north carolina Edenton

THE BEAUTIFULLY PRESERVED COLONIAL VILLAGE OF EDENTON IS KNOWN AS THE PRETTIEST SMALL TOWN IN THE SOUTH. ALL IT TAKES IS ONE VISIT TO SEE WHY.

Seemingly around every corner is an Instagram-worthy view. For many, Edenton offers the ideal combination of historic charm and scenic beauty.

Edenton’s history is impressive. Established in 1712, it was North Carolina’s first Colonial capital, a place where signers of the Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution lived and worked alongside one of the first justices of the U.S. Supreme Court. The 1767 Chowan County Courthouse, still in operation today, is considered the most preserved Colonial courthouse in America.

It was in Edenton, in 1774 that the first organized female political activity in the Colonies took place. Penelope Barker and 50 other women conducted the Edenton Tea Party to protest taxes on British goods.

A stroll through this bayside town showcases immaculately maintained homes, including Penelope Barker’s house, which sits on the bay and serves as a welcome center. A few steps away is the departure point for the Edenton Trolley Tour, a popular attraction for visitors. From spring to fall, Edenton Bay Cruises provide daily maritime excursions along the town’s coastline.

Another popular attraction is the 1886 Roanoke River Lighthouse. One of the few remaining screw-pile lighthouses in America, it had been removed from its original river post and brought onshore for a private residence. A town effort about seven years ago restored the lighthouse and placed it in the bay near the waterfront park. It’s now open for regular tours.

Another nice aspect of Edenton is small-scale lodging. A half-dozen inns, several in grand houses, offer the opportunity to relax in a comfortable atmosphere.

Meanwhile, numerous vacation rentals are available for social distancing. Travelers arriving by boat can take advantage of boat slips that are free of charge for two nights.

To learn more about the Prettiest Small Town in the South, go to VisitEdenton.com or call (800) 775-0111.