Historic Beaufort-by-the-Sea

As the third oldest town in North Carolina, Beaufort has long been home to pirates, sailors, soldiers and fishermen since it was incorporated in 1722. Beaufort has been awarded, “Coolest Small Town in America” by Budget Travel in 2012 and one of “America’s Most Romantic Towns” by Travel and Leisure Magazine. History abounds in this community. Historic homes line the waterfront and surrounding streets in downtown. You can spend the whole day wondering around in and out of boutique shops, savoring ice cream at the General Store or having lunch overlooking Taylor’s Creek and Carrot Island. With plenty to do and see in the area, you are bound to keep occupied.

Over the course of the last few years I’ve watched the area transform with various revitalization efforts. Both the Dockhouse restaurant and Backstreet pub have expanded their entertaining spaces. Dockhouse has added more dining space to the top deck allowing for a more expansive view! Backstreet pub has also expanded its outdoor entertaining space with its addition of the patio. The Pub celebrated a soft opening on June 12^th with live music from The Vegabonds. The storefronts along front street have been getting refaced and expanded as well. New shops are moving in and the old world meets the new all while keeping the style true to Beaufort.

This year marks the 56^th Annual Beaufort Old Homes and Gardens Tour. Every year residents open their homes and gardens to the public. House narrators will give insight on the history of these homes. In conjunction with the tour is the Antique Show and Sale, why not learn the history and maybe take a piece of it home with you as well! This event will take place at the Civic Center in Morehead City with more than 40 booths presenting goods such as furniture, jewelry and one-of-a-kind pieces. There is a admission for both. Find out more by visiting www.beauforthistoricsite.org