Known as the "Heart of the Inner Banks," Washington, North Carolina, was named after General George Washington, in 1776, to show its allegiance to America's newly formed government. As many neighboring port towns were under siege during the Revolutionary War, Washington became one of the most important American ports and outposts during the Revolutionary War.
Located on the banks of the Tar and Pamlico Rivers, Washington is a small, picturesque community that serves as the gateway to the Pamlico and Albemarle Sounds, the second largest estuary on the East Coast. As described by many Nicholas Sparks novels, Washington is lined with Victorian homes and walkable sidewalks flanked by sweeping crepe myrtle trees. Washington also features a beautiful riverfront city center. Due to revitalization efforts, the riverfront area has become one of the most sought-after areas for renting an apartment. A recipient of the All-America City Award, Washington has seen continual growth due to its location, affordable housing, wealth of outdoor activities, and beautiful historical areas. Moving here, you may or may not be whisked away in a Sparks love story, but you'll definitely understand why he chose Washington for many of his books' settings. In fact, the town of Washington is one of the largest business and residential historic districts in North Carolina, and the town's historical architecture cannot be understated. Although the city suffered two city-wide fires, one in 1864 and one in 1900, many of the Victorian-era homes, commercial buildings, and antebellum structures have survived and are still standing.
Moving to Washington
Waterfront or Larger City Amenities
Although Washington is a small community, the area of the town in which you wish to live may depend on its proximity to neighboring destinations. For example, Washington is located on the banks of the Pamlico River. To the east of Washington, you'll find many estuaries, river front properties and, a little further east, North Carolina's pristine beaches. If boating, fishing and water sports are activities that interest you, then living on the eastern side of Washington may be ideal.
However, if you'd rather live in an area with closer proximity to an array of restaurants, a vibrant nightlife, chain grocery stores, and a state-of-the-art medical center, you may prefer the western part of Washington. Greenville, the largest city on North Carolina's Coastal Plains region, is only a 20-minute drive. Greenville is home to Vidant Medical Center and East Carolina University. In fact, many Washington residents commute to Greenville, choosing to live on the western part of town.
When to Plan Your Search
Washington is located on U.S. 264, which is a major roadway for beach-seeking tourists traveling to North Carolina's coastal destinations. To avoid traffic when looking for places for rent in Washington, simply plan your visit to search around beach holiday traffic, avoiding times such as Fourth of July, Memorial Day Weekend and Labor Day Weekend.
Neighborhoods in Washington
West Washington/Latham: The Latham area, also known as Old Ford, is located on the western side of Washington, and the area expands northward. The Latham area offers easy access to U.S. 264 and U.S 17., making it ideal for residents commuting to Greenville or other neighboring towns. Although it does not feature riverfront housing, there is a wide variety of rental homes and apartments, and Latham residents enjoy a rural setting and easy access to nearby amenities.
City Center: Although Washington is relatively small, it does boast a vibrant riverfront city center. Residents of City Center can find a wealth of eateries, shopping and entertainment, and many destinations are within walking distance of nearby apartments. If you're looking for an updated studio apartment that's near Washington's pulse, then City Center will be your ideal location. City Center is also home to many riverfront and historical rental properties. The Turnage Theatre, a restored historic vaudeville and movie theater, is located downtown and regularly hosts plays and other types of live entertainment.
Washington Heights: Located inland from City Center, Washington Heights is a more residential-focused area with many of the amenities typically found in a small city. Although it is not as pedestrian-friendly as City Center, Washington Heights has many grocery stores, theaters, parks and restaurants. Its central location also makes it convenient to both neighboring cities to the west and coastal communities to the east. For those looking for a historical home outside of City Center, Washington Heights may be the ideal area.
East Washington/Pinetown: For those looking for rental properties on the waterfront or near the waterfront, Pinetown is the best area to start your search. Many of Washington's beautiful waterfront homes, equipped with boat slips and docks, are located in Pinetown. Its eastern location also gives Pinetown a convenient proximity to Pamlico and Albemarle Sound destinations, as well as beach communities further east. For boat and beach bums, Pinetown combines eastern North Carolina tranquility with waterfront convenience.
Living in Washington
A well-written book can describe any city to make it seem livable. In Nicholas Sparks' case, his moderately well written books have made Washington seem like a rural waterfront paradise. For many residents, it is. In recent years, Washington has introduced many community festivals, such as Music on the Streets, to accommodate its growing population. Along with its proximity to beach and larger neighboring cities, Washington features affordable housing, weekly farmer's markets, and a beautiful and lively waterfront downtown that captures its progress, while preserving its wonderfully historic setting.
