacation. One takeaway lesson I learned.... Pocohontas saved "John Smith" but married "John Rolfe". Two different people. I learn something new everyday!

Lynnsie60

January was an EXCELLENT time to be in Jamestown. There was virtually no one there except the very-well-trained and knowledgeable townspeople, colonists, native americans, all of whom stayed "in character" and it was an exceptional opportunity to discover just how the United States came to be. What fun! I am told that in the summertime the crowds are huge. Go off-season!

cindye750

Even in the cold and snow of February, this was an interesting and unique experience especially for the two grands ages 9 & 10. This "history lesson" initiated a great many questions from them which helped to not only expand their understanding but also allowed for the real life experience. Wow. You can't get that from history books.

aliciafurrow

Love the jamestowne site! So much history and learning! Went I the dead of summer so it was great to look through the museum inside but the site itself is fantastic! My man and I also biked the loop which was really nice, to ride is so much better than a drive, you can see so much more! We even got to walk to the very point of jamestowne, you wouldn't see it if you drive!

RobinSweigert

We we're there Feb during the unexpected snow storm. But we were so glad that we decided to still go to the site of the fort, the church, and the wells that are being excavated. It was amazing to find out that things were being settled now from the history that was being revealed four hundred years later. I just kept thinking that my son who is a fifth grade teacher would love this and so would all the students to see the things revealed at this time in our history. Our guide Amber was really passionate about this excavation on the site and what was revealed. We were also introduced to the remains of some of the residents of Jamestowne. Very humbling.

961caroln

This park is unlike most and was enjoyed by everyone, from 9 year old daughter to 81 year old father. The weather was bitter cold yet we still spent nearly four hours taking in all the indoor exhibits. The tour was extremely interesting. Our children enjoyed the earning their Jr. Ranger patch. We would like to go back to see all the outdoor exhibits and the archeological digs in progress during the summer.

167michaeln

If you dig American history, you gotta go to Jamestown. Founded in 1607 it was the first permanent English settlement in America. This is where John Smith and Pocahontas happened, and Bacon's Rebellion, and the so much more. Oh, and with civil war battlefields nearby as well as Yorktown - if you like military history this is for you too.

sam69-73

They keep making it better. We've been ther off and on for the past 20 years. New displays and featured activities keep Jamestown relevant and a piece of entertaining experience of history. Make it one of you must do days in COVA!