Special exhibitions dive into the themes that shape Jamestown Settlement and the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown—and give visitors the opportunity to see artifacts on loan from institutions in the United States and abroad. Learn about our current and past exhibits and discover connections between history and the present.

Ruth E. Carter: Afrofuturism in Costume Design

May 11, 2024 - January 5, 2025, Jamestown Settlement

The Ruth E. Carter: Afrofuturism in Costume Design exhibition will explore costume design, historical clothing and research behind the design. Two-time Academy Award-winning costume designer Ruth E. Carter’s work in film and television has spanned generations. The popular special exhibition has been extended to January 5, 2025 to allow viewing through the holiday season.

Patrons & Patriots: The Legacy of Nick and Mary Mathews

March 8 - July 7, 2025, American Revolution Museum at Yorktown

"Patrons & Patriots: The Legacy of Nick and Mary Mathews" celebrates the lives and philanthropy of the late Nick and Mary Mathews, beloved Yorktown restauranteurs who donated the land for the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown. Opening in 1944, Nick’s Seafood Pavilion quickly grew into a household name all over Virginia not only for its fine seafood and elaborate interior but for the owners, Greek immigrants turned American patriots, grand hospitality and pride in Yorktown. Learn about their patrons, from Elizabeth Taylor to John Wayne, and see rare objects that defined this iconic restaurant establishment.

Fresh Views of the American Revolution

October 18, 2025 - May 3, 2026,  American Revolution Museum at Yorktown

In time for the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence and the American Revolution, join us for the “Fresh Views of the American Revolution” special exhibition at the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown, October 18, 2025 - May 3, 2026, commemorating America’s 250th through contemporary voices. Discover new perspectives on the ideals and legacies of the American Revolution through the folk art of Oscar de Mejo created during the 1976 Bicentennial and through engaging community art programs.

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Special exhibits included with museum admission

Our special exhibitions are included with general admission. An annual pass offers year-round access to the special exhibition, along with most daytime programs and events.

Residents of James City County, York County and the City of Williamsburg, including William & Mary students, receive complimentary admission to both museums with proof of residency. Parking is free.

About the Museums

Jamestown Settlement and the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown are open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily; closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s days. Jamestown Settlement is located on State Route 31 near the Colonial Parkway in James City County, just southwest of Williamsburg and adjacent to Historic Jamestowne. The American Revolution Museum at Yorktown is located on Route 1020 in Yorktown, near Yorktown Battlefield and Historic Yorktown.

The museums allow visitors of all ages to enjoy extensive indoor gallery exhibits and outdoor living-history areas to connect with the stories of our shared history. Admission tickets can be purchased online or in person. Plan your visit today or call (757) 253-4838 for more information.

Jamestown Settlement and the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown are administered by the Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation, an educational agency of the Commonwealth of Virginia accredited by the American Alliance of Museums.