All photos by Bryan Dearsley / LuxuryVirginia
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When we think of the American Revolution, most of us will picture patriotic troops in their blue uniforms skirmishing with British Redcoats. But there was so much more to the revolution than just battles.
Across Virginia, towns and villages were hosting everything from fierce debates about potential outcomes of a war for independence, to manufacturing and stockpiling the weaponry that might be needed. At the same time, key leaders like George Washington were devising the military strategies that would be needed to take on and defeat the world’s biggest empire.
And while the opening shots of the conflict were to be fired miles away from Virginia, the largest and most prosperous of the 13 colonies, the “Old Dominion” not only contributed leaders like Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Patrick Henry, it also became the stage for many decisive moments of the conflict.
The Best Revolutionary War Sites in Virginia
George Washington’s Mount Vernon
There’s no better place to start exploring this fascinating period of American history than at the former Virginia home of the man responsible for leading the Continental Army to victory: George Washington. The man who was to be the first President of the United States lived in this beautiful plantation home from 1754 until his death in 1799, and it now ranks as one of America’s most visited historic sites, attracting over a million visitors a year.
Begin your experience by watching the dramatic 4-D presentation that highlights Washington’s key battlefield decisions, complete with special effects that make you feel like you’re there with him. For those curious about strategy, there’s even a gaming exhibit where you assume the role of Washington himself during the height of his battle against the British.
Another fascinating display explores the painstaking scientific effort to reconstruct Washington’s appearance during the war. It contrasts sharply with the face most of us know, and better reflects energy, his skills as a horseman, and his physical bravery in battle.
The real joy, though, is exploring the main home. Admission here is via guided tour only and includes a glimpse of his private quarters and original furnishings. Along the way, interpretive staff share stories not only about his leadership, but about farming innovations as well as about the enslaved community that sustained the estate. Afterwards, be sure to spend time exploring the grounds for the wonderful views of the Potomac River.
Colonial Williamsburg
Located midway along the historic Colonial Parkway connecting Jamestown and Yorktown, Colonial Williamsburg covers some 300 acres and is chock-full with preserved and reconstructed 18th-century buildings that bring the American Revolutionary era to life. The world’s largest American history museum, highlights include interacting with skilled artisans dressed in period costumes who keep traditional trades alive, including tailors, dressmakers, tinsmiths, and blacksmiths, to name but a few.
You’ll also encounter militia drills and watch overviews of how muskets were made, and if you tome it right, might even be lucky enough to watch a cannon being loaded and fired.
It’s also tremendously fun for kids, with family-friendly activities including fife and drum performances and lantern-lit ghost tours centered on pirate legends. You can even rent colonial-style clothing to enhance the sense of stepping back in time.
If you’re planning to cram as much into your day as possible, purchase a Colonial Williamsburg pass is for admission to over 200 buildings and workshops, including the Capitol building where Virginia representatives boldly embraced separation from Great Britain prior to the formal Declaration of Independence. The pass also includes entry to the Governor’s Palace, where key revolutionary figures like Thomas Jefferson and Patrick Henry lived as governors.
Yorktown Battlefield National Park
By the summer of 1781, British General Cornwallis had assembled 8,000 troops and artillery to the Yorktown peninsula in the belief would be reinforced by British naval forces. But when the Franco-American forces converged on Yorktown, they had more men, more artillery, and, even more importantly, control of the sea courtesy of the French fleet.
The ensuing Siege of Yorktown lasted 21 days, culminating in surrender of Cornwallis and the surviving British forces on October 17, 1781. It was to prove the pivotal battle of the eight year conflict, paving the way for peace and, ultimately, American independence.
You can get a real sense of the conflict at Yorktown Battlefield National Park which preserves the surrender field where British soldiers laid down their arms.
You can also see the remains of the original siege lines, while interpretive signs provide context on the relentless bombardment that rained down at a rate of more than a shot per minute. A free shuttle bus travels between the National Park Visitor Center into Yorktown, stopping at the Yorktown Victory Monument long enough for you to grab a photo.
The American Revolution Museum at Yorktown
Opened in 2017, the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown is an excellent place to learn more about this fascinating period in American history. And take your time as there’s a lot to see and do here. You’ll want to start your journey of discovery by catching one of the attractions immersive 4-D films with their moving seats, sound effects, and even scents that all enhance the onscreen action.
Fascinating displays of artifacts and interactive displays also add to the experience, and provide a nuanced look at heroes, the compromises, and the tragedies that defined the period.
Stepping outside, however, is an altogether more immersive experience that provides a compelling introduction to life during the war for independence. Costumed historical interpreters greet visitors with stories about the daily realities of soldiers, sailors, and civilians, and demonstrate period skills from cooking to crafting ammunition, and even farming, explaining how their efforts would have contributed to the overall war effort.
A highlight is the replica of a Continental Army encampment complete with period tools and soldiers to chat with, some of whom perform live cannon and musket demonstrations. It’s also extremely interesting to learn about the contrasting viewpoints within colonial society, including differences in rank, loyalty, and opportunities for freedom.
St. John’s Church, Richmond
Patrick Henry’s “Give me liberty or give me death!” speech is one of the most recognized rallying cries of the Revolution. These famous words were uttered by Henry at St. John’s Church in Richmond, the state capital, on March 23, 1775, and were meant as a rallying cry that would unite Virginians for the upcoming fight against the British.
Located on the eastern edge of Richmond, this quaint wooden church, while modest in appearance, resonates with history. But it was here that delegates from across Virginia gathered to weigh whether Virginia should stand with the already rebelling citizens of Massachusetts was worth the economic and military risks. Colonial leaders like Thomas Jefferson, George Washington, and George Mason debated for days, with Henry’s closing argument urging swift military readiness rather than compromise. By a narrow margin, Virginia threw its weight behind Boston.
While the autumn day I visited was a quiet one (I had the church and its grounds pretty much to myself), the importance of this historic site certainly impresses. Those planning on visiting in 2025, however will enjoy an altogether different experience as live re-enactments of this pivotal debate are scheduled for Sundays throughout the summer.
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Bryan Dearsley is Editor of LuxuryVirginia, and a huge fan of the “Old Dominion.” He’s also Co-Founder of Riley and its luxury lifestyle websites, leading sources of news and reviews relating to luxury lifetyles and travel around the world, including the UK, Europe, and the United States.
