Roanoke Island Festival Park Adventure Museum

Roanoke Island Festival Park in Manteo is one of the Outer Banks' most comprehensive and rewarding family attractions, bringing to life the story of the first English settlers on American soil through a remarkable combination of living history, interactive exhibits, and the centerpiece of the experience — the Elizabeth II, a full-scale replica of a 16th-century sailing vessel that visitors can board and explore.

The park tells the story of the Roanoke Colony, the mysterious disappearance of the "Lost Colony" of 1587, and the broader narrative of early European exploration of the North Carolina coast. What distinguishes Roanoke Island Festival Park from a typical history museum is the commitment to experiential learning — costumed interpreters demonstrate period crafts, cooking, and survival skills, encouraging visitors to engage rather than simply observe.

The Adventure Museum section offers hands-on exhibits that let kids interact with tools, artifacts, and the physical challenges faced by 16th-century settlers. Combined with the outdoor living history area and the ship, the park delivers 2–3 hours of genuinely engaging content for families with kids of all ages.

The park is stroller-friendly with changing facilities available, making it accessible for families with infants and toddlers as well as older children. The outdoor areas are beautiful along the Manteo waterfront, with a boardwalk and waterfront promenade that makes a lovely addition to the visit.

Admission for a family of four runs $50–70. The park pairs naturally with the NC Aquarium on Roanoke Island just down the road — combining both sites makes for an outstanding full day in Manteo.