Steeped in history dating back to 1668, brimming with culture, and adorned with natural beauty, Perquimans County is a Carolina bucket list destination for admirers of stunning architecture. Conversations with locals reveal exciting stories behind unassuming boutique walls while the aptly named Turtle Walk encourages visitors to take their time meandering past historic homes and storefronts. There's more than meets the eye to Perquimans County. Let's spend a day exploring some of their most delightful summer haunts and historic homes.
Truly engaging hands-on activities and exhibits at the Perquimans County History Museum
400 years of history, 100 miles of shoreline
First stop: the highly praised Perquimans County History Museum (admission is free!). Take in 400 years of history inspecting artifacts from the Yeopim Native Americans, local MLB Hall of Famer Jim “Catfish” Hunter, and other beloved hometown heroes. Kids are invited to touch and manipulate various artifacts, truly immersing themselves in fascinating regional history. Located at 104 Dobbs Street Hertford, NC, the museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 AM to 2 PM.
Perquimans County local tip: After a morning of exploring local lore, indulge your senses at The Nicholson House Gift Shop in Belvidere, a show-stopping example of an elegantly restored Victorian-era building. This is the place to find a stunning souvenir or present.
Featured here is the Creecy-Skinner Whedbee House at 101 Punch Alley, one of several exquisitely preserved homes you'll see on the Perquimans County Turtle Walk.
Alright, let's talk Turtle Walk. This online guide marks historic homes in Georgian, Victorian, and other architectural styles, including the Federal-style Creecy-Skinner Whedbee House on 101 Punch Alley, believed to be the oldest home in Hertford. Built in 1775, the Creecy-Skinner Whedbee House grants ample riverfront views from all angles.
Did you know? Perquimans County deems the turtle its beloved mascot 🙂
Top from left: Brew 2 Rescue Cafe, 252 Grill
Bottom, from left: Cinnamon rolls from Brew 2 Rescue, mini jelly slices from Layden's Supermarket, a family proudly displaying a hog's head at Layden's, double-stack burger and fries from 252 Grill
Where to get good eats in Perquimans County
Food time in Perquimans County — where, oh where to go? For breakfast or a quick pick-me-up, Brew 2 Rescue provides relief to more than just hangry patrons. It’s a cafe with a cause, representing the heartwork of locals dedicated to raising awareness and directing profits to organizations fighting to end the scourge of human trafficking. For breakfast, we're indulging in a culinary adventure of sorts — the build your own breakfast sandwich with a homemade sweet potato biscuit as the base. Perfection. For lunch, the Pick-2 option gives you two of the following: cup of soup, half sandwich, side salad, any side.
Layden’s Supermarket is another Perquimans County culinary treasure. Stock up on homemade sausage, smoked meats, hoop cheese, old-fashioned candy, seasonal desserts, and local history in this Belvidere time capsule.
Did you know? Layden’s was formerly a post office and blacksmith shop!
For a place to hang outside with the whole gang, cruise to 252 Grill. Enjoy outdoor picnic tables and flavor-packed dishes like sriracha-drenched “Loaded Rings” or the “Sweet Daddy Wrap,” with fried chicken, ranch dressing, and sweet Thai chili sauce.
A charming country stay at the Springfield Bed & Breakfast | Photo: VisitPerquimansNC
Where to stay in Perquimans County
The choice is immediately clear when it comes to Perquimans County accommodations. Original hearths and trim work from the late 1700s converge with modern hospitality at Springfield Bed and Breakfast. Understated rooms are in keeping with the property’s storied past. Springfield Bed and Breakfast is a working farm, farmed by the same family for over a century. Guests can expect to bump into roaming goats and chickens on their way to a homemade, locally-sourced breakfast. Take in serene views from the front porch rocking chair or the pondside gazebo.
Perquimans County locals and visitors enjoy the area's biggest event of the year: the Indian Summer Festival | Photo: Missy Loves Jerry Photography via VisitPerquimansNC
The best time to visit Perquimans County
Is there a best time to visit Perquimans County? Depends on whom you ask. For Carolina Travelers looking to wring every last drop out of summer temperatures and weekend getaways, the Indian Summer Festival offers an enticing opportunity. Taking place in mid-September, the Indian Summer Festival boasts Friday night street dancing, a car show, a craft fair, a smorgasbord of delicious food vendors, and plenty of family fun!
Can't make it this summer? Here are some other excellent times/events to visit Perquimans County in 2024 and beyond:
- Toast The Perquimans
- Belvidere Day
- Jollification
- Arts on the Perquimans
- Colonial Christmas on the Newbold-White House
- Historic Hertford's Grand Illumination
- Perquimans Festival of Lights
- Annual Christmas Parade
- Dine, Drink, and Dance
