Commemorating the Roanoke Island Freedmen's Colony
Photo: NPS Photo
About
Amongst the shallow blue waters of the Outer Banks lies Fort Raleigh on Roanoke Island. Shaped by constant winds of change, Fort Raleigh has become a focal point of American history. From the first Algonquian-speaking people to the first English colonies, from formerly enslaved people starting anew to an inventor testing new radio technology, this island continues to be a place to forge new paths.
Activities
Arts and CultureTheaterJunior Ranger ProgramPark FilmMuseum ExhibitsShoppingBookstore and Park Store
Directions
Fort Raleigh National Historic Site is located on the northern end of Roanoke Island, north of the town of Manteo, NC.
Get directions →Weather
Weather on the Outer Banks varies seasonally and daily. Please check the National Weather Service at http://www.weather.gov/mhx/ for up-to-date weather forecast information.
News
Jun 17, 2026
Fort Raleigh National Historic Site Seeks Public Help with Identifying Suspect in Recent Alleged Crime
Law enforcement rangers at Fort Raleigh National Historic Site are seeking the public’s assistance for information regarding a recent investigation of an alleged theft of personal items that occurred within the park on June 6.
Jan 30, 2026
Cape Hatteras NS, Fort Raleigh NHS and Wright Brothers NMEM Announce Visitor Facility Closures Ahead of Winter Storm
Ahead of an impending winter storm, all National Park Service visitor facilities at Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Fort Raleigh National Historic Site and Wright Brothers National Memorial will be closed this weekend and will remain closed through at least the morning of Feb. 2. The Oregon Inlet and Ocracoke campgrounds are closing at 12 p.m. today.