Is Bath, NC a Relaxing Vacation Destination?
North Carolina is home to many iconic historical sites and beaches that make the state a fantastic choice for spending your summer days. If you want to find the most relaxing vacation destination in North Carolina, then the town of Bath should be at the top of your list.
The town of Bath is a dandy place to get away for a few days where you can spend a memorable vacation. Plan an idyllic trip to Bath, NC, and have an easygoing, relaxing experience as you discover the historic and quaint town of Bath.
History of Bath, North Carolina
The historic town of Bath is North Carolina’s first and oldest town, founded in 1705. In 1708, Bath became home to 50 people and 12 houses, then later became the first port in the state, enabling trade in naval stores, fur, and tobacco.
Early Bath became a landmark for political rivalries, epidemics, Indian wars, and piracy. Now, it’s home to several period homes that survived the centuries, and have now been restored to their historic glory. Bath, NC, was declared as a North Carolina Historic Site in 1963.
What is Bath, NC famous for?
The town of Bath is probably most famous for being the home of the infamous pirate, Blackbeard, also known as Edward Teach. That’s right! The same pirate you’ve heard about, in books or in movies like Pirates Of The Caribbean, is actually a real person and he used to live in Bath. In 1718, Blackbeard settled in Bath, specifically in Plum Point, also called “Teach’s Point,” after his real name, Edward Teach.
Fun Things to Do in the Historic Bath, NC
While you’re wandering the beautiful and historic town of Bath, make sure that you get a glimpse of these charming tourist attractions that will take you back in time.
St. Thomas Episcopal Church
The St. Thomas Episcopal Church is a nearly 300-year old colonial structure built not long after Bath was founded. Built in 1734, it’s North Carolina’s oldest parish and very popular with visitors from all over. As you explore the historic church, you’ll find descriptive markers throughout the building that will give you beautiful insights into the early life of the town and the church. You can also enjoy a relaxing walk around the grounds of the church cemetery.
As you step into the church, you can admire its gorgeous interior and the beautiful craftsmanship that was used to restore it to its original glory. Look for intricate details inside the church, such as the ancient Queen Anne silver bell courtesy of King George II. The doors of St. Thomas Episcopal Church are always open and welcome to visitors and locals.
Van Der Veer House
Take a tour around this beautifully restored house that was built around 1790. The Van Der Veer House was named after Jacob Van Der Veer, one of the founders of the Bank of Washington. This particular colonial house was passed on to different owners and changed hands many times during the late nineteenth century.
For years, the Van Der Veer House went through drastic changes to its interior and exterior. However, in 1972, it was restored to its original design and now displays a gambrel roof and double-shouldered Flemish chimneys. Today, it’s become a museum with historical exhibits you can enjoy, and learn about the fascinating history of Bath.
1751 Palmer-Marsh House
Built in 1751, the Palmer-Marsh House is one of the longest surviving homes in Bath. The massive chimney built in the house was one of the reasons why it became widely popular. Like the Van Der Veer House, the Palmer-Marsh House also went through a lot of history as it was passed down by different families. Today, the sole owners of this celebrated home are Robert Palmer and Jonathan Marsh and their respective families.
The Palmer-Marsh House has been restored to its original colonial structure and became open to the public for tours starting in 1962. In 1970, it was declared a National Historic Landmark.
1830 Bonner House
Another one of Bath’s hidden gems is the Bonner House, built in 1830 by Joseph Bonner. The house sits at a beautiful spot within the junction of Back and Back creek and the Pamlico river. On the front porch of the Bonner House, you can appreciate the stunning and picture-perfect view of Bath Bay. In 1970, the Bonner House became a part of the National Registry of Historic Places (NRHP).
With the many fun things to do in Bath, NC, you will most likely need more than a day for exploration. Here are the best properties you can rent out while exploring Bath, NC:
- 1940 style cottage directly on the waterfront in Bath, NC
- 1700 square feet, 3 bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms
- sunsets, cookouts, campfires, boating, waterskiing, tubing, fishing, crabbing, swimming and more!
- situated on beautiful Bath Creek
- 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms
- offers a world of outdoor recreation and quiet evenings relaxing on a huge font porch
- luxury bed with luxury beddings!
- overlooking both Back and Bath Creeks in Historic Bath
- a summer family home with 3 downstairs bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms
- extras include a 110-foot pier with two Adirondack chairs (and plenty of folding chairs) that affords fishing, crabbing, swimming, and sunning.
- has 2 bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms
- front porch swing surrounded by water, canals on both sides, and the Pamlico River right off the front porch
- you have a fishing pier on the river (crab pots provided), as well as a 50 ft boat dock on the side canal
Where to Dine in Bath, North Carolina?
Exploring the colonial town of Bath is undoubtedly a magical experience and a sight to behold. However, nothing can quite compete with delicious foods when you’re taking a relaxing vacation in a place like Bath. Satisfy your cravings and dine in these restaurants after a day of exploring Bath, NC.
Blackbeard’s Tavern
End your eventful day with a meal at Blackbeard’s Tavern. You’ll not only get scrumptious meals, but also gorgeous panoramic views of the Bath Creek from the patio. Blackbeard’s Tavern serves gourmet style homemade pizzas, fresh salads, seafood, Angus burgers, pasta, and boneless wings accompanied by refreshing drinks from their full bar. A dinner at Blackbeard’s Tavern is a sure way to please your appetite and will make you say Ahoy! in delight.
Old Town Country Kitchen
Get a great bang for your buck at Old Town Country Kitchen. Try out their East Carolina BBQ with the special in-house BBQ sauce, a chef’s kiss meal you can enjoy any time of the day. They also have seafood, chicken tenders, chili cheese fries, hamburger steak, and more for your palette to relish in!
Where to Shop In Bath, NC?
The Pirates Treasure
Stop by the charming gift and souvenir shop called The Pirate Treasure. You’ll find Christmas ornaments and lovely handmade items you can bring home to remind you of your stay in Bath. The gift shop’s atmosphere is very warm and welcoming thanks to the gracious owner, who makes many of the crafts herself.
Oden’s Store and Antiques
Just a 6-minute drive from Bath is this lovely antique store where you can find all great kinds of treasure to take home. From last century tools and furniture to vintage items, this place is a collector’s haven. The Oden’s Store and Antiques is an interesting shop you don’t want to miss exploring!
The town of Bath is a lovely, quiet little town that will leave you dreaming of when you can return. Plan your next vacation in Bath, NC, if you really want to get to know the historical state of North Carolina. You’ll go home with beautiful memories to share and amazing stories from the history you learned about Bath.
This wholesome experience can even get you to visit for a second time, so what are you waiting for? Take a trip to Bath, NC now. A great historical adventure awaits you!