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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
Sun 29 Jun
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You can choose the date already on the booking website
Starting at $30.00
Sun 29 Jun
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)
Brittanywhere
Apr 2022
An excellent tour filled with fascinating history and great anecdotes. Everything from the details about the ship and captain that brought the colonists to Roanoke to the history of the Southern Magnolia tree was interesting. My husband and I absolutely loved it. The Chief told meaningful and forgotten history in such an impactful way; it's a "must see" for anyone's Outer Banks visit! We especially loved the Buzz Aldrin story and can't wait to try the Mother Vine Muscadine Preserves. Thank you, Chief!
Response from Host
Apr 2022
You are so kind to leave such a spectacular review! We are so glad that your group joined us for the tour. Your group in particular was very interactive and made the storytelling experience all the more fun. The history we shared is truly the foundation for unique fabric of our great nation. Y’all were a great joy to have on the tour!
brendabW5227ED
Apr 2022
This was a wonderful synopsis of the 400+ year history of Roanoke Island and the village of Manteo NC. Our tour guide, Frank D'Ambra,, was a former Chief of Police for the town of Manteo and was personally acquainted with many of the local town principals, sharing anecdotes about former mayors and celebrities like Andy Griffith, who was a personal friend. We learned so much about the many "firsts" of Roanoke Island. History came alive as we learned the previous uses of the buildings in the historic old town, the storms it has weathered, the fires that have destroyed the town and the real life characters who inspired the people portrayed in the Andy Griffith Show. I highly recommend this tour. Been coming to Manteo for years and was totally unaware of most of Frank's presentation. Great experience!
Response from Host
Apr 2022
Your words are so very kind! Your group was especially delightful. It’s always great to have such interactive and lively guests who share my passion for history and this truly astonishing place. Please come back again when you visit. You are always welcome.
CHRISTINE_L
Apr 2022
The guides knowledge of the area was outstanding. He had so much information about the few blocks we walked. A true historian.
Response from Host
Apr 2022
Thanks so much. We are happy to have groups like yours who have an interest in our living history. You are now part of this legacy. I am so happy to have hosted you in our very special town. Please come again. Y'all stay a while, hear!

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