History is alive and well at a one of the most unique parks in the state of North Carolina. Roanoke Island is well known for its role in settling what is now North Carolina in the very English settlement in the New World . On the north end of the island, in the town of Manteo, Roanoke Island Festival Park creates a living history exhibit everyone from, or visiting, the Tar Heel State should experience at least once.
Any visit to the park should begin at the Elizabeth II — a replica of the 16th century ship that sailed in to Roanoke Island with Sir Walter Raleigh in 1587.
The majestic ship is floating just off the island and visitors can board the vessel.
Once on board, most are delighted to find staff dressed in period costume and eager to share a wealth of knowledge about the ship and the first colonists that spent three months on the ship on their voyage here.
Visitors can take a self guided tour of the decks as well as drop beneath the deck to see the interior of this magnificent replica. Kids and adults alike love the Elizabeth II.
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After an extended visit on the Elizabeth II, head over to the Settlement Site.
Visitors can see firsthand how the Algonquin Indians were living when the first colonists set foot on the island. Two reconstructed 'long houses' add even more insight into the life of the Native Americans here.
No visit to American Indian Town would be complete without a stop at the ceremonial dance circle.
Usually, a staff member is nearby to help visitors understand the unusual arrangement of the totems in the circle.
Speaking of music, keeping a keen eye on the event schedule at Roanoke Island Festival Park means you can combine your history lesson with some awesome entertainment!
The backdrop for any concert here is always stunning. Various live performance events are scheduled throughout the year. Check this link occasionally to see the upcoming schedule. The park includes an amphitheater with a beautiful backdrop of the water.
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No visit to this astounding park will be complete until you've stopped at the museum and museum stores.
A wealth of knowledge and a variety of exhibits found within the museum will round out your experience and a stop at the museum stores will surely yield something to remember your trip.
We've only highlighted a few of the marvelous things to experience at Roanoke Island Festival Park.
There's so much to see and do here you should probably plan to spend at least half a day in order to see it all.
Roanoke Island Festival Park is open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (closed on some holidays). Tickets are good for two consecutive days (which is awesome in case it starts to rain!). Ticket prices are: $10/adults, $7/youth ages 3-7, free for children age 2 and under. A $1 discount is applied for military and seniors. Learn more on the official website and follow the Facebook page here.
Address: 1 Festival Park, Manteo, NC, 27954
While you’re in the area, why not explore one of the last tiny fishing villages remaining in North Carolina? It’s located at the southern tip of Roanoke Island. Read all about it in this previous article!
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