Start by downloading the Action Tour Guide app, which will function as your personal tour guide, audio tour, and map all in one. Purchase one tour per car, not per person. Everyone listens together! Note: This 10+ mile-long tour covers the essentials of Yorktown Battlefield in 1-2 hours.
Once downloaded, your tour begins at the visitor center. From there, you’ll drive through the battlefield itself and hear how a British tactical error gave George Washington the opportunity he’d long awaited.
The first landmark you’ll see are a pair of British defensive positions which were overtaken by American and French forces—including a commander you probably know by name! Then, head to the house where the British negotiated their surrender.
As you cruise through the battlefield, you’ll hear how the Americans turned the tide, then stop at Surrender Field, where the British laid down their arms for the victorious American army.
Next, visit the site where Washington’s headquarters stood during the battle and hear more about this legendary figure. After that, you’ll spot the remainder of a French artillery battery and find out more about the role the French played during the battle.
Continuing on, you’ll pass the Yorktown National Cemetery and hear about the aftermath of the battle and the Revolutionary War itself. Finally, you’ll arrive at the Yorktown Victory Monument, honoring this momentous conflict. Your tour concludes here.
