Things To Do: updated 01-17-2026SC-RN
The Cue Sheets provide routes to and from the key historic attractions in Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown, and Yorktown in case you'd prefer to ride less and linger longer. To help you get a "lay of the land," here are some of the key attractions in the area:
Colonial Williamsburg the historic area, is about 1 mile long and 1/2 mile wide, and within walking distance of the Mainstay. There are approximately 90 original structures and reconstructed buildings. You may walk the streets without an admission ticket, but to access many facilities, you will need to purchase a ticket. They are available at the Visitor's Center, in Merchant's Square in Colonial Williamsburg, or online.
Historic Jamestowne Island It is part of the Colonial National Historic Park and sits at the west end of the Colonial Parkway. It was the site of Virginia's first capital, and ongoing digs are underway. There is a $15 fee for access, which also includes entry to the Yorktown Battlefield. Tickets can be purchased at the Visitor Center, located on the right as you enter the Island. Lifetime National Park Service Senior passes are honored and can be purchased at the Visitor Center for $80 (must be 62 or older). Annual Senior Passes can be purchased for $20.
Jamestowne Settlement sits next to Historic Jamestown on the James River. It is a museum dedicated to 17th-century Virginia history and features an outdoor re-creation of a Powhatan Indian village, three English ships, and a colonial fort. Admission is $20 and includes the Yorktown Victory Center. We will use the Jamestowne Settlement parking lot as one of our start points for rides.
Yorktown- founded in 1691, with many original buildings still standing. It lies along the York River with a scenic waterfront and a couple of nice waterfront restaurants. We will use the Yorktown Riverfront as one of our start points.
Yorktown Battlefield located at the eastern end of the Colonial Parkway, is administered by the National Park Service and is the site of the last major battle of the Revolutionary War in 1781. The battlefield makes a nice biking route, and the fee structure is the same as for the Historic Jamestowne Island.
Revolutionary War Museum (formerly Yorktown Victory Center) is a museum dedicated to the American Revolution. It was completely renovated and expanded in 2017. The entrance fee can be combined with the Jamestown Settlement. JT Settlement and Revolutionary War Museum passes are now $20 each or both for $34.
Historic Plantations On The James River- There are several plantations located along Rt. 5 West towards Richmond, located along the James River. The most popular are Shirley Plantation, Berkeley Plantation, Piney Grove at South Hall's Plantation, Westover, and Sherwood Forest Plantation.
Busch Gardens - amusement park about 3 miles from Williamsburg. NOTE: Busch Gardens will be set up for "Howl-o-scream" during this period. The park is specially decorated for Halloween.
College of William & Mary - the second-oldest institution of higher learning in the US.
Williamsburg Winery- the largest winery in Virginia, and is along the bicycle routes that go along Lake Powell Rd on the way to/from Jamestown from the hotel. This will be the location of our Friday evening dinner.
Colonial Parkway runs from Jamestown through Williamsburg and on to Yorktown and is a 23-mile scenic roadway operated by the National Park Service. It is "bicycle-friendly" since the speed limit is 45 mph. One of our bicycle routes going to/from Jamestown will use the Colonial Parkway for at least part of the route. The surface, consisting of concrete aggregate, can be a bit jarring after a while, especially on a "skinny tire" bicycle. Also, be aware of open seams between the concrete sections.
Chippokes Plantation State Park - Just across the James River from historic Jamestown, Chippokes Plantation is one of the oldest continually farmed plantations in the country. A working farm since 1619, the park offers modern recreational activities and a glimpse of life in a bygone era. Visitors tour the historic area with its antebellum mansion and outbuildings, stroll through formal gardens, and view antique equipment at the Chippokes Farm and Forestry Museum. The Chippokes Plantation State Park is on all bicycle routes that go over the ferry to Surry County.
Williamsburg Premium Outlets - there are a couple of different outlet plazas in Williamsburg, but this is the biggest and best.