It’s hard to argue with a visit to Washington, North Carolina, and also difficult to not be jealous of those lucky enough to call it “home.”
Whether you’re enjoying a quiet walk along Waterfront Park, enjoying a delicious meal downtown or nearby, or just looking for a place to go for a breeze and watery views, then this place is IT.
Washington is known for many things, first for its place as the first town or city named for George Washington—hence the nickname “The Original Washington.” There’s also the aforementioned Waterfront Park, the Tar and Pamlico rivers, and assortment of characters who’ve lived here over the years.
It’s also one of North Carolina’s oldest towns, and the first named for George Washington, making it a prime destination for history nerds like NC Tripping.
That handful of highlights is just the start, and we’re here to cover as much as possible in this guide covering things to do in Washington and nearby.
Here’s what you’ll find below:
- Where is Washington?
- The History of Washington (and Beaufort County)
- Where to Stay
- Annual Events in Washington
- Things to do in Washington This Weekend (and Throughout the Year!)
- Where to Eat in Washington, North Carolina
- Things to Do Near Washington
Skip ahead to any section you’d like or keep reading about how to find Washington and its rich history.
Read More: The Best Small Towns in North Carolina
Where is Washington?
Washington is in Eastern North Carolina and is the Beaufort County seat.
If you’re driving to Washington, you’ll likely pass through Greenville. I-95 is the closest major interstate, with Washington just an hour off that long and not-lonesome road.
US Highway 17 (US 17), also known as the Coastal Highway (or Ocean Highway), runs through and around Washington on its way from Winchester, Virginia, to Punta Gorda, Florida.
Washington is within a day trip from many of our favorite places in Eastern North Carolina and a few in Central NC, too, including:
- Greenville (30 minutes)
- New Bern (45-50 minutes)
- Edenton (1 hour 10 minutes)
- Emerald Isle (1 hour 45 minutes)
- Raleigh (2 hours)
- Topsail Island (2 hours)
- The Outer Banks (2 hours)
- Wilmington (2-1/2 hours)
Read More: The Eastern North Carolina Map
The History of Washington (and Beaufort County)
Washington’s history is worth more than this section, so hang tight for a dedicated article to it. In the meantime, here’s a quick historical breakdown of Washington and its surroundings in Beaufort County:
Pre-Washington to Forks of the Tar
- Before it was Washington, it was Forks of the Tar, and before that, it was home to Native peoples such as the Tuscarora.
- Note: I’m doing a disservice to the centuries, if not millennia, of Indigenous History. Even when Europeans first arrived, there were numerous tribes, including the Pamlico, in present-day Beaufort County (and Pamlico County). Almost all, except for the Tuscarora, fled westward as more settlers began arriving. The story of the Tuscarora War and its aftermath is a tragic story worth looking into.
- The first English explorers arrived in the late 1500s, and settlements began popping up at least by the 1690s.
- Nearby Bath was the first town established in North Carolina (chartered in 1705). For a decade (from 1712 to 1722), Bath was North Carolina’s first capital…but not the first permanent capital. This was.
- Also in 1705, the area that is now Beaufort County formed out of the now-extinct Bath County. At the time, it was known as Pamptecough Precinct, but in 1712, the name would change to Beaufort County.
- Side Note: Henry Somerset, Duke of Beaufort, is the person after whom the county and the Carteret County town of Beaufort (BOH-fert) are named.
- The area that makes up today’s Washington was founded in the 1770s as Forks of the Tar.
“Original” Washington
- In the great year of 1776, the town was renamed Washington after then-General George Washington. As mentioned, Washington is the first city named after George Washington, who is THE Founding Father and our first president.
- Another Side Note: Honestly, naming the city Washington was a bold move considering we didn’t win the Revolutionary War until 1783.
- Speaking of the War, Washington was used as a Patriot supply port when nearby ports were attacked and damaged by the British.
The 19th Century
- After the war and throughout the 1800s, Washington became a shipping hub for agricultural produce and timber. Many of Washington’s most prominent historic buildings were constructed during the 19th century.
- As one local shared with us, some of the buildings found along the Waterfront today were largely dedicated to the Slave Trade. However, something else was happening right under the enslavers’ noses, as the Underground Railroad was running through Washington. You can learn about it at the Washington Waterfront Underground Railroad Museum, which we’ll share more about below.
- During the Civil War, Washington was occupied by the Union, and they started a massive fire when they blew up naval supplies.
The 20th Century
- The town was rebuilt after the Civil War, but more fires (including a major one in 1900) and the eventual Depression dealt cruel blows to Washington. The thriving mills and many businesses closed due to these factors, as well as the railroad expanding further west.
- The seafood industry could not go further inland and remained strong throughout the 20th century. Nearby Belhaven is home to many of the area’s commercial fishing operations.
Today and Famous Residents
- In recent years, Washington and Beaufort County as a whole have grown as a destination for people seeking a quieter, more scenic place to visit and eventually call “home.”
- And honestly, I don’t think this is a new phenomenon. Some of the most interesting people have fallen in love with Washington and its neighbors, like for example:
- Blackbeard (Lived in Bath while evading authorities and died near Ocracoke Island): No evidence has been found of Edward Teach (or Thatch) visiting Washington, but one can dream, right?
- Eva Narcissus Boyd (Born in Belhaven): Under the stage name Little Eva, Boyd was the singer best known for her 1962 hit “The Locomotion.”
- Cecil B. DeMille (Spent part of his childhood in Washington): Known as a Founding Father of American Cinema.
- Murray Hamilton (Born in Washington): Possibly Hollywood’s worst mayor, but a long and storied acting career beyond Jaws.
- Sarah Louise Keys: (Born in Washington) Civil Rights icon who refused to give up her seat months before Rosa Parks.
- Ryan Zimmerman (Born in Washington): Fittingly played for the Washington Nationals his entire career, helping them win the 2019 World Series.
- Dominique Wilkins (Born in Washington): One of the best players of the NBA’s ’80s-’90s era, he played in some classic games against Larry Bird, Michael Jordan, and the Bad Boys Pistons. Won back-to-back 3A State Championships at Washington High School (1978-79).
I could go on. Stay tuned.
You can also learn about Washington’s history with these Audio Tours, which I hope never go away.
Read More: Facts About North Carolina
Where to Stay in Washington, NC
If you’re one of those lucky people about to visit Washington or scope it out for your next home, you don’t need to drive back so quickly. There are some lovely places to stay, including these places we’ve enjoyed.
The Ell Hotel
Address: 1040 N Market St, Washington, NC
Website
During a trip to Washington in partnership with Visit Washington, we were hosted at the Ell Hotel for a few days.
Opened in 2022 in the beautifully restored Bowers-Tripp House (ca 1921), and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Ell is the only female- and veteran-owned boutique hotel in the Carolinas.
You can choose from five uniquely designed guest rooms, and spend your mornings and evenings unwinding in the welcoming (and spacious) living room or the billiards room.
The latter’s bookshelf is filled with magazines, books, and games, as well as mementos and photos from places visited by owner Ellen Brabo’s while serving our country. Thank you.
If you brought kids, they will love the dedicated children’s playroom. Ours certainly did!
Whenever you decide to leave for the day, the Ell is just up Market St from Downtown Washington. You can walk, drive, or use one of the complimentary bicycle rentals outside (for guests only).
The Ell is not only a great place to stay, but it’s also an event space for up to 50 people, perfect for weekend getaways and intimate celebrations.
Read More: Romantic Getaways in North Carolina
Elmwood 1820 Bed & Breakfast Inn
Address: 731 W Main St, Washington, North Carolina
Website
Carl once stayed at the Elmwood 1820 for a random weekend getaway and enjoyed walks back and forth between the historic home and downtown Washington. You’ll be a few blocks past the Tar-Pamlico Bridge from downtown.
The Elmwood 1820, built in 1820 (you knew that), and somehow was one of the few buildings spared by fires during the Civil War. For a time, the Elmwood served as Union headquarters (Camp Ceres) and a wartime hospital later on.
On the inside, there’s a well-preserved historic home that yes, you get to sleep in. The Italianate home with a seemingly never-ending veranda always has a space waiting for you.
The rooms are spacious and quiet, but not too quiet.
Breakfasts were the best one could ask for within feet of their bed in Washington. Hopefully, I’ll get a chance to stay there someday.
Annual Events in Washington
No matter when you visit, there are plenty of things to do in Washington. However, keep these annual and seasonal events in mind if you want to see the town at its best:
- Spring Events
- Wheels and Wings (April)
- Bath Fest (May)
- Aurora Fossil Festival (May)
- Bath Memorial Day Celebration (May)
- Summer Events
- Washington Summer Festival (June)
- Juneteenth Freedom Festival
- 4th of July in Washington and Belhaven
- Fall Events
- Hispanic Heritage Festival (October)
- Smoke on the Water (October)
- Winter Events
- Light up the City (November)
- The New Year’s Eve Crab Drop (December)
The Washington Summer Festival and the 4th of July are probably the two biggest events in town. The Aurora Fossil Festival and Bath Fest are two great excuses for a day trip from Washington.
Visit Washington shares these events and more here. Anyone who lives in the area should keep that page bookmarked.
Read More: The NC Tripping Events Calendar
Things to do in Washington, NC This Weekend (and Throughout the Year!)
As mentioned, there are plenty of things to do in Washington this weekend (and nearly every weekend). Here’s what you’ll typically find:
Washington Waterfront Park
From the first time we visited to today, the Waterfront is the first place we stop when traveling to Washington. It’s the perfect spot to get out of your car, stretch your legs, and stare out into the Pamlico River.
The city docks are usually filled with boats parked short-term or longterm, depending on the captain’s plans. Boating is a big part of the city’s story and hopefully that will never change.
As one boater told us, “There’s something different about people on boats. No matter who you are or where you came from, you’re equals on the water.”
There are a variety of services provided to registered boaters in Washington, including:
- Private and secure showers in the Lighthouse
- Laundry facilities (additional charge)
- A pump-out station
- Ice available for purchase
- Bicycles with shopping baskets available for loan
The Washington Visitors Center is also along the Waterfront (102 W Stewart Parkway, Washington, NC), not far from Festival Park and the NC Estuarium (see below).
Festival Park
Address: 119 E Water St, Washington, NC
Keep walking along Waterfront Park and you’ll probably want a stop somewhere at Festival Park. This is an especially scenic spot in Washington, especially for weddings and photo sessions.
Festival Park also has an open lawn space, a gazebo, a playground, and free restrooms.
Havens Gardens Park
Address: 1001 Park Dr, Washington, NC
Facebook Page
Waterfront Park and Festival Park are joined by Havens Gardens Park, just a short drive away. This is a worthy alternative to Waterfront Park, especially if you brought kids along.
For starters, this is a great spot for fishing, as you might be able to see speckled trout before trying to catch them! The kids will really love the excellent playground here, as well as the splash pad on hot days.
Paddle the Pamlico River
If you want a closer view of the Pamlico and didn’t bring your own boat, you can rent a canoe, kayak, or paddleboard from River Vibes (108 S Market St, Washington, NC).
From the Waterfront, you can paddle out to Castle Island (approximately 15 minutes one way), which is a great spot for a picnic, bird watching, and even spotting dolphins!
Before or after you rent a boat with River Vibes, order a yummy local business also serves yummy smoothy or juice from their bar.
If you’re looking to stay on land, River Vibes also rents Cruiser Bikes, starting at 1-hour to 24 hours or longer.
Honorable Mention: The Little Washington Sailing School provides sailing lessons to kids, catered to teaching the basics or refreshing one’s skills.
Museums in Washington NC
As a town filled with history, there are plenty of ways to learn about Washington and its background, thanks to these unique museums.
North Carolina Estuarium
Address: 223 E Water St, Washington, NC
Website
The NC Estuarium is an environmental education center on the Pamlico River, and is the world’s first aquarium focused on estuary systems.
Fun Fact about Estuaries: In case you didn’t know, an estuary is the habitat that forms where fresh and saltwater mix. The Pamlico Sound, combined with the Albermarle to form the Albemarle-Pamlico sound system, is the second largest estuary in the United States after the Chesapeake Bay.
Managed by the non-profit Partnership for the Sounds, there are more than 200 exhibits that highlight the Tar-Pamlico River and the Pamlico Sound.
Learn about ecology, wildlife like blue crabs, and environmental concerns that affect estuary health.
From April to October, the Estuarium offers FREE River Roving boat rides (reservations highly recommended!) to extend your experience and learning on the river. We highly recommend signing up for one of these tours.
Your captain will take you to various spots for wildlife viewing and learning about the area.
Estuarium Bonus Coming Soon: The Seafood School
Slated to open in 2026, the Seafood School will feature interactive exhibits about how estuaries serve as vital nurseries for marine life, along with a teaching kitchen where visitors can learn how to prepare and cook North Carolina seafood.
The Seafood School plans to host top chefs from North Carolina to offer hands-on classes.
P.S. Jones African American History Museum
Address: 847 N Pierce St, Washington, NC
Website
Free to visit, the P.S. Jones African American History Museum preserves the legacy of Beaufort County Schools from 1868 to 1969 with archived materials and testimonials.
Located in the former Washington Colored High School, this museum shows how African American students and educators fought for their right to education before desegregation.
Washington Museum of the Pamlico
Address: 108 Gladden Street, Washington, NC
No Website at the Time of This Article’s Latest Update
When it opened in July 2026, the Washington Museum of the Pamlico was the perfect addition to Washington during its 250th birthday, also for America 250.
Housed in the former train depot, the museum highlights the history of Washington, Beaufort County, and the Pamlico River Basin communities.
The museum hosts artifacts from significant time periods in Washington, including the Colonial Era and the Civil War.
We’re excited for this museum and hope it grows into a Washington fixture, after opening to welcoming fanfare.
Washington Waterfront Underground Railroad Museum
Address: Corner of Main and Gladden Streets, Washington, NC
Facebook Page
Fully run by volunteers, the caboose museum sits on the waterfront and tells the story of those seeking refuge and freedom in Washington and Beaufort County.
Local resident Leesa Jones started this museum while searching for her own family’s history, uncovering personal accounts and more than 300 years of history. The exhibits offer a powerful look at the people, places, and events that shaped this important chapter of American history.
We once interviewed Jones about this museum and its origins in an episode of NC Travel Chat (Episode 28).
Read More: Important Places to Learn Black History in North Carolina
Turnage Theater and Pamlico Arts
Address: 150 W Main St, Washington, NC
Arts of the Pamlico Website
The Turnage Theater is one building with two theaters inside.
The original Vaudeville Theater portion opened in 1913, followed by the Movie Palace that opened in 1930.
After a brief closure from 1979-2007, the Turnage returned thanks to community leaders who sought to rescue this important landmark. The Arts of the Pamlico has called the Turnage home since 2014, and their events keep the theater alive throughout the year.
Community-led live performances, art exhibits, and more await at the Turnage Theater. If you live in the area, visit often, or love supporting the arts, Arts of the Pamlico is a wonderful organization that gives so much back to the communities of Washington and Beaufort County.
Memberships, donations, and events held by Arts of the Pamlico can be found on the organization’s website.
Shop Local in Washington
An essential piece of the Washington community is the local businesses downtown and scattered throughout the area. We already mentioned River Vibes, but here are some more shops along Main and Market streets that we’ve loved visiting over the years:
- Flying Pig Provisions (215 W Main St, Washington, NC): This Washington staple is where you’ll find pun-y signs, glass-bottle sodas, various gifts, and gourmet foods that’ll be a hit at any party.
- Harbor District Market (140 W Main St, Washington, NC): Hosts more than 20 full-time vendors, as well as farmers’ markets. The market and its regular events connect local producers, entrepreneurs, and the community.
- Pamlico Books (149 N Market St, Washington, NC): Washington’s local bookstore proves that “reading is better by the river,” with a nice selection of local books and popular titles across many genres, complemented by its kids section.
- Pirate Waters Outfitter (108 N Market St, Washington, NC): PWO stays stocked up with the best brands in fishing, including all the apparel and gear you’ll need to catch something and keep it cold until it’s time to clean and eat.
- Riverwalk Art Gallery (139 W Main St, Washington, NC): Art thrives in Washington, thanks to its beautiful natural surroundings, organizations like Arts of the Pamlico, and businesses like Riverwalk Gallery. This gallery features fine art and crafted items created by local artists.
Honorable Mention: Sweet Tide Swedish Candy opened in 2026 and makes treats worth sharing, but only if you don’t want them all for yourself.
Read More: Ways to Support Local Businesses in North Carolina
Where to Eat in Washington, North Carolina
Whether you’re looking for one of the best hot dogs in North Carolina or the freshest crab fritters you’ve ever had, Washington’s food scene is definitely one to bookmark!
Here are some of our personal recommendations on where to eat in Washington, NC.
Take a food tour with Forks of Little Washington!
Can’t decide where to eat? One of our favorite ways to experience a new destination is through its local food scene, and the Forks of Little Washington Food Tour is the perfect introduction to Washington, North Carolina’s charming Downtown Harbor District.
During this guided three-hour walking tour, you’ll discover the town’s history while stopping at several locally owned restaurants, cafés, and drink spots.
This is one of the best things to do in Little Washington and possibly the most delicious.
Breakfast & Coffee
- Brownie Bakery (913 John Small Ave, Washington, NC) is a local favorite for soft, fluffy donuts. The pastries here are just absolutely incredible, so don’t skip a fritter, cinnamon roll, or cream puff!
- Giddy-Up Coffeehouse (Two Locations in Washington) has been serving seasonal and signature drinks in Washington since 2017, with two locations there and another in Greenville.
- Pam’s Diner (607 John Small Ave, Washington, NC) is the perfect spot for classic homemade Southern fare! From scratch-made biscuits to daily lunch specials (think classics like meatloaf, hamburger steak & gravy, and field peas!), you’re bound to get a delicious meal at Pam’s!
- Washington Cafe (126 N Market St, Washington, NC) is known for its fresh, flaky breakfast pastries, but it also does an excellent job with soups, wraps, and sandwiches! The menu changes daily, so expect something delicious!
Casual bites
- Bill’s Hot Dogs (109 Gladden St, Washington, NC) has been slinging dogs since 1928, and as a self-proclaimed weiner queen, I can say that Bill’s is one of the best in North Carolina. Take out only, no ketchup, and a spicy white bean chili that will leave you wanting another!
- Pitt Street Brewing on the Pamlico (307 W Main St, Washington, NC) is a familiar Greenville brewery that has a home along the Pamlico! With 20 beers on draft, delicious cocktails, and an on-site food truck, Pitt Street is a family- and pet-friendly spot for chilling.
- Backwater Jack’s Tiki Bar (1052 E Main Street, Washington, NC) is a laid-back tiki bar along the water serving delicious seafood (don’t skip the shrimp burger and crab dip!) and live music year-round.
- Washington Crab (321 N Pierce St, Washington, NC) talk about freshest of the fresh! Washington Crab is a fishing company that’s been scooping up crab, shrimp, and more since 1972. Whether you’re shopping for something to take home or don’t feel like cooking at home, Washington Crab has the freshest local seafood in Washington.
Upscale Must-Eats
- The Hackney (192 W Main St, Washington, NC) is without a doubt a destination restaurant in North Carolina. Located inside a beautiful historic bank, James Beard Finalist for Best Chef South East, Jamie Davis, plates a delicious Southern and seafood-forward menu. “Local, seasonal, and simple” is the motto at The Hackney, but we argue that it’s much more than that.
- Blu Farm to Table (129 E Main St, Washington, NC) serves fresh, locally sourced American fare with an outstanding wine list. The menu changes often based on what produce is shining locally, so come hungry and ready for adventure!
Things to Do Near Washington (Beaufort County)
Washington is one of many great places to visit in Beaufort County, North Carolina. Here are a few we think you should know about.
Aurora Fossil Museum
Address: 400 Main St, Aurora, NC
Website
The Aurora Fossil Museum might be one of the most unique places we’ve visited in North Carolina. Across the street from the Visitor Center and Museum, you can dig for shark teeth and other soon-to-be discoveries.
Bring your own shovels or purchase one (or more) from the Visitor Center. The museum portion of this fun place is just beyond the Visitor Center. There, you’ll find interactive exhibits, fossils, and more!
Goose Creek State Park
Goose Creek State Park is about 10 miles from Downtown Washington, and spans 1,672 acres. Start by walking the cypress swamp boardwalk near the Visitor Center.
Hike, paddle, camp, and even enjoy some fresh water at the swim beach via the Live Oak Trail!
Goose Creek (2 miles) and Mallard Creek (1 mile) are some of our other favorite trails.
Visit during the colder months; you might get a glimpse of the many Tundra swans that pass through Goose Creek State Park.
Bath
Bath is the oldest town in North Carolina and the colony’s first port of entry. As mentioned, Bath and its surroundings around Goose Creek were once the home to the infamous pirate Edward Teach, a.k.a “Blackbeard.”
The town is also the home of North Carolina’s oldest existing church, St Thomas Church (construction began in 1734). Restoration efforts include the church, the Palmer-Marsh House, the Van Der Veer House, and the Bonner House.
The Palmer-Marsh House is also a registered National Historic Landmark. Both the Palmer-Marsh and Bonner houses are open for tours, while the Van Der Veer house is open for self-guided tours.
Read More: Historic Towns in North Carolina
Belhaven
About 30 minutes from Washington is the town of Belhaven. Situated along the Pantego Creek that feeds into the Pungo River and Intracoastal Waterway, Belhaven is an even more relaxed place than Washington.
It’s also newer if you take into account the town was originally settled in the 1880s. However, like Washington, the charm of this place never gets old.
There are plenty of places to take a boat from the scenic waterfront. You can also enjoy a walk along the water or enjoy one of the many shops and restaurants nearby.
Ready to Enjoy Washington as we have?
Have you ever visited a town that initially appeared quiet and unassuming, but you knew had a story worth exploring? Then that place started coming more and more to life as you began digging into it?
That’s how I’ve always felt about Washington, North Carolina.
From the moment we saw Washington, we always wanted to come back. It’s always that same feeling.
Maybe it’s because Washington has the best of the places I’ve loved in my life: food and water. I’m half kidding, because those two basics shine in Washington.
What helps this town stand out is the amazing local community, working every day to make this place more colorful, more delicious, and a more desirable place to be.
If you live in Washington or have spent time there, we’d love hear about your experiences below or by email.
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