How to See the Presidents Heads in Williamsburg

Not your average presidential display!

The Presidents Heads in Williamsburg, Virginia, is a dystopian and unique attraction. But it’s only open a few times a year, so when the opportunity comes to see it, you take it.

We were lucky enough during one of our visits to Williamsburg to see the Presidents Heads, and it was such a cool experience. It was fun identifying presidents and getting pics with some of our favorites.

The President’s Heads would be a fun day trip from Washington, DC, or Richmond. Or even a great addition to your Williamsburg vacation. If this sounds like something you and your family would enjoy, the guide below has everything you need to know!

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History of the Presidents Heads in Williamsburg

Everette H. “Haley” Newman II, a local entrepreneur and sculptor David Adickes, opened Presidents Park in Williamsburg in 2004. Unfortunately, the park went bankrupt in 2010 and closed.

A group of presidential bust statues sit in an industrial recycling facility

The heads sat untouched for two years until a rental car company purchased the land. Howard Hankins was hired to demolish the heads and clear the land. Instead, he chose to transport them to his property, just a few miles up the road from their original location.

How to Visit the Presidents Heads in Williamsburg

The Presidents Heads near Williamsburg, VA, is a unique attraction that is only open a few times per year.

tall white statues of US presidents sit in a field

If you want to see the President Heads in person, you must purchase a pass to one of the events hosted by John Plashal Photo and Fred Schneider Photography. They only host these events about eight times per year. Visit their website for upcoming events.

If you’re visiting Williamsburg during one of the event dates, you’ll definitely want to see it! It’s such a unique experience.

Prepare For Your Visit to the Presidents Head Park in Virginia

a tall bust of george washington sits in front of other presidents heads statues

Parking

The site of the presidential head statues is an industrial recycling facility located at 8212 Croaker Road in Williamsburg. On the property, you’ll find old machinery, construction materials, and, at least during our visit, mulch.

When you arrive, you’ll see a “No Trespassing” sign. Don’t worry – if you have a ticket to one of the events, you can enter! (Please respect the private property and only enter during official events.)

A long dirt road leads to a large open area where you’ll be directed to park. From the parking lot, it’s a short walk to the President Heads.

Amenities

During our visit, there were about four porta-johns near the parking lot. There was also a small tent with gifts and souvenirs for purchase.

What to Wear

The President Heads are outside on property that is not maintained for visitors. Typically, the ground can be very muddy and wet. Even during our visit, when it hadn’t rained for a few weeks, some of the sections between the heads were muddy.

It is recommended that you wear boots or shoes that you don’t mind getting messy. They had some rain boots available to borrow during your visit, but not enough for everyone.

Andrew Jackson's 15 foot tall bust sits in front of other presidential sculptures in a field

Best Time to Visit

If you just want to see the heads but aren’t worried about taking photographs, visit during the morning sessions. They are typically priced lower than the afternoon sessions and are less crowded.

It’s cheaper to visit in the morning because the heads are backlit by the sun. However, you may get lucky, like we did, and visit on a slightly cloudy day! It made for some great shots.

If you would prefer front-lit photos, purchase passes for the afternoon, usually after 1 pm. This is a more popular time to visit, and thus, the tickets are generally priced higher.

Exploring the Presidents Heads

After checking in, you’ll have free reign to explore the Presidents Heads on your own. The heads are mainly organized in three rows, with a few placed outside of those rows.

White sculptures of US presidents in williamsburg

The rows of heads are placed tightly together. You can squeeze between some of them, but others are harder to get close to.

Good to know: You cannot climb on or touch the Presidents Heads

There are 42 presidential heads on display. From George Washington through George W. Bush. The original park where the heads were displayed was closed before the artist could complete Barack Obama’s sculpture.

The heads range from 15 to 18 feet tall. Because of the material, some of the Presidents Heads have sections missing, like the back of Abraham Lincoln’s head.

Trivia and Tours

Your ticket includes access to the heads for a two-hour window. During that time, you can take a self-guided tour. Also included is a trivia contest (complete with prizes!) and a 25-minute oration on the park’s history.

Visitor Tip: Bring a folding chair so you can sit and relax during the trivia and storytelling.

Map of the Presidents

If you aren’t sure who you’re looking at, consult a map of the Presidents. You can find one online, or there are a few posted during your visit.

an aerial photo of the presidents heads are marked with each president's name

Presidents Heads Wrap-Up

As one of the most unique things to do in Williamsburg, visiting the Presidents Heads during one of their events is totally worth it. The dystopian feel of the heads coupled with the unique setting and opportunity for fun photos, makes it a fun and different activity.