7 Must-Visit Historic Towns in North Carolina
With its diverse landscapes and deep-rooted history, North Carolina is home to numerous towns with a rich cultural heritage. While larger cities often take the spotlight in terms of historical significance, it's many of the smaller towns that quietly hold the keys to the state's past. Each of the entries on this list has its unique charm. They blend historic landmarks and commercial treasures that make them stand out. Join us on a journey through seven such towns, exploring their historical past, present, and the cultural tapestry that sets them apart. Let us see how many of these places make it onto your next road trip itinerary through the Carolinas.
Bath
Nestled along the serene banks of the Pamlico River, Bath is a charming town that serves as a living testament to North Carolina's colonial past. Established in 1705, it proudly holds the title of the oldest town in the state. Bath's historic district unfolds like a well-preserved colonial canvas. Its landmarks invite visitors to step back in time.
The Palmer-Marsh House is an architectural gem, offering an intimate glimpse into what colonial inhabitants did daily. St. Thomas Episcopal Church, one of the oldest churches in North Carolina, provides visitors with stories of faith and endurance. The Bonner House and the Van Der Veer House further enrich the town's architectural legacy, showcasing the evolution of design and lifestyle over the centuries. While there, enjoy a meal on the river at one of the many boardwalk restaurants, including the Quarterdeck Inc.
Edenton
Edenton, incorporated in 1722, is a treasure trove of Southern history in this region of the United States. With a population of around 4,500 residents, this town sure brings some small-town charm when you return to this area. Its Historic Edenton State Historic Site preserves the eighteenth-century ambiance. The Cupola House and the Barker House, built in the eighteenth century, offer insights into the town's colonial past. The nearby Roanoke River Lighthouse stands proudly as a maritime symbol of the Albermarle Sound. If you are interested in learning more about Edonton's history, take a walk to the Penelope Barker House Welcome Center while at the lighthouse. You can also book and embark on the Historic Edenton Trolley Tour.
Hillsborough
Hillsborough is located along the Eno River and has a population of around 10,000 residents. It has a past that is rich in both colonial and Native American history. Tribes like the Occaneechi and the Eno once lived and thrived here, using the river as a major source of food and transportation. To get a better sense of this area in central North Carolina, you should definitely check out the Orange County Historical Museum. A short walk south of the museum, you may find yourself at the River Walk Trail Entrance. Here, you can follow in the footsteps of the original inhabitants of Hillsborough, who used this strategic river to survive. The Orange County Courthouse is a great place for those who love the architecture of the "Old South" to take a picture. Downtown Hillsborough contains many such examples of similar buildings that are now filled with local coffee shops, restaurants, and stores.
New Bern
New Bern is a slightly larger town on this list, with a population of about 32,000 residents. It certainly feels like a bigger city than it is, with its thriving modern economy and being in the confluence of two major rivers, the Neuse and the Trent. But don't let that fool you when it comes to the historical value of this destination.
First off, you can visit Pepsi's birthplace right in the downtown center. Even as a Coke fan, you kind of owe it to yourself to see where this iconic drink got its start. When you approach the waterfront portion of downtown, you will notice numerous amazing examples of structures on the National Register of Historic Places, namely the Blades House and the Baxter Clock. To add to this list of interesting places to spend an afternoon in New Bern, the New Bern Firemen's Museum is a fun and informative experience for the whole family.
Elizabeth City
Elizabeth City, a historic sipping port dating back to 1793, sits at the mouth of the Pasquotank River. Being the economic center of the county it belongs to, Elizabeth City contains many economic and historical landmarks that will surely make any travel through this area more interesting.
The Elizabeth City Welcome Center is an enjoyable way to learn about the local area. A short walk down the street, you will find yourself at the Museum of Albermarle, a beautiful example of architecture and an enjoyable way to learn more about the history of this port town. You can view many displays related to the port and shipping industries that once thrived here. Exploring the Charles Creek Park is a way to see the waterfront up close. Here, you can also view the natural, swampy beauty of the area. If you happen to be in town in May and you love starch-based snacks, definitely find time to visit the annual North Carolina Potato Festival.
Newport
Newport is a haven for outdoor adventurers. It also contains many great destinations nearby that highlight the history of this area between the forest and the sea. For the Civil War enthusiasts out there, the Battle of New Port Barracks is a great living museum to bring the whole family. Neighboring the barrack is the Newport Historical Museum, a place where you can get a broad sense of this small town's history, both past and present. Just north of town is the Croatan National Forest, an ancient pine forest with bogs and saltwater estuaries. Here, you can see what the land looked like before human habitation and learn a thing or two about natural history in North Carolina. Looking for something to do that isn't necessarily historical? The Butterfly Kisses Pavillion is a wonderful butterfly garden for the whole family to enjoy.
Plymouth
Plymouth is another small town that is also a gem for outdoor adventure while you are not hunting down historical monuments. First explored by English explorers in 1585 along the Roanoke River, Plymouth has by far the oldest colonial history on this list. The Port of Plymouth Museum houses many examples of historic structures and artifacts dating back from its original settlements to the Civil War and beyond. If you're looking for some insight into the natural history of this area, definitely give the Bear-Ology Museum a collection of displays highlighting the primarily black bear population near Plymouth.
A short drive just east of town, as you head towards the Atlantic Ocean, there are several top-notch parks to see and explore. First is the Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge, then there is the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge, and further south is the Mattamuskett National Wildlife Refuge. All are open for hiking, camping, and many other outdoor activities.
See North Carolina's Storied Past for Yourself
These North Carolina towns stand as cultural jewels, preserving the state's rich heritage. From the colonial elegance of Bath to the maritime legacy of Beaufort, each town weaves a unique narrative of history and resilience. The architectural marvels, historic landmarks, and commercial treasures collectively showcase North Carolina's past. As you travel these charming locales, it becomes evident that their stories are not just confined to the pages of history but resonate through the modern streets and embody the enduring spirit of the Old North State.
