Site Attractions

23 years before the Jamestown settlement, the dream of an English-speaking nation began on the shores of Roanoke Island in 1584. Learn this important part of our nation’s history and the fascinating role Roanoke Island has played in other periods of time during your visit. History comes alive and learning is fun at Festival Park! In our many venues, hear a sailor’s tales of a strange New World, site a star with an astrolabe, enter an Algonquian longhouse, climb aboard a spritsail skiff and hoist her sails, learn about lighthouses and lifesaving, experience duck hunting and so much more!