Waterway access, history and small town charm define the town of Elizabeth City, North Carolina. Its riverfront location on the Pasquotank River adds to its attractiveness for both boaters and visitors alike. If you plan to visit or stop on your way through, enjoy a number of enticing cultural attractions, from the historic district, which tells of the town's pre-Civil War past, to the modern multipurpose arts facility, highlighting the area's best visual and performing artists.
Take a guided tour of Elizabeth City with locals who know it best. De Tours in Elizabeth City offers a walking tour of the 20-block historic district, full of stately Antebellum-era homes and buildings. The tour includes exploring inside the oldest brick home in town, where you'll be offered tea and snacks. Carolina Carriages offers a horse-drawn carriage ride tour around town, which includes the downtown area, the historic district and the waterfront. They even have haunted carriage tours on select evenings, during which you'll learn about the mysterious happenings and spooky events of the city's past.
The Museum of the Albemarle offers an in-depth look at the complex past and present of Elizabeth City and other towns in the northeastern region of North Carolina. Exhibits take a look at life in the Albemarle region during the Civil War, which saw soldiers fighting on both sides, and include a replica of the home of the city's first settlers. For families, Port Discover is the place to go with young children. This interactive and hands-on museum encourages kids to explore the world of science. Exhibits include Kinetic Kids, where children can discover hospital occupations and take a fitness test, and Experimentation Station, a lab area where young visitors perform science experiments using the scientific method.
Get a taste of the art scene at the Arts of the Albemarle, a multipurpose theater and art facility in the heart of downtown. Inside, check out artwork from local and national artists in the Jaquelin Jenkins Gallery. Catch an original play or beloved musical performed at the Maguire Theatre by its resident theater troupe, the Center Players. Visiting regional and national acts also perform at the Maguire Theatre throughout the year. You can also catch community theater performances by the Encore Theatre Company, which also performs at Arts of the Albemarle. Just a few blocks away, stop by the independent Red Rabbit Art Gallery, primarily featuring portrait paintings by local and regional artists.
The waterfront area of Elizabeth City is a hub of activity and entertainment, especially in the warmer spring and summer months. Events typically held at the wharf include outdoor movies in the summer and various festivals. Check out the fresh produce, baked goods and handmade crafts at the Downtown Waterfront Market if you're visiting on a Saturday. Grab a bite to eat at one of the waterfront restaurants selling fresh-caught fish. Stroll along the docks to take in the Albemarle Sound views at sunset. Consider visiting Elizabeth City's United States Coast Guard Air Station. Tours are available for the public on the first Friday of each month.
