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2026 Educational Activities Guide

Eastern 4H

Grab your colleagues, classroom, wedding party or other special large group, and start planning a retreat to the stunning waterfront Eastern 4-H Center, a relatively new, (built in 2001), and hard-to-miss attraction in the heart of Eastern North...

Port Discover

Kids of all ages can instantly become scientists, gardeners, doctors, and pilots, all just by walking through the unimposing downtown doors of Elizabeth City's Port Discover. This cool destination provides hours of fun for local and visiting little...

University of South Carolina at Beaufort

The USCB, (University of South Carolina at Beaufort), Center for the Arts is the local go-to for outstanding regional performances that include dramatic and comedy shows, concerts, independent movies, and virtually every kind of spell-binding...

Cape Hatteras Lighthouse

The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, with its black and white candy-cane stripes, is one of the most famous and recognizable lighthouses in the world. Protecting one of the most treacherous stretches of the Outer Banks, with a beam of light that spans 20...

Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park

Mitchelville Freedom Park is a deeply meaningful and historically rich destination that offers both a scenic natural setting and a powerful connection to America’s past. Located on the northern end of the island near Port Royal Sound, this...

Haulover Day Use Area (Canadian Hole)

Canadian Hole may be an unfamiliar term to the typical, laid-back Hatteras Islander vacationer, but to windsurfers around the world, the phrase invokes thoughts of an exact, postcard-perfect locale on the Outer Banks, where windsurfing and water...

Belhaven Memorial Museum

The Belhaven Memorial Museum clearly holds the title as one of the most distinctive and unique museums in Eastern North Carolina, with a collection that includes historical artifacts, scientific oddities, and everything in between.

Rice Museum

The Rice Museum is a fascinating treasure within the Downtown Georgetown scene which is impossible to miss, and hard to forget. Detailing one of the darkest periods in American history, with a mixture of local prominent residents and maritime...

NC Maritime Museum Southport

The North Carolina Maritime Museum at Southport is one of three maritime museums sponsored by the state that lies along the eastern portion of NC. The Southport branch focuses on the maritime history of the lower Cape Fear River, and contains a...

Belville Riverwalk Park

Just across the Cape Fear River from Wilmington, the town of Belville has quietly cultivated one of the region's finest hidden gems for nature lovers and community gatherings. Situated directly opposite the western banks of Eagles Island on the...

North Carolina Estuarium

The North Carolina Estuarium is one of the highlights of Little Washington's downtown scene, and for good reason. The 12,500 square foot structure, which has served as an educational center since it was first managed by the Partnership for the...

Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station

The Chicamacomico Lifesaving Station is one of Rodanthe's greatest treasures. This historical lifesaving station has been a popular attraction for Hatteras Island visitors for decades, and stands on the very edge of the small town of Rodanthe. Over...

Shackleford Banks

The Shackleford Banks is part of the Cape Lookout National Seashore, and is a barrier island system that is found just off the coast of Beaufort and Harkers Island, and which is a popular offshore beaching destination for summertime Crystal Coast...

Jennette's Pier

Jennette’s Pier in Nags Head offers fishing and fun for the entire family! Go fishing, take a family fishing class or simply walk out to the end of this 1,000-foot-long, concrete ocean pier.

Sandy Run Park

Sandy Run Park leads its visitors through the heart of Kitty Hawk Woods Coastal Preserve, one of the largest maritime forests remaining in North Carolina. Completed in two phases, the park now encompasses 1600 acres of marshland, waterways and...

The Citadel

Like many of Charleston's institutions, The Citadel is an impressive nationally recognized landmark that both serves an instrumental community function, while boasting a long and fascinating history. This South Carolina military college, one of the...

Museum of the Albemarle

The Museum of the Albemarle is considered the showpiece of downtown Elizabeth City, and is a must-stop for any new explorer of North Carolina's "Inner Banks." Located along the waterfront within a sprawling and stately green-roofed complex, the...

Wilmington Railroad Museum

With Wilmington's distinguished history as a thriving port community, few folks recognize at first that part of this reputation stemmed from its legacy as a bustling railroad center. In fact, for well over 125 years, railroading was the top industry...

NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher

The fascinating galleries throughout this extensive complex encourage visitors of all ages to meet and mingle with their aquatic neighbors, from interactive exhibits to "touch tanks" where patrons can have personal encounters with local bamboo...

Lawton Stables

Lawton Stables is much more than just a pretty spot for a trail ride, or an elite locale for local islanders to board and train their prized horses. In addition, the stables offer a world of fun for its regular and vacationing patrons, ranging from...

Asa Biggs House

The home of one of North Carolina's best known jurists and politicians, it has an interesting blend of Federal and Greek Revival details. Its awkward symmetry and rambling plan lend credence to local legend that Biggs added a room with the birth of...

North Carolina Maritime Museum at Southport

Downtown Southport visitors who want to learn more about this community’s essential role in North Carolina history, or who just want to enjoy a rainy day adventure that’s filled with maritime culture, can pay a visit to the engaging...

Charleston Museum

It's almost ironic that The Charleston Museum, which paints a complete portrait of Charleston's centuries of history, has a unique history all its own. Well known as "America's First Museum" and recently named one of the top five museums in...

Old Brunswick County Jail Museum

Take a trip back in time without ever leaving the heart of Southport for a fascinating and educational visit to the stoic Old Brunswick County Jail Museum. Found within a multi-story brick building on the corner of Nash and Rhett Streets, this...

Fort Macon State Park

Fort Macon State Park, located outside the eastern borders of Atlantic Beach, is one of the most visited and highly acclaimed destinations along the Crystal Coast, and for good reason. The expansive 389 acre park, which features gorgeous inlet...

North Carolina History Center

The North Carolina History Center, which is part of the extensive Tryon Palace, is a new 65 million dollar complex which transports visitors back in time to explore New Bern’s more than 300 years of local history.

John Wright Stanly House

The John Wright Stanly House is a unique stop along a historic New Bern exploration, and is a stately 1780s home that was designed by the same architect who created Tryon Palace, found just a block or two away.

Georgetown County Museum

The Georgetown County Museum, located in the heart of downtown close to the Rice Museum, the waterfront, and a collection of local marinas, is a must-stop destination for any history buff who wants an inside look into this town's unique and...

Elizabeth City State University

Although small, the diverse and distinctive Elizabeth City has a world of opportunities that span all interests, many of which can be studied in detail at the acclaimed Elizabeth City State University. This institution, and home of the ECSU Vikings...

E-BIKE TOURS — An Experience For All Levels! Our goal is to make you feel like a local as you explore all Wilmington has to offer. If you’re looking to check out some of the best breweries in town, visit unique neighborhoods, and take in...

Located in a charming but unimposing brick building in the heart of downtown Morehead City, the Arts Council of Carteret County is the region’s premier resource for discovering a wealth of local talents that call the Crystal Coast home.  

Atlantic Dance has been teaching kids dance on the Outer Banks since 1995. Atlantic Dance offers classes in tap, jazz, hip hop and lyrical with a primary concentration in classical ballet. At Atlantic Dance, little girls learn grace and achieve...

The Attmore-Oliver House is a unique destination on a historic Downtown New Bern walking tour, and is a stately 1790 home that has been transformed into a small museum, as well as the home base of the New Bern Historical Society administrative...

Inside, the Aycock Brown Welcome Center is a treasure trove of area information, and visitors will find hundreds of pamphlets on local attractions and activities, area menus, vacation rental and real estate catalogs, and local guide books. In...

Commune with nature and take photos of the pristine Outer Banks!

Bald Head Historic Island Tours works in conjunction with the Old Baldy Foundation to introduce Cape Fear vacationers to the historic Bald Head Island, or “Old Baldy” lighthouse. Located on a 10-acre site on the secluded Bald Head...

There's a reason why the wild terrain of Bald Head Island and its surrounding islands remains distinctively wild, and the primary responsibility of retaining this native nature is in the hands of the local Bald Head Island Conservancy. Overseeing a...

Take a trip back in time and embark on an exploration of one of the East Coast’s oldest lighthouses with a visit to “Old Baldy,” or more formally, the Bald Head Island Lighthouse. Located on the western heart of Bald Head Island...

A tempting spot for both art lovers and history buffs, the Bank of the Arts is an eye-catching site in downtown New Bern that’s as renowned for its impressive façade as it is for its wealth of ever-changing attractions and activities.

There's a reason why Beaufort earned the title of the "Coolest Small Town in the USA" by national publication Budget Travel Magazine, and one of the driving forces behind this honor is Beaufort's dedicated preservation of its history, orchestrated...

When driving or strolling past the Bellamy Mansion, visitors are often transported back to a different time, when the Antebellum South was in full prestige, and Wilmington was a bustling, pre-Civil War port town. Located on Market Street, just...

The Blue Water ENT/Dizziness & Fall Prevention by Fyzical is a remarkable destination for those seeking specialized care in ear, nose, and throat health, as well as support for dizziness and fall prevention. Located in the scenic Nags Head, this...

The isolated Cape Lookout National Seashore has a wealth of hidden treasures, from wild horses to incredible seashells, but one of the Core Banks’ most unique destinations is the Cape Lookout Village Historic District. Located just inland of...

You’ll find Causeway Waters Sports on the beautiful Roanoke Sound on the Causeway between Nags Head and Manteo, just past Whalebone Junction. This family outdoor activity center offers parasailing, kayaking, paddleboarding, wave runners and...

The Children's Museum of Wilmington, located in historic Downtown Wilmington on Orange Street, is an ideal destination for adventurous kids who want a day full of imagination exploring the world of art, science, and even pirates! Designed...

Club Hatteras is available free to all guests who vacation with Hatteras Realty. The Club has the largest swimming pool on the island, along with a 6-hole putting green, a kids’ playground and two regulation tennis courts.It offers early...

Founded in 2008, Coastal Explorations is a veteran-owned and operated outdoor touring company proudly run by former U.S. Coast Guard members. We bring adventure, education, and entertainment to life using the natural resources in our own backyard...

If you are looking for adventure, stop by or call Coastal Kayak Touring Company and book your reservation. The company has been offering kayak and paddle boarding tours on the Outer Banks since 1999 and is located at the Waterfront Shops in...

Located in the heart of Manteo, the Coastal North Carolina National Wildlife Refuges Gateway Visitor Center serves as a splendid starting point for anyone eager to explore the beauty of the region’s natural habitats. This welcoming center is...

The Colllege of the Albemarle offers a variety of associates degrees but also boasts of an outstanding professional jewlery design school and continuing education classes. . 

Trace the historic roots of Harkers Island and its centuries-long life on the water with a visit to the Core Sound Waterfowl Museum & Heritage Center. Located in the heart of Harkers Island along Island Road, (an authentic Crystal Coast...

A fll service surf shop offering lessons, new equipment, clothing and rentals. 

Horse-inspired gifts for a good cause!

Start your Crystal Coast adventure with a scenic trip exploring some of the Southern Outer Banks’ best beaches, courtesy of an expedition provided by Crystal Coast Ecotours. This experienced, educational and all-around fun company treats...

The Crystal Coast Tourism Authority has been instrumental in introducing newcomers to this picturesque stretch of barrier island beaches and barely-inland maritime communities, and serves as an essential tool for visitors to discover this remote but...

Currituck County Rural Center stands as a charming hub, inviting visitors to experience the essence of community and culture in this picturesque corner of North Carolina. Nestled among scenic landscapes, the center offers a warm atmosphere where...

Fun, family-oriented and professional fishing and maritime trips. 

A county arts council with a full-fledged gallery. 

Dare County Family Recreation Park, or Rec Park, serves as the county’s focal point for youth and adult activities. The park features tennis courts, baseball and soccer fields and a playground. Swings, slides, a climbing wall and a covered...

Dare County Parks and Recreation RIMD is a true gem in the heart of Manteo, offering an array of outdoor activities and facilities for everyone to enjoy. Nestled amidst lush greenery, this beautiful park features a wide range of amenities, including...

Enjoy a night on the town that is steeped in local history, culture, and miles of fun with a show at the acclaimed Deepwater Theater and Music Hall on Ocracoke Island. Serving as the venue for regular summertime concerts and shows, as well as the...

Doerr Tech Works is a vibrant hub for tech enthusiasts and those looking to enhance their digital skills in the charming coastal town of Avon, NC. Known for its friendly atmosphere, this innovative center caters to individuals of all ages, offering...

Down Point Decoys is a charming treasure nestled in the heart of Ocracoke, North Carolina, celebrating the timeless art of decoy carving. Known for its vibrant display of handcrafted wooden waterfowl and the skillful craftsmanship behind each piece...

The Field Research Facility in northern Duck is known for its 1840 foot long pier and its internationally recognized research. It’s mission is “Advancing coastal knowledge through observation and discovery.”Established by the U.S...

As everyone can see just walking past this store, many of the mild-weather recreational activities that can be done outdoors are covered here. Racks in front of the store are filled with fat tire beach cruisers, kayaks and surfboards. Inside, surf...

You can truly choose your own Outer Banks adventure with this company that has a mission to promote conservation and respect for the natural resources of the OBX while creating fun and family-friendly experiences that highlight the beauty of this...

Shelling, Snorkeling, Paddle Boarding, Eco Tours & Light Fishing. Guided family adventure trips on Hatteras Island, NC. We take your group to multiple tidal islands along the Cape Hatteras seaside. These islands are constantly changing and...

Find Your Strong LLC is a vibrant hub for those seeking to enhance their physical and mental well-being in the stunning surroundings of Hatteras, North Carolina. This welcoming space is dedicated to fostering strength, resilience, and community...

Positioned conveniently across the vibrant communities of the North Carolina Outer Banks, First National Bank locations provide comprehensive and reliable financial services for both year-round residents and vacationing visitors. With local branches...

Experience unmatchable sportfishing on the Outer Banks! The Outer Banks, also referred as ‘the Billfish Capital of the World’, offers some of the world’s finest OBX sportfishing and the most preferred game fish. Treat yourself...

Military members in need of a beach vacation will find the Air Force Recreation Area in Carolina Beach a welcome home base. A unique mix of cottages, mobile homes, and RV and tent sites, this veritable waterfront resort has a fantastic location and...

Looking at the small town of Manteo, with its Crepe Myrtle lined busy main streets, and charming downtown filled with contemporary restaurants and old antique stores, one wouldn't necessarily think that this Outer Banks village was the veritable...

Serving as a regional hub for the North Carolina Coastal Federation, the Fred and Alice Stanback Coastal Education Center is a unique destination in the heart of Wrightsville Beach that offers a wealth of events and activities to appeal to coastal...

A Native American Museum featuring artifacts from local indigenous people.

Located in the charming area of Kill Devil Hills, Gale Force Glassing is a haven for water sports enthusiasts and those who appreciate the beauty of the sea. This vibrant glassing studio specializes in turning surfboards and paddleboards into true...

Art lovers will want to reserve an afternoon or two to explore the acclaimed Gibbes Museum of Art, a stunning addition to Charleston's historic district that is simply impressive both inside and out. Home to an ever-rotating and permanent collection...

More than 2,000 shipwrecks sunk off the Coast of North Carolina in what’s called the Graveyard of the Atlantic. With all that history floating around, it was only natural to build a museum to honor and preserve the maritime culture of the...

Nestled in the heart of Kitty Hawk, Greg the Geek is a beloved local treasure for tech enthusiasts and casual users alike. This friendly shop is known for its expert computer and electronics repair services, catering to everyone from families...

The Harbor Star's Wild Dolphin Tours depart three times daily plus a Sunset Cruise (weather permitting) This 2 hour cruise includes an entertaining tour and an opportunity to spot wild dolphins aboard the all new 40-foot Pontoon boat. Tickets must...

From exploring the diverse wildlife that crowds the local beaches, to taking a lazy tour through the winding marshes and creeks of the Pamlico Sound, there’s a lot to discover at the Hatteras Island Ocean Center. This unique interactive...