Discover the Untamed Beauty of Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge
Explore Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge, a vast wilderness in North Carolina teeming with wildlife, scenic trails, and unforgettable outdoor adventures.
Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge is a breathtaking wilderness in North Carolina, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in diverse ecosystems, observe wildlife, and enjoy outdoor activities. With its vast landscapes of swamps and forests, this refuge is a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
A brief summary to Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge
- Milltail Rd, East Lake, North Carolina, 27953, US
- +1252-473-1131
- Visit website
- Monday 5:30 am-8:30 pm
- Tuesday 5:30 am-8:30 pm
- Wednesday 5:30 am-8:30 pm
- Thursday 5:30 am-8:30 pm
- Friday 5:30 am-8:30 pm
- Saturday 5:30 am-8:30 pm
- Sunday 5:30 am-8:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit during sunrise or sunset for the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Bring binoculars and a camera to capture the diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes.
- Check the refuge's website for guided tours and educational programs.
- Wear sturdy shoes suitable for walking on trails and uneven terrain.
- Pack insect repellent and sunscreen, especially during warmer months.
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car, the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge is located at Milltail Rd, East Lake, NC 27953. From any location in Inner Banks, head towards US-64 E. If you're in Manteo, take US-64 E for about 15 miles until you reach the junction with NC-345. Turn left onto NC-345 and continue for approximately 6 miles. You will see signs for the refuge. Turn left onto Milltail Rd, where you will find the entrance to the refuge. There is no entrance fee to access the refuge.
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Public Transportation + Car Rental
If you're using public transportation, you can take a bus from various locations in the Inner Banks to Manteo. Once you arrive in Manteo, you will need to rent a car, as public transportation options are limited beyond this point. Rent a car from a local agency in Manteo and follow the same directions as provided for travelers coming by car: head towards US-64 E, then NC-345, and finally Milltail Rd to reach the refuge. Keep in mind that car rental services may charge additional fees, and it's advisable to reserve in advance.
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Bicycle
For the adventurous traveler, biking to Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge is an option if you're nearby. Start in Manteo and take US-64 E, then follow NC-345. Be prepared for a ride of about 10-12 miles. Make sure to wear a helmet and be cautious of traffic. This route is more suited for experienced cyclists, as it involves riding along highways. Bring water and snacks, as facilities may be limited.
Discover more about Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
USLSS Station Pea Island Historical Marker
20.9 km
Discover the legacy of maritime heroism at the USLSS Station Pea Island, a historical landmark on North Carolina's picturesque Outer Banks.
First English Colonies Historical Marker
21.8 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.
Easternmost Point of North Carolina
44.1 km
Explore the Easternmost Point of North Carolina - a historical landmark offering breathtaking ocean views and rich maritime heritage.
Newbold-White House
65.6 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
67.9 km
Explore the historic Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, a stunning beacon of maritime history and breathtaking views along North Carolina's Outer Banks.
Cape Hatteras Lighthouse
68.0 km
Discover the iconic Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, a historic landmark offering stunning views and a glimpse into maritime heritage on the beautiful Outer Banks.
Edenton Trolley Tour
72.2 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
72.2 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.
Inner Banks Inn, Restaurant & Event Venue
72.3 km
Discover the Southern charm and rich history at Inner Banks Inn, a perfect blend of comfort, cuisine, and culture in Edenton, NC.
Historic Edenton State Historic Site
72.3 km
Discover North Carolina's colonial past at the Historic Edenton State Historic Site, where history comes alive through engaging exhibits and beautiful architecture.
Roanoke River Lighthouse
72.3 km
Explore the Roanoke River Lighthouse, a historical gem in Edenton, NC, blending stunning views with rich maritime heritage.
The Table At Inner Banks Inn
72.3 km
Discover the perfect blend of fine dining and Southern hospitality at The Table At Inner Banks Inn in Edenton, NC.
Ocracoke Lighthouse
76.7 km
Explore the historic Ocracoke Lighthouse, a captivating symbol of maritime heritage and breathtaking coastal views in North Carolina's Outer Banks.
Munden Point Park
89.1 km
Discover Munden Point Park, a serene Virginia Beach destination for kayaking, outdoor fun, and family-friendly adventures amidst stunning natural beauty.
North Carolina Historic Bath
91.5 km
Explore the first town of North Carolina at Historic Bath, rich in history, charm, and scenic beauty, making it a perfect stop for history enthusiasts.
Unmissable attractions to see
North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island
20.9 km
Explore the vibrant marine life and conservation efforts at the North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island in the stunning Outer Banks.
Coastal North Carolina Refuges Gateway Visitor Center
21.3 km
Explore the Coastal North Carolina Refuges Gateway Visitor Center for an enriching wildlife experience and educational insights into nature conservation.
Sarah Owens Welcome Center & Outer Banks Visitors Bureau Headquarters
21.5 km
Discover the rich history and breathtaking landscapes of the Outer Banks at the Sarah Owens Welcome Center, your ultimate tourist information hub.
Pea Island Cookhouse Museum
21.8 km
Explore the Pea Island Cookhouse Museum, a tribute to maritime history and culinary heritage in Manteo, North Carolina, perfect for history and food enthusiasts.
Elizabethan Gardens
21.9 km
Discover the captivating beauty and rich history of Elizabethan Gardens in Manteo, NC, a serene botanical haven for nature lovers and tourists.
Fort Raleigh National Historic Site
21.9 km
Explore the rich history and scenic beauty of Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, where America's colonial past meets breathtaking landscapes.
The Lost Colony
22.2 km
Discover the captivating story of America’s first settlers at The Lost Colony, a historical landmark and outdoor theater in North Carolina.
Historic Old Manteo Walking Tour
22.7 km
Explore the vibrant history and picturesque charm of Manteo on the Historic Old Manteo Walking Tour, a must-visit for every traveler.
Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse
22.7 km
Explore the historic Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse in Manteo, NC, where maritime heritage meets stunning natural beauty in the Outer Banks.
OBX Ghost Tours
22.8 km
Discover the chilling stories and ghostly legends of Manteo's past with OBX Ghost Tours, offering captivating adventures steeped in history.
Island Farm
22.8 km
Explore the historical charm of Island Farm in Manteo, NC, where 19th-century agriculture comes to life amidst beautiful landscapes.
Captain Johnny's Dolphin Watch
22.8 km
Embark on an unforgettable dolphin watching adventure at Captain Johnny's Dolphin Watch in Manteo, North Carolina, where nature and marine life come alive.
Outer Banks History Center
23.0 km
Unearth the captivating history of the Outer Banks at the Outer Banks History Center, a treasure trove of culture and maritime heritage waiting to be explored.
Roanoke Island Festival Park
23.1 km
Explore the historical wonders and natural beauty of Roanoke Island Festival Park in Manteo, North Carolina, where culture meets entertainment.
Roanoke Island Festival Park Adventure Museum
23.1 km
Experience the rich history and vibrant culture of Roanoke Island at the Adventure Museum, perfect for families and history enthusiasts alike.
Essential places to dine
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Hatteras Glass Surfboards
42.9 km
Explore Hatteras Glass Surfboards in Rodanthe for custom surfboards and vibrant beach culture, perfect for surf enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Nora's Wish
43.0 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
43.0 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
43.3 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
43.3 km
Explore Beads & Beans OBX: A unique blend of coffee, crafts, and coastal charm in the heart of Rodanthe, NC.
Thrift Shop
43.7 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
43.9 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
44.0 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
44.2 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
44.2 km
Explore a unique selection of local crafts and gifts at Collin's Board Emporium in Rodanthe, North Carolina, capturing the spirit of the Outer Banks.
St. Waves Plaza
44.9 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
45.6 km
Discover the ultimate adventure at Duck Village Outfitters, your go-to surf shop and rental service in Salvo, North Carolina, offering unforgettable outdoor experiences.
Highway 12 Shirts
45.8 km
Explore the vibrant offerings of Highway 12 Shirts in Salvo, NC, your go-to destination for beach apparel and unique souvenirs from the Outer Banks.
Returning Tide Giftshop
45.9 km
Explore unique handmade crafts and local artistry at Returning Tide Giftshop in Salvo, North Carolina, a must-visit for art lovers.
Blue Whale
45.9 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
Stripers Bar & Grill
22.5 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delightful American cuisine at Stripers Bar & Grill in Manteo, NC – a perfect seaside dining experience.
Lost Colony Tavern
22.7 km
Experience the perfect blend of British pub culture and American hospitality at Lost Colony Tavern in Manteo, NC.
The Tiki Bar at Outer Banks Marina
23.8 km
Experience the laid-back charm and tropical vibes of The Tiki Bar at Outer Banks Marina, a perfect retreat for relaxation and fun.
Blue Water Grill & Raw Bar
23.8 km
Experience the best of coastal dining at Blue Water Grill & Raw Bar in Manteo, NC, where fresh seafood meets stunning waterfront views.
Lost Colony Brewery Nags Head Waterfront
27.1 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.
Fish Heads Bar & Grill
28.5 km
Experience the best of coastal dining at Fish Heads Bar & Grill in Nags Head - where delicious seafood meets stunning ocean views.
Lucky 12 Tavern
29.7 km
Discover the vibrant Lucky 12 Tavern in Nags Head, where delicious grilled dishes meet a lively atmosphere perfect for tourists.
Blue Crab Tavern
30.3 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.
Outer Banks Brewing Station
31.1 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.
Hoy Lechon - Asian Inspired BBQ
42.9 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
43.6 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
43.6 km
Experience the finest seafood and breathtaking ocean views at Good Winds Restaurant, a coastal gem in Rodanthe, North Carolina.
The Dough Shack
43.9 km
Experience the best of coastal cuisine at The Dough Shack, a local favorite for delicious pizza and a welcoming atmosphere in Rodanthe, NC.
Mirro’s Cafe
44.2 km
Discover the flavors of the Outer Banks at Mirro’s Cafe, where fresh ingredients meet coastal charm for an unforgettable dining experience.
Tina's Poolside Cafe
44.2 km
Discover delicious cuisine and relaxation at Tina's Poolside Cafe in beautiful Rodanthe, NC, where every meal is an experience amidst stunning scenery.
