Fort Macon offers history, fun in the sun

Atlantic Beach, N.C. — A trip to Fort Macon State Park can mean fun in the sun and a look into the coast's historic past.

The fort, at 2300 East Fort Macon Road in Atlantic Beach, was built to protect the Beaufort Inlet during the Civil War.

People can spend an hour or two strolling through the actual fort for free or take advantage of the park's public access to the Crystal Coast.

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The park is located at the eastern end of Bogue Banks, one of a series of barrier islands along the state’s coast.

From the top of Fort Macon, visitors can see the Atlantic Ocean. It is also surrounded by the Beaufort Inlet and Bogue Sound.

Katie Lightfoot said she brings her family to Fort Macon to build forts in the sand.

Those not interested in forts might find entertainment at Tryon Palace Historic Sites & Gardens, 610 Pollock St. in New Bern.

Originally built in the 1700s, the building burned down in the same era. The building was reconstructed in the 1950s from the original blueprints.

“It’s cool to see how they lived and survived back then,” visitor Claire Isenberg said.

Gracie Isenberg, 6, took a tour of the palace with her family. She said she daydreams of life in a palace.

Beautiful gardens and a blacksmith shop are among the attractions surrounding the building.

Adult admission is $15 and student-age children get in for $6. Parents are only charged for the first two children, making it a little more affordable.