Downtown Manteo, located on Roanoke Island, offers visitors a charming and historic destination to visit while vacationing on the Outer Banks.
If you are still in the planning phase of your OBX vacation, be sure to get your complimentary copy of our Destination Guide!
From captivating pirate legends to intriguing lighthouse sagas, Manteo is a treasure trove of history. Its meticulously preserved buildings, dating back to the colonial era, provide a fascinating window into the past during the Manteo walking tours. Take a leisurely stroll along the tree-lined streets, marvel at the architectural wonders, and immerse yourself in the area's rich heritage. Whether visiting in the spring, summer, or fall, you won’t be disappointed with one of these experiences. Here are three downtown Manteo walking tours for you to consider.
OBX Ghost Tours
Are you ready to discover the haunted history of the Outer Banks? OBX Ghost Tours guides participants through downtown Manteo and narrates the tale of why the Outer Banks are home to the most haunted beaches in the United States. You will be entertained as your tour guide leads you by lantern light and tells you spooky stories. Haunted history comes to life during this unique experience suitable for all ages. You will even get to use a real ghost detector! This tour is approximately one mile long, so plan accordingly.
Tour Cost: $25/adults, $20/children ages 6-12, $0/children under 5
Tour Length: 1.25 hours
Manteo Historic Walking Tour
Experience Manteo, NC, by candlelight, when you book a guided tour with Manteo Historic Walking Tour. Starting at 7:00 pm, you will ramble along the waterfront with retired police chief Francis D’Ambra. He will take you on a journey with an entertaining mix of the lores, tales, and history that make Dare County "The Land of Beginnings.” Learn about The Lost Colony, pirates, The Underground Railroad, the Wright Brothers, and more. Since 2004, D’Ambra has been guiding visitors and locals through history and legends.
The Manteo Historic Walking Tour is appropriate for all ages and can be booked from April through October. This tour is handicap accessible. Private tours are available upon request. Those participating in this tour will depart from 101 Budleigh Street in Manteo.
Tour Cost: $28/adult, $0/ages 14 and under
Tour Length: 1.5 hours
Manteo Walking Tour
Explore approximately half a mile of downtown Manteo with local author, editor, and comedian Greg Smrdel. Greg lives in Manteo and loves to share stories about the quaint coastal town with close ties to Andy Griffith. Did you know that Manteo is the town on which the Andy Griffith Show was based? Discover fun facts as history comes to life with a Manteo Walking Tour.
If you would like a private tour, they are available upon advance request.
The tour departs from the front of the pavilion at Magnolia Market in downtown Manteo at 10:00 am.
Tour Cost: $25/adult, $0/ages 14 and under
Tour Length: 1.5 hours
Other Considerations For a Manteo Walking Tour
- Tips - Gratuity is not typically included in your ticket price. While tipping is not mandatory, it is greatly appreciated by your tour guide.
- Shoes - Wear comfortable walking shoes that are weather-appropriate. Manteo walking tours range from .5 miles to 1 mile.
- Clothing - Wear comfortable clothing based on the weather. Layers are preferred for mornings and evenings.
- Water - You are welcome to bring a water bottle to sip on while walking. Please be sure to dispose of trash responsibly.
- Cameras - Most tours encourage you to snap photos along your tour route. However, recording the guide is typically not allowed.
- Lunch/Dinner - Manteo has a variety of local restaurants for you to enjoy before or after your tour.
More Things to See and Do in Manteo
- The Lost Colony - Outdoor Drama
- NC Aquarium on Roanoke Island
- Elizabethan Gardens
- Roanoke Island Festival Park
Manteo is a beautiful coastal town that is perfect for a full or half-day excursion during your OBX vacation. Located just a short drive from Corolla, Manteo is easy to get to… and has plenty to enjoy! A world of exploration awaits you just outside the door of your Paramount Destinations vacation rental.
