Trip Planner: USA / Virginia / Charles City / Shirley Plantation

Shirley Plantation, Charles City

4.3

#2 of 7 in Things to do in Charles City

Must see · Historic Site · Tourist Spot

Shirley Plantation is an estate located on the north bank of the James River in Charles City County, Virginia, USA. It is located on State Route 5, a scenic byway which runs between the independent cities of Richmond and Williamsburg. Shirley Plantation is the oldest active plantation in Virginia and is the oldest family-owned business in North America, dating back to 1614 with operations starting in 1648. It used the forced labor of about 70 to 90 enslaved people for plowing the fields, cleaning, childcare, and cooking. The plantation was added to the National Register in 1969 and declared a National Historic Landmark in 1970.

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Shirley Plantation reviews

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411 reviews

Google

4.4

By LSNS2652

My wife and I enjoyed seeing Shirley and grounds and were pleased to have a family member as our guide. The Manor house is beautiful with period furniture; the first floor open for tours while the... more »
By Dewayne P

This was a fun stop. It is open from 10-4 T-S and they open promptly at 10. There is a gate to get to the property so no need to get here any earlier than that. It is $11 for a self-guided tour or... more »

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Google

By Eric Moorefield

Beautiful plantation house and outbuildings, extremely well-preserved! Some gardens, nice view over the river, small but good quality gift shop. Some of the buildings, like the icehouse and dovecote, are unique and worth the trip all by themselves. The structures were never damaged in wartime and the plantation has remained in the same family since founding, which makes a huge difference in the level of preservation.

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By Brenda Rock

Amazing little side trip and tour. Our guide was full of interesting history about the home and grounds. Traveled with 2 adults and 3 teenagers and everyone enjoyed it.

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