The Ruins of Presidents Park - Easter Weekend

Several remnants from the original tourist attraction that was open from 2004-2010 will be on display on as accompaniments to the 42 decaying sculptures that have now fallen into a significant state of disrepair. The mementos that will be on display include several of the original placards, park signage, vintage Park images and much more.

In addition to opportunities to take pictures of the sculptures, interesting facts and stories will be shared amongst our guests throughout the day. Presidential trivia with PRIZES will be held during several sessions. Additionally, merchandise such as prints, puzzles, magnets, books and other souvenirs will also be available for sale from two of Virginia's premier "abandonment artists".

CBS Sunday Morning News Segment on the Presidents Heads

TICKETS ARE LIMITED

FAQ's

Are you open all the time to visit the Heads? No. Pre-ticketed events for public access are held 8 times per year, almost always on weekends ( holidays may be the exception) . Occasionally, photo workshops are also held. Public access outside of these dates is not permitted as the property doubles as a busy industrial recycling site that is operational, and off limits to pedestrians, for most days of the year. The other scheduled tours with tickets available in 2023 thus far occur in April, May and June. There will be no tours scheduled in July or August. Tours will resume in September but those remaining dates will not be published until later in 2023.

Can I visit the Heads outside of a guided tour or Photo Workshop? Unfortunately not.

Where will this event be held? At the location of the Presidents Heads, which is at 8212 Croaker Rd. in Williamsburg, Va. The name of the business is Hampton Roads Materials. Parking instructions will be sent with the guest e-mail that is distributed a few days prior to the event.

Why is there a difference in the ticket prices? The morning passes are less expensive than the afternoon passes because, in the event of a sunny day, the Heads are back lit in the morning, which could be problematic for photographers. The Heads become front lit by 1PM.

What is a Dusk Pass? This pass is designed for photographers that may want to mitigate the presence of shadows in their images should it be sunny during the late afternoon. This time slot also falls during sunset, which always has a chance of being dramatic. We also cap the number of Dusk Pass guests to about half that of our usual General Admission capacity.

What is included in the VIP Pass? This ticket is offered for those that prefer to experience this event in the absence of crowds. Only 10 tickets have been made available for sale. An optional personalized Presidential Storytelling and Q&A session will be offered by John Plashal. Additionally, each guest will receive a "Presidential Gift Bag" which includes a 5 x7 luster print, a magnet and a bookmark.

How and when will I be notified of the specifics and logisitics of the program? An e-mail will be sent to the address used to register, beginning about a week before the event. This will cover all of the specifics you will want and need to know. Event information is also frequently posted at @John Plashal Photo on Facebook and Instagram.

What is the refund policy? Refunds are accepted up until 48 hours prior to the beginning of the first event of the day. No refunds will be accepted if requested within 48 hours of the first event of the day- NO EXCEPTIONS. ALL REFUNDS MUST BE REQUESTED THROUGH EVENTBRITE.

Is the general session that I registered for two hours in duration? The general session events are NOT two hours long, rather a two hour window of opportunity for you to visit. That being said, you will receive an itinerary in an e-mail prior to the event with the scheduled times of the Presidential Trivia and Storytelling sessions. It is up to you if want to participate in those sessions.

Is there anything special that I need to bring? The area around the Heads is often wet or muddy, in which case rain boots or hiking boots will be highly recommended. The e-mail that goes out to all registrants prior to the event will offer an update on those conditions so you can be prepared with proper footwear. We conduct optional back to back speaking sessions during each time slot. Many of our guests prefer to sit down during these talks. If you fall into that category, then bring a folding chair or something to sit on.

I am a photographer. Can I take pictures or fly a drone? Yes. Photography and videography is allowed as long as etiquette is exercised. Drones may NOT be flown during the speaking sessions.

Do you conduct this program if it is raining? Yes. Unless it is forecasted to be sustained and heavy. We have a high threshold for cancellation out of respect to those that spend days traveling to the area in anticipation of this highly unique experience. Many guests actually prefer rainy and moody weather as it lends to the eerieness of the locale.

Can I buy tickets on the spot? Only if the event is not sold out. We have strict attendance limitations with which we comply.

What ages encompass a YOUTH TICKET? Ages 8-17 require a YOUTH TICKET. Ages 7 and under are free and are listed as a CHILD TICKET.

Are there bathrooms on the property? Yes. There are portable toilets on the property.

Are dogs allowed? Yes. Canines are our best guests. Having your dog on a leash is required. Please make sure to carry a bag to clean up after your dog.

I am traveling from afar to visit the Presidents Heads and would like some recommendations on lodging? Williamsburg is about 10 minutes from The Heads and offers accommodations that fit ALL budgets.

Do you conduct other events at The Presidents Heads? Yes. We occassionally offer various nighttime events at the Heads. Please review all event descriptions and FAQ's before committing.

If I have further questions, to whom should I direct them? Please send an e-mail to "[email protected]" with any additional questions. Please allow 1-2 days for a response.

Host or Publisher John Plashal Photo