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Best Things to Do in Washington NC

Best Things to Do in Washington NC

Washington NC

Founded in 1776, Washington NC is considered to be America’s “original” Washington. This is because it was the first town named after George Washington. There can be some confusion between this Washington and Washington DC. To not aid in the confusion, locals refer to this town as “Little Washington”. Little Washington is a waterfront town located in Beaufort County. This town is a little treasure packed with:

  • A flourishing art scene
  • A rich Revolutionary War history
  • Unique shops
  • Local restaurants
  • The Pamlico River

There are so many wonders to be discovered in Little Washington. Here are just a few of what I consider to be the best things to do in Washington NC.

Spend The Day At Goose Creek State Park

Located at 2190 Camp Leach Rd, Washington NC, is the natural treasure known as Goose Creek. Designated as a National Natural Landmark in 1980. Although this park has been open to the public since September 1974.

There is a ton to do at just this one location! Entire weekends could easily be filled with all Goose Creek has to offer. Here you can enjoy:

  • Hiking any of the six trails offered
  • Camping at the many different kinds of campsites or cabins
  • Picnicking at the dog-friendly park with the whole family
  • Swimming and fishing in the river
  • Learning about the wonderful environment in the Auditorium and outdoor classroom

Spending time in the lovely outdoors of Goose Creek speeds up time. You’ll realize that one trip is not enough and this amazing park will have you coming back again and again.

Check Out The North Carolina Estuarium

See the first Estuarium in the world. It is one of the most cutting-edge environmental institutions in North Carolina. An Estuarium is similar to an aquarium but the focus is on estuaries and coastal rivers. There are more than 200 exhibits in the Estuarium. They describe the importance of our estuaries and coastal rivers.

These exhibits include aquariums with crabs and other estuarine life. There are interesting and fun artworks. As well as hands-on interactive displays and artifacts from life on the Pamlico River.

Here you can explore hurricanes and rising sea levels. They also offer Pamlico Riverboat tours and special programs. These special programs are on natural and cultural heritage.

Located at 223 E. Water St. Washington NC. The North Carolina Estuarium is filled with educational and fun activities. Perfect for all kinds of visitors.

Treat Yourself At Parley’s Sip & Steam

At 132 East Water Street, Washington NC, you’ll find Parley’s Sip & Steam. This restaurant is a popular local hangout. It serves incredible wines, craft beer selections, and specialty cocktails. They serve meat and poultry as well as locally sourced seafood and shellfish. You don’t get much fresher than their oysters, shrimp, and scallops.

Parley’s Sip & Steam is open between Thursday and Sunday, making it a very popular weekend joint. They offer take-out and delivery, however, dining in is my preference. This is because live music fills the walls of the restaurant. Each day a different musician plays, creating a unique ambiance per day.

The food is delicious, the music sounds sweet and the vibes are chill. Parley’s is a great stop for local cuisine or just a drink.

Hunt For Gems At Little Shoppes & South Market Antiques

Little Shoppes & South Market Antiques is a collection of multiple little vendors. Each one offering unique treasures just waiting to be found. This boutique meets antique fusion has created a special shopping experience. Here you’ll find:

  • Gorgeous home decor
  • Creative knick-knacks
  • Antiques
  • Clothes
  • Jewelry

It is packed full of wonders. Locally produced food items are also sold here. A wonderful find for those looking to taste what Washington has to offer.

Everyone loves their shopping experience. Just see this review:

“ Little Shoppes and South Market Antiques has everything you need from gifts to dog toys...” - Rebecca C.

Just one of the many happy shoppers. Little Shoppes & South Market Antiques is located near the water. This just adds to the amazing atmosphere. So take a few hours to explore while you’re in town. This little gem can be found at 223 W Main St, Washington, NC.

Explore The Historic Districts

Take a tour of Little Washington's East or West Side Historic District. Here you will get a sense of the area's rich architectural heritage. Both districts are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. A lot of the residences and structures in these neighborhoods have historical markers.

Many antebellum and Victorian-era buildings are in the West Side Historic District. Several famous business people and community leaders lived in this region. This was during the 1800s when Washington was the second-largest port in the state. Several of these big homes served as hospitals. This happened during the Civil War when the Union troops captured the town.

The East Side Historic District Tour starts in the center of town. On a part of Main Street that is lined with early 20th-century business structures. See mansions constructed with elaborate Queen Anne detailing. Marvel at imposing Colonial Revival stylings and modest Federal exteriors. The Myers House, which was constructed in 1780, is the oldest structure in the city.

These are just a few of the many wonders offered. However, I consider these to be the best things to do in Washington, NC.

ENC Explorer
Author: ENC Explorer

After getting accepted to ECU, I started looking for things to do in and around Greenville, NC. However, my searches kept taking me to places in South Carolina! There must be things to do around ECU, so I started asking other students. They kept telling me to graduate and move away! This inspired me to begin exploring eastern North Carolina and build this website as a showcase of the places to go, sights to see, and things to do all over eastern NC. I have fallen in love with this region and started taking up roots here. After graduating, I didn't move away - I bought a house here and continue to explore eastern North Carolina.

This place is for Publicity

This place is for Publicity

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