10 Best Things To Do In Edenton, North Carolina

things to do in edenton north carolina
Alexandra
Alexandra 
Published
| 5 min read

Edenton, North Carolina, is a paradise for history enthusiasts as it is steeped in a rich past and culture. Tucked away in North Carolina’s Inner Banks region, and part of Chowan County, Edenton is a hidden gem surrounded by the picturesque waters of Edenton Bay and Albemarle Sound. Explore a plethora of historical and outdoor activities or tours available for everyone, from trolley tours to cruises and canoeing. Need a little getaway from the hustle of life? Check out this guide and discover how the unique and exciting things to do in Edenton, North Carolina, can keep you engaged during your holidays.

1. Ride into the past with Edenton Trolley Tour

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Experience a leisurely guided tour of Edenton and learn about its 300-year history by taking an Edenton Trolley Tour. Through the Downtown Historic District and Edenton Cotton Mill Village, this tour introduces you to notable historical sites and the town’s architecture. Did you know that Edenton also served as North Carolina’s Colonial capital? Get a glimpse of the lives of Edenton’s historical figures, including the home of author Harriet Jacobs, a runaway slave. Other notable figures you can learn about include signers of the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution and one of the first justices of the U.S. The tours last for an estimated 45 minutes.

Edenton Trolley Tours

Website: Edenton Trolley Tours

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2. Drop by Historic 1767 Chowan County Courthouse

Chowan County Courthouse 1767
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Harvey Harrison used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Exhibiting gorgeous Gregorian-style architecture, one cannot miss this historical beauty while sneaking a peek into Edenton’s past. 1767 Chowan County Courthouse is one of the most prestigious historical sites. Delve deep into its history and find out the significance, including being the site for holding momentous occasions such as hosting countless judges, a president and even a prince, as well as meetings between Edenton’s political leaders during the American Revolution.

Historic 1767 Chowan County Courthouse

Address: 117 E King St, Edenton, NC 27932, United States

Website: Historic 1767 Chowan County Courthouse

Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 10am - 4pm (closed on Sun & Mon)

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3. Indulge in a cosy dinner at Waterman's Grill

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by Waterman's Grill on Friday, September 28, 2012

A local’s favourite and tourist destination, Waterman’s Grill is a cosy restaurant located in Historic Edenton serving a variety of gastronomical delights, especially fresh seafood. After a day of exploring historical sights, dine at this casual seafood restaurant near popular landmarks like The 1886 Roanoke River Lighthouse, which is just a four minutes’ walk away. Consisting of a two-storey dining area with a steamer and raw bar, this is the perfect destination for couple and family dinners or a friendly hangout bar spot. A little fun historical fact: in the 1960s and 1970s, Waterman’s Grill was home to Tynch & Toppin Fish Market. It has surely come a long way.

Waterman's Grill

Address: 427 S Broad St, Edenton, NC 27932, United States

Website: Waterman’s Grill

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 4.30pm - 9pm (closed on Sun)

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4. Explore Edenton Cotton Mill Museum of History

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

First conceived in 2005, this Museum can be found in the over-100-year-old Cotton Mill office building in the Edenton Cotton Mill Village and cannot be missed if you go on an Edenton Trolley Tour as well. Museums are saved to preserve artefacts of significance, and Edenton Cotton Mill’s Museum of History is no different. Since its conception, the history of both the Mill and the people who lived there have been saved and preserved in both the museum itself and throughout the village, creating one of the most well preserved intact mill villages in North Carolina.

Edenton Cotton Mill Museum of History

Address: 420 Elliott Street, Edenton, NC

Website: Edenton Cotton Mill Museum of History

Opening hours: Sat: 11am - 2pm; Sun: 12pm - 3pm (closed from Mon - Fri)

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5. Dare to go on a ghostly walk through Edenton's streets

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by The Original Edenton Ghost Walk on Saturday, October 31, 2020

Embark on a ghostly tour through Edenton’s streets and listen to chilling tales of the past and present. Curious to find out what supernatural forces have been sighted along with learning the vivid history of this charming town? Only a little over a mile stroll through the downtown area, Edenton Trolley Tour is a go-to during the day, but when night falls, it’s time for a little spooky treat. If you love a little thrill, this is the perfect thing to do in Edenton. Though we do forewarn to be prepared, a ghostly friend or two might decide to stop in, near to you.

The Original Edenton Ghost Walk

Address: Waterfront Edenton, NC, US 27932

Website: The Original Edenton Ghost Walk

Opening hours: Thu - Sat: 7.30pm - 9.30pm (closed from Sun - Wed)

Price: 12 USD

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6. Tour Edenton in style aboard "Liber-Tea"

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Accompanied by the lulling sounds of water rippling past the boat’s hull, tour Edenton Bay on a picturesque cruise aboard “Liber-Tea” as you sit comfortably on padded seats and shaded by a canopy to keep cool. Liber-Tea is an environmentally friendly launch with its 22’ tall eco-friendly electric motor with no exhaust fumes nor engine noises and can comfortably accommodate six passengers. As you meander around the bay, be regaled by the fascinating stories narrated by the captain. What better way to enjoy a good story than on a relaxing cruise? Edenton Bay Cruises are perfect for the old, young, family and friends, plus offers themed and private charters upon request. Cruises depart every hour, and prices vary from adult to children and choice of charters. Take note that cruises are only available when the weather permits, for your safety is a priority like any other seaworthy venture.

Edenton Bay Cruises

Address: Bottom of S Broad St. Edenton, NC 27932, United States

Website: Edenton Bay Cruises

Opening hours: Thu - Mon: 10:30am - 3:30pm (closed on Tue & Wed)

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7. Get a good view of Roanoke River Lighthouse

Things to do in Edenton
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Bethbrownebooks used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Constructed in 1886, this towering landmark is a significant part of North Carolina’s history. It has since been moved to private land and renovated into a historic museum managed by North Carolina State Historic Sites after its decommissioning in 1941. This lighthouse is the ideal destination for tourists, locals and soon-to-be locals as it is home to a plethora of site tours, activities, even romantic getaways. Take in the picturesque view of Edenton Bay while enjoying a lovely picnic or stroll in the surrounding Colonial Park.

The 1886 Roanoke River Lighthouse

Address: 7 Dock St, Edenton, NC 27932, United States

Website: The 1886 Roanoke River Lighthouse

Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 10am - 4pm (closed on Sun & Mon)

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8. Rent a canoe at Colonial Edenton Downtown Harbor

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts is the Colonial Edenton Downtown Harbor, where you can rent canoes, kayaks and paddleboards. The Harbour provides the best destination for recreational activities or just a day on the water from newly constructed breakwaters to boat slips with electric hookups and restroom plus shower facilities. It is also located within walking distance of many historic homes, restaurants and shops, so there’s no shortage of fun things to do for everyone.

Colonial Edenton Downtown Harbor

Address: Colonial Park/Foot of Broad St. Edenton, NC 27932, AIWW, Edenton Bay, Albemarle Sound

Website: Colonial Edenton Downtown Harbor

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9. Relax and fish at Chowan River Fishing Pier

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

In Edenton, one cannot miss the Chowan River and participate in one of its most popular pastimes there - fishing. It was used as a trading highway as well as fishing grounds for its abundance of fish. Chowan River Fishing Pier, originally the old Highway 17 bridge offers you a relaxing day of fishing by yourself or with your family. Bring out your fishing reel rods to catch big fat fish while soaking in the sun, the sounds of the waves, the smell of the river, the sight of the river, and some sought-after peace and quiet.

Chowan River Fishing Pier

Address: 248 Wharf Landing Road, Edenton

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10. Embark on an adventure through the birding trails

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Venture into natural sites and enjoy a walk along the birding trails of Edenton and Chowan County. Enjoy the tranquillity of nature in Bennett’s Millpond, Catherine and Warwick Creeks Paddle Trail or Edenton National Fish Hatchery to catch a glimpse or snap a shot of the birds of Edenton. In addition to creating or completing your bird guide books, these birding trails are equipped with boardwalks, parking sets, and even paddling areas for some. Bennett’s Millpond and Catherine and Warwick Creeks Paddle Trail offer paddling access and great camping sites for outdoor fun. Edenton National Fish Hatchery, though mainly known for its dedication to the preservation of America’s fishing tradition, is also a great place to spot the birds of Edenton and go for strolls on the boardwalks.

Birding Trails of Edenton

Website: Birding Trails of Edenton

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Getaway to Edenton

Edenton, North Carolina, is the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of life. Begin your adventure or a time to cool down with a plethora of historical and outdoor activities or tours available for everyone - families, couples and friends!

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Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
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Through writing these articles, I can fulfil my wanderlust spirit despite being physically bounded and reminiscing past adventures. Here's to a future of restarting journeys and discovering the...Read more

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