"Yorktown: One of America's Most Historic Towns" Yorktown by Tom_Fields

During colonial days, Yorktown was a thriving port. By the time of the Revolution, it was declining. But tourism has made it into a smaller version of Williamsburg. It is a very pleasant place for a day trip, with an assortment of shopping, restaurants, a lovely beach, and fine views of the York River.

The Yorktown Monument

The last battle of the American Revolution occurred right here in 1781. The British had lost a major battle at Saratoga, New York, in 1777. Now, another army under Lord Cornwallis tried to put down the rebellion once and for all. But France had entered the war on the side of the rebels; together, US and French forces trapped Cornwallis' army and forced him to surrender.

Thus ended the War of Independence. It was the worst defeat that the British had suffered in centuries.

• Pros:A very well-preserved town and battlefield
• In a nutshell:While touring the Tidewater, don't miss it