Beaufort Historic Site
100 Block Turner Street Beaufort
Located on the southern tip of the OBX, Beaufort is North Carolina’s third oldest town. The town was originally a fishing village and port of safety, and today still maintains its charm and character. Beaufort is a perfect day trip during your Atlantic Beach vacation for you and family. Explore the town and view some of the 150 restored historic homes that date back to the 1700s which proudly bear plaques noting names of earliest known owners and dates of original construction.
Hours: March – November– Monday – Saturday 9:30 am – 5:00 pm; December – February – Monday – Saturday 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Fort Macon State Park
2303 E. Fort Macon Road Atlantic Beach
40 miles southeast of New Bern sits Fort Macon State Park, a pre-Civil War fort offering daily guided tours and musket demonstrations. Visitors can browse extensive exhibits on the fort history and surroundings. The beach also provides the perfect spot for a swim or beachcombing and if you’re interested in nature, take a walk through the trails that wind the marsh and dune fields.
Hours: Open Daily 9 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
History Museum of Carteret County
1008 Arendell Street Morehead City
If you’re interested in learning about the rich history of the Crystal Coast, the History Museum of Carteret County (formerly known as the Crystal Coast History Place) is a great way to spend some time during a rainy day or for a break from the beach. The History Museum of Carteret County’s mission is to teach the public about the history and culture of the people of Carteret County.
Hours: Tuesday through Friday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and the 1st Saturday of the Month 10 AM to 4 PM
NC Aquarium
1 Roosevelt Boulevard Pine Knoll Shores
(252) 247-4003
If you’re looking for kid-friendly activities to do while on your Atlantic Beach vacation, visit the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores. The NC Aquarium offers daily programs, films and live animal exhibits, touch tank and turtle nursery. Surrounded by 300-acre Roosevelt Natural Area it also offers nature trails for bird watching.
Hours: Open Daily 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
NC Maritime Museum
315 Front St Beaufort
Located on charming Front Street, this museum offers exhibits that reveal maritime history. Adults and kids can learn about the coastal lifestyle, lifehouses and lifesaving stations, the seafood industry, and more. View the weapons from Blackbeard’s ship and The Queen Anne’s Revenge which included cannons, grenades, belt buckles and beads.
Hours: Monday thru Friday 9 a.m. -5 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.
