Founded as a Colonial town in 1760, Tarboro is one of North Carolina's oldest communities, and contains one of the states largest historic districts. The multi-block National Register Historic District contains significant residential, church, and commercial architecture, including late 18th century, early to mid 19th century antebellum and gothic structures and an outstanding collection of Victorian homes, cottages and bungalows. It was one of the National Trust's first Downtown Main Street communities. Tarboro also retains it unique and beautiful Town Common, created as part of the original Town plan in 1760, and considered one of the best-preserved urban open spaces in the U.S. The trail is designated for walking, biking, or driving. There is also an extensive paddle trail on the Tar River with boat access ramps at the N.C. 33 bridge on the north end of town and at the Riverfront Common at Main Street in Downtown Tarboro.
