Plan Your Visit

European settlement near the Pamlico River in the 1690s led to the founding of Bath, North Carolina's first town, in 1705. By 1708, Bath had 50 people and 12 houses. It soon became North Carolina's first port. Political rivalries, Indian wars, and piracy marked its early years but in 1746 Bath was considered for the colony's capital. However, when county government moved away in the late 1700s, Bath lost most of its importance and trade. Its original town limits encompass a historic district today.

Hours and Location

Tuesday – Saturday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Closed Sunday, Monday, and most major holidays

P.O. Box 148
207 Carteret Street
Bath, NC 27808

Admission for House Tours

Adults - $2; Students - $1
Price is "per house" for tours of Palmer-Marsh and Bonner Houses.

Guided Tours

Tours are offered of the Palmer-Marsh House and Bonner House. Tours begin every hour during regular operating hours. We ask that groups make reservations in advance.

Group Reservations

Facilities

Historic Structures: The Palmer-Marsh House (1751) and the Bonner House (ca. 1830) and its reconstructed kitchen are restored and furnished with period pieces. The Van Der Veer House (ca. 1790) houses a self-guided exhibit on the history of Bath. Though not part of the site, St. Thomas Church (1734) may also be toured.
Visitor Center: Guided tours originate at the visitor center. The video Bath: The First Town is shown every fifteen minutes. Restrooms are available here but not at the historic structures.
Trails, Monuments, Outdoor Exhibit: Walkways connect the visitor center, Van Der Veer House, and Palmer-Marsh House. A vegetable garden is maintained behind the Van Der Veer House. Harding’s Landing provides access to the site from Bath Creek.
Handicapped Accessibility: The visitor center and Van Der Veer House are handicapped accessible. All of the historic homes have steps and are not fully accessible. The site orientation video is captioned for the hearing impaired.
Picnic Facilities: Seven picnic tables are available at the picturesque waterfront near the Bonner House.
Gift Shop: The gift shop, located in the visitor center, contains items related to Bath and colonial North Carolina.

Programs, Group Activities

Living history demonstrations are given to school groups if they pre-register. Recommended group size: 30-60.