Things to do in Historic Downtown Manteo

Activities, attractions and tours

Photo by Trey Beck
Photo by Trey Beck
Photo by Ronald Wilson
Photo by Ronald Wilson
Photo by T. R. Filbin
Photo by T. R. Filbin

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Top places to visit

1. Cape Hatteras National Seashore

When you drive into Cape Hatteras National Seashore, you might see oystercatchers or piping plovers flying overhead before you even hear the waves on the beach. These are signs of the magical place you’re entering. Spend at least a weekend exploring the 70 miles (110 kilometers) of coastline that are part of this remarkable preserve.
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Cape Hatteras National Seashore showing a sandy beach

2. Jennette's Pier

Experience some of the finest fishing available in the Outer Banks at Jennette’s Pier. Learn about the region’s history in the pier house. The pier was completely rebuilt after major destruction in 2003 when Hurricane Isabel blasted through the area. With support from the North Carolina Aquarium Society it is now an eco-friendly education center and a sustainable fishing hotspot.
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Jennette\'s Pier showing a sandy beach

3. Bodie Island Lighthouse

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Bodie Island Lighthouse showing a lighthouse

4. Wright Brothers National Memorial

If you’ve read about the first plane taking off near Kitty Hawk, visit the Wright Brothers National Memorial where this epochal moment occurred. Stand in the trail of history and see where Orville and Wilbur Wright flew their first four test flights between 1900 and 1903.
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Wright Brothers National Memorial featuring a statue or sculpture

5. Jockey's Ridge State Park

Jockey's Ridge State Park is home to the tallest active sand dune system in the eastern United States. Explore the three unique ecosystems on a ranger-led program or picnic in the serene natural environment. Walk the sand tracks and nature trails and discover stunning views from the shifting dunes. Experience kiteboarding in the shallow sound and hang-gliding and sandboarding on the dune.
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Jockey\'s Ridge State Park showing tranquil scenes

What to do in Historic Downtown Manteo

Popular places to visit

The Lost Colony

The Lost Colony

You can make plans for a show at The Lost Colony during your trip to Manteo. Visit the area's notable monuments or amble around its beautiful beaches.

The Lost Colony
North Carolina Aquarium at Roanoke Island

North Carolina Aquarium at Roanoke Island

Take the children to visit the sea life you'll find at North Carolina Aquarium at Roanoke Island during your trip to Manteo. Wander through the beautiful beaches and seaside in this family-friendly area.

North Carolina Aquarium at Roanoke Island
Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse

Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse

You can find out about the history of Historic Downtown Manteo when you stop by Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse. Stroll along the beautiful beaches or visit the notable monuments in this family-friendly area.

Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse
Elizabethan Gardens

Elizabethan Gardens

Explore the great outdoors at Elizabethan Gardens, a lovely green space in Manteo. Visit the area's notable monuments or amble around its beautiful beaches.

Elizabethan Gardens

Pirate's Cove Marina

Explore the waterfront in Manteo with a trip to Pirate's Cove Marina. Stroll along the seaside or visit the notable monuments in this family-friendly area.

Pirate's Cove Marina

Outer Banks Visitors Bureau

Outer Banks Visitors Bureau is just one of the places to see in Manteo, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Wander through the beautiful beaches and seaside in this family-friendly area.

Outer Banks Visitors Bureau

Festival Park

Explore the great outdoors at Festival Park, a lovely green space in Manteo. Wander through the beautiful beaches and seaside in this family-friendly area.

Festival Park

Fort Raleigh National Historic Site

Learn about the local history of Manteo when you take a trip to Fort Raleigh National Historic Site. Stroll along the beautiful beaches or visit the notable monuments in the area.

Fort Raleigh National Historic Site

Outer Banks History Center

After visiting Outer Banks History Center, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Manteo. Stroll along the beautiful beaches or visit the notable monuments in this family-friendly area.

Outer Banks History Center

Frequently asked questions

Is Historic Downtown Manteo worth visiting?
From shopping to history and outdoor adventures, there are plenty of fun things to do in Historic Downtown Manteo. Make sure to enjoy the area's mix of cool attractions, local charm and culture.
How do I spend a day in Historic Downtown Manteo?
Start your day with a visit to Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge. Then, explore other parts of Historic Downtown Manteo for a bite to eat and a little retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Historic Downtown Manteo?
The Lost Colony is rated the top tourist attraction near Historic Downtown Manteo, so don't go home without checking it out.
Is three days enough to stay in Historic Downtown Manteo?
You'll have plenty of time to discover The Lost Colony, Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge and other key attractions around the area when you plan a three-day escape to Historic Downtown Manteo.
What are some activities to do in Historic Downtown Manteo with kids?
If you're looking for activities and attractions for all ages, we've got some excellent ideas for what to do in Historic Downtown Manteo with kids.

What to do in Historic Downtown Manteo for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food connoisseur or adventure seeker, there are many things to do in Historic Downtown Manteo for adults.
Are there free things to do in Historic Downtown Manteo?
One of the most popular free things to do in Historic Downtown Manteo is visit Dare County Arts Council. You can also stroll to nearby neighbourhoods and explore public parks and other green spaces in this area. If you're looking for more ideas, just speak with a local tour guide.