Dale House Café

the new dale house café is coming soon!

After assessments this winter, something new is coming to the Dale House Café. The cozy riverside building was known as the Relic House when it was built in the early 20th century. It showcased displays of artifacts unearthed by members of the Association for the Preservation of Virginia Antiquities (now known as Preservation Virginia). Later the building served as a pottery demonstration area and museum store before becoming the headquarters for the Jamestown Rediscovery Project in 1994. In spite of its small footprint, the Dale House supported all functions of the archaeological project for several years, including collections storage, conservation, staff offices, and exhibit space.

As a tribute to the history of this small-but-mighty space, the new café will feature historic photos and 20^th-century-inspired décor. As part of the renovation, all areas of the building will be remodeled, with upgrades to the kitchen and serving areas, bathrooms, and dining area. The new space will be a place for guests to rest and recharge during their visit to Jamestown, with light lunch options, snacks, baked goods, and beverages available for purchase.

The Dale House Café will remain closed as renovations progress, with an expected opening date later this spring or summer. In the meantime, guests are welcome to picnic at the picnicking area at the Visitor Center and are encouraged to bring water (refill stations are located in the Visitor Center and Archaearium Archaeology Museum) and snacks for their visit.

hours

The Dale House Café is closed temporarily for renovations.

location and access

The Dale House Café is approximately a one-third of a mile walk from the Visitor Center and is located between the fort site and the Archaearium Museum (see the Visit Map).

The Dale House Café is only accessible to guests who have a valid admission ticket, and all patrons must park in the Visitor Center parking lot.

dale house history

The cozy riverside building was known as the Relic House when it was built in the early 20th century. It showcased displays of the artifacts unearthed by members of the Association for the Preservation of Virginia Antiquities (which still owns the building and original fort site, under the name Preservation Virginia). Later the building served as a pottery demonstration area and museum store before becoming the headquarters for the Jamestown Rediscovery Project in 1994. In spite of its small footprint, the Dale House supported all functions of the archaeological project for several years, including collections storage, conservation, staff offices, and exhibit space.