The History Buff Itinerary

Hop out of the history books and hop into Edenton. The former Colonial capital sets the backdrop to some of North Carolina’s oldest homes, churches, and government buildings. Notable buildings include the 1767 Chowan County Courthouse and the 1886 Roanoke River Lighthouse.

Start your trip at the Penelope Barker House Welcome Center. Also known as Edenton’s living room, this waterfront historic house offers information and maps, trolley tours of historic sites, exhibits, restrooms and a gift shop.

The house bears the name of Penelope Barker. In 1774, Barker led the Edenton Tea Party, which became the first political activity by women in America.

Board the Edenton trolley and step back in time. Discover what Edenton was like during colonial times, when it served as North Carolina's Colonial capital. See the restored Victorian mansions lining Edenton Bay and visit the location of the home where Harriet Jacobs hid in her grandmother’s attic as a runaway slave before escaping to the North via the Underground Railroad.

The tour showcases notable sites throughout the Downtown Historic District.

Deboard the trolley and make the walk over to one of the restaurants that call downtown home. Lunch options include…

  • 309 Bistro
  • Governor’s Pub
  • Emilio’s General Store & Takeaway

After lunch, treat yourself at one of our retail shops.

  • Surf Wind & Fire
  • Edenton Bay Trading Co.
  • North No. 4
  • Sound Feet Shoes

Unwind and relax at one of our top-ranked hotels or bed & breakfasts, Edenton has a collection of properties that can accommodate you.

  • Inner Banks Inn
  • Hampton Inn