WASHINGTON BUCKET LIST

CHILL BY THE WATER Pretty much everything you do in Washington comes with a water view. From enjoying a cocktail and a sunset, to sharing some apps and a cool breeze on the boardwalk, for the perfect trip, just add water.

FIND YOUR SEA LEGS Kayaking, fishing, sailing, paddleboarding, Pamlico river cruising - activities in, on and around the water are a must.

EXPLORE THE ESTUARIUM Visit the world’s first estuarium and one of North Carolina’s most innovative environmental centers. The North Carolina Estuarium is an iconic landmark and museum in the heart of our downtown.

TAKE IN RICH HISTORY The best way to see Washington is on foot. Take one of our self guided Historic Walking Tours or cruise by haunted homes and graveyards on Washington’s guided Historic Walking Tour. With the Historic District’s rich culture, there is plenty to see while you stroll within a few minutes of Washington’s Visitor Information Center.

PLAY YOUR ART OUT Washington isn’t a city that just likes art. We LOVE art. The Arts of the Pamlico (AOP) is a vibrant hub of arts & cultural events & activities for adults and youth serving Eastern North Carolina.The Historic Turnage Theatre adds to the City’s already strong presence of rich history and entertainment and hosts concerts, plays and comedy shows.

EAT EVERYTHING As one of Eastern North Carolina’s most dynamic foodie destinations, Washington’s culinary scene is cook’n! From fresh caught seafood, to make from scratch Southern cuisine, to locally owned favorites, you’re sure to be left full, happy, and ready for a nap by the water. SHOP, SHOP AND THEN SHOP SOME MORE Throughout the City, you’ll find everything from a vibrant mix of unique, local boutiques to an array of top art galleries and antique shops.

GO ON A CRAB HUNT Washington’s crabs have been here since 2006 and have become our iconic symbol and are located all over Beaufort County. We suggest a scavenger hunt - and of course selfies with the crabs - can you find them all?

GET MOVING AT GOOSE CREEK STATE PARK The eight miles of trails at Goose Creek State Park lead visitors through a broad range of coastal experiences— live oaks draped in Spanish moss, wetlands along the Pamlico Sound and a cypress swamp viewed from an extensive boardwalk.

BE A TOURIST Take one of Washington’s many guided or self-guided tours. Experience years of rich history at the Underground Railroad Museum, marvel at the art in the Historic Turnage Theatre, raise a glass at the Wine Crate or climb aboard a River Roving Boat Tour at the Estuarium.

VISIT THE WASHINGTON WATERFRONT UNDERGROUND RAILROAD MUSEUM While there’s no denying the very nature of slavery carries the weight of sadness, the museum exemplifies goodness. The stories of freedom seekers and the abolitionists who helped them are full of hope, faith and the promise of a better life.The Washington Waterfront Underground Railroad Museum shares the stories of people helping people.

TAKE A STROLL DOWN MAIN STREET Main Street, located in historic downtown Washington, is home to restaurants, shops, live music and a large collection of art for sale, from Washington landscapes to stunning pottery and unique glasswork. You may even get to see some of the artists in action.

Looking for more to do? Beaufort County hosts many events each year — most of them free! Check ‘em out at visitwashingtonnc.com/events.

INSIDER TIP

As an outsider, make it a full week to explore. We came only for a couple nights in February and it wasn't nearly long enough. We missed the Hackney and Bill's on Gladden Street along with the Underground Railroad museum. Grub Brothers and Down on Main kept us fueled from the walking tour and the absolutely beautiful boardwalk and waterfront strolls along with all the great little shops along West Main. On our way out of town we stopped at Bill's at Washington Square Mall and also grabbed some cheese biscuits at Mom's Grill. The Estuarium is a must as well. On second thought, two days was long enough to know we will be back for some warmer nights when the waterfront is full of people. — Ed C.