Washington Is a Small Town Gem in North Carolina’s Inner Banks

You may have heard about the Outer Banks, but what about the Inner Banks? This term is used to describe the collection of charming towns on the mainland before you reach the famous stretch of barrier islands. Among them is Little Washington, which may share a name with our nation's capital, but was given its current title in 1776—the first in the country to name itself after our first president.

As early as 1585, English explorers were aware of the area, and the state’s first settlement, Bath, is only 15 miles away. Washington earned its current name in 1776, later adding the “Little” to its nickname to avoid confusion. While other nearby ports were under British control during the Revolutionary War, the colonists were able to use Washington for resupply efforts.

Today, it’s filled with historic register buildings, mostly from after a 1900s fire, and plenty of small-town charm. It’s also a great base for exploring other coastal communities like Bath, New Bern, and Edenton, or the Outer Banks proper.

Most travelers will fly into Raleigh-Durham International Airport since it has the most flight options, located roughly a two-hour drive away. But you’ll also find options to Wilmington and Norfolk, Virginia.

While here, check out the seasonal art walks and farmers markets. The Washington Summer Festival is held every June on the waterfront and is another community favorite.

Best Things to Do

As one of the oldest parts of the state, Little Washington’s history can be uncovered in several locales. The Washington Waterfront Underground Railroad Museum is a part of the National Park Service's “Underground Railroad Network to Freedom” sites, operating out of a converted rail caboose right across from the Pamlico River. It’s here that interpreters share the history of the enslaved people in the county, including those able to reach freedom by water.

Goose Creek State Park is one of the best places to see the area’s ecosystems, including the cypress swamp, accessible on a boardwalk trail or by paddling through. You can also see reminders of the lumber industry with the decommissioned railbeds and tar kilns. The park is also one of several spots in both the Inner and Outer Banks where Blackbeard was known to roam during his heyday of piracy.

The North Carolina Estuarium is another highlight, with 200 exhibits on the coastal creatures and Pamlico River tours. You can also get out on the water with a class from Little Washington Sailing School or by renting a kayak from Inner Banks Outfitters.

Best Places to Eat and Drink

As you’d expect, Washington's waterfront location makes for top-tier cuisine, especially for those in search of seafood. One standout is The Hackney, helmed by James Beard semifinalist and executive chef Jamie Davis. Dishes here are inspired by the cultures that meet here, with an emphasis on local ingredients. The restored 1922 bank building is also home to an on-site gin distillery that creates the award-winning 1000 Piers Gin.

The Mulberry House is another local favorite, operating as a 16-room inn, a coffee shop, and a restaurant with live music on the roof and a seafood-heavy menu. Grab a craft cocktail and the tuna crudo for the full experience.

Open since 1928, Bill’s Hot Dogs is a Washington classic. It only takes cash, and your hot dog comes with chili, onion, and mustard. Shep’s Grill is a favorite greasy spoon for breakfast with local art for sale and classic dishes like biscuits and gravy and French toast.

The coastal vibes are strong at Backwater Jacks, beloved for its heaping burgers, fried seafood, and rum smoothies, all enjoyed with river views. Come by on the weekends for live music.

Best Shopping

This stretch of coastline has long inspired writers, so pick up a title penned by a North Carolina author at Pamlico Books. The store sells new and used titles, plus children's books, games, and gifts.

Nauti Life carries clothing and essentials for life on the coast, while Flying Pig Provisions offers locally made products like soaps and candles, plus staples such as milk and bread you can bring back to your rental.

Best Places to Stay

You’ll find all the standard hotels closer to the highway, but the best way to experience Little Washington is by spending the night in one of the several boutique inns and hotels. The West Main occupies the three-story Savings & Trust Bank built in 1906, with six studios and suites, full kitchens, and a downstairs restaurant with bourbon and whiskey cocktails.

The Elmwood 1820 Bed & Breakfast offers the traditional inn experience with five rooms, each with a different theme and vintage furnishings. If it’s a true Southern meal you’re after, don’t miss the daily breakfast, especially the fluffy biscuits.

Set in a 1921 home, The Ell Hotel is both female- and veteran-owned, named for owner Ellen “Ell” Brabo. The property has five guest rooms, all dog- and kid-friendly. There’s even a playroom for little ones, plus bike rentals and daily tea and coffee.