The serene beaches of Eastern North Carolina attract visitors from around the globe, and are just a short drive for those lucky enough to reside along the coastline.
fowling has been a way of life beginning with the Coree Indians and continuing with English settlers to the area. This cultural heritage, which includes the art of decoy making, has enjoyed a rebirth thanks to the Core Sound Decoy Carvers Guild and the Core Sound Waterfowl Museum. The museum rotates wonderful collections of decoys by local carvers with carving demonstrations, antique working decoys and decoy painting. Down East collectibles and other handcrafts are available for purchase at the gift shop. Core Sound Waterfowl Weekend is held the first weekend in December each year, a major winter festival. Details, 252.728.1500, www.coresound.com.
Fort Macon State Park
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Fort Macon State Park near Atlantic Beach encompasses 385 acres of beach, dunes and maritime forest. Its focal point is historic Fort Macon, a fivesided brick fortress that saw much action during the Civil
War. Fort Macon was regarrisoned for the Spanish-American War and also for World War II. At the fortress, listen to interesting and informative audio programs in the Commandant’s and Enlisted Men’s Quarters, WWII Barracks and Gunpowder Magazine. Hike the nature trail, fish from rock jetties or stop at the state park’s bathhouse area for the public swimming beach, boardwalk, picnic area and summer-only concessions. Details, 252.726.3775, www. ncparks.gov/Visit/parks/foma/ main.php
The History Place
The History Place in downtown Morehead City showcases an interesting collection of Carteret County artifacts. Visitors can visit an Old General Store, an Early School Room, Victorian Parlor, Doctor’s Office and many other notable parts of Carteret County’s past. There are Native American artifacts, vintage clothing, military memorabilia, artwork and glassware. The Jack Spencer Goodwin Library has