North Carolina Estuarium
Visit the world’s first Estuarium, one of North Carolina’s most innovative environmental centers. See more than 200 exhibits that describe our vital estuaries and coastal rivers, including:
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Aquariums with crabs and other estuarine life
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Fun and fascinating artworks
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Hands-on, interactive displays
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Artifacts from life on the Pamlico River
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Explorations of hurricanes and sea level rise
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Pamlico River boat tours
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Special programs on natural and cultural heritage
River Roving
Hop aboard for a one-of-a-kind educational pontoon boat tour, brought to you by the NC Estuarium! You'll enjoy the sights, sounds, and stories of the Tar-Pamlico River. It’s a totally FREE ride, but don’t forget—seats fill up fast, so be sure to call ahead and reserve your spot! When to Go: April 2nd to November 1st Wednesday-Friday: 10:00 AM & 12:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM (Each tour lasts 1.5 hours) How to Book: Call us at (252) 948-0000 to reserve your seat. (Hurry—these tours are popular!) A Few Quick Tips for River Rovers: Arrive 15 minutes early at the picnic table on our back deck to check in (please don’t wait by the boat at the dock!). Kids 6 and older are welcome to join the fun! Once checked in, you’ll have time to use the restroom before boarding. Your donation helps keep our boat program afloat and fuels our mission to spread environmental knowledge—so you’re not just having fun, you’re making a difference too!
School Trips
Bring Your Group to the Estuarium for an Adventure! Planning a field trip, summer camp outing, or a small group visit? We’re ready to welcome you year-round! From hands-on activities to exciting scavenger hunts, we’ve got something for everyone. We offer a variety of programs that dive into the wonders of the estuary, or we can tailor activities to meet specific NC standards. Programs include fascinating sculpture presentations and interactive learning experiences designed for groups. Our trips typically start around 10 AM and require a minimum of 10 participants. Price Breakdown: Adult Admission: $5.00 Student Admission: $3.00 Program Fee: $3.00 per person Ready to book your group’s adventure? Just send us an email with your name, phone number, and a brief description of your visit plans to nce@ncpfs.org. Let’s make your trip to the Estuarium unforgettable!
Click Here - Teacher Inquiry Form
Upcoming Events
The NC Estuarium hosts periodic events throughout the year. Check back here, on Instagram, or on Facebook to see our upcoming events.
Volunteer
Love Water, Nature, and Giving Back? We Want YOU to Volunteer! If you're passionate about the environment and want to make a difference, come join us as a volunteer! We need amazing people like YOU to help us spread the word about our estuary and inspire others to protect this beautiful ecosystem. At the Estuarium, there’s a volunteer role for everyone! Greet visitors from around the world and show off our famous water cycle lobby sculpture, assist school groups and help young minds learn about the estuary, become a docent in our exhibit hall and share cool facts at the "Discovery Cart" or lend a hand with maintenance and keep our grounds and building looking great! No matter your skills or interests, there’s a place for you here, and your time will make a real impact! Ready to get involved? Give us a call at 252-948-0000 and let’s chat about how you can make a splash with us!
Art of the Estuary
Calling All Local Artists: Your Work Belongs at the Estuarium! Are you an artist with a passion for nature? We want to feature YOUR art in our museum! We’ve got a special exhibit space ready to showcase paintings, photos, and all kinds of creative pieces that highlight the beauty of our incredible estuary. If you’re ready to have your art on display, give us a call at (252) 948-0000 or email us at nce@ncpfs.org to learn more about our “Art of the Estuary” program! Currently on Display: Constance Sartor! We’re proud to feature the work of Constance Sartor, an artist and biologist from Charlotte. Her upcycled collages are made from magazine cutouts and showcase the diverse animals and breathtaking scenes of our estuary. Some of her pieces even spotlight our beloved animals like Cornelius the corn snake, KC and JoJo the alligators, and Mr. Jimmy Crabs. Check out her work and get inspired by following her on Instagram at Cuddlefish Design Co. Come visit us, discover some amazing art, and maybe even get your own creative work in the spotlight!
Rentals
Host Your Next Event with Us! Looking for a stunning venue for your wedding, party, or meeting? Our beautiful space offers breathtaking views and is perfect for any occasion, big or small. Whether you’re exchanging vows, celebrating with friends, or hosting a professional meeting, we’ve got a versatile space to meet your needs. Our venue is ideal for: Weddings: A picturesque backdrop for your special day. Parties & Celebrations: Birthdays, anniversaries, and more—make every event memorable. Meetings & Conferences: A peaceful setting for productive business gatherings. Ready to book your event? Contact us at 252-948-0000 for rates and details. Let’s make your next event truly unforgettable!