Soak up the centuries-old history of beautiful Beaufort with a visit to the Beaufort Historic Site. Renowned as the third oldest town in North Carolina, there’s a lot of history to explore in this quiet Southern Outer Banks community, and visitors can dive right in by touring a collection of 10 historic homes and structures that are located within the downtown region.

The Welcome Center is a good place to start, and is the launching point for a number of on-site and regional tours that uncover some of the stories that surround this formerly bustling coastal port. From here, visitors can stroll to a number of uniquely different structures which include the 1732 Russell House, (the oldest in the group and the current home of the Mattie King Art Gallery), the 1778 Leffers Cottage which is stuffed with Colonial artifacts, the 1796 Carteret County Courthouse, and the “Old Jail,” which was built around 1829. With a host of other eye-catching sites, including an Apothecary Shop and Doctor's Office, an authentic herb garden, and a striking number of original residences, visitors will be steeped in history without ever leaving the downtown streets. Fun for everyday visitors and history buffs alike, the Beaufort Historic Site is a must-stop during any community exploration.

 

Beaufort
252-728-5225
Hours
*Off-season hours may vary*
Call 252-728-5225 for current hours.
  • Monday9:30am-5:00pm
  • Tuesday9:30am-5:00pm
  • Wednesday9:30am-5:00pm
  • Thursday9:30am-5:00pm
  • Friday9:30am-5:00pm
  • Saturday9:30am-5:00pm
Categories
Activities
Lookout Cruises

Lookout Cruises

Visitors can enjoy the Crystal Coast’s most coveted and hard-to-reach shorelines, or just embark on a breezy cruise of the open waters in search of dolphins and sunsets, with a trip that’s guided by Lookout Cruises. This local tour company that calls the central town of Beaufort its home port offers a far-reaching range of adventures that will have coastal fans of all ages soaking up the sun and enjoying the best of the Southern Outer Banks.

J R Dunn Jewelers

J R Dunn Jewelers

Featuring two locations along the Crystal Coast, and serving the region for nearly 50 years, J R Dunn Jewelers is a time-tested resource for a wealth of special occasions, gifts, and “just because” treasures for vacationers and Carteret County locals alike. With a fine selection of everything from men’s timepieces to wedding and engagement rings, shoppers can find just the delicate piece of jewelry they are looking for with a visit to this exquisite and elegant shop.

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Mac Daddys

Mac Daddys

Located on the southern end of Emerald Isle, and easy to reach for visitors staying throughout the Crystal Coast, Mac Daddy’s is the destination of choice for countless fun-seeking vacationers of all ages who want a big dose of entertainment off the sand. Featuring a bowling alley, sports bar, arcade, and a sister miniature golf course – (the Golfin’ Dolphin) - visitors can expect plenty of good times when they make an outing to this all-around fun amusement center.

Morehead City Ferry Service

Morehead City Ferry Service

The Crystal Coast is best explored from the water, and Morehead City Ferry Service will take explorers to some of the most remote and beautiful corners of this long stretch of Southern Outer Banks shoreline. Launching from the heart of Downtown Morehead City along Evans Street, patrons who utilize Morehead City Ferry Service for a cruise or a taxi ride to the outlying barrier islands will be treated to full afternoons of sun and fun along the pristine sand.