About Oriental, North Carolina

Oriental, North Carolina has long been one of the best kept secrets along the Crystal Coast. What was once a lost-in-time, sleepy little fishing village has attracted talented artists, crafts-persons and business minded entrepreneurs over the years and is now a coastal destination of distinction. And visitors will still be greeted with smiles and friendly hellos as we retain our small town charm.

Oriental is located on the wide waters of the Neuse River where it meets five navigable creeks to flow into the Pamlico Sound. Along South Avenue, the Neuse is almost four miles wide, offering incredible water views. Sunrises are inspirational, sunsets are gorgeous and the palatial maritime clouds can be splendrous.

First known as Smith Creek and settled in the early 1700s, Oriental got its unique name from the Civil War ship USS Oriental that sank in a gale off the Outer Banks. Local legend has it that Rebecca Midyette, wife of "Uncle Lou" Midyette - the town's first postmaster and one of the founding fathers - saw the name board of the sunken ship in a friend's home she was visiting. Some folks say she found the name board when it was washed ashore. Whatever the circumstances, Rebecca Midyette was taken with the name and the town adopted the name in 1886.

And with so unique a name, of course Oriental celebrates dragons in numerous ways with flags, signs, statues and more. In fact, if you want to have a truly unique wedding or reception, how about having an authentic, 30 foot Chinese Dragon in full regalia magically appear? Or send your reception guests on a treasure hunt to find our hatching baby dragons? Hint: look for the "wildlife nesting area" signs throughout the town. Here's a link to the Board of Tourism's main Website, where you'll find a list of the year's events in Oriental.

Here's a link to a Weather.Com page where you can view monthly average temps, rainfall and other weather stats for Oriental.

Come visit us and see why we think Oriental is the perfect destination location for your wedding. Make your special day one to remember… in Oriental.