Just a short 35 miles up highway US 17 you will find the quaint, historic town of Washington. As you cross the bridge over the Tar-Pamlico River you see the lovely waterfront with its mile long brick and wood promenade. You can stroll along the waterfront and see waterfowl as they head over the river to nest at Castle Island. After your walk is the perfect time to head to Main Street for some serious shopping at one of the many fine boutiques, antique shoppes and art galleries. Starting at the top of Main Street you find The Meeting Place Restaurant serving hot coffee, homemade desserts and lunch specials daily. They also serve a fabulous Sunday Brunch. Right next door is South Market Antiques and Little Shoppes. They have over 6000 square feet of unique boutiques, mid century modern items and antiques that span decades with many one of a kind items. They are open 7 days a week and like many of the downtown shoppes are pet friendly. Cross over Main to The River Girl Antiques shop specializing in time worn gifts, furniture and accessories.
By now, you may be ready for a sweet treat. Check out Patty Cakes Cupcake Boutique for exotic Mini cupcakes. They have vegan, gluten free and fun favors for everyone. They are so delicious you will want to take some home to share.
You will find that many of Washington’s downtown buildings are being restored and reimagined into shops and restaurants. As you head a little further East on Main Street you find Southern Grace Boutique. This gem of a shop features trendy clothing and accessories that won’t break the bank! Stop in a couple of doors down at the fabulous 1913 Turnage Theatre. Take a tour of the beautifully restored stage and Auditorium. The Turnage houses the Arts of the Pamlico Arts Council so there is always an art exhibit, concert or special event going on. Now is a good time to have lunch at Grub Brothers Eatery. This is the perfect place to relax with hearty fair including gourmet burgers and craft beers. Tucked nearby in a quaint storefront you will find Secret Garden Gallery and Boutique. You can find beautiful handcrafted Jewelry, fabulous boutique clothing and local original art and gift items. A couple of doors down is Nauti Life Boutique and Gift Shop. They have a great selection of nautical gifts, Yeti Coolers, sunglasses, jewelry and cool graphic tee-shirts.
Now is the perfect time to grab your car and take a ride East on Main Street, through the historic district which will bring you to the Pamlico House Bed & Breakfast. You will want to pick up a brochure for your next overnight trip to Washington. You can also book luncheons and private events. Continue East on Main until you see the “Fun Zone” right on the Pamlico River. Inner Banks Outfitters has kayaks, bikes and paddle boards for sale or for rent. They also do bike repairs and have lots of planned events for the outdoor enthusiasts. Make your way back downtown to Wine and Words & Gourmet for gourmet cheeses, foods and wines and craft beers from around the world. You might want to make time for one of their scheduled wine tastings. Take home your favorites to enjoy later. You should take a minute to drop by Coldwell Banker Coastal Rivers Realty Office to see Beth Black Byrd, broker. She can show you all the beautiful homes available in Washington. Plus, she is a great resource for what is going on downtown! The end of your day in Washington should be dinner and craft cocktails at The Bank Bistro. This one time bank still has its original vault that has been converted to a wine cellar. You might even catch Lorenzo playing your favorites on the piano.
Washington has so many fine restaurants, such wonderful shopping and beautiful scenery and sunsets to share with visitors and residents alike. You will want to come back for a longer visit and stay a few nights to experience even more of this beautiful historic downtown! Please follow all our businesses on Facebook to find out the latest happenings and sales.