For an enlightening departure from the ordinary, visit Original Washington and learn all about North Carolina's many coastal rivers and sounds; experience the mysterious wonders of marsh and swamp; and visit Bath, the State's first town, built along these waters. Take a ferryboat ride across a river once traversed by Blackbeard the Pirate

With so much to see and do in the area, we recommend the following 2-day itinerary.  Enjoy all the area has to offer by mixing and matching events to your particular interest.  Time indicators are recommendations only. Feel free to spend as much or as little time as your schedule allows. Be sure to check days and hours of operation for each venue.

DAY 1. Explore science, art, nature and history at The North Carolina Estuarium, where the rivers meet the sea. The Estuarium tells the fascinating story of the state's many rivers and sounds that travel the Pamlico-Tar River estuary, the second-largest estuary in the Nation. Follow the path of a raindrop, from Central NC to the coast, through an informative interactive display. View living aquariums, environmental artwork and historic artifacts from the region. (1 - 1 1/2 hours)

Transition from the wonders of nature to man-made beauty as you stroll along the streets of Original Washington on a Historic Walking Tour. Home to one of the largest commercial and residential historic districts in North Carolina, Washington features beautiful Victorian era homes and commercial buildings. (1 hour)

Conclude your tour over a bite of lunch at The Meeting Place, located in the heart of historic downtown Washington. (1 hour)
 
Next, you're ready to experience the mysterious wonders of the marsh and swamp along the Pamlico River and Goose Creek at Goose Creek State Park. Canoe the unhurried creeks, fish along the shores of the river or learn more about the wetlands at the Environmental Education Visitor Center. Birders and hikers are welcome with over eight miles of well-marked hiking trails. (2 hours)

At the end of your day, relax over dinner and drinks at the Curiosity Shoppe Café and Bar. Titillate your taste buds with an array of flavors from this locally owned restaurant on Main Street.

Settle in and make yourself at home at any of Washington's fine hotels.

DAY 2 - Meander along the streets of Historic Bath, North Carolina's First Town. This historic waterfront community was once home to the infamous Blackbeard the Pirate. Tour St. Thomas, the oldest church in North Carolina. Guided tours are available from the Visitor Center. (1 - 1 1/2 hours)

Feel the wind on your cheeks as you breeze across the Pamlico River on the Pamlico River Ferry enroute to Aurora Fossil Museum. Here you will discover the Coastal Plain's geological legacy at the home of one of the world's grandest fossil dig sites—where even giant shark's teeth have been discovered. (1 hour)

Share your findings over lunch at By George Café & Catering. (1 hour)

Before leaving the area, be sure to sneak in a little time for canoeing, kayaking or a pontoon boat tour of the Pamlico River!

For more information on these or other locations and events in the Washington area, visit www.OriginalWashington.com