An Atlantic Beach house rental is located near the scenic and historic seaport of Beaufort, North Carolina. Beaufort was founded in 1722 and when it was established, was the third largest seaport in North Carolina. While staying in Atlantic Beach vacation homes, Beaufort is a fascinating place to visit to learn about the local history and see the sights. Here are some of the places to visit in Beaufort.
North Carolina Maritime Museum
The North Carolina Maritime Museum has an exhibit of artifacts taken from the Queen Anne's Revenge. The ship, originally known as Revenge from Barbados, was commandeered in 1717 by one of the most notorious pirates on the high seas, Blackbeard. Between 1717 and 1718, Blackbeard cruised the Caribbean taking ships, their cargo and their crews. In 1718, the Queen Anne's Revenge was lost at the inlet at Beaufort. In addition to the artifacts from Blackbeard's ship, the museum also features exhibits of native American canoes, early sailing rigs and designs of hulls from the ships of explorers, pirates,and early traders.
Beaufort Historic District
The Historic District of Beaufort gives you a glimpse into life in the colonial era. Ride an English double-decker bus as you listen to costumed tour guides spin tales of pirates, stories about the families who once owned the beautifully restored homes, and Confederate and Union soldiers. Visitors may take tours of the Old Burying Ground and hear the history of those buried there. The Mattie King Davis Art Gallery features work by artists of the region. The Old Beaufort Gift Shop features beautiful handcrafted pottery, woven rugs and hand-carved decoys. You'll also find a selection of books about local history and folklore.
Rachel Carson Coastal Estaurine Reserve
The Rachel Carson Estaurine Reserve can be reached only by boat. The islands on the west side of the reserve are Bird Shoal, Carrot Island, Horse Island and Town Marsh. the islands cover an area of about 2,000 acres. Middle Marsh which is across the North River Channel, encompasses 650 acres. Birds of over 200 species have been recorded at the site. Gray foxes, otters, raccoons, rabbits and wild horses all live in the habitat. You may see bottlenose dolphins swimming in the channels. Laboratories of Duke, University of North Carolina and North Carolina State University conduct marine research at the reserve.
Beaufort Ghost Walk
The Beaufort Ghost Walk takes you on a chilling tour of historic Beaufort after dark to hear the tales of infamous pirates who once sailed the Outer Banks, haunted houses, stories of the paranormal, and even ghost ships. On the tour you'll see The Hammock House, where the notorious pirate Blackbeard once lived, and wander through a cemetery that's 300 years old. This attraction is great for families.
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