In Washington, North Carolina — also known as the “original” Washington, because its 1776 founding predates the founding of our country’s capitol — the river rules all. Of course downtown, with its mile-long waterfront promenade and historic buildings, is full of Southern charm, shops, and restaurants, but it’s Washington’s stunning location, where the Tar River meets the Pamlico, that makes it the perfect home base for all kinds of kid-friendly outdoor activities. When the weather warms up, head outside with your family for a riverside adventure.
Washington, North Carolina isn’t one of those places that you hear about every day. It isn’t even a place you look for. But it’s one of those places that finds you just when you need it most.
Pack a picnic: With wide swaths of lawn and gorgeous views of the Pamlico River, Havens Gardens is one of the prettiest places in Washington for a picnic.
“It’s one of our most popular gathering places,” says Kristi Roberson, director of Parks and Recreation.
Grab fresh produce and sweets from the vendors at Harbor District Market, then spend the afternoon in the park, where the kids can run wild.
After a picnic lunch, Roberson suggests walking down the pier to see what local fishers are catching before racing to the playground to test out the equipment.
Havens Gardens is a popular gathering place with wide swaths of lawn and gorgeous views of the Pamlico River. photograph by Little Washington, NC
Spend a day on the water: Ready to wield your paddle? Thanks to its location on the beautiful Tar-Pamlico River, Washington is a perfect spot for folks who prefer to explore by water. Rent a canoe, kayak, or paddleboard from Inner Banks Outfitters or River Vibes and head over to nearby Castle Island, where the kids can spend the afternoon exploring — and swimming. As you make your way to the Castle, you’ll paddle right past the waterfront, seeing downtown from a new angle. Be sure to keep an eye out for the boathouse adjacent to the old Havens gristmill — though it’s no longer in use, it’s a famous and familiar site in Washington.
Explore Washington by canoe, kayak, or paddleboard thanks to its location on the Tar-Pamlico River. photograph by Little Washington, NC
Take a walk on the wild side: If you’re more of a hiker, hop in the car and head to nearby Goose Creek State Park, which is home to several species of herons, egrets, swans, and waterfowl. The kids will love watching for wildlife as you follow the two-mile Goose Creek Trail through cypress swamps to the Pamlico River. Skip rocks, build a sandcastle on the beach or dive in for a swim; the beach is open for swimming all summer long. You can also cast a line (state fishing licenses are required) for largemouth bass, bluegill, and yellow perch.
Watch for wildlife as you follow the Goose Creek Trail through cypress swamps to the Pamlico River. photograph by Little Washington, NC
Engage in arts appreciation: Through Arts of the Pamlico, the historic Turnage Theatre hosts live music, theater classes and camps, and stages performances. The theater also features an art gallery and fashion and entertainment museum with exhibits that delight visitors of all ages. On Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the theater hosts “music jams,” when local musicians take the stage for impromptu concerts.
Set sail at the North Carolina Estuarium: Located right on the waterfront, this environmental education center — the first of its kind in the world — celebrates North Carolina’s coastal rivers and estuaries — an ecosystem where fresh and salt water mix. Experience the ecology and culture of Washington through 200-plus exhibits. Longtime employee Sheila Taylor notes that the littlest visitors love learning about the parasitic zombie crabs and getting up close to the alligators, toads, and corn snakes that call the estuarium home.
Then, hop aboard the River Roving pontoon boat (reserve in advance because seats fill up fast). The free 90-minute guided boat tours include behind-the-scenes tours of the Tar-Pamlico River. Tours are Wednesday-Friday at 10 a.m. and 12 p.m. and Saturday at 10 a.m. from April through October. Donations for the tour are appreciated but are not required.
The North Carolina Estuarium is located right on the waterfront and celebrates North Carolina’s coastal rivers and estuaries. photograph by Little Washington, NC
Explore on two wheels: Ready to roll? For a new way to get around Washington, Inner Banks Outfitters and River Vibes both rent bikes — including tandems. Roberson suggests pedaling along the riverside boardwalk, boat- (and people-)watching, and soaking in the views of the river.
“Our parks system allows visitors to get a different experience than they would get at home,” she says.
Afterward, pedal into downtown and pick up a cone of mint-chocolate chip or butter pecan ice cream from Scoops Ice Cream. For more treats (and caffeine pick-me-ups for adults!) stop by the Washington Cafe. This bakery and cafe space serves fresh-baked goodies and lunch items like flatbreads and salads.
Take a trip into the past: Right downtown, a bright orange railroad caboose — a vintage, restored car from the Seaboard Coast Line Railroad — now houses the Underground Railroad Museum. Inside, exhibits tell the stories of the history of slavery in Washington and how the harbor was used as a secret waystation for enslaved African Americans to escape by sea on the Underground Railroad in the early 1800s.
A vintage, restored car from the Seaboard Coast Line Railroad houses the Underground Railroad Museum. photograph by Little Washington, NC
Raise a glass and sample local cuisine: After a long day of exploring, head to The Mulberry House for a delicious dinner and a nightcap.
You’ll find local, seasonal beers and farm-to-table food — plus a full menu of nonalcoholic “cocktails,” a kid-friendly menu, and a chess set or two if you’d like to play a match. The Mulberry House is also home to a coffee shop and rooftop lounge that is open in the warmer months, which makes it the perfect place to start or end your day. Their hours change seasonally, so be sure to check here for current opening times.
Cozy up for the night: When you’re ready to unwind, rest your head at The Elmwood 1820 Bed & Breakfast Inn. An 1820s mansion that served as a Union Army headquarters and hospital during the Civil War, today it offers modern luxury perfect for those seeking respite. Curl up in a cozy robe before falling into a canopy-covered bed. In the morning, no matter how badly you want to get out onto the sprawling front porch with a cup of coffee, don’t miss the delicious homemade biscuits and gourmet multicourse breakfast.
For another hotel option, The Little Inn on Main offers guests a boutique stay within Washington’s Historic Harbor District. The 10 guest rooms pay homage to eastern North Carolina’s waterways, with names like the Bath Creek Room and Tar River Room. Pet-friendly options are available for anyone traveling with their furry family members.
Take in beautiful views of the Pamlico River from The Mulberry House. photograph by Little Washington, NC
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