Step back in time in the Original Washington, North Carolina as we celebrate America’s 250th. Discover a collection of historic stops that highlight the town’s rich heritage, waterfront history, and enduring role in our nation’s story.
Uncover Washington's History
Historic Turnage Theatre
End the night at the Historic Turnage Theatre and be transported back to the 1920s. Art Deco chandeliers illuminate the 432-seat theater, where Roy Rogers once performed on the second-floor stage. Today, visitors can tour the beautifully restored property by appointment, while the Arts Council has transformed the front of the theater into an art gallery showcasing the work of local craftsmen.
Step inside the P. S. Jones Museum of African American Education to explore the powerful story of African American education in Beaufort County and across North Carolina. This state-of-the-art museum traces more than a century of history, from the time segregation was made law after the Civil War through the era of school integration in the 1950s.
Celebrate both America’s and Washington’s 250 years of history. The museum will feature artifacts from the early colonial period through the Civil War and will be housed in the Atlantic Coast Line Terminal, built in 1904, when railroads began to rival local waterways as efficient trade routes.
The Washington Waterfront Underground Railroad Museum is a National Park Service Underground Railroad-Network To Freedom Facility completely dedicated to telling the story of freedom seeking from the Greater Washington NC region. Using research through documents, narratives of the formerly enslaved and other information housed in university libraries across North Carolina and the Country, we are able to share how many of those freedom seeking attempts gained them freedom in Northern states, Canada, Florida, the Caribbean Islands and many other places.
After the Martin House was sold and demolished, construction of the Savings & Trust Bank began in 1903, with the building opening in 1906. Over the years, it housed a watch store, a pharmacy, and other businesses. In 2023, 1906 Bistro & Bourbon opened its doors, serving pub fare and expertly crafted cocktails—making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy a meal or drink with friends.
Opened in 1928 by Bill Jackson. Hot dogs, chips and drinks is all Bill's Hot Dogs has ever served and we promise you won't be complaining about it. The legacy of this eatery is part of Washington's landscape and you can't beat the original. The chili is even the original recipe! Pairing years of hot dog history, everyone's favorite hands-only food, you get a winning combination here at Bill's Hot Dogs.
Kick-start your morning at Washington Café, where fresh-baked, scratch-made pastries and breads are crafted with local, seasonal ingredients. Pair breakfast with a cup of organic Counter Culture coffee for the perfect start to the day. Housed in an 1885 building that once served as Washington’s Town Hall and Fire Station, the café blends great food with local history.
Hunt for hidden treasures at Busy Chicks Bargain House & Auctions, where an eclectic mix of antiques, collectibles, vintage finds, home décor and more awaits. Browse local vendor booths, discover something unexpected and, if you’re feeling lucky, join in on one of their lively auctions. With new finds around every corner, it’s a stop where the thrill of the hunt is always part of the experience.
You can’t take a historic journey without antique shopping! Flash From The Past is filled with antiques and vintage treasures, from small collectibles to unique finds spanning decades—each ready to start a second life back home with you.
Step inside Manifest Antiques & Interiors and discover a curated collection of antiques, vintage décor, furniture and one-of-a-kind treasures. Located in downtown Washington, this charming shop invites you to slow down, browse around every corner and uncover pieces with character and a story of their own. Whether you’re hunting for a special find or simply enjoying the thrill of the search, Manifest makes shopping feel like a journey into the past.
For nearly 200 years, Elmwood has stood as the historic and architectural crown jewel of the “Original” Washington. Built in 1820 by Colonel Joshua Tayloe, the estate later served as a Union Army headquarters and hospital during the Civil War. Over the centuries, Elmwood changed hands many times before being reimagined as a luxury bed and breakfast in 2015. Today, it offers one-of-a-kind accommodations for those born to wander, seek adventure, and find respite in the most unique and curious of places.
Stay at When Pigs Fly Inn, a charming boutique inn housed in a beautifully preserved 1902 historic home. With timeless architecture, a welcoming atmosphere, and a prime downtown location, the inn places you steps away from Washington’s waterfront, local shops, dining, and historic landmarks. Relax among the character of the past while enjoying the comforts and conveniences of today.
Washington has always been a “sea to table” kind of town. Its geographical location on the Pamlico Sound, one of the largest estuaries on Earth, has provided…
Warmer weather means it’s time to explore “a little” with Little Washington! As a river town, our most popular feature is undeniably the Pamlico River.
