Roanoke Island is an eight-mile island near Nags Head that is accessible from the mainland via the Virginia Dare, William. B Umstead, and Washington Baum Bridges. As one of the oldest communities on the Outer Banks, the island was the site of the 16th-century Lost Colony, which has been immortalized in an eponymous outdoor symphonic drama offering seasonal performances at the 25-acre Roanoke Island Festival Park historic attraction. A variety of shopping and dining experiences are offered in the town of Manteo, located on the island’s northern end. Other major attractions include the Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, the Roanoke Island Aquarium, and the North Carolina Maritime Museum.

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