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Visit Jamestown, Virginia This Summer: It's All New and Your Kids Will Love It!

Tammy Evans
Have you been to Jamestown, Virginia? If you haven't or haven't been in quite some time, you will want to make a trip. I know, you're probably saying that history stuff is boring, why would I want to visit now! Things in Jamestown have changed - a lot. If you haven't been recently then you haven't been at all.

Millions have been spent to update the attractions and facilities in the Historic Triangle, an area that includes Jamestown, Yorktown, and Williamsburg, all within 23 miles of each other.

If you think you will be hearing dry boring history lessons, you'll be disappointed. Today's historians use the most up-to-date science and technology to tell stories you'll want to hear. Kids love this area too. It gets their imaginations moving. Even if your kids don't know they are learning, they are sure to make memories that last a lifetime. So will you.

This is the year that Jamestown is commemorating their 400th anniversary, plan a trip for you and your family and here are just some of the thing you can do and see.

Historic Jamestown
America is born. On May 14, 1607, a group of settlers stepped ashore at Jamestown Island, establishing the continent's first permanent English Colony.

What's new: An engaging Visitor Center that briefs guests about the Jamestown journey, while the museum showcases archaeological finds, including the remains of two of the first settlers.

Don't miss: The film at the Visitor Center is a must for you to see. You'll leave misty-eyed and proud to be an American.

"Wow": Jamestown Archaeologists use forensic science to identify the skeletal remains of settlers, they determine how they died, and reconstruct their appearances.

For kids: Kids can romp through the 1,500 acres of Jamestown Island, part of the Colonial National Historical park, when they get tired of history.

The admission price is $10.00 and this includes the Yorktown Battlefield. Children 15 and under get in free.

Jamestown Settlement
This is a hands-on history. The museum features a new film and gallery exhibit, re-creations of circa-1610 James Fort, a Powhatan Indian village, three English ships, and a riverfront discover area.

What's new: A Virginia Indian, English and African cultures came together first at Jamestown. A 30,000 square foot gallery traces their paths.

Don't miss: Climb a board the Godspeed, Discovery, and the Susan Constant, replicas of the ships that brought the settlers to Virginia. Costumed interpreters will help you imagine the trip.

"Wow": Exploring the new full-size replicas of the Godspeed and Discovery.

For kids: Kids can get their hand dirty helping make a dugout canoe, plant a garden, or grind corn.

The admission price is $13.50 for adults, $6.25 ages 6-12.

Colonial Williamsburg
The capital of Virginia moved to Williamsburg in 1699. In 1926, John D. Rockefeller donated the money to restore the historical area and create a living history museum.

What's new: Become part of the political events and discussion during a fast-pace, two-hour program called "Revolutionary City." Visitors witness the collapse of the royal government and listen in, as citizens get ready for war with the British.

Don't miss: Peek behind the gates of the houses to see spectacular gardens and newborn farm animals.

"Wow": The colonial governor rides into Revolutionary City I, a handcrafted, gold-trimmed coach.

For kids: The Colonial Williamsburg Regional Visitors Center sells hats and rents costumes.

The admission price: It's free to just walk through Colonial Williamsburg but to enter certain building, admission is charged. Prices vary with the seasons. Visit www.colonialwilliamsburg.com for the current prices.

Yorktown Victory Center
This living-history museum chronicles the final major battle of the Revolutionary War.

What's new: Renovated galleries explore the legacy of Yorktown.

Don't miss: Get a taste of life in the Continental Army at the re-created encampment. You will see a tent that belonged to George Washington at the Yorktown Battlefield Visitors Center.

For kids: Costumed interpreters tap volunteers to help with cannon demonstrations at 3:05 p.m. each day.

The admission price is: $8.75 for adults, $4.50 ages 6-12.

  • Things in Jamestown have changed - a lot. If you haven't been recently then you haven't been at all.
  • If you think you will be hearing dry boring history lessons, you'll be disappointed.
  • Today's historians use the most up-to-date science and technology to tell stories
This is the year that Jamestown is commemorating their 400th anniversary, plan a trip for you and your family and here are just some of the thing you can do and see.

1 Comments

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  • Stephen Joltin8/16/2007

    I actually will. I hope. Great article.

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