8 Towns On The Atlantic Coast That Were Frozen In Time
Ready to ditch the chaos of crowded tourist spots and step into a place where you can still experience the excitement of a horse-drawn carriage passing by? Welcome to the small historic towns of the Atlantic Coast that have been frozen in time. Here, you can sip your coffee while strolling streets older than your great-grandparents' attic. These towns have seen it all, whether it was the American Revolution playing out on their cobblestone streets, a bunch of rowdy pirates taking over their shores, or, in the case of Virginia's Jamestown, the first permanent English settlement in America getting a little too cozy with the local Native Americans.
In these towns, you can take a step back to the 1800s with its Victorian architecture that screams, "I’m too fancy for your Instagram filter!" It does not matter if you are walking through Civil War battlefields on Sullivan’s Island, South Carolina, or admiring centuries-old shipbuilding traditions in Oxford, Maryland, these eight towns will have you feeling like you have traveled through the ages, without the need for a DeLorean.
Rehoboth Beach, Delaware
Rehoboth Beach is like a cool laid-back destination that is charmingly historic with just the right touch of beach town fun. Founded in 1873, Rehoboth was originally a Methodist camp meeting site, and the town’s historic district still echoes its Victorian roots with its quaint cottages and the iconic Rehoboth Beach Bandstand, an open-air entertainment venue still operating to this day. A stroll down the boardwalk reveals more than just a stretch of sand and saltwater; it is a trip through time, with Zelky’s vintage arcade, Dolle's Candyland classic saltwater taffy shop, and old-school amusements.
However it is not all nostalgia, nature lovers will appreciate the nearby Cape Henlopen State Park, less than ten miles away, where sand dunes meet history at the World-War-two-era military bunkers, or the trails perfect for spotting local wildlife. It is worth noting that the town's protected beaches are a nesting spot for the endangered piping plover, adding a feathered layer of ecotourism to your visit.
St. Mary’s, Georgia
St. Mary’s has a knack for blending deep history with a modern-day easygoing vibe. Founded in 1787, it claims the title of Georgia’s second-oldest continuously inhabited city and was once a bustling port during colonial times. As you wander the streets of the town, you will find 19th-century homes, like the Jackson Clark Bessent MacDonnel House and the Bacon Burns House, and shops that have somehow resisted the clock’s relentless ticking, standing as relics of some of the earliest days of the state's history.
The St. Mary’s Submarine Museum, a hidden gem for history buffs, chronicles the city’s connection to submarine warfare, giving visitors a fascinating dive into military history. For a taste of St. Mary’s culinary side, head down to the waterfront, where the local seafood restaurants, like the popular Local’s Dockside and the Southern River Walk, serve up fresh catches. St. Mary’s proximity to the Cumberland Island National Seashore, accessible only by ferry, adds a touch of adventure to the mix. The island, known for its wild horses and untouched beauty, makes St. Mary’s the perfect base for a low-key, history-rich getaway along Georgia’s coast.
Sullivan’s Island, South Carolina
Sullivan’s Island, a barrier island just off the coast of Charleston, feels like a page out of a history book but with more sea breeze. Established in the 1600s, the island is a treasure trove of historical significance, particularly when it comes to the American Revolution and the Civil War. Fort Moultrie, an essential military stronghold, holds firm as a reminder of the island’s key role in protecting the U.S. coastline. Sullivan’s Island was also a poignant point in the transatlantic slave trade, with a memorial honoring the Africans who were brought through this gateway. The preserved military and colonial architecture offers a peek into life centuries ago.
During your travels, escape the hustle and bustle of Charleston by visiting the island, where commercial development is minimal and beaches are peaceful. Sullivan’s Island also boasts a lighthouse built in 1962, keeping watch over the shore while symbolizing the island's maritime roots. It is a perfect destination for history lovers and those looking for serenity by the sea. Be sure to take the time to enjoy an incredible meal at the Obstinate Daughter restaurant, known for its fresh seafood and connection to the cultural food movement/cultural renaissance of Charleston.
Fernandina Beach, Florida
Fernandina Beach on Amelia Island wears its rich history like a badge of honor, reflecting the town’s time under Spanish, British, and American rule. Founded in the early 19th century, it is steeped in centuries of change, which you can see firsthand in the downtown district's Victorian-style buildings, like the Fairbanks House or even the Oxley-Heard Funeral Home. Fort Clinch State Park nearby tells the tale of its strategic importance during the Civil War, while Amelia Island’s preserved architecture offers a glimpse into a period of Southern elegance.
Shrimping has been an integral part of Fernandina Beach’s economy, and the town was once a major port for the industry. Each year, the Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival celebrates this maritime heritage with local seafood and craft vendors that your family will surely get a kick out of. Finally, for a more immersive historical experience, the Amelia Island Museum of History is a must-see, showcasing the island's colorful past.
New Bern, North Carolina
New Bern is not just where Pepsi was born; it is a town with a timeline that stretches back to 1710, making it the state’s first capital and, later, in 1774, the location of the first provincial congress of the colonies. You can still trace the footsteps of history, from the colonial-era architecture to Tryon Palace, a grand structure that once served as the governor’s mansion. As you wander through the Swiss Bear Historic District, you will encounter a blend of galleries, like Carolina Creations, eateries such as Persimmons Waterfront Restaurant, and boutiques, including Lula Balu, housed in buildings that could have told tales from the 18th century if they could talk.
During the Civil War, Union forces occupied New Bern in 1862, so the town’s connection to that era runs deeply, being of importance to both sides of the epic conflict. The town’s waterfront is a peaceful place to stroll, with views of 18th-century homes and vibrant gardens on one side and captivating views of the Neuse River on the other. The riverfront is also where you will find excellent places for kayaking, picnics, and, if you have a license, even fishing. Also, do not forget the Birthplace of Pepsi Museum, where you can sip a cold one and learn about how the fizzy drink made its debut.
Apalachicola, Florida
Apalachicola feels like the coastal town you have been dreaming about come true, minus the crowds. This quiet port town has managed to preserve its old-world charm for over a century. Once a major cotton shipping hub, it is now more famous for its oysters than its cotton, though both played pivotal roles in shaping the area. You can spot historic southern homes like the Raney House and Orman House, as well as commercial buildings lining the streets that have remained unchanged for generations.
The Apalachicola Area Historical Society, which actually manages the historic Raney House, takes you through the town's maritime history, from fishing and shipbuilding to its significance in the Civil War. If you are craving local seafood, then this is the town for you. Apalachicola is renowned for its oysters, and they are beyond fresh, often harvested right off the Gulf. For a scenic escape into the great coastal air, you can also hop over to nearby St. George Island, where pristine beaches await.
Beaufort, South Carolina
Beaufort is not just a town; it is a place where history and Southern hospitality collide, all wrapped up in antebellum charm. Established in 1711, it is South Carolina’s second-oldest town, and its streets are lined with historic homes and churches dating back centuries. The Old Sheldon Church Ruins, standing like silent sentinels, tell a story of the area’s pivotal role in the Civil War. The Beaufort History Museum is a place you just have to experience for yourself, especially for those interested in the region's Gullah culture and Civil War past.
Beaufort’s cultural impact extends beyond history, as it served as the backdrop for films like Forrest Gump and The Big Chill. Additionally, for outdoor enthusiasts, the surrounding Sea Islands and salt marshes provide a natural playground for kayaking and wildlife watching. The town’s downtown area is full of local eateries such as the Old Bull Tavern and shops like the Beaufort Emporium that highlight the town’s spirit and where you can get that little piece of the town to remember its maritime heritage.
Oxford, Maryland
If you have ever wondered what time travel might feel like, Oxford offers that rare window into the past. Founded in 1683, it is one of the oldest towns on the Eastern Shore, and its streets feel like they have been waiting for your visit for centuries. Once a bustling shipping port, Oxford was a key player in the tobacco trade, making it an essential hub during colonial times. Many of the buildings in the historic district, such as Otwell or the Barnaby House, still echo the whispers of those times, with structures dating back to the 1700s.
One of the town's most enduring features is the Oxford-Bellevue Ferry, which has been making its regular crossings since 1683. Plus, the Oxford Museum brings visitors back to the days of shipbuilding and trade. Though much quieter today, Oxford's proximity to the Chesapeake Bay means it is a hotspot for those looking to embrace the water-based lifestyle. You and your loved ones will thoroughly enjoy a day out on the Choptank River, which offers ample opportunities to fish, crab, and boat, keeping the town’s seafaring legacy alive.
Pack your bags and head to the small historic towns of the Atlantic Coast. These towns offer a charming mix of slower paces, quirky history, and the kind of architecture that makes you feel like you are back in the olden days, minus the dusty roads. Whether you are pretending to be an 18th-century ship captain in Oxford, reenacting a pirate's life in Beaufort, or getting lost in Victorian grandeur in New Bern, these towns have it all. Plus, they will not try to sell you overpriced souvenirs or force-feed you tourist traps. Instead, you will be free to explore the kind of history that does not require an app to explain it.
