Elizabeth City NC Tourism

Elizabeth City The Harbor of Hospitality

Sponsored by the Elizabeth City Area Convention and Visitors Bureau

Known as the Harbor of Hospitality, Elizabeth City is a waterfront community on the eastern seaboard, just 45 minutes from the Norfolk/Hampton Roads area of Virginia and adjacent to North Carolina’s legendary Outer Banks. Whenever five boats or more come into the harbor at the same time‚ they are feted with a wine and cheese party sponsored by the Rose Buddies‚ a group dedicated to extending a warm welcome to Elizabeth City’s visitors. Among its many accolades, Elizabeth City has been named one of “The 100 Best Small Towns in America” three times.

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Making History Visit the Museum of the Albemarle for a sampling of local history.

Located near the waterfront, the 50,000-square-foot museum contains both permanent and temporary exhibits showcasing the history and culture of the region. The museum regularly holds free events and lectures that provide hands-on learning opportunities about music, history, art and more.

when people first began to plant crops and settle in villages along the river’s edge. The museum’s exhibits include personal artifacts, decorative arts, documents, photographs and even agri­c ulture, maritime and hunting implements.

For more info about specific The main gallery at the events, visit museum tells “Our Story,” the Museum and features more than 700 artifacts reflecting the history of the and culture of the Albemarle Albemarle calendar. region. The story began almost four centuries ago,

Festive Occasions Don’t miss the North Carolina Potato Festival, held every spring.

The 11th-annual North Carolina Potato Festival will take root May. 21, 2011, in downtown Elizabeth City.

The event has been on the calendar since 2001, but the statewide potato celebration dates back to 1963 when Fanny Leary of Camden peeled 8 pounds, 4 ounces of potatoes in 10 minutes at the National Potato Peeling Contest.

The potato-peeling contest still occurs annually in Elizabeth City as part of the statewide celebration.

The Saturday festival features a wide variety of activities, but the food truly stands out.

Unlimited french fries are available to the public in addition to funnel cakes, snow cones, hot dogs, gyros, fajitas, cookies, orangeades, lemonade and smoothies.

Besides food, there is a Little Miss Tater Tot Contest, free amusement rides, potato sack races, a beer garden, live music and a street dance.

Visit the official web site for more information about the Potato Festival.

Where to Eat

Elizabeth City’s variety of restaurants will please even the most discerning palates. With options ranging from seafood to Tex-Mex to Japanese, there’s truly something for everyone.

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The Cypress Creek Grill At Toyama Japanese combines traditional Restaurant, you’ll find seafood, Tex-Mex, Creole and everything from sashimi Gulf Coast seafood favorites and shogayaki to tempura to make a truly unique menu. and teriyaki.

The Rip Tide Grill offers a casual matmosphere with five-star service.

Customers flock to the City Wine Sellar Bakery and Deli for the large selection of more than 100 wines, deli Montero’s serves gourmet specialties, live music and food and provides a monthly wine tastings. welcoming atmosphere in a 1904 Victorian house.

A local favorite, the Colonial Restaurant, Marina Restaurant, located serves good, old-fashioned, on the Pasquotank comfort food cooked River, offers many delicious Southern-style. seafood options.

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Find Out More

Thinking of visiting Elizabeth City? Check out these resources for additional information about attractions, lodging and more.

Elizabeth City’s inns and bed & breakfasts offer luxurious accommodations and the comfort of home.

With events and festivals taking place throughout the year, there’s always a reason to celebrate.

When you want the assurance of a name you know and trust, book your stay at one of Elizabeth City’s national hotel chains.

Whether you’re looking for fine dining or a fun feast, Elizabeth City’s restaurants create the atmosphere for you.

Elizabeth City attractions offer something for everyone, from arts and outdoors to shopping, sports and more.

Still want more? Request additional information from the Elizabeth Convention and Visitors Bureau.