Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail

National Historic Trail Virginia Maryland Delaware District of Columbia Pennsylvania New York

People first arrived in the Chesapeake Bay during the last ice age. As glaciers melted, diverse societies learned to thrive in a world of water. When Englishman Captain John Smith explored the Bay in 1608, he documented hundreds of American Indian communities. Today, sites on his map are archeological treasures and sacred sites for tribal citizens. Come join us on the shores of the Chesapeake Bay!

Entry Fees

No additional fees

Weather Information

During the summer season, visitors should dress in light, comfortable, moisture-wicking clothing, and use sunscreen. High temperatures and humidity create a higher risk of heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heatstroke. We strongly recommended you carry a bottle of water with you and wear a life jacket at all times. During the winter, be aware that submersion in freezing cold water can be deadly. If you are going out, bring safety gear such as a wetsuit and practice techniques to avoid tipping over.

Address

1368 Colonial Parkway, Jamestown, VA 23081

Activities & Topics

Arts and Culture Craft Demonstrations Cultural Demonstrations Boating Sailing Boat Tour Camping Canoe or Kayak Camping Car or Front Country Camping RV Camping Compass and GPS Geocaching Fishing Food Picnicking Guided Tours Hands-On Arts and Crafts Hiking Front-Country Hiking Paddling Canoeing Kayaking Stand Up Paddleboarding Whitewater Rafting Junior Ranger Program Tubing River Tubing Swimming Wildlife Watching Birdwatching Museum Exhibits Archeology Arts Colonization and Settlement Commerce Trade Dams Explorers and Expeditions Farming and Agriculture Maritime Native American Heritage Religion and Spirituality Science Technology and Innovation Transportation Bridges Roads Routes and Highways Wars and Conflicts Colonial/European Contact Conflicts Animals Birds Fish Climate Change Coasts Islands and Atolls Estuaries and Mangroves Forests and Woodlands Deciduous Forests Geology River and Riparian Scenic Views Trails Water Trails Unique Species Rare Endangered Watersheds Headwaters Waterfalls Wetlands Marshes Swamps

Operating Hours

wednesday

All Day

monday

All Day

thursday

All Day

sunday

All Day

tuesday

All Day

friday

All Day

saturday

All Day

Location

Coordinates: 38.971601, -76.483355

Get Directions →