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Manteo Historic Walking Tour

Overview
Join retired Police Chief D'Ambra for the Manteo Historic Candlelight Walking Tour. Take an evening stroll through the beautiful Historic Waterfront of Manteo. The Chief began the tour in 2004. Join him and explore 450+ years of living history. His stories will entertain and fascinate you as he shares a mix of over 21 "firsts", tales, & history that makes Manteo, "The Land of Beginnings". His stories of The Lost Colony, Pirates, The Underground Railroad, Wright Brothers, and Buffaloes City moonshine will delight everyone.He even shares personal stories of the real Mayberry, USA that inspired the classic TV series "The Andy Griffith Show". He shares his relationship with the celebrities and many space heroes who made Manteo's history so unique. This tour has been featured on PBS show "NC Weekend". "The Sheffield Star" newspaper in the UK. The tour was voted “Favorite Outdoor Activity” and won the Coastland Gold 2022 People’s Choice Award. It’s a real must see when visiting the OBX!
City: Outer Banks
Mon 02 Feb
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You can choose the date already on the booking website
Starting at $30.00
Mon 02 Feb
Starting at $30.00
Make a reservation
What's Included
All Fees and Taxes
Additional Info
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What To Expect
1
Manteo Waterfront Park
The original Manteo Walking Tour is back! Join Manteo's retired Police Chief for an evening sroll through the Historic Waterfront of Old Manteo. We will explore 400+ years of living history as he shares with guests an entertaining mix of the many "firsts", lore, tales & history that make Dare County "The Land of Beginnings". The Chief highlights stories from The Lost Colony, Pirates, The Underground Railroad, The Wright Brothers, and the modern era. Colorfully, he shares personal stories of the real Mayberry, USA that inspired the classic TV series "The Andy Griffith Show". He shares his relationship with several celebrities and many space heroes who have made Manteo such a unique and special place to visit. This highly acclaimed tour has been featured on PBS show "NC Weekend". "The Sheffield Star" newspaper in the UK had this to say about this tour, "The historical significance of this small island in America is truly astonishing. It's a Must See when you are in the states!"
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Traveler Photos
Reviews (224)
S8877TOamandab
Jun 2024
If you are going to Manteo you need to take this tour! So much fun and a lot of fascinating history. We learned so many things on this tour and heard some really interesting personal stories from the Chief about the people he's met and events that have taken place here. It's very family-friendly and is a slow-paced walk. We really enjoyed strolling around downtown Manteo on a beautiful night hearing all about its history and the Outer Banks. The Chief is a wonderful storyteller and very entertaining, definitely passionate about history and the area. He's very friendly and you will have a wonderful time and laugh a lot too.
Response from Host
Jun 2024
You are extremely kind to say such nice things. We strive to entertain our guests from all over the world with the unique history that we have here in Manteo. I was privileged to have met and known some of America’s most beloved celebrities like Mr. Andy Griffith and other folks who have visited or also found The Outer Banks to be their home. There truly is no where else in America where so many “firsts” in American history has occurred from the 16th Century to the 21st.. It is truly am amazing place . Please remember that as part of our living history, you are always welcome home to The Land of Beginnings! Please have safe travels and come home soon! Chief D
kelvinb711
Jun 2024
We had a very knowledgeable tour guide. Former chief of police of Manteo. Had very detailed information on a lot of things that had happened there first. Good stories to share. The weather was perfect. Thank you Chief!
Response from Host
Jun 2024
Thank you so much! You were a great group. The weather here has been perfect for the tour this week. We have had so many guests visit us during this busy time. Please don’t forget to visit us and see the migration of our Tundra Swan at Matamuskeet. It’s a sight you will always remember. Remember you are welcome home to Manteo anytime.
Beachlover7322
Jun 2024
It's challenging to give a historical walking tour when a town has suffered multiple fires and hurricanes, leaving precious little "historical" places to see! The Chief does an admirable job, showcasing a passion for history and storytelling that serves him in good stead as a tour guide. I very much enjoyed hearing about the history and the effect of hurricanes on the area. In my opinion, he leans too had into 'local celebrity' Andy Griffin and especially the time Richard Gere stayed here while filming a movie 15+ years ago. We stood for a long time outside the (non-historical) hotel Gere stayed at, hearing a story that went on for far too long. I feel like most folks under 65 wouldn't engage with the Griffin and Gere stories. For this tour, I recommend leaving the kids at home, enjoy the guide's enthusiasm, and patiently wait out the Gere story because the final stop is a moving one.
Response from Host
Jun 2024
I appreciate your input. Thank you for joining us. We hope that you enjoy your stay here in the Outer Banks. We strive very hard to engage with all ages of guests from all over the globe in a passionate and enthusiastic way. Safe travels.

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