When the air turns crisp and the leaves begin to change, Manteo, North Carolina becomes a haven for fall enthusiasts. Located on Roanoke Island in Dare County, Manteo is steeped in history, coastal charm, and stunning natural beauty, making it the perfect destination to enjoy the autumn season. Here are some of the best fall activities to indulge in while visiting our quaint town.
Fall Festivals
Keep an eye out for local fall festivals. These events often feature craft vendors, live music, delicious food, and various family-friendly activities. Our personal favorite is the 12th annual Bluegrass Island Music Festival on October 19-21, 2023 at Roanoke Island Festival Park. The festival features a number of regionally and internationally famous bluegrass bands!
Elizabethan Gardens
A tribute to the first English colonists, the Elizabethan Gardens are a sight to behold in the fall. The vibrant hues of gold, red, and orange amongst the meticulously maintained plants make it an ideal place for leisurely strolls, photography, or simply soaking in the beauty of nature. This fall on October 28th, 2023 from 5pm-8pm you can attend “A night of 1587 Pumpkins” event at Elizabethan Gardens. The Night of 1587 Pumpkins is an event at which they attempt to light 1,587 jack-o-lanterns in celebration of the year English settlers came to Roanoke Island. The evening will consist of trick-or-treating, contests, and of course, pumpkins!
Ghost Tours
With a history as rich as Manteo’s, it’s no surprise that the town has its fair share of ghost stories. As Halloween approaches, take a spooky ghost tour and learn about the local legends and haunted places around town. Local guides will lead you through downtown Manteo sharing the spooky stories of our haunted beach town!
Farmers Market
Autumn brings with it not only the warm colors of the falling leaves but also an array of seasonal produce that is delightful to the palate and refreshing for the soul! There is no other better way to spend a Saturday fall morning than browsing a locally produced famers market like the Secotan Market in Wanchese, NC. Produces from the area gather to share food and goods that have been grown or crafted themselves right here in the Outer Banks!
Nature Trails
There’s no better way to truly experience the beauty of fall than by immersing yourself in nature. Explore the local trails around Manteo, whether it’s through the maritime forests, marshes, or along the coastline. We recommend exploring Nags Head Woods Preserve and the nature trail at Roanoke Island Festival Park.
Stay at White Doe Inn
The White Doe Inn offers the perfect stay for appreciating the coastal autumn downtown! After exploring and enjoying all of Manteo’s fall activities, end the day by relaxing back at the Inn with a cup of warm cider or make smores at the fire pit. Don’t miss out on your opportunity to enjoy the fall season in our small town of Manteo, NC.
