Many people visit Edenton for its colonial history, waterfront beauty, and Southern charm, but we don’t want you to miss out on some lesser known spots when you visit Edenton!
Of course, we want to share our history with you, so we’ve got a variety of historical tours you can take advantage of, such as our Trolley Tour, our self-guided walking tour, and our Liber-Tea boat tour.
And we know you’ll love taking in the picturesque water views from the Penelope Barker House Welcome Center and Colonial Waterfront Park, and you’ll be experiencing our warm and welcoming Southern charm while you dine in restaurants, shop in boutiques, and walk through our downtown.
There’s so much to do, see, and experience in Edenton that it’s easy to overlook some of our lesser-known spots, so we are highlighting five spots you don’t want to miss when you visit Edenton this summer!
#1 – The Trolley on the Waterfront
Nestled next to The Herringbone Restaurant, The Trolley on the Waterfront is the ideal spot to relax with a drink or snack while taking in the peaceful views of Edenton Bay!
It’s perfect for when the kids need a cooling-off break or the adults need to recharge and rest in comfortable outdoor seating.
The Trolley on the Waterfront offers an array of summertime snacks and drinks, including popsicles, ice cream, soft drinks, coffee, adult beverages, and more.
The Trolley on the Waterfront is usually open Friday through Sunday during the summer, weather permitting. You can check out The Herringbone’s Facebook page for hours and updates.
#2 – The Edenton Cotton Mill Museum
Within walking distance of Edenton’s downtown you’ll find a beautiful neighborhood of historic homes and luxury condos that used to comprise the 1900 Cotton Mill and Mill Village.
Through loving restoration, the Cotton Mill and surrounding homes have been preserved and are now enjoyed by a new generation of residents.
The Edenton Cotton Mill Museum of History, located in the over-100-year-old Cotton Mill office building, is dedicated to preserving the heritage and story of this unique Edenton neighborhood.
The museum is open every Saturday from 11:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m., excluding Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s weekends.
Come learn about the fascinating history of Edenton’s Cotton Mill and surrounding neighborhood of over 70 homes. Walk the tree lined streets and take in the beautiful gardens and charming front porches.
Then, you can explore some of the natural wildlife and surroundings by walking the Queen Anne Creek Walkway near the Cotton Mill condos or relaxing on the community’s green space.
This quiet, peaceful neighborhood may have you contemplating a move to Edenton!
A relatively new addition to Edenton’s downtown is the completion of two murals by professional mural artist Matt Lively.
Known for his signature “beecycle” murals, Matt’s work is showcased in metropolitan areas such as Richmond, Virginia, and you can now see his talent right here in Edenton!
You’ll find one mural on the side of the Chowan Arts Council on West Water Street, and the other mural is located on the side of Surf, Wind, and Fire on East King Street.
Both murals depict iconic Edenton landmarks, and you may find a few “beecycles” hidden among them!
If you continue down East King Street, you’ll arrive at the 1767 Chowan County Courthouse, the oldest colonial government building still in use in the United States.
You can pick up tickets for Courthouse tours at the Historic Edenton State Historic Site Visitors Center, but we don’t want you to miss what’s in front of the Courthouse.
A lush, green, shaded expanse extends from the Courthouse all the way to the waterfront, and the views are breathtaking!
This is an iconic spot for pictures and picnics in Edenton, so you won’t want to miss it.
Stop by the King Street Marketplace and Edenton Tea Company right on the corner to pick up a few delicious treats, spread a blanket under the canopy of trees, and just savor one of Edenton’s best views.
Don’t forget to find Edenton’s iconic teapot hidden nearby and pick up a replica souvenir at King Street Marketplace!
#5 – Edenton National Fish Hatchery
Just a few minutes from downtown Edenton, the Edenton National Fish Hatchery offers nature lovers, kids, families, and anyone a chance to see and learn about the local ecosystem and aquatic wildlife.
As a stop on the Charles Kuralt Trail and bordering Pembroke Creek, the Hatchery offers great opportunities for birding and outdoor exploration along a 200 foot wetlands boardwalk and nature trail.
In addition, you’ll find a free aquarium and outdoor Striped Bass ponds, science and conservation activities for the kids, and opportunities for fishing on Pembroke Creek.
Click on the links to find out more information about these 5 spots you won’t want to miss while you’re visiting Edenton! From history to art to outdoor recreation, they offer something new and fun for everyone.
There’s still time this summer to book one of our luxurious Bed & Breakfast rooms for a wonderful getaway to Edenton.
Our Calendar of Events will keep you up to date on special events and activities while our Visitor Guide will help you plan the perfect trip.
We can’t wait to see you soon!
