Discover the Rich History of Fort Raleigh National Historic Site
Explore Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, where history meets nature on Roanoke Island, uncovering the stories of America's first settlers and the Lost Colony.
Fort Raleigh National Historic Site offers an immersive journey into America's early colonial history, surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Located on Roanoke Island, this historical site is a must-visit for tourists seeking to explore the fascinating stories of the Lost Colony and the early English settlers in North America. With hiking trails and educational exhibits, it combines history with nature, making it a perfect getaway for families and history enthusiasts alike.
A brief summary to Fort Raleigh National Historic Site
- 1401 National Park Dr, Manteo, North Carolina, 27954, US
- +1252-473-2111
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early to avoid crowds and get the most out of your visit.
- Don't miss the visitor center for great exhibits and educational resources.
- Wear comfortable shoes for hiking and exploring the trails.
- Check the schedule for guided tours to enhance your experience.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in the scenic areas around the site.
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car, start from the nearest town or city in the Albemarle-Pamlico Peninsula region. Use your GPS and enter the destination address: 1401 National Park Dr, Manteo, NC 27954. Depending on your starting point, you may have to take US-64 E or NC-12 S. Follow the signs to Roanoke Island and Manteo. Upon entering Manteo, continue straight on US-64 until you reach the intersection with NC-345. Turn left onto NC-345, and then take a right onto National Park Dr, which will lead you directly to Fort Raleigh National Historic Site. Parking is available onsite, and there is no admission fee for the site.
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Public Transportation
If you're using public transportation, check for local bus services that connect to the town of Manteo. As of now, there are limited options, so consider taking a Greyhound or similar service to a nearby city (like Elizabeth City or Nags Head) and renting a car from there, as this is the most convenient way to reach the site. Once in Manteo, you can use local taxi services or rideshare apps like Uber or Lyft to get to 1401 National Park Dr. Confirm the estimated fare with your driver before starting the trip.
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Bicycle
For the more adventurous, consider biking to Fort Raleigh National Historic Site. Manteo has scenic paths and bicycle lanes. If you’re staying in or near Manteo, you can rent a bike from a local shop. Follow NC-345 towards National Park Dr. Be sure to wear a helmet and follow safety rules while biking on the road.
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Walking
If you are staying in Manteo, and the weather is pleasant, you can walk to Fort Raleigh National Historic Site. It's about a 2-mile walk from the center of Manteo. Head south on US-64, then turn onto NC-345, and continue straight until you reach National Park Dr. This route is straightforward and scenic, allowing you to enjoy the local sights along the way.
Discover more about Fort Raleigh National Historic Site
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
First English Colonies Historical Marker
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USLSS Station Pea Island Historical Marker
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Easternmost Point of North Carolina
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Newbold-White House
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Cape Hatteras Lighthouse Original Location
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False Cape State Park
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Inner Banks Inn, Restaurant & Event Venue
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The Table At Inner Banks Inn
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Historic Edenton State Historic Site
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Edenton Trolley Tour
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Penelope Barker House Welcome Center
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Roanoke River Lighthouse
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Our Sensory Farm
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Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge
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Unmissable attractions to see
Elizabethan Gardens
0.3 km
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The Lost Colony
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Coastal North Carolina Refuges Gateway Visitor Center
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North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island
2.0 km
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Island Farm
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Pea Island Cookhouse Museum
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Historic Old Manteo Walking Tour
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OBX Ghost Tours
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Captain Johnny's Dolphin Watch
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Outer Banks History Center
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Roanoke Island Festival Park
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Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse
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Roanoke Island Festival Park Adventure Museum
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Sarah Owens Welcome Center & Outer Banks Visitors Bureau Headquarters
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Jockey's Ridge State Park
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Essential places to dine
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The Dunes Restaurant
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Jose Tequilas Mexican Grill and Bar
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Baja Restaurant
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Blue Pete's Restaurant
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The Bee and The Biscuit
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Margie & Ray's Crabhouse and Restaurant
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Simply Steamed
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Sandbridge Island Restaurant
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The Barrel Room
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Boardwok Restaurant
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Flip Flops VB Grill
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Blue Seafood & Spirits
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Busky's Chill & Grill
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Heirloom
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Hatteras Glass Surfboards
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Nora's Wish
43.7 km
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North Beach General Store Campground
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North Beach Groceries
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BEADS & BEANS OBX
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Thrift Shop
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Reef Beachwear
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Ocean Gourmet & Gifts/Sea Treasures
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Kitsch N Dishes
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Collin's Board Emporium
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St. Waves Plaza
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Duck Village Outfitters
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Highway 12 Shirts
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Returning Tide Giftshop
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Lost Colony Brewery Nags Head Waterfront
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Fish Heads Bar & Grill
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The Tiki Bar at Outer Banks Marina
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Hoy Lechon - Asian Inspired BBQ
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Neptunes Kitchen and Dive Bar
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Good Winds Restaurant
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The Dough Shack
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Tina's Poolside Cafe
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Mirro’s Cafe
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