Located in Carteret County, North Carolina, Beaufort is the county seat. It was incorporated in 1723 and was established in 1713. Despite its young age, Beaufort has retained a rich history. Here are some things to do and places to see in Beaufort. We’ll also take a look at the history of the city, including the history of the town’s founding. For more information, visit the official city website.
There’s a wide variety of things to do in Beaufort. There are several places to explore and enjoy, including the beach. You can go scuba diving, see shipwrecks, and visit the local aquarium. Morehead City is also the site of the NC Seafood Festival in October. It draws people from throughout the area. In addition to visiting the museums, there are a number of other fun activities that you can participate in.
If you like nature, you can spend your days exploring the town’s many natural attractions. One of the state’s most precious natural areas is Rachel Carson Reserve. This 2,315-acre preserve is home to hundreds of different species, including birds, river otters, marsh rabbits, bottlenose dolphins, and sea turtles. There are a variety of other fun things to do in Beaufort, but a bike tour is one of the most popular.
If you love art, be sure to stop by the Mattie King Davis Art Gallery, the oldest art gallery in Carteret County. The museum showcases local artists’ original works, and is a wonderful place to view art. The artworks are inspired by the beauty of the coastal landscape and are displayed in all mediums. The exhibits are always changing, so you can spend hours enjoying the exhibits. It’s also worth your time to check out the other local shops and galleries.
The historic downtown of Beaufort is filled with unique dining options. You’ll want to try Clawson’s 1905 Restaurant, which is the oldest structure in town. The restaurant was originally a grocery store, but was eventually bought by Bill and Candy Rogers in the 1970s. It is still owned by the same family, and specializes in hamburgers and sandwiches. Luckily, the restaurant is affordable, and the seafood is fresh and delicious.
While there are dozens of things to do in Beaufort, you can’t miss the North Carolina Maritime Museum, which is a must-see. Located downtown, this museum is an excellent way to learn about the town’s history. Its interior is decorated with a nautical aesthetic. There are dozens of exhibits, from ancient boats to Civil War artifacts. If you have time, you can also check out the local music.
Coastal North Carolina is full of charming small towns. The town has dozens of historic homes that have been restored. A few of these include the Josiah Bell and John C. Manson House, which date back to the early 1800s. Another historic attraction in the town is the Old Jail, which is the oldest jail in NC. There is also an Apothecary and Doctor’s Office, which is a great place to grab a coffee or a snack.