Partnership for the Sounds - North Carolina Estuarium
NC Estuarium

Where the rivers meet the sea
The North Carolina Estuarium, located in Washington on the Pamlico River, gives visitors a look at the ecology of North Carolina's estuaries (especially the Tar-Pamlico River and Pamlico Sounds), some of the threats facing these waters, and some ways humans have used the estuary for thousands of years.

This river is part of the Pamlico Sound estuary, which in turn is part of the Albemarle-Pamlico estuary.

As one of North Carolina's most innovative environmental centers, the Estuarium houses more than 200 scientific and historic exhibits that the whole family will enjoy. Features and activities include:
  • Artwork featuring environmental themes by regional artists, including a room-size interactive sculpture in the lobby
  • Aquariums and terrariums with live estuarine species
  • A 3/4-mile boardwalk along Pamlico River
  • Historic artifacts and boats
  • Special programs for scheduled groups
  • Hands-on educational displays
  • Captivating audio-visual presentations including a spectacular film of the Albemarle-Pamlico region
  • River Roving, a pontoon boat tour of the Pamlico-Tar River waterways (Ages 8 & up. Reservations required.)
  • Programs, classes and other regularly scheduled activities. Environmental educators on staff

Programs
The Estuarium offers special educational programs for scheduled groups as well as programs and events for the public. Pre-visit materials are available including school Scavenger Hunts. 

Events
Scheduled for the public
Groups

Hours of Operation
Tuesday - Saturday | 10 am - 4 pm

Directions
Click for directions

Admission
• Partners | Free admission, 10% discount on program and activity fees.
• Standard (no program) | $3 adults, $2 students (K-12), children 4 and under admitted free. Additional charge for special programs and activities.
• Special rates apply for organized groups with and without programming.
• There is no charge for River Roving boat tours.
• Gift cards can be applied to admission only.

Rentals
The North Carolina Estuarium auditorium, veranda and lobby are available for rentals for both public and private events. The facility is ADA accessible and has a catering kitchen and convenient and plentiful parking. Contact us for pricing and availability.

Contact Information 
US Mail | 223 East Water Street, Washington, NC 27889 
Street Address | 223 East Water Street, Washington
Email | estuarium@embarqmail.com
Telephone | 252.948.0000 

Gift Shop
The Crab Pot is full of unique gifts with a natural flair. Consider our new holiday decorations, North Carolina foods and gift basket selections. We have Webkinz!
Authorized Nautical Chart Agent, stocking charts from Cape Henry, and Norfolk, Virginia to Casino Creek, South Carolina 

Weather Station
Real-time weather information from the Estuarium 
Estuarium/Weather Station
Partnership for the Sounds - North Carolina EstuariumPartnership for the Sounds - North Carolina Estuarium