Things To Do
in Tarboro
Tarboro is a small, historic town on the banks of the Tar River in eastern North Carolina, known for its well-preserved 18th- and 19th-century architecture and a leafy central Town Common. The downtown historic district offers tree-lined streets, antique storefronts and a relaxed small-town atmosphere that reflects its agricultural and river-trade roots. Outdoor life centers on the Tar River with opportunities for fishing, paddling and scenic walks, and the town is a convenient base for nearby state parks and wildlife refuges. Visitors appreciate Tarboro for its Southern hospitality, low-key charm and proximity to larger regional centers like Rocky Mount and Greenville.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely stroll through the historic center of Tarboro, where beautiful antebellum architecture lines the streets. Stop by the Tarboro Town Common, a picturesque park that showcases local flora and offers a peaceful atmosphere. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local café, savoring Southern delicacies like biscuits and gravy.
After breakfast, visit the Tarboro Museum, where you can delve into the rich history of the area through engaging exhibits and artifacts. Spend some time exploring the quaint shops and boutiques that offer unique handmade crafts and local goods. Grab lunch at a nearby eatery, sampling some barbecue that North Carolina is famous for.
As the sun begins to set, head to the Tar River for a scenic walk along the waterfront. Enjoy a casual dinner at a charming restaurant, where you can indulge in fresh seafood while overlooking the river. Conclude your day with a visit to a local bar for live music, soaking in the vibrant community atmosphere.
Start your morning with a refreshing hike at the nearby Tar River State Natural Area, where you can enjoy the sounds of nature and spot various bird species. Bring along a picnic breakfast to enjoy in one of the scenic spots along the trail as you take in the beauty of the wetlands. The crisp morning air will invigorate you as you immerse yourself in the tranquil surroundings.
Continue your wildlife exploration by visiting the nearby Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge, where you can explore the diverse ecosystems and possibly catch sight of alligators and various migratory birds. Participate in a guided tour to learn more about the unique flora and fauna that inhabit the area. For lunch, pack a picnic to enjoy in the refuge or return to Tarboro for a meal at a local diner.
As evening approaches, return to Tarboro and unwind with a leisurely boat ride on the Tar River, where you can appreciate the stunning sunset views. Afterward, treat yourself to dinner at a family-owned restaurant, where Southern hospitality meets delicious home-cooked meals. Wrap up your day with a night stroll through the charming streets, enjoying the peaceful ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Regular coffee | $2.50-4 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $80-130 |
| ⛽Gas (per gallon) | $3-4 |
| 🚌Local taxi / short ride-share | $5-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historic architecture and a charming downtown Town Common
- Access to outdoor activities on the Tar River and nearby parks
- Laid-back small-town atmosphere and Southern hospitality
- Lower costs compared with larger nearby cities and convenient base for regional exploration
- Limited nightlife and fewer dining options compared with larger cities
- Public transportation is minimal—a car is recommended
- Fewer specialized services and niche cuisine choices than metropolitan areas
- Weather risks in late summer/fall from tropical storms and occasional flooding
Places to Visit in Tarboro
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic public green with mature trees, monuments and period architecture—great for wide-angle shots and street scenes.
Riverside views, reflections and sunset shots; good for paddling photos and wildlife along the banks.
Row of antebellum and Victorian homes, porches and ironwork—perfect for architectural details and golden-hour light.
Woodland trails, rock outcrops and panoramic views for nature and landscape photography.
Quaint storefronts, murals, and local signage that convey small-town character and candid street photography opportunities.
Food in Tarboro
Tarboro Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Pork, often chopped or pulled and dressed in a tangy vinegar-and-pepper sauce; found at local barbecue joints and family restaurants downtown.
Must-Try!
Fresh or locally sourced seafood, typically served with hushpuppies, coleslaw and fries at casual grills and seafood counters.
Collard greens, macaroni and cheese, and sweet potato pie are ubiquitous and pair well with main dishes at most local restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market featuring local produce, baked goods and occasionally prepared foods; great for fresh fruit, honey and homemade preserves.
Look for weekend pop-ups, church bake sales and food trucks at special events—classic Southern snacks and quick plates are common at festivals and markets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people with a friendly hello or nod; small talk is common—use polite language and appreciate a slower pace of life.
Many community activities center on churches and civic groups; dress modestly for services, and be considerate when photographing people or private property.
Yield to farm vehicles and be patient on country roads; honking unnecessarily is frowned upon.
Safety
Tipping in Tarboro
Ensure a smooth experience
In the U.S., tip 15–20% at full-service restaurants; $1–2 per drink at bars or 15–20% tab; tip taxi or ride-share drivers 10–15% and round up for delivery or takeout if service is provided.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Tarboro; cash is useful for small vendors, farmers market stalls and some diners. Contactless payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are increasingly available but carry some small-business exceptions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild, pleasant temperatures and blooming dogwoods and redbuds make spring excellent for outdoor exploration and farmers market visits; watch for occasional heavy rain.
Hot and humid with daytime highs often in the 80s–90s°F (27–35°C); afternoons can be steamy—plan outdoor activities for mornings or evenings and be mindful of storms and mosquitos.
Comfortable temperatures and lower humidity; fall foliage inland and harvest-season events make this a great time for hiking, paddling and local festivals.
Generally mild with cool days and chilly nights; occasional freezing temperatures and rare snow or ice—most outdoor attractions remain accessible but check weather ahead.
Tarboro at Night
Hiking in Tarboro
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
About a 30–40 minute drive from Tarboro, this park offers several miles of trails through hardwood forests, gentle peaks and picnic areas—good for hiking, birding and spring wildflowers.
Local riverside trails and greenways provide easy walking and cycling routes along the Tar River—ideal for short hikes and photography without leaving town.
A longer drive to extensive wetlands and wildlife viewing areas popular for birdwatching and seasonal migration observation; trails and observation points vary by unit.
Airports
How to reach Tarboro by plane.
The largest regional airport serving the Research Triangle area, about 60–75 miles west of Tarboro (roughly 1–1.5 hour drive) with extensive domestic and limited international flights; a common arrival point for most visitors.
Smaller regional airport in Greenville, approximately 45–60 minutes east of Tarboro by car with regional flights and convenient ground access to eastern NC destinations.
Local regional airport serving general aviation and some charter services, located within reasonable driving distance for private flights or charter arrivals.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents have deep roots in the area and are active in community life, churches and local institutions.
A significant portion of the town's population is African American, with important cultural and historical contributions to local life.
The broader region includes agricultural communities, tradespeople and families connected to local industry and small business.
Some residents commute to nearby towns and cities for work, contributing to a mix of local and regional economic ties.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
High school football is a major community event in Tarboro and the surrounding counties, especially on Friday nights during the fall season.
Recreational fishing, bass tournaments and boating on the Tar River and nearby water bodies are popular activities year-round.
Youth and recreational baseball/softball leagues are common and well-supported by local families and community organizations.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tarboro.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist but are more limited than in larger cities; diners and cafés often offer salads, veggie sandwiches and sides—ask for modifications and seek out farmers-market produce for fresh options.
Vegan-specific choices are scarce; plan ahead by bringing snacks or seeking out larger grocery stores in nearby towns (Rocky Mount, Greenville) with broader selections.
Many restaurants can accommodate basic gluten-free needs (grilled meats, salads), but cross-contamination is possible—communicate clearly with staff and consider calling ahead for specialized requirements.