Historic Jamestowne
• The 411: America is born. On May 14, 1607, a group of settlers stepped ashore at Jamestown Island, establishing the continent's first permanent English colony.

• What's new: An engaging Visitor Center briefs guests on the Jamestown journey, while a museum showcases archaeological finds, including the remains of two of the first settlers.

• Don't miss: The film at the Visitor Center is a must-see. You'll leave misty-eyed--and proud to be an American.

• "Wow" factor: Just call it CSI: Jamestown. Archaeologists use forensic science to identify the skeletal remains of settlers, determine how they died, and reconstruct their appearances.

• For kids: The skeletons are cool, but kids love to romp through the 1,500 acres of Jamestown Island, part of the Colonial National Historical Park, when they get tired of history.

• Price: $10, which includes admission to the Yorktown Battlefield. Children 15 and under get in free.

left: A timeline that runs down the hall at Jamestown Settlement helps visitors keep their dates straight.