Revitalized Elizabeth City, North Carolina, Welcomes Visitors With History and Charm

Tucked into the northeastern corner of North Carolina, the quaint coastal town of Elizabeth City is awash with history and Southern charm. The city attracts visitors and passing boaters along the Intracoastal Waterway to its waterfront “Harbor of Hospitality” on the Pasquotank River, which beckons with marinas, dining, shopping and family-friendly attractions, including miles of water and woodlands to explore.

“We invite everyone to visit and experience Elizabeth City,” says Holly Audette, chairman of the Tourism Development Authority. “This is a truly special place where we focus on genuine relationships in our community and with our visitors. Great dining, unique shopping, recreation and nature all enhance your visit with us.

Read on for nine fun things to do in Elizabeth City, NC.

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1. Explore the Past

Founded in 1793, Elizabeth City offers visitors a glimpse into its history at the Museum of the Albemarle, located on the town’s waterfront. The museum’s spacious galleries present an expansive overview of the entire Albemarle region, which encompasses 13 counties and the Outer Banks. A small farmhouse and smokehouse illuminate early life in the area, while the prominent 1904 shad boat represents the official state historic boat of North Carolina.

Historic architecture lovers will also enjoy a stroll through the town’s Main Street Historic District featuring elaborate Queen Anne and Eastlake styles alongside Craftsman and Colonial Revival homes.

2. Waterfront Fun

Elizabeth City’s renowned “Harbor of Hospitality” welcomes boaters from around the world who sail on the Pasquotank River into Mariners’ Wharf on the edge of downtown. Boaters, visitors and local residents also take advantage of Waterfront Park’s boat ramps, pavilion, and boardwalk and pier along the river, providing a relaxing setting with a beautiful view of the water.

3. Discover Downtown

The streets of Elizabeth City’s revitalized downtown district are alive with shops, galleries, historic sites, restaurants and breweries, highlighted by colorful murals. Boutiques such as Bijoux Vibes offer trendy options, while Jade Whale Co. is the town’s hip surfer/skater shop. Pine & Porch offers a unique collection of interior and exterior home decor. If art is your passion, visit Arts of the Albemarle, a vibrant hub of creativity dedicated to the visual and performing arts.

4. Foodie Heaven

The downtown district also presents an impressive array of dining options, many with outside areas that frame relaxing waterfront views with a side of live music. Hoppin’ Johnz specializes in down-home Southern cuisine, while Paradiso Roma brings flavors of Italy to a coastal setting. American cuisine with a Southern flair is the calling card at SAGOS on the River. Locals and visitors alike relish the drinks and desserts at The SweetEasy, including scratch-made French macarons. For another unique setting, check out Montero’s and its converted 1904 farmhouse.

5. Local Brews

Craft beer buffs will find plenty of sipping choices at Elizabeth City breweries. The city’s first microbrewery, Ghost Harbor, draws visitors to a brick-walled building in historic Pailin’s Alley, where it produces a variety of craft beers. Situated on the river, Seven Sounds Brewing Company crafts a variety of brews for patrons to sample in the main taproom or on the rooftop deck. Veteran-owned AVDET Brewing Company pays homage to local Coast Guard history and pours an assortment of creations.

6. Take It Outdoors

With its 22-mile canal, Dismal Swamp State Park provides access to the largest remaining swamp in the eastern United States and is a popular paddling destination. There are also more than 20 miles of hiking and biking trails, plus fishing and picnic spots surrounded by a stunning natural environment. Closer to town, the Fenwick-Hollowell Wetlands Trail winds along a boardwalk through stunning wetlands where birds abound, continuing to a canal leading to the Pasquotank River.

7. First Friday Art Walk

The streets of downtown Elizabeth City come to life for the monthly First Friday Art Walk. Mingle with guest artists, listen to live music, check out local shops, and dine and sip at one of the independently owned pubs, coffee shops and restaurants.

8. Port Discover

Port Discover opens up a world of science to kids and adults. Visitors can learn more about aviation and the natural world while taking off in a flight simulator, racing boats down the water table and participating in a multitude of other hands-on educational games. Admission is free for all ages.

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9. A Spudtacular Event

The humble potato rules at the three-day North Carolina Potato Festival held annually in downtown Elizabeth City each May. The festival celebrates one of the area’s most important crops with a variety of attractions, including a midway with rides, a street fair, live music, a beer and wine garden, the National Potato Peeling Contest, and even free french fries.