Manteo is the last year-round community before the Outer Banks beaches and the hub of Roanoke Island's shopping and dining. It was a mere 400 years ago that the island was the landing site of the first travelers to the New World, and the subject of the Lost Colony Outdoor Drama. The outdoor theater production tells the story of the first English colony in America, which was established on Roanoke Island in 1587. (Take your bug spray.) Also located within the Fort Raleigh National Historic Site is the Elizabethan Gardens featuring the world's largest bronze statue of Queen Elizabeth I. Another "must see" is the NC Aquarium on Roanoke Island, where you can experience live animal encounters, feedings, a 285,000-gallon shark tank, interactive exhibits, films and more (252-475-2300). Transportation is required to visit these locations from the Manteo waterfront but that shouldn't be an issue. A helpful local will likely give you a ride.