Welcome to Jamestown Settlement, a museum of 17th-century Virginia history and culture. Near the site of the original colony, discover the story of America’s beginnings through immersive films, gallery exhibits and outdoor re-creations. You’ll learn about the Virginia Indians who occupied the landscape for centuries, the arrival of English colonists to Jamestown in 1607 and the first documented arrival of West Central Africans in 1619, leading to cultural encounters and events that planted the seeds of a new nation.

The cultures who created Jamestown

Explore expansive gallery exhibits and an introductory film that describe the cultures of the Powhatan Indians, English and West Central Africans who converged in 1600s Virginia. Trace Jamestown’s beginnings in England through the first century of Virginia colony life. Gallery exhibits incorporate new historical research and technology plus rare artifacts, interactive displays, short films and an experiential theater.

Jamestown history comes to life

Take a step back in time in the outdoor history areas where costumed historical interpreters describe and demonstrate daily life in early Jamestown. Explore life-size re-creations of a 1610-14 fort and Paspahegh Town, or climb aboard a re-creation of one of the three ships that sailed from England to Virginia in 1607.

Extend your visit with a trip to the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown

There’s more history to discover with a combination ticket that includes the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown, offering savings on single museum admission. Both museums are open year-round 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s days.

Enjoy a range of family friendly, community and seasonal events at Jamestown Settlement. Check out our events calendar.