My family spent four days in Manteo, North Carolina. It was our first visit to the small town, located on Roanoke Island, which is part of the Outer Banks.
It was our first trip there, and I could not believe how many unique activities Manteo had to offer. We can’t wait to visit again and explore even more. Manteo is about 3.5 hours from Richmond, making it ideal for a long weekend, or even a full week-long stay.
Here is my family guide for Manteo, NC, based on our four day trip.
WHERE TO EAT IN MANTEO, NC
Each morning my daughter, who is always an early riser, and I woke up and walked to Charis Coffee Co. We love the smoothies, coffee, cruffins and the whole vibe. (Check out the prayer wall. )
We ordered Garden Deli Pizza our first night and the pizzas were HUGE! We had enough for lunch the next day.
Our lunch favorite was Lost Colony Tavern, just a quick walk down to the water and a playground.
WHERE TO PLAY IN MANTEO, NC
Though not in Manteo (about 15 min away), Dowdy Park playground is incredible, with so many accessible features, sensory activities, rubber surface.
Jockey’s Ridge State Park is FREE to visit. (Photo credit: Jockey’s Ridge State Park)
Jockey’s Ridge, a NC State Park was unlike anything we’d done ever before! Climbing and running up and down these sand dunes was too fun. Other features at Jockey’s Ridge – Tree Scavenger Hunt, Junior Ranger activities, and trails.
A smaller, beachside playground is behind the Manteo Airport, near the NC Aquarium – called “Old Swimming Hole”. We played here after our aquarium visit, and my son loved it.
MANTEO, NC ITINERARY
Here’s our activity itinerary. See above for restaurant/lodgings suggestions.
THURSDAY
Jennette’s Pier
Jockey’s Ridge State ParkFRIDAY
Manteo Waterfront Park
Check out the Wright Brothers Memorial during your trip to Manteo, NC! (Photo credit: National Park Service)
Dowdy Park Playground Jennette’s PierSATURDAY
North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island
Old Swimming Hole beach +playground
Downtown Manteo + walk to Roanoke Island Festival Park
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Lindsay, I have been enjoying your posts. Beth and I live in Richmond (Southside) winter and summer, and spring and fall in Corolla, at the north end of OBX. If you ever venture up this way, I can give you a list of free and cheap things to do there. Best.