Why This North Carolina Town Deserves More Attention
With 43 million domestic visitors annually, North Carolina ranks fifth in the country for domestic tourism, following only California, Florida, Texas, and New York. While many tourists visit hot spots like the Great Smoky Mountains National Park or cities such as Charlotte, the lesser-known attractions really make the state special. Edenton, a waterfront town on the Albemarle Sound, is one such treasure. With river trails, 18th-century colonial architecture, and summer music shows by the water, Edenton is a must-visit destination for travelers in 2025.
Recreation on the Water
Edenton offers an abundance of aquatic recreational activities as a waterfront town in North Carolina’s Inner Banks region. Hendrix Park & Cannon’s Ferry River Walk, a boardwalk that honors the town’s herring fishing industry, serves as the perfect starting point. Throughout the river walk, travelers can appreciate scenic river views and opportunities to fish, paddle, and picnic. To spend the entire day paddling, the Albemarle Regional Paddle Trails provide a network of water routes through the area’s rivers, streams, and creeks. Bennett’s Millpond, a lesser-known location, offers a scenic pavilion where visitors can unwind and primitive campsites for those looking to disconnect completely. The area also features a North Carolina birding trail and additional spots for canoeing and kayaking.
In addition to exploring the river trails and ponds, visitors should not miss the opportunity to discover Edenton Bay before leaving town. Travelers can experience the bay through one of the town's guided cruises. Edenton Bay Cruises, for instance, provides an intimate experience aboard a six-passenger, electric-powered vessel guided by Captain Mark Thesier, who shares fascinating details and insights about the bay. Visitors can also opt for special-themed tours, such as sunset cruises or personalized cruises, depending on their interests. Many of these tours are seasonal, occurring only in the summer months, so make sure to check the cruise companies’ calendars during your planning!
Edenton’s History
As North Carolina’s first colonial capital, many structures in town date back as far as the 18th century. One of the best ways to explore the colonial-style town is via the Edenton Trolley Tour. During the tour, a colorful vintage trolley will guide passengers through the downtown historic district and Edenton Cotton Mill Village. Some of the landmarks include Victorian homes along the bay, Underground Railroad sites, and sites tied to influential revolutionary leaders.
Be sure to visit the town's 18th-century buildings, many of which rank among the most significant in Colonial America. The Chowan County Courthouse, constructed in 1767, is a fascinating preserved building to check. As a national landmark, it remains in use, with the North Carolina Supreme Court holding two cases here annually, making it the oldest operating courthouse in the country. The Cupola House is another incredible example of preserved 18th-century architecture. This home, built by Frances Corbin in 1758 for royal government business, is the second oldest building in the town and also features the beautiful Heritage Gardens.
For an immersive trip back in time, visitors can plan an afternoon at the Edenton Cotton Mill Historic District. This district, dating back to the early 20th century, is one of the best-preserved mill villages in the state, consisting of 57 mill houses, an industrial building, a brick office building, a church, and an office building that hosts the Edenton Cotton Mill Museum of History.
Sunday Block Party
On the first Sunday of each month, Edenton’s downtown comes alive with the Sunday Block Party, a family-friendly community event. From noon until 4:00 pm, King Street buzzes with food trucks, live music, games, crafts, and face painting, offering entertainment for all ages. Meanwhile, adults can join the sip and stroll event in the nearby social district, where they can purchase beer or wine from registered businesses. With a drink in hand, they can wander through the district’s streets and enter establishments displaying green and yellow stickers indicating that alcohol is permitted inside.
Community Culture & Art
Edenton residents are proud of their community, and their many events and local art exhibitions are evidence of that. The Chowan Arts Council, next to Edenton’s waterfront park, showcases an impressive variety of local and regional artwork with monthly rotating exhibits. Edenton Bay Trading Company serves as a popular gathering spot, offering craft beers and wines to enjoy on its picturesque patio, along with a weekly Wednesday trivia event. The town’s dedication to the arts is also evident in The Sounds of Summer Concert Series, which brings free concerts to the waterfront on select summer evenings, with genres ranging from reggae and bluegrass to rock.
Why Edenton Belongs on Your Travel List
With North Carolina's vast beauty, choosing where to visit can be a challenge, especially if you have already explored the most popular spots. However, if spending a weekend on the water, enjoying a sunset cruise, taking a historic trolley ride, or joining the community at a Sunday Block Party sounds like your idea of an exciting weekend, then the colonial town of Edenton is sure to offer an unforgettable experience.
