thevirginiahypegirl – Page 10 – The Virginia Hype Girl: Uncovering the Best of Virginia + Nearby Adventures!

Searching for somewhere to go on an adventure? Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of southwest Virginia, St. Paul is a charming town that attracts visitors for its natural beauty, historic significance, and unique attractions. Surrounded by the Jefferson National Forest, St. Paul provides ample opportunities for outdoor recreation.

Hikers can traverse miles of scenic trails, passing breathtaking vistas and lush forests along the way. The Clinch River runs through town, offering fishing, kayaking, and tubing adventures. The nearby Channels State Forest features majestic sandstone formations carved by water and wind erosion over the eons.

History buffs will enjoy learning about St. Paul’s origins as an early frontier settlement. The town contains well-preserved 19th century buildings and homes that provide a window into the past. In addition to its natural splendor and historical significance, St. Paul hosts a variety of unique attractions.

Check out the various festivals and events held in St. Paul throughout the year, from music festivals to holiday celebrations. The town comes alive during community events like the Clinch River Days. With such diverse offerings, it’s easy to understand why so many make the scenic mountain drive to experience the charms of St. Paul, Virginia.

Everyone I met while visiting was so friendly. If you’re an adventurer or atv lover like me you’ll enjoy this area. The Western Front Hotel is the perfect lodging and a great, “mancation”, spot, or a great hotel to surprise your guy with a trip to.

Mountain View/Spearhead Trails St. Paul

Cross off your bucket list being able to take an ATV tour of historic trails and old logging roads winding through the mountains. The Western Front Hotel has the option to book atv packages that include an atv rental during your stay making the booking process easy. The convenience of having the atv rental at the hotel was perfect. The Western Front Hotel provided trail maps and the staff was very helpful to answer any questions we had.

We were able to walk out the back door of the hotel, get in our rental and from the parking lot drive up to the trails. In addition to atv rentals the hotel sells passes for the trail if you choose to bring your own atv, utv, quad or dirt bike. The trails were well kept and were labeled by their level of difficulty as well as what type of atv was allowed on them.

Some of the area trails allowed for Jeeps and 4×4 vehicles and other spots were only accessible by mountain bike or hiking. Our favorite spot was an overlook of the surrounding mountains. While on our adventure we saw deer, turkey and a beer with her cub. The area was very peaceful and a great place to connect with nature.

Mountain View on the Spearhead Trail St. Paul,Virginia — Mountain View on the Spearhead Trail St. Paul, Virginia

Mountain View Spearhead Trail St. Paul, Virginia

Dining in St. Paul, Virginia

Sample delicious Southern cuisine at one of the many eateries in St. Paul, from homestyle cooking to fine dining options. The town of St. Paul, Virginia is quaint and offers several restaurants, grocery, a pharmacy and other shopping. I really loved that we could walk from the Western Front Hotel to food options. Make sure to check for local activities during your stay.

The Fat Boys BBQ across the street from the Western Front Hotel, has the sweetest proprietors and they encourage everyone to try the Heart Attack which is a baked potato with cheese and butter topped with BBQ chicken (seen below). Locals like to add baked beans and even coleslaw on top of this creation. This restaurant also, has plenty of other options and cooks all their own BBQ in town.

Heart Attack potato at Fat Boy’s BBQ in St. Paul — Fat Boy’s BBQ in St. Paul, Virginia

Things to do in St. Paul, Virginia

The area behind the Western Front Hotel has a stage for live music, a fire pit for s’mores and plenty of room for relaxing. The Western Front hotel is pet friendly as well though we didn’t bring ours dogs on the trip. The hotel has a small gift shop that had some cute merchandise including their pillows, bath products from the hotel, doggie treats and other items.

One of the cutest souvenirs from the Western Front Hotel is a green ceramic rabbit that holds cotton balls (seen below). For more shopping take a stroll through the charming streets of downtown St. Paul and admire the historic architecture and charming shops.

Adorable ceramic rabbit made by a local artist at the Western Front Hotel in St. Paul, Virginia

Stage area behind the Western Front Hotel in St. Paul, Virginia — Adorable ceramic rabbit made by a local artist at the Western Front Hotel in St. Paul, Virginia

The St. Paul, Virginia area is also close to many other activities including rafting, kayaking and hiking. Enjoy the natural beauty of the Appalachian mountains with various hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding area. Take a bike ride and discover the beauty of Southwest Virginia by biking along world-class trails that offer breathtaking views and exciting challenges.

Enjoy scenic drive through the Appalachian Mountains. Drive through rolling hills and lush forests along the scenic byways in the area. Spend a relaxing day on the water fishing for trout or paddling along the scenic river. Go fishing or kayaking on the Clinch River. The choice is yours and there is truly something for everyone to do in the area surrounding the Western Front Hotel. I can’t recommend this hotel enough especially for ATV lovers. This adventure is waiting for you and it’s only in beautiful Virginia at the Western Front Hotel.

Riding on Mountain View Spearhead Trail Virginia

📌If you enjoyed my article on the Western Front Hotel and St. Paul, Virginia please be sure to share on your own social media and pin it.

If you are a hotel, campground, or business and would like to collaborate please contact me at krystle@takeawalkinmyflipflops.com thank you.

Take A Walk in My Flip Flops:Travel Blog

Visit to Appomattox Courthouse National Historical Park

June 13, 2022October 24, 2024 Krystle Kitchen

With the continued rise in fuel cost many people may be looking for alternative destinations for summer vacations this year. Staycations have become more popular recently as people look for things to do within driving distance of their home to save on fuel and entertainment costs. Living in the Old Dominion there is no shortage of things to go do for a day trip as our state offers both beaches and mountain fun.

I was born in and have lived in Virginia for 35 years and there is still much I have not seen. I am always finding new places to see and explore that are unique to my state. With the first permanent settlement in 1607 at Jamestown being close by I grew up surrounded by history. So many historical places are in Virginia it’s hard to decide where to visit first. I always tell people a visit to the historical triangle including Williamsburg and Yorktown are wonderful places to have a day trip, a weekend stay or staycation.

I enjoy traveling and sharing my travels with others. I feel history, especially comes alive when you are immersed in it. Recently I traveled to Appomattox, Virginia for work. I had not been prior and during my stay I made time to explore the Appomattox Courthouse village and Historical Park areas. Appomattox, Virginia is a beautiful area with a small town feel and a history buff’s dream. The downtown has multiple shops and restaurants to visit. In addition the town also, is home to several food trucks and stands. Consider supporting these small businesses while you’re in town.

Appomattox Inn and Suites

While in Appomattox, Virginia I stayed at the Appomattox Inn and Suites . I found the hotel to be very clean, comfortable and economical. The lobby had some nods to the Civil War as do the hotel rooms which are decorated with pictures from the nearby battlefield and grounds. The hotel has a bar area that was open till 10pm for drinks and a restaurant named Cannonball for appetizers and small bites.

If you’re into history or Civil War sites this hotel is perfect because it is very close to the Appomattox battlefield and Appomattox Courthouse village where the American Civil War came to an end in April of 1865. The American Civil War museum is a close by area attraction to this hotel as well. If you’re unfamiliar with the American Civil War or what the area has to offer the hotel staff are very friendly and the hotel has available maps and information on local attractions.

The Appomattox Courthouse village and Historical Park areas are very well laid out and it is easy to follow the information trail to understand what took place here in April 1865. Even someone unfamiliar with the American Civil War will feel educated on the topics after visiting thanks to the labels, maps and informative signage. The area can be explored at one’s own pace or one can choose to join an on-site tour. The grounds also, include trails to walk and there are maps and signs available to follow for them.

The buildings that make up the village grounds of the Appomattox Court House (some seen above) are well preserved and maintained. There were multiple guides dressed in period costume to explain the layout of the grounds and to answer any questions. The courthouse itself has a museum in it with a 17 minute video I would suggest watching it during your visit as it explains what took place on the grounds and leading up to the end of the American Civil war.

For me seeing the markers for the last shot fired during the American Civil War and the marker for the spot where Grant and Lee met was very humbling and thought provoking. No matter a person’s views about the America Civil War I believe we can all agree that the people who fought in it were American and it is a travesty the lives that were lost on either side. The American Civil War is part of our history and I believe it is important that people educate themselves about it and preserve these hollowed grounds.

This room inside the Clover Hill Tavern was made into a makeshift printing press and here during the surrender Federal officers printed over 30,000 parole for surrender documents to be signed by Confederate soldiers

The layout and information provided at the Appomattox Courthouse village is very thorough and attention to detail is given inside the buildings. The Clover Hill Tavern for example, is set up to show what it must have looked like when one of its rooms was made into a makeshift printing press. It was here during the surrender Federal officers printed over 30,000 parole for surrender documents to be signed by Confederate soldiers. To be able to stand within the walls of this building is especially memorable for someone that loves history.

Besides the buildings the story of the people involved in the battle comes to life on the grounds. There is a small family style graveyard on the grounds, a single grave under an old cedar tree belonging to Lafayette Meeks an area resident and a 19 grave cemetery a short walk away which has several unknown confederate soldiers, plus one unknown union soldier. It is interesting to read the documented history of these individuals and it helps to bridge the human connection to these past lives lost.

A short walk from the Appomattox Courthouse village one can also, follow signage and learn more about the events leading up to the surrender. There is an area with information about Grant’s Headquarters, open fields to walk and a small monument to see as well. Following signage by car the battlefield continues into the town of Appomattox, but wasn’t open when I visited (June 2022). The gate was locked and the area didn’t look maintained, but hopefully will open back soon to the public.

There was plenty to see and explore on the ground of the Appomattox Courthouse village, the surrounding areas and the town. I think a day trip or weekend staycation in Appomattox, Virginia would be perfect for a history lover or someone wanting to learn more about the American Civil War. I enjoyed my visit to Appomattox, Virginia and learning more about American history.

If you enjoyed my article please share/pin it and if you know someone planning a trip to Virginia please share my article with them ☺️ If you are a hotel, campground or business and would like to collaborate please contact me at krystle@takeawalkinmyflipflops.com . Thank you!

Take A Walk in My Flip Flops:Travel Blog

A Visit to Jennette’s Pier Nags Head, North Carolina

March 16, 2022October 24, 2024 Krystle Kitchen

Jennette’s Pier in Nags Head, North Carolina is really a unique and interesting site to check out when visiting the Outer Banks. The original pier was built in 1939 and had to be rebuilt in 2011 after a hurricane. The 1000 feet long concrete fishing pier offers numerous informative signs talking about the rich history of the pier and fishing in the Outer Banks.

Inside the building at the pier there are a couple of tanks with fish on display and information about them. A walk on the pier is only $2 for adults and $1 for children (free to North Carolina Aquarium members with card). Even if you’re not interested in visiting the pier to fish it is worth it for the views. The pier also, has a North Carolina Aquarium gift shop with some items themed for Jennette’s Pier. I personally love their vintage pier post cards.

Fishing from the pier is $14 for adults and $7 for children and includes a one day admission. Other options are available for multiple days and annual passes. A NC fishing license isn’t required in addition to this fee to fish from the pier as the fee covers a person for the paid period (on the pier only). Information on different types of fish that can be caught as well as citation information can be obtained from the visitor’s desk.

One of the coolest features of this North Carolina Aquarium location is the public beach access and free parking! Jennette’s Pier Piet also, offers Summer Camps and learning experiences for schools (including free programs for Title 1 schools) and children. In addition the pier has is a beautiful rentable venue for events, special occasions and weddings. Jennette’s Pier is definitely a place you’ll want to visit on your next trip to the OBX.

Do your part to help save the ocean! 🦈🦦🐬🐳🐠🐢

I appreciate that the North Carolina aquariums contribute a lot of their resources to conservation and research. Plastic is causing many issues for ocean life. We can all do our part to reduce, recycle and reuse! Considering buying a reusable straw or skipping one all together. Each little part can add up to something big. I personally carry one of these straws on my wallet and use it almost everyday.

Save a sea turtle….say NO to plastic straws❤️🐢

If you’re interested in more information about the Outer Banks check out my article Camping on the OBX which includes a lot of interesting area information as well as information on the Oregon Inlet Campground and Visit a North Carolina Aquarium which includes a full listing of all the North Carolina Aquarium sites.

If you are a hotel, campground or business and would like me to visit and write a blog for you please contact me at krystle@takeawalkinmyflipflops.com . Thank you!

Take A Walk in My Flip Flops:Travel Blog

6 Reasons You Need to Visit the Crystal Coast of North Carolina

January 26, 2022October 24, 2024 Krystle Kitchen

The Crystal Coast of North Carolina is known for being a beautiful vacation spot with areas of emerald green waters, delicious fresh seafood and a variety of activities. The historic home lined streets of Beaufort, North Carolina and the tales of pirate’s treasure have lured me south of Virginia many times.

There is so much to do and see in the 11 distinct communities that make up the Crystal Coast which begins below Okracoke, North Carolina. In this blog I will highlight six things I believe make the area unique enough to make you want to visit. I know every time I visit I always find new things to do and see.

Amazing Locally Caught Seafood

If you’re in the Morehead City area of North Carolina I recommend checking out one of my favorite Morehead City, North Carolina restaurants Southern Salt Seafood. At this restaurant they serve up Bekah’s Bay Oysters and the owner of this oyster company is a true girl boss. These oysters are some of the best I’ve ever had and they keep me coming back to Southern Salt Seafood Company every time we are near Morehead City, North Carolina. The drinks are also always tasty and unique.

Crab dip and pita chips at Moonrakers Beaufort, North Carolina

Appetizer Special featuring pimento cheese, Dijon mustard, Foie gras, celery and bread at Moonrakers Beaufort, North Carolina — Crab dip and pita chips at Moonrakers Beaufort, North Carolina

There are many different restaurants on Front Street to visit in Beaufort, North Carolina as well. One of our favorites is Moonrakers which offers roof top dinning, a bar and a notable wine list. According to the front of the menu the restaurant is named for, “a square sail flown immediately above a skysail on the royal masts of a square rigged sailing ship”. The menu is full of delicious seafood dishes and unique local favorites. The service is great and the drinks are just as delicious as the meal.

History is Alive in Beaufort, North Carolina

After dinner in Beaufort, North Carolina I recommend walking around Front Street and looking at some of the beautiful historic homes that line the street. If you’re interested in learning more about the history of Beaufort, North Carolina and some ghostly fun taking a ghost tour might be interesting. I have been on the Beaufort Ghost Walk and enjoyed the stories that were told especially about the Old Cemetery.

Borden House 1768 Beaufort, North Carolina — Historic Home Beaufort, North Carolina

One of my favorite places to visit in Beaufort, North Carolina is actually the Old Cemetery. I have to walk through it every time I’m in town. I’m not morbid, but this cemetery dates back to the 1700s and has so many stories to tell. A list of the note worthy gravesite can be found online or on paper in a small box attached to the graveyard fence. Tour Companies in Beaufort offer up guided tours of the cemetery and ghost tours that include spooky tales of those entombed in the Old Cemetery or you can grab a paper guide from the box and look around at your own leisure.

Ferns growing on the trees at the Old Cemetery in Beaufort, North Carolina

My favorite grave is that of Captain John Hill (1817-1879) his grave reads: “The form that fills this silent grave Once tossed on ocean’s rolling wave, But in a port securely fast,He’s dropped his anchor here at last.” Some of the old grave stones are quite thought provoking and interesting. The ferns that grow on the trees within the Old Cemetery add to its charm.

Wild Horses, Pirates and Seashells

The marina in Beaufort, North Carolina has much to offer for water activities and tours.

If you enjoy getting out on the water Beaufort, North Carolina also has a lot to offer for water activities. A simple walk down to the marina on Front Street and you can find a variety of boats ready to take tourist on tours, pirate cruises, fishing charters and out to go shelling on Shackleford banks. I have personally used the Island Express Ferry system and had great service.

Wild horses on Carrot Island Beaufort, North Carolina

Take a private charter and go shelling or hang out with the locals — Wild horses on Carrot Island Beaufort, North Carolina

Across from the marina on Front Street if you’re lucky you might catch a glimpse of the wild horses on Carrot Island. For a closer look at Taylor’s Creek and beautiful views of a crystal coast sunset I recommend taking a sunset cruise on the “WANDERER” with Captain Ron. Tales of buried pirate treasure while watching dolphins play made our trip to Beaufort very memorable.

North Carolina Maritime Museum-Beaufort

If pirates are your forté I definitely recommend a trip to the North Carolina Maritime Museum. There is a lot of interesting information about the area and pirates like Blackbeard that stalked the waters off the Carolina’s. Blackbeard called Beaufort home. The museum has so many cool artifacts relating to Blackbeard and the Queen Anne’s Revenge which is located in the Beaufort Inlet off the Fort Macon State Park. This museum kept me busy reading and exploring for a couple hours.

Pirate statue at the North Carolina Maritime Museum in Beaufort, North Carolina

Queen Anne’s Revenge model inside the North Carolina Maritime Museum in Beaufort, North Carolina — Pirate statue at the North Carolina Maritime Museum in Beaufort, North Carolina

If you’re not familiar with Blackbeard (Edward Teach) his former house which is known today as the Hammock House is also located in Beaufort, North Carolina. It is the oldest house in Beaufort. The house sits off Hammock Lane and is a private residence. There is a plaque outside the home noting the historic significance.

Fort Macon State Park-Atlantic Beach, NC

When you explore the Crystal Coast of North Carolina the area of Atlantic Beach is worth a visit and offers many beautiful beach spots. This area also is home to the Fort Macon State Park. The fort is a must see for Civil War enthusiasts and offers a lot of information relating the the war between the states.

Exploring the restored fort and going back in time is thought provoking. The views from the top of the fort are gorgeous and the beach area outside the fort is perfect for a beach walk. The exhibits both inside and out the fort, the guided tour and the musket/canon demonstration make this one of the places I would recommend visiting on a trip to the Crystal Coast of North Carolina.

North Carolina Aquarium-Pine Knoll Shores

A short drive from Beaufort is the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shore. This location has a very unique feature which is a replica of the U-352 German submarine. This submarine is very special because it is the first U-boat sunk by the U.S. Coast Guard. There is information about this submarine outside the display. This tank is very interesting to watch and often has divers inside to answer questions. I like that this tank has nurse, sand tiger and sandbar sharks along with other fish and a green sea turtle.

Divers with in the shark tank. The replica of the German submarine replica inside the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores — Divers with in the shark tank. The replica of the *U-352* German submarine replica inside the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores can be seen behind them.

Divers with in the shark tank. The replica of the *U-352* German submarine replica inside the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores can be seen behind them.

In addition this aquarium also has an area dedicated to loggerhead sea turtles and their journey. Seeing hatchlings that are being rehabilitated at the aquarium is a really cool experience. In addition this exhibit offered information about helping efforts to save loggerhead turtles and to prevent pollution on our beaches. Plastic straws and plastic pollutants are especially deadly to these fragile creatures.

Crystal Coast-Come for the history and stay for the sunset!

These are just a small sample of the many things that can be found on the Crystal Coast of North Carolina. The perfect summer vacation spot! Come for the history and stay for the sunsets. Historical sites that you can’t see anywhere else, delicious local seafood, prestine beaches, fun local activities, wild horses and the beautiful sunsets are in my six top reasons to want to stay for a day, weekend or week(s) on the Crystal Coast of North Carolina. Whatever you find to do on your visit to the Crystal Coast of North Carolina you won’t be disappointed and you will be sure to leave with many memories. I hope you’ll enjoy one or all of these things on your next trip to the Crystal Coast of North Carolina.

Know someone planning a trip to North Carolina? Please share my article with them!

North Carolina Aquarium Tips

If you are a hotel, campground or business and would like me to visit and write a blog for you please contact me at krystle@takeawalkinmyflipflops.com thank you.

Take A Walk in My Flip Flops:Travel Blog

Why You Should Visit a North Carolina Aquarium

January 10, 2022January 13, 2025 Krystle Kitchen

Winter is here and it is tempting to stay inside during the cold weather. There are plenty of places to get out though during the winter and keep warm at the same time. One of the places that I enjoy to go visit is aquariums. Aquariums are perfect to visit no matter the season because of being climate controlled and no matter how many times I go (even to the same aquariums) there is always something different to see and do. As someone who has both scuba and snorkeled many places in the Caribbean, Mexico, and abroad visiting an aquarium gives me a quick underwater fix.

Outside the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knolls Shore

There are four North Carolina Aquarium locations and even though I do not live in North Carolina I find myself in North Carolina quite a bit. North Carolina Aquariums are located on Roanoke Island (OBX), at Fort Fisher (Kure Beach near Wilmington, NC), Pine Knoll Shores (Beaufort and Atlantic Beach area), and Jeanette’s Pier (OBX). All of the locations are in areas that also, have plenty of other things to do and see around them. It is easy to make a day trip, weekend getaway, or week-long vacation around visiting one of these aquariums.

North Carolina Aquarium-Roanoke Island

Out of the four North Carolina Aquariums, I visit the Roanoke Island location the most because my husband and I visit the Outer Banks of NC frequently. One of my favorite things about this location is the beautiful views of the Albemarle sound from the pier going out behind the aquarium. During certain times this location even has opportunities to fish and learn about crabbing from this pier.

Sea turtle rehabilitating at the North Carolina Aquarium

I also, like the Sea Turtle Assistance and Rehabilitation (STAR) Center at the aquarium. Typically the area where the sea turtles are rehabilitating can even be seen or walked through. Another cool feature of this aquarium is an interactive area that replicates what veterinarians and rehabilitation workers go through to help the turtles rehabilitate. I think this area is especially cool for children as it allows a hands-on look at how rehabilitation efforts are done.

Learning about sea turtle rehabilitation and virtually checking my (plastic) turtle’s shark bite.

The interactive rehabilitation exhibit starts with picking out a (plastic) turtle from a bin and then taking it to different stations to find out what is wrong with it and to learn about how a turtle with that particular ailment would be rehabilitated. Hopefully, an activity like this will encourage young minds to become curious about sea turtle rehabilitation and helping sea creatures. Sea turtles are one of my favorite sea animals because they are so majestic. Being able to see one up close can be very memorable.

A lion fish at the North Carolina Aquarium-Roanoke Island

This aquarium also offers a touch tank which always seems to be a favorite of visitors. This Sea Senses area allows touching of stingrays and invertebrates. Like the sea turtle rehabilitation area, I hope that by allowing people to see sea creatures up close they are more likely to want to preserve and care about the ocean.

Shark tank at the North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island featuring a replica of the

The North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island has many beautiful exhibits of fish and an area with reptiles as well. One of the neatest exhibits unique to this location is the replica of the S.S. Monitor. This replica is submerged inside the shark tank and is very thought-provoking to look at. For history buffs and lovers alike, the Ironclad Sanctuary is a must-see. The aquariums offer information on the history of the S.S. Monitor as well as other ships and wrecks in the Graveyard of the Atlantic exhibit.

From being able to get up close to sea turtles, to seeing a replica of the S.S. Monitor and all the well-designed fish displays the Roanoke Island location has a lot to offer. The Roanoke Island and the Outer Banks area in general have many things to do, some of which I featured in another travel post.

North Carolina Aquarium-Pine Knoll Shores

Sand sculpture exhibit during the summer at Pine Knoll Shores Aquarium

Another location for the North Carolina Aquarium is at Pine Knoll Shore. This location also has a very unique feature which is a replica of the U-352 German submarine. This submarine is very special because it is the first U-boat sunk by the U.S. Coast Guard. There is information about this submarine outside the display. This tank is very interesting to watch and often has divers inside to answer questions. I like that this tank has a nurse, sand tiger, and sandbar sharks along with other fish and a green sea turtle.

In addition, this aquarium also has an area dedicated to loggerhead sea turtles and their journey. Seeing hatchlings that are being rehabilitated at the aquarium is a cool experience. This exhibit also offered information about helping efforts to save loggerhead turtles and prevent pollution on our beaches. Plastic straws and plastic pollutants are especially deadly to these fragile creatures.

The North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores is a close drive to Atlantic Beach, Fort Macon, Beaufort, and Emerald Isle. If you have never been to this area of North Carolina I highly suggest a trip. It is an area of North Carolina I find myself going back to again and again.

North Carolina Aquarium-Fort Fisher

The North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fishers is in the Kure Beach area of North Carolina close to Wilmington. My favorite exhibit at this location is modeled off the Cape Fear Shoal and can be seen behind me in the picture above. I also, like that this aquarium location has both an upper and lower level. This North Carolina Aquarium location has a white alligator that was fascinating to see too. Luna, the white alligator is located inside the Cape Fear Conservatory exhibit along with snakes and other reptiles.

Luna, a white alligator at the North Carolina Aquarium Fort Fisher

The jellyfish exhibit at the North Carolina Aquarium Fort Fisher is one of my favorites as well. This exhibit is well lit and it is easy to capture detailed photos of the jellyfish even with a cellphone camera. I like using pictures of jellyfish as my background on my tablet and Apple Watch. Jellyfish always look so peaceful and they remind me of my love of the water.

Jelly fish at the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher

Puffer fish at the North Carolina Aquarium Fort Fisher

North Carolina Aquarium-Jennette’s Pier (Nags Head, NC)

The North Carolina Aquarium at Jennette’s Pier in Nags Head, North Carolina is a unique and interesting site to check out when visiting the Outer Banks. The original pier was built in 1939 and had to be rebuilt in 2011 after a hurricane. The 1000-foot-long concrete fishing pier offers numerous informative signs talking about the rich history of the pier and fishing in the Outer Banks.

Inside the building at the pier, there are a couple of tanks with fish on display and information about them. A walk on the pier is only $2 for adults and $1 for children (free to North Carolina Aquarium members with a card). Even if you’re not interested in visiting the pier to fish it is worth it for the views. The pier also has a North Carolina Aquarium gift shop with some items themed for Jennette’s Pier. I love their vintage pier postcards.

Fishing from the pier is $14 for adults and $7 for children and includes a one-day admission. Other options are available for multiple days and annual passes. A NC fishing license isn’t required in addition to this fee to fish from the pier as the fee covers a person for the paid period (on the pier only). Information on different types of fish that can be caught as well as citation information can be obtained from the visitor’s desk.

One of the coolest features of this North Carolina Aquarium location is the public beach access and free parking! Jennette’s Pier also offers Summer Camps and learning experiences for schools (including free programs for Title 1 schools) and children. In addition, the pier is a beautiful rentable venue for events, special occasions, and weddings.

Do your part to help save the ocean! 🦈🦦🐬🐳🐠🐢

In conclusion, each of the North Carolina Aquarium locations is different and offers its own unique exhibits. Each location also has its own gift shop with a nice collection of souvenirs, jewelry, books, and plush animals. I am a big fan of the aquarium’s Adopt a Sea Creature/animal program allowing guests to donate money towards specific sea creatures and symbolically adopt the animal. The aquarium has different donation levels and I think it can make the perfect gift for an animal lover.

One thing all the North Carolina Aquariums have in common is the commitment to preserving our oceans for generations to come. I highly recommend visiting any of these locations if you get a chance as well as becoming an Aquarium Society member. My husband and I decided to become members of the North Carolina Aquarium Society a couple of years ago and we have enjoyed all of the benefits that come with the membership. The work the North Carolina Aquarium does to rehabilitate and foster sea creatures and animals is very noteworthy and commendable.

I appreciate that the North Carolina aquariums contribute a lot of their resources to conservation and research. Plastic is causing many issues for ocean life. We can all do our part to reduce, recycle and reuse! Consider buying a reusable straw or skipping one altogether. Each little part can add up to something big. I carry one of these straws in my wallet and use it almost every day.

Tag: thevirginiahypegirl

Western Front Hotel- St. Paul, Virginia

Mountain View/Spearhead Trails St. Paul

Dining in St. Paul, Virginia

Things to do in St. Paul, Virginia

Visit to Appomattox Courthouse National Historical Park

Appomattox Inn and Suites

A Visit to Jennette’s Pier Nags Head, North Carolina

Do your part to help save the ocean! 🦈🦦🐬🐳🐠🐢

Save a sea turtle….say NO to plastic straws❤️🐢

6 Reasons You Need to Visit the Crystal Coast of North Carolina

Amazing Locally Caught Seafood

History is Alive in Beaufort, North Carolina

Wild Horses, Pirates and Seashells

North Carolina Maritime Museum-Beaufort

Fort Macon State Park-Atlantic Beach, NC

North Carolina Aquarium-Pine Knoll Shores

Crystal Coast-Come for the history and stay for the sunset!

Why You Should Visit a North Carolina Aquarium

North Carolina Aquarium-Roanoke Island

North Carolina Aquarium-Pine Knoll Shores

North Carolina Aquarium-Fort Fisher

North Carolina Aquarium-Jennette’s Pier (Nags Head, NC)

Do your part to help save the ocean! 🦈🦦🐬🐳🐠🐢

Save a sea turtle….say NO to plastic straws❤️🐢

Mountain View/Spearhead Trails St. Paul

Dining in St. Paul, Virginia

Things to do in St. Paul, Virginia

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Appomattox Inn and Suites

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Do your part to help save the ocean! 🦈🦦🐬🐳🐠🐢

Save a sea turtle….say NO to plastic straws❤️🐢

Share this:

Amazing Locally Caught Seafood

History is Alive in Beaufort, North Carolina

Wild Horses, Pirates and Seashells

North Carolina Maritime Museum-Beaufort

Fort Macon State Park-Atlantic Beach, NC

North Carolina Aquarium-Pine Knoll Shores

Crystal Coast-Come for the history and stay for the sunset!

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North Carolina Aquarium-Roanoke Island

North Carolina Aquarium-Pine Knoll Shores

North Carolina Aquarium-Fort Fisher

North Carolina Aquarium-Jennette’s Pier (Nags Head, NC)

Do your part to help save the ocean! 🦈🦦🐬🐳🐠🐢

Save a sea turtle….say NO to plastic straws❤️🐢

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