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2025 Nature Spots Guide

Dixieland Speedway

Summertime Friday nights are hot in Elizabeth City, thanks mainly to the Dixieland Speedway, a 3/8th mile dirt track that attracts stock car, go-kart and motorcycle racers from all across the eastern North Carolina region. An exciting spot with a...

Dismal Swamp History

In the midst of the metropolitan area known as Hampton Roads, Virginia, and extending well into North Carolina, there is a unique primeval forest inhabited by a variety of mammals, 21 species of reptiles, 58 species of turtles, lizards, salamanders...

Williamston, Martin County

Let nature's gifts lift your spirit in Martin County. Cast your line for striped bass in the Roanoke River. Watch horses with precision and grace compete at the Sen. Bob Martin Eastern Agricultural Center. Camp on unique platforms in the tributaries...

Columbia, NC

The small town of Columbia, located approximately 45 miles west of the Outer Banks, is a rising star along the central North Carolina coastline. An anchor of the informally named "Inner Banks" region, this small community of less than 1,000...

Elizabeth City State University

Although small, the diverse and distinctive Elizabeth City has a world of opportunities that span all interests, many of which can be studied in detail at the acclaimed Elizabeth City State University. This institution, and home of the ECSU Vikings...

Swan Quarter

Two stories prevail as to how Hyde Countys seat got its name. One legend has it named for the thousands of swan that came to "quarter" in the this little village at the head of Swan Quarter Bay. The second, less romantic story, says it was named...

Museum of the Albemarle

The Museum of the Albemarle is considered the showpiece of downtown Elizabeth City, and is a must-stop for any new explorer of North Carolina's "Inner Banks." Located along the waterfront within a sprawling and stately green-roofed complex, the...

North Carolina Estuarium

The North Carolina Estuarium is one of the highlights of Little Washington's downtown scene, and for good reason. The 12,500 square foot structure, which has served as an educational center since it was first managed by the Partnership for the...

Charles Creek Park

The Charles Creek Park, located just a block away from the waterfront at most, is a favorite local destination on a warm summer day. Featuring a wide range of activities that can easily be tailored to all age levels and outdoor interests, this small...

Visitors who take advantage of the exceptional fishing along the Albemarle Sound or Edenton Bay, or who notice the abundance of maritime wildlife along the local creeks and rivers of the Inner Banks, can send their thanks for this ecological...