Quietly tucked into the sleepy estuary town of Washington is a North Carolina attraction that is not only the first ever, but also the only one if its kind in the world. While many towns and cities are located within estuary environs, none celebrate in quite the same way as Washington and its estuarium.
Nothing is more defining than creating the first of something. The North Carolina Estuarium is just that.
Located in the heart of an estuary comprised of more than 30,000-square-miles of watershed, the North Carolina Estuarium celebrates that area where the rivers meet the sea.
The format of this exclusive museum is simple: it's one part education, where both the young — and the young at heart — can experience hands-on exhibits that feature anything and everything that has to do with life in the estuary.
And finally, the one-of-a-kind estuarium is also a living laboratory for visitors to venture out into the waters to see nature and all the life within these waters up close. Hop aboard one of the many water tours and see for yourself.
On any given day you can find yourself viewing baby gators in an indoor aquarium or seeing baby turtles paddling around in the water from the boardwalk or the tour boat.
Don't forget to visit the gift shop before you leave. You'll find a colorful array of items to remember your visit, and each purchase helps to support the only estuarium in the world.
The North Carolina Estuarium is located at 223 E Water St., Washington, NC 27889, and is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The cost of admission is as follows: $5 Adults; $3 Children 5-17; Free for children under 5 (unless with group). More information on their official website.