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, lets visitors explore the ecology of North Carolina's estuaries (especially the Tar-Pamlico River and Pamlico Sound), some of the threats facing our vital coastal rivers and sounds, and ways humans have used this ecosystem 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 with environmental themes from 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 6 & 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.

Shell Exhibit

Seashell Exhibit at Estuarium

An exhibit of seashells from around the world is now on display at the Estuarium. The collection, on loan from Richard Havens of Williamston, includes a fascinating variety of shell types made by an array of marine creatures. Ranging in size from smaller than a pinkie toe to larger than a foot, these seashells demonstrate some of nature's most intricate beauty and amazing adaptivity.

Events
Scheduled for the public
Groups

River Roving Educational River Tours –NC Estuarium, Washington, NC- Estuarium River Roving Educational Boat Tours -- Take a boat ride on the Pamlico-Tar River and learn about history and habitats of the Washington area. Tours scheduled Wednesdays-Fridays at 10:30 and 1:30, and Saturdays at 10:30. Maximum 10 riders per trip; reservations required. Free, but donations are requested for this enjoyable excursion. Children must be at least 6 years old to ride. Call (252) 948-0000 for reservations. River
Roving runs April-October.

A rare albino ruby-throated hummingbird was sighted in Chocowinity. This female juvenile was feeding avidly in preparation for her upcoming migration flight. A normally pigmented hummer also visited the feeder. Photo by Quent Lupton

Activities at the Estuarium

Hours of Operation
Tuesday - Saturday | 10:00 am - 4:00 pm

Directions
Click for directions

Admission

Members | Free admission, 10% discount on program and activity fees.
Standard (no program) | $4 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

Crab Pot Gift Shop
The Crab Pot highlights North Carolina products and books that are always popular gifts. Stop in and see our fabulous new fall arrivals.

Christmas at the Crab Pot

Partnership for the Sounds - North Carolina Estuarium