Just south of the
The magnificent Great Dismal Swamp in North Carolina offers beautiful, relaxed kayaking trips and picturesque hiking trails.
, serves as the welcoming hub of Elizabeth City. This historic docking point maintains its heritage, catering primarily to visiting boaters who may be navigating along the apparently
Concealed within the Intracoastal Waterway lies a hub of recreational activities and diverse wildlife.
, and various East Coast cities worth exploring. However, Elizabeth City stands out as an excellent destination regardless of whether you get there by boat or by car.
Elizabeth City’s slogan is “Harbor of Hospitality,” which frequently accompanies the complimentary docking facilities provided for sailors at Mariner’s Wharf Park. Boating visitors might be welcomed by friendly town representatives offering flowers, wine, and cheeses. However, you will discover that this welcoming spirit encompasses all as Elizabeth City boasts a pedestrian-friendly central district filled with boutiques, art galleries, and fine dining establishments. For instance, they organize an open-air cinema event where films are screened on the grassy expanse outside Mariners Wharf throughout summertime.
In the late 1500s, Europeans initially surveyed the region surrounding the Pasquotank River. In 1665, the colony’s inaugural legislative gathering occurred nearby. It wasn’t until 1793 that the town received official incorporation status. During the early 1800s, it transformed into an active harbor at Albemarle Sound due to its position along the Dismal Swamp Canal. Nowadays, as maritime activity circumvents the canal, the city has shifted towards emphasizing tourism and education. Currently, it houses three higher educational institutions, a significant Coast Guard facility, and its historical downtown district has undergone restoration and now welcomes visitors.
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The Tastes of Elizabeth City
The Museum of the Albemarle, conveniently located just opposite Mariners Wharf, serves as an ideal starting point to delve deeper into the region’s past. The city boasts six distinct historical zones, which can be explored most effectively through various self-directed walking routes curated by the visitor center. These guided walks cover areas such as the bustling downtown business sector, residential neighborhoods, and locations tied to the Civil War era. History enthusiasts may also wish to follow the path marked out along the Aviation Trail, retracing the footsteps of aviation pioneers Wilbur and Orville Wright during their visits in the early twentieth century. This is where they embarked towards Kitty Hawk on the Outer Banks for pioneering trials in motorized flight.
Yet, the past is not all that awaits discovery as you explore the heart of the city. Art enthusiasts should make time for a visit to Arts of Albemarle on Main Street. This nonprofit hub gathers various creations from nearby artists and showcases them within its historically significant premises. In addition to visual art exhibitions, they offer performances and have an inviting gift shop. Scattered throughout Main Street, you’ll come across numerous smaller galleries as well. It’s worth coordinating your trip to include participation in the First Friday Art Walk—a recurring monthly occasion held downtown every month from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
You’ll also come across some outstanding food and drink from the diverse selection of cafes, breweries, and restaurants. For big flavor, try Hoppin’ Johnz, rated the No. 1 restaurant on
Tripadvisor
in the city with 4.6 stars. They specialize in “New South cuisine” with a flair for Cajun and seasonal entrees. But that’s just one of the many great spots to try, with cuisines that span the globe, including Italian, Japanese, Mexican, and more, all within a few blocks of each other.
Highlight Of The North Carolina Inner Banks
Elizabeth City makes an excellent addition to a more extensive road trip itinerary. Located along U.S. Highway 17, this city lies approximately 42 miles south of Chesapeake, Virginia, and about 84 miles north of North Carolina’s “Little” Washington. Additionally, Elizabeth City provides easy access to some of North Carolina’s top attractions for exploration.
eternal waterside town and picturesque jewel of Edenton
There are numerous charming coastal towns dotting the shores of the Outer Banks. The closest airport offering commercial flights is in Norfolk, situated slightly more than one hour’s drive to the north. However, for a wider selection of flight options, consider driving to Raleigh or Richmond; both cities are approximately three hours away from the area.
The city offers a nice selection of places to stay, from quaint bed and breakfasts and luxurious rentals to chain hotels. The top-rated inn on
Tripadvisor
The Blue Ruby boasts five stars. This meticulously renovated 1798 residence is located in the historical area on Fearing Street and is conveniently close to numerous excellent stores, coffeehouses, and the shoreline.
Elizabeth City is an excellent place to visit anytime of the year, but think about including additional activities for your North Carolina road trip as well. According to Weather Spark, the ideal conditions for enjoying beaches and pools occur from June through September. However, keep in mind that without getting into the water, summers can feel quite hot and humid. In fact, the average temperature reaches 88 degrees Fahrenheit in July, with over half the month experiencing uncomfortably sticky humidity.
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