Washington, NC

Strolling through shops not looking for yourself, but thinking of just the perfect thing the other would like. Strolling along the boardwalk at sunset as the breeze passes over your holding hands. Sitting across from each other at a romantic candlelit meal handcrafted by a local chef just for you. This is what a romantic weekend in little Washington can hold for you. This tour takes the guess work out of where to go and what to do. So all you have to do is focus on who you are with.

Medium Activity

2 days | 14 stops

Day 1

STOP 1: River Vibes

Head over to River Vibes for a morning bike ride for two. One of the best ways to experience Washington is on a comfy cruiser bike - single and tandem, these rentable bikes have wide seats and a rack where you can strap down any purchases. Before you go, fuel up with one of their fruit smoothies that are almost as sweet as your love.

STOP 2: Copper Canyon Wellness

Take a moment to unwind with your partner and kick off your vacation with a massage at Copper Canyon Wellness. Choose a hot stone massage to relax and soothe your body, or enjoy a calming Swedish massage. Use this getaway to indulge in self-care and let your worries melt away.

STOP 3: Down on Mainstreet

Down on Mainstreet provides a friendly and lively atmosphere. Enjoy delicious shrimp, savory crab dip, and towering sandwiches, all paired with refreshing crushed ice in your tea. It's the perfect way to start your romantic weekend with a satisfying and memorable meal.

STOP 4: The Lemonade Gallery

Making lemons into lemonade is the specialty at Lemonade Art Gallery. The five artist-owners of Lemonade were inspired to open their own space after a gallery hosting them closed unexpectedly. Now, they display and sell works by more than 27 artists. Photography, paintings, hand blown glass, and woodworks are just a few of the mediums you’ll find in this gallery and gift shop. The artists also teach classes and workshops in the rear of the gallery. Now that goes down sweet.

STOP 5: Sun Moon & Bloom

Looking for a last-minute gift to surprise your significant other? Check out Sun Moon & Bloom for a floral arrangement inspired by natural creations under the sun and moon, perfect for a romantic getaway.

STOP 6: Historic Turnage Theatre

Step inside the Turnage Theatre and you’re transported back to the 1920s. Art Deco chandeliers illuminate the 432-seat theatre. A grand stage awaits the next magical performance. You can almost hear the cheers, laughter and applause of the audience. This spot is truly the place where magic and love combine to create a one-of-a-kind experience for your date night.

STOP 7: The Bank Bistro

The Bank Bistro & Bar is a place to sit back, enjoy an expertly craft meal, and take in the ambiance with your date night darling. This upscale dining experience in a laid back environment offers not only offers you a chance to try one of Washington's best dining spots, but its the perfect spot to spend with someone special.

Day 2

STOP 8: Pam's Diner

Buttery, cheddar cheese biscuits. Not that you need another reason to go to this warm, friendly breakfast joint, but you can expect a bottomless cup of fresh, hot coffee and some fluffy, fresh blueberry pancakes. Savory more your breakfast style? Try the corn beef hash with eggs how you like ‘em. If it’s all too much, don’t take your food for granted, take it to go!

STOP 9: Goose Creek State Park

Romance isn't dead, it's outside in the majestic landscapes at Goose Creek State Park. Live oaks draped in Spanish moss, wetlands along the Pamlico Sound and a cypress swamp viewed from an extensive boardwalk are all in store for your hike. Take your rented kayaks or paddle board and get into or onto the waters of the sound at the sandy swim beach, boat ramp or the separate paddling launch.

STOP 10: Wine & Words Gourmet

When walking up to Wine & Words & Gourmet, you’ll find a large space with two doors covered by a red awning. One space leads into a lounge area from another era, and the other leads into the completely unexpected; a large wine shop with aisles of wine and a deli case with olives, meats, fruits, and more to pair with your wine selection. But it doesn’t stop there. Crossing over into the lounge space, you’ll immediately be embraced by a warmth of laughter, live music, conversation, and of course, bottles of wine and glasses poured amongst friends.

STOP 11: Backwater Jack's

Take a trip to Backwater Jack's for a laid-back meal, live music, and unforgettable burgers. It's the perfect spot for a casual date lunch after a day of kayaking on the water or traversing the waterfront.

STOP 12: The Mulberry House

Sun and breeze on your face, drink in your hand. Spend cocktail hour with one of the best river views in Washington at Mulberry House’s rooftop lounge. This boutique hotel has it all: coffee shop, brewery, restaurant, and rooftop deck. If you're looking for the perfect spot the catch the sunset with your date with a drink in hand and great conversation, The Mulberry House is where romance blooms.

STOP 13: Stewart's Jewelry

If you're looking to propose or simply to spoil your partner, Stewarts Jewelry is the place to make these dreams come true. For nearly a century, Stewart's Jewelry Store has been a mainstay of downtown Washington. Find whatever you're looking for from rings to necklaces. Have your perfect "Yes! That's the one!" moment, right here in Washington.

STOP 14: The Hackney Restaurant & Distillery

Welcome to The Hackney, a farm to table restaurant that combines locally sourced seasonal ingredients with an eclectic culinary outlook and their own brand of gin, all made right here in Washington. The upscale ambiance is perfectly paired with a meal that you will be thinking about for years to come. We promise your taste buds won't be disappointed. The Hackney also offers tasting and tours of its gin distillery, home of 1,000 Piers Gin, just make sure to call ahead to schedule.