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.

Fresh Views of the American Revolution

Debuting October 18, 2025 • 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 - August 31, 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.

Following the Dragon: Chinese Ming Porcelain in Early Jamestown

November 15, 2025 - July 12, 2026, Jamestown Settlement

"Following the Dragon: Chinese Ming Porcelain in Early Jamestown," a special exhibition presented in partnership with the Jamestown Rediscovery Foundation, will explore compelling discoveries that connect the early years of the Jamestown colony and Asia. Featuring Chinese porcelain uncovered during excavations of 1607 James Fort on Jamestown Island and intact objects from global lenders, the exhibition examines who may have owned these evocative pieces, how they may have been acquired, and offers fresh insights into the social life of the early 17th-century Virginia elite. The exhibition will delve into Chinese symbolism found in the decorative motifs and cultural connections across continents. 

Outlander: Costumes Woven in Time

March 6 - May 18, 2026, American Revolution Museum at Yorktown

In collaboration with Sony Pictures Television, go behind the scenes for a look at captivating costumes from the hit television series “Outlander.” Featuring an exclusive collection of 26 hand-selected pieces from Seasons 1–4 assembled for the museum exhibition, travel back in time to unravel the show’s origins through the acclaimed costume designs of Terry Dresbach. Weaving together continents and centuries into a richly crafted world, the exclusive exhibition showcases costumes spanning postwar 1940s Scotland, the upheaval of the 18th-century Highlands, Parisian opulence, the journey to early America, and the cultural shifts of the 1960s. 

Give Me Liberty: Virginia & the Forging of a Nation

July 1, 2026 - January 31, 2027 • American Revolution Museum at Yorktown

“Give Me Liberty: Virginia & the Forging of a Nation,” opening July 1, 2026 at the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown, is the VA250 Signature Exhibition commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Presented by the Virginia American Revolution 250 Commission and produced in partnership by the Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation and the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, the exhibition highlights Virginia’s leading role in the American Revolution and invites visitors to embark on a journey to uncover the civic stories and accomplishments of Virginia’s founders. "Give Me Liberty" examines the essential Virginia people, events and sites that helped bring liberty and democracy to a nation. The exhibition will highlight the complex, diverse and inspiring Virginia history which is, in fact, America’s story. The exhibition, featuring a rare 1833 printing of the Declaration of Independence in the Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation collection, explores the continental and global forces as well as the actions of both iconic and ordinary people that brought about a model of democratic government that changed the world.

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.