Explore the Wonders of Coastal North Carolina at the Refuges Gateway Visitor Center
Discover Coastal North Carolina's rich wildlife and conservation efforts at the Refuges Gateway Visitor Center, your starting point for nature exploration.
The Coastal North Carolina Refuges Gateway Visitor Center is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and tourists alike, offering a blend of education, conservation, and natural beauty. Nestled in Manteo, North Carolina, this visitor center serves as the perfect starting point for exploring the region's stunning wildlife refuges, showcasing the diverse ecosystems of the coastal area. Whether you're interested in birdwatching, hiking, or learning about local conservation efforts, this center provides invaluable resources and guidance to help you make the most of your visit.
A brief summary to Coastal North Carolina Refuges Gateway Visitor Center
- 100 conservation Way, Manteo, North Carolina, 27954, US
- +1252-473-1131
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
- Thursday 9 am-4 pm
- Friday 9 am-4 pm
- Saturday 9 am-4 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for the best chance to see wildlife, especially birds.
- Check the schedule for any educational programs or guided tours during your visit.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching and photography; the views are spectacular.
- Take advantage of the knowledgeable staff; ask questions to enhance your experience.
- Dress in layers, as coastal weather can change quickly throughout the day.
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car, begin your journey from anywhere in the Albemarle-Pamlico Peninsula. Use local roads to connect to US-64 E. If you're coming from the town of Edenton, head southeast on NC-32 S towards US-64 E. Merge onto US-64 E and continue on this road for approximately 50 miles, following signs for Roanoke Island. Upon reaching Manteo, take exit 298 toward NC-345 S. Continue straight until you reach Conservation Way. The Coastal North Carolina Refuges Gateway Visitor Center is located at 100 Conservation Way, Manteo, NC 27954. Ensure your vehicle is fueled, as there may be limited gas stations on the way.
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Public Transportation
For public transport, start by checking local bus services (like the Dare County Public Transit). You can board a bus that travels to Manteo. Depending on your starting point, you may have to transfer buses at designated stops to reach Manteo. Once you arrive in Manteo, you can use a local taxi or rideshare service (such as Uber or Lyft) to reach the Coastal North Carolina Refuges Gateway Visitor Center at 100 Conservation Way. Please check the bus schedule beforehand, as service may be limited, and you might need to plan your trip around the bus times.
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Bike
If you're feeling adventurous and want to bike, ensure you have a route planned. Head towards NC-345 S from Manteo. Ride along the roads that lead to Conservation Way. The visitor center is about 2 miles from downtown Manteo. Be aware of traffic and road conditions, and wear appropriate safety gear. This option is ideal for those who enjoy scenic views and a more physically engaging experience.
Discover more about Coastal North Carolina Refuges Gateway Visitor Center
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
First English Colonies Historical Marker
0.4 km
Explore the First English Colonies Historical Marker in Manteo, NC, and uncover the fascinating story of early American settlers in a beautiful coastal setting.
USLSS Station Pea Island Historical Marker
1.5 km
Discover the legacy of maritime heroism at the USLSS Station Pea Island, a historical landmark on North Carolina's picturesque Outer Banks.
Easternmost Point of North Carolina
44.6 km
Explore the Easternmost Point of North Carolina - a historical landmark offering breathtaking ocean views and rich maritime heritage.
Newbold-White House
70.7 km
Explore the Newbold-White House in Hertford, NC - a historic museum showcasing early American life and culture amid serene landscapes.
Cape Hatteras Lighthouse Original Location
77.1 km
Explore the historic Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, a stunning beacon of maritime history and breathtaking views along North Carolina's Outer Banks.
Munden Point Park
78.3 km
Discover Munden Point Park, a serene Virginia Beach destination for kayaking, outdoor fun, and family-friendly adventures amidst stunning natural beauty.
False Cape State Park
79.6 km
Experience the natural wonders of False Cape State Park, where pristine beaches and diverse wildlife await your exploration in Virginia Beach.
Inner Banks Inn, Restaurant & Event Venue
81.9 km
Discover the Southern charm and rich history at Inner Banks Inn, a perfect blend of comfort, cuisine, and culture in Edenton, NC.
The Table At Inner Banks Inn
81.9 km
Discover the perfect blend of fine dining and Southern hospitality at The Table At Inner Banks Inn in Edenton, NC.
Historic Edenton State Historic Site
81.9 km
Discover North Carolina's colonial past at the Historic Edenton State Historic Site, where history comes alive through engaging exhibits and beautiful architecture.
Edenton Trolley Tour
82.0 km
Explore Edenton's history through the engaging Edenton Trolley Tour, showcasing the town’s rich heritage and stunning architecture.
Penelope Barker House Welcome Center
82.0 km
Explore the Penelope Barker House Welcome Center, a historical museum in Edenton, NC, celebrating the legacy of the American Revolution and its remarkable figures.
Roanoke River Lighthouse
82.1 km
Explore the Roanoke River Lighthouse, a historical gem in Edenton, NC, blending stunning views with rich maritime heritage.
Northwest River Park
82.9 km
Discover the serene beauty of Northwest River Park in Chesapeake, Virginia—an ideal destination for outdoor adventures and family-friendly activities.
Our Sensory Farm
85.0 km
Explore the interactive educational experiences at Our Sensory Farm in Chesapeake, Virginia, where nature and learning come together in a delightful setting.
Unmissable attractions to see
Fort Raleigh National Historic Site
0.6 km
Explore the rich history and natural beauty of Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, where America's early colonial legacy comes alive amidst stunning landscapes.
Elizabethan Gardens
0.7 km
Explore the lush beauty and rich history of Elizabethan Gardens, a serene botanical paradise in Manteo, North Carolina.
The Lost Colony
1.0 km
Experience the captivating outdoor drama of The Lost Colony, where history and storytelling come alive in the heart of North Carolina's Outer Banks.
North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island
1.6 km
Discover the enchanting marine life at the North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island, a fascinating destination for nature lovers and families alike.
Island Farm
2.2 km
Explore the rich agricultural heritage of the Outer Banks at Island Farm, a historical landmark and engaging tourist attraction in Manteo, NC.
Pea Island Cookhouse Museum
4.2 km
Explore the Pea Island Cookhouse Museum in Manteo, NC, showcasing the legacy of the African American surfmen and maritime history of the Outer Banks.
Historic Old Manteo Walking Tour
4.4 km
Experience the rich history and scenic beauty of Manteo through the Historic Old Manteo Walking Tour, a must-visit for every traveler.
OBX Ghost Tours
4.4 km
Explore the haunted history of the Outer Banks with OBX Ghost Tours - a thrilling adventure in Manteo, North Carolina.
Captain Johnny's Dolphin Watch
4.5 km
Experience the thrill of dolphin watching at Captain Johnny's in Manteo, NC – a nature lover's paradise on the Outer Banks.
Outer Banks History Center
4.6 km
Explore the rich heritage of North Carolina's coastal history at the Outer Banks History Center, a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
Roanoke Island Festival Park
4.6 km
Explore the captivating history and vibrant culture of Roanoke Island at Festival Park, where the past comes alive amidst beautiful landscapes.
Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse
4.6 km
Experience the charm of the Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse in Manteo, NC—where maritime history meets breathtaking coastal views.
Roanoke Island Festival Park Adventure Museum
4.7 km
Explore the historic Roanoke Island Festival Park Adventure Museum, where history meets adventure in a family-friendly environment.
Sarah Owens Welcome Center & Outer Banks Visitors Bureau Headquarters
6.3 km
Discover the Outer Banks at Sarah Owens Welcome Center: Your essential hub for local insights, maps, and tips for an unforgettable coastal adventure.
Outer Banks Adventures
7.8 km
Discover the beauty and adventure of the Outer Banks with guided boat tours, perfect for families and nature lovers alike.
Essential places to dine
Tale of the Whale
9.9 km
Discover exceptional seafood dining at Tale of the Whale in Nags Head - where local flavors meet stunning waterfront views.
The Dunes Restaurant
10.1 km
Experience authentic Southern cuisine at The Dunes Restaurant in Nags Head – where every meal feels like home.
Jose Tequilas Mexican Grill and Bar
87.3 km
Discover authentic Mexican cuisine at Jose Tequilas Mexican Grill and Bar in Sandbridge, Virginia Beach - where flavor meets festivity!
Baja Restaurant
87.4 km
Experience coastal flavors at Baja Restaurant in Sandbridge - where fresh seafood meets American classics in a family-friendly atmosphere.
Blue Pete's Restaurant
90.1 km
Experience family-friendly dining at Blue Pete's Restaurant in Virginia Beach, where delicious meals meet stunning views in a vibrant atmosphere.
The Bee and The Biscuit
92.2 km
Experience delicious brunch delights at The Bee and The Biscuit in Virginia Beach - where fresh ingredients meet warm hospitality.
Margie & Ray's Crabhouse and Restaurant
92.3 km
Experience fresh seafood delights at Margie & Ray's Crabhouse in Virginia Beach – where every bite is a taste of coastal charm.
Simply Steamed
92.9 km
Indulge in fresh seafood at Simply Steamed – your go-to takeout spot in Virginia Beach's picturesque Sandbridge.
Sandbridge Island Restaurant
93.0 km
Savor fresh seafood and delicious pizza at Sandbridge Island Restaurant in Virginia Beach's scenic coastal paradise.
The Barrel Room
93.7 km
Discover The Barrel Room in Chesapeake: A delightful restaurant blending local flavors with an inviting bar atmosphere.
Boardwok Restaurant
94.9 km
Discover fresh seafood and stunning ocean views at Boardwok Restaurant in Virginia Beach - A must-visit culinary destination.
Flip Flops VB Grill
95.7 km
Experience the taste of Virginia Beach at Flip Flops VB Grill - where casual dining meets coastal flavors in a vibrant atmosphere.
Blue Seafood & Spirits
95.8 km
Experience exquisite seafood dining at Blue Seafood & Spirits in Virginia Beach - where fresh flavors meet coastal charm.
Busky's Chill & Grill
95.8 km
Experience the ultimate casual dining at Busky's Chill & Grill in Chesapeake with delicious grilled dishes and vibrant atmosphere.
Heirloom
96.2 km
Discover Heirloom: A culinary haven in Virginia Beach offering innovative dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Hatteras Glass Surfboards
43.1 km
Explore Hatteras Glass Surfboards in Rodanthe for custom surfboards and vibrant beach culture, perfect for surf enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Nora's Wish
43.4 km
Discover unique gifts and local art at Nora's Wish, a charming gift shop in Rodanthe, North Carolina, perfect for travelers and souvenir seekers.
North Beach General Store Campground
43.4 km
Experience the charm of North Beach General Store Campground in the Outer Banks - your convenient stop for essentials and a gateway to coastal adventures.
North Beach Groceries
43.5 km
Discover North Beach Groceries in Rodanthe - your essential stop for local products, fresh groceries, and quick meals during your Outer Banks adventure.
BEADS & BEANS OBX
44.0 km
Explore Beads & Beans OBX: A unique blend of coffee, crafts, and coastal charm in the heart of Rodanthe, NC.
Thrift Shop
44.4 km
Explore the charm of Rodanthe's Thrift Shop, where unique finds and vintage treasures come together in a delightful discount shopping experience.
Reef Beachwear
44.8 km
Discover beachwear, scooter rentals, and unique souvenirs at Reef Beachwear in Rodanthe, your must-visit store for coastal adventures.
Ocean Gourmet & Gifts/Sea Treasures
44.8 km
Explore Ocean Gourmet & Gifts/Sea Treasures for unique coastal souvenirs, gourmet foods, and a taste of the Outer Banks' vibrant culture.
Kitsch N Dishes
45.2 km
Discover vintage gems and unique finds at Kitsch N Dishes in Rodanthe, NC, where every item has a story waiting to be told.
Collin's Board Emporium
45.2 km
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St. Waves Plaza
46.5 km
Explore St. Waves Plaza, a vibrant shopping mall in Waves, NC, offering diverse shops and a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
Duck Village Outfitters
47.5 km
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Highway 12 Shirts
47.7 km
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Returning Tide Giftshop
48.1 km
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Blue Whale
48.2 km
Discover local flavors at the Blue Whale grocery store in Salvo, North Carolina, your go-to spot for fresh produce and friendly service in the Outer Banks.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lost Colony Tavern
4.4 km
Experience the perfect blend of British pub culture and American hospitality at Lost Colony Tavern in Manteo, NC.
Stripers Bar & Grill
5.4 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delightful American cuisine at Stripers Bar & Grill in Manteo, NC – a perfect seaside dining experience.
Blue Water Grill & Raw Bar
7.3 km
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Lucky 12 Tavern
8.5 km
Discover the vibrant Lucky 12 Tavern in Nags Head, where delicious grilled dishes meet a lively atmosphere perfect for tourists.
Blue Crab Tavern
9.8 km
Experience the local flavors and laid-back vibe at Blue Crab Tavern, a beloved dive bar in Kill Devil Hills, NC, perfect for seafood lovers.
Lost Colony Brewery Nags Head Waterfront
9.9 km
Discover the rich flavors of craft beer at Lost Colony Brewery, the perfect waterfront retreat in Nags Head for beer enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
Outer Banks Brewing Station
10.0 km
Experience the essence of the Outer Banks at Outer Banks Brewing Station, where craft beer meets delicious food and live music ignites the atmosphere.
The Tiki Bar at Outer Banks Marina
12.5 km
Experience the laid-back charm and tropical vibes of The Tiki Bar at Outer Banks Marina, a perfect retreat for relaxation and fun.
Fish Heads Bar & Grill
12.7 km
Experience the best of coastal dining at Fish Heads Bar & Grill in Nags Head - where delicious seafood meets stunning ocean views.
Hoy Lechon - Asian Inspired BBQ
43.1 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Asian-inspired BBQ at Hoy Lechon, where Filipino and South Asian cuisines come to life in Rodanthe, NC.
Neptunes Kitchen and Dive Bar
44.3 km
Discover Neptune's Kitchen and Dive Bar in Rodanthe, NC – where fresh seafood meets a vibrant coastal atmosphere for a truly memorable dining experience.
Good Winds Restaurant
44.4 km
Experience the finest seafood and breathtaking ocean views at Good Winds Restaurant, a coastal gem in Rodanthe, North Carolina.
The Dough Shack
44.8 km
Experience the best of coastal cuisine at The Dough Shack, a local favorite for delicious pizza and a welcoming atmosphere in Rodanthe, NC.
Tina's Poolside Cafe
45.3 km
Discover delicious cuisine and relaxation at Tina's Poolside Cafe in beautiful Rodanthe, NC, where every meal is an experience amidst stunning scenery.
Mirro’s Cafe
45.3 km
Discover the flavors of the Outer Banks at Mirro’s Cafe, where fresh ingredients meet coastal charm for an unforgettable dining experience.
