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Itinerary
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Port Discover
Start your journey of coastal discoveries in Elizabeth City, where Port Discover fosters appreciation for nature, physics and agriculture via hands-on exhibits. Try exploring the flight simulator or race boats down the water table.
Edenton Trolly Tour
Get a history lesson on wheels by taking the Edenton Trolley Tour through North Carolina’s first Colonial capital, established in the early 1700s. As it slowly makes its way through the streets, cars honk to greet the passengers, residents wave from their front porches, and businesses welcome riders for a treat or souvenir.
Edenton Coffee House
Afterward, stop by the family-run Edenton Coffee House for a breakfast sandwich (served all day), wrap, grilled panini or salad — and be sure to pick up a souvenir; the coffeeshop is also full of unique gifts and cute decor.
North Carolina Estuarium
Get schooled on the region’s fragile ecosystems and coastal rivers by visiting the North Carolina Estuarium in Washington. Boat tours along the Pamlico River give you a firsthand look at aquatic life.
Tryon Palace
Farther south, the Neuse and Trent rivers flow right through New Bern, a town of firsts. Costumed interpreters occasionally roam the 18th-century-inspired lawns and gardens surrounding Tryon Palace, North Carolina’s first permanent State Capitol.
North Carolina History Center
Next door, the North Carolina History Center shares the tales of early settlers as well as modern times through musicians, lectures, plays and more. And don’t forget to stop in for a bite to eat at Lawson’s on the Creek while enjoying beautiful views of the Trent River, or pick up a unique gift from the Museum Store.
Birthplace of Pepsi Cola
Chase your newfound knowledge with a fountain Pepsi at The Birthplace of Pepsi Cola, housed in the pharmacy where Caleb Bradham invented the soda sensation in 1898. This historic spot offers a chance to sip on nostalgia, browse memorabilia and learn about Pepsi’s origins.
Sturgeon City
Next head to Sturgeon City in Jacksonville. Take a self-guided walking tour of boardwalks crossing flora- and fauna-rich wetlands to Wilson Bay. Interpretive signs lend insights to native critters such as egrets, pelicans and the American alligator.
Lejeune Memorial Gardens
Take some time to remember those who have served our country at Lejeune Memorial Gardens. March (or take a scenic bike ride) over to these hallowed gardens to honor those who have given the ultimate sacrifice in places including Vietnam, Beirut and the World Trade Center. A memorial dedicated in 2016 honors the Montford Point Marines, the Marine Corps’ first Black recruits.
Battleship North Carolina
The salute to the military continues at Battleship North Carolina, moored along the Cape Fear River in Wilmington. Commissioned in 1941, the ship participated in every major naval offensive in the Pacific after Midway. Just across the water, the Wilmington Riverwalk features stately views of the ship.
Micheal’s Seafood
Complete your adventure at Wilmington’s three area beaches. For dinner, dive into the catch of the day at Michael’s Seafood in Carolina Beach.
North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher
For marine life that you won’t find on your plate, head to the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher in Kure Beach. (The adorable Otters on the Edge exhibit or Maverick the Bald Eagle are a must-see.)
Trailborn Surf & Sound
And for your overnight, book a stay at Trailborn Surf & Sound in Wrightsville Beach. Its pristine oceanfront and soundfront location, plus an outstanding lineup of activities (cruises, kayaking, yoga and more), have kept families coming back since 1964.
Find more places where road trips and history intersect in The Official 2025 North Carolina Travel Guide.
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Your Trip at a Glance
Stop 1
Port Discover
Stop 2
Edenton Trolly Tour
Stop 3
Edenton Coffee House
Stop 4
North Carolina Estuarium
Stop 5
Tryon Palace
Stop 6
North Carolina History Center
Stop 7
Birthplace of Pepsi Cola
Stop 8
Sturgeon City
Stop 9
Lejeune Memorial Gardens
Stop 10
Battleship North Carolina
Stop 11
Micheal’s Seafood
Stop 12
North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher
Stop 13