This Blink-And-You’ll-Miss-It Town in North Carolina Is So Worth Exploring

There are so many small towns in North Carolina that are peppered all around the state. While I enjoy the amenities of larger cities, there’s just something about small towns that draws me in. Plymouth is one of my favorite small towns in North Carolina, and it truly offers a little something for everyone. From its rich Civil War history to its abundant waters ideal for fishing, you could easily spend a weekend in Plymouth and never be bored. 

Nestled within Washington County, Plymouth is a charming town in North Carolina with fewer than 4,000 residents. That may not sound like much, but it is actually the largest town in Washington County!

Plymouth is situated on the beautiful Roanoke River, which is largely responsible for this small town's place on the map. It was established in 1787, making it the first incorporated town in the county, and its location on the river made it a vital trade hub. 

A federal customs house opened in Plymouth in 1831, and by 1867, Congress approved funding to build the Roanoke River Lighthouse for a lightship that was anchored at the mouth of the river. Visitors to Plymouth can visit a replica of the lighthouse today.

Plymouth played a key role during the Civil War, and the town changed hands three times during the war. It was also a part of the Underground Railroad Network. 

As is the case with many towns that relied heavily on rivers and railroads, once traffic shifted to roads and highways, Plymouth’s popularity declined. What emerged from the ashes was a shift toward ecotourism, focusing on activities such as fishing, hunting, nature trails, and wildlife viewing. 

Speaking of wildlife, it won’t take you long to notice the mascot of sorts in the town. The Coastal Plain of North Carolina has the largest black bear population in the world! Bear-Ology is a museum in downtown Plymouth where visitors can learn more about this misunderstood creature. The museum focuses on dispelling myths about black bears while learning about their importance in the wild. You might even want to time your visit to coincide with the National Black Bear Festival, which takes place every summer.

Another museum in Plymouth worth visiting is the Port o’ Plymouth Museum. Housed in the historic 1923 Atlantic Coast Line Train depot, the museum preserves the unique history of Washington County, including Plymouth’s relationship to the Civil War (notably the Battle of Plymouth). Admission is only $3.50 for adults, a steal in today’s economy! 

Share this article with someone you want to explore this charming small town in North Carolina with. Or plan your own trip to Plymouth with Only In Your State’s AI-powered itinerary planner.

Pettigrew State Park is about a 30-minute drive away. This underrated state park in North Carolina is perfect for nature lovers. Lake Phelps alone is worth a side quest.