WHERE TO STAY: You’ll find accommodations in the nearby village of Oriental. The Inn at Oriental is located within walking distance of downtown; 508 Church Street, 800/485-7174. The Oriental Marina & Inn sits directly on the harbor; 103 Wall Street, 252/249-1818. Near downtown, the River Neuse Suites offers water views; 201 Mildred Street, 252/249-1404.

WHERE TO EAT: For family-friendly dining, try The Oriental Steamer Restaurant & Tavern (large, brick building before the bridge); 401 Broad Street, 252/249-3557. M&M’s Café opens for lunch and dinner—don’t miss their fabulous, fresh, Buffalo-style shrimp; 205 South Water Street, 252/249-2000. A local hotspot, waterfront Toucan Grill and Fresh Bar offers lunch, dinner, and a late-night menu; 103 Wall Street, 252/249-1818 or toucangrill.com. For local java and light fare, visit The Bean; 304 Hodges Street, 252/249-4918 or towndock.net/thebean.

WHERE TO PLAY: Drop by the Inland Waterway Provision Company (or as locals call it, Provisions) for marine supplies and nautical gear and gifts; 305 Hodges Street, 800/249-7245 or inlandwaterwayonline.com. The Shops at Croakertown (next to the post office) carries everything from herbal supplements to wine and flowers; 807 Broad Street, 252/249-0990. Circle 10, a cooperative art gallery, showcases fine art, photography, and crafts; 1103 Broad Street, 252/249-0298.