2026 Elizabeth City Visitors Guide

Elizabeth City

OFFICIAL VISITORS’ GUIDE

VisitElizabethCity.com

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Visit Elizabeth City Visitors Guide

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table of

CONTENTS 4

WELCOME

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DISCOVER DOWNTOWN

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DAY TRIPS

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ANNUAL EVENTS

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CHRISTMAS

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PUBLIC ART & ATTRACTIONS

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PLACES TO STAY

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WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK

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WALKING TOURS

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OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

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WEDDINGS

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EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS

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COAST GUARD

FIND US ONLINE!

or at

VisitElizabethCity.com

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Welcome “Kick up your feet and soak in the southern way of living in Elizabeth City, North Carolina.”

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Visit Elizabeth City Visitors Guide

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ur scenic waterfront community invites you to slow down, explore, and enjoy the great outdoors. Paddle along the Pasquotank River or spend the day fishing, birdwatching, or simply soaking in the natural beauty that surrounds us. Just an hour from Norfolk International Airport and the Hampton Roads region, Elizabeth City is home to one of the largest Coast Guard bases in the United States and three institutions of higher learning. Explore our revitalized downtown, experience historic walking tours, enjoy our growing music and arts scene, and unwind at one of our cozy stays. When you’re in town, stop by the Visitor Center in the beautiful Waterworks Building at 400 South Water Street where our friendly team is ready to help you discover even more adventures. Plan your trip at VisitElizabethCity.com and experience all that our harbor town has to offer.

- The Visit Elizabeth City Team

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4 Ways to

Discover Downtown D

owntown Elizabeth City is the place to go for local shopping, dining, and exploring, all within walking distance from several picturesque waterfront parks.

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Visit Elizabeth City Visitors Guide

Downtown Public Art

1. EXPLORE THE ARTS

Downtown Elizabeth City’s arts scene has really bloomed in recent years! Peruse the downtown streets to see how many hand-painted murals you can find and be sure to snag a selfie at the CocaCola Sign, Pailin’s Alley mural, Muddy Waters Coffeehouse mural and more.

Don’t forget to check out Arts of the Albemarle’s gallery full of local art – it’s a must-stop for beautifully crafted artwork as well as performing arts events.

2. RETAIL THERAPY

Downtown is great for shopping; you can find anything you’re looking for within walking distance!

There’s plenty of shopping fun for everyone in our eclectic downtown district at Bijoux Vibes, Eclectic Jewelry, Jade Whale Co., Kitchen Kuriosities, Lazzy Frog, Pine & Porch, The Recycled Reader, Water’s Edge Boutique and more!

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Mariners’ Wharf

3. LEARN THE HISTORY

Take a trip over to the Museum of the Albemarle to learn the history of the Albemarle region. Or, if you prefer a walking tour, check out the Civil War Trail Markers or the Main Street Residential District Tour at VisitElizabethCity.com or stop in our Visitor Center for a brochure.

Our coastal community also boasts a rich African American history dating back to the 1700s. Check out NCBlackHeritageTour.com to explore the sites and celebrate the contributions made by our ancestors.

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Visit Elizabeth City Visitors Guide

If you’re traveling with little ones in tow, check out Port Discover. This hands-on science center offers programs where kids can learn about the science and environment of our region. For artsy excursions, visit Studio 511 and Lily Pad Pottery for kids of all ages to express their creative side!

Museum of the Albemarle also offers indoor fun and learning opportunities for little ones and often hosts events like History for Lunch and Tot Time.

4 Ways to Discover Downtown

4. FUN FOR FAMILIES

When the weather is nice the downtown area offers scenic beauty and fun at the parks for the whole family; head to Charles Creek Park, Waterfront Park or Mariners’ Wharf to enjoy a picnic, take in the scenery, or burn some energy and play.

From art and shopping to history and nature, there’s something fun for everyone here in the heart of Elizabeth City!

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Day Trips

Currituck Outer Banks

Take a day trip to the Currituck Outer Banks and see the endangered wild herd of Colonial Spanish Mustangs! Remember, state law requires you stay at least 50 feet away from the wild horses roaming the beaches. Petting and feeding them is illegal. Enjoy and respect their history from afar.

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Visit Elizabeth City Visitors Guide

Day Trips

The Dismal Swamp State Park is teeming with wildlife and scenic beauty. There are 20 miles of hiking trails, a half mile boardwalk, plus bike, canoe and kayak rentals. The Park sits on the Inter-Coastal Waterway and has a rich history including its role in the Underground Railroad, carrying enslaved people to freedom.

Dismal Swamp State Park

Edenton

Beautiful, historic Edenton is just a short drive from Elizabeth City. Hop on the antique trolley for a guided tour of the town and learn some of its history along the way. From May through July, take the family for a trip to watch an Edenton Steamers baseball game.

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NC Potato Festival

Annual Events SPRING Coast Guard Marathon | March/April TarWheel Cycling Event | April Bocce, Beer & Bites | April N.C. Potato Festival | May Downtown Waterfront Market | Saturdays, May – April First Friday ArtWalk | First Fridays, Monthly

SUMMER Bassmaster Elite Series | June Fourth of July Celebration | July Mariners’ Wharf Film Festival | Tuesdays, June – July Music on the Green | Tuesdays, August-September Downtown Waterfront Market | Saturdays, May – Sept First Friday ArtWalk | First Fridays, Monthly

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Visit Elizabeth City Visitors Guide

Historic Ghost Walk | October River City Rhythm & Brews | October

Annual Events

FALL

Albemarle Craftsman’s Fair | October ECSU Homecoming | October Splash Art Week | October Music on the Green | Tuesdays, July – September First Friday ArtWalk | First Fridays, Monthly

WINTER Kids First Turkey Trot | November Downtown Waterfront Market | Saturdays, May – Sept Hot Cocoa Crawl | November - December Christmas Parade | December Museum of the Albemarle Holiday Open House | Dec Lighted Boat Parade | December Holiday ArtWalk | First Friday, December Christmas in Elizabeth City | All Month Long!

Lights of the Albemarle Lantern Parade | New Year’s Eve Please note that specific dates of events may change year to year. A full list of events and information is available at VisitElizabethCity.com/events

Music on the Green

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lizabeth City comes with merry music, shopping, Santa sightings, workshops for crafting gifts and more hometown happenings!

Make sure to stop in for the Annual Christmas Parade, Grand Illumination, and the awardwinning Lighted Boat Parade on the Pasquotank River. It’s a season full of fun and holiday festivities for the whole family. We can’t wait to celebrate Christmas in Elizabeth City with you!

For all things Christmas including holiday events, visit: VisitElizabethCity.com/ seasonal_highlights/celebrate-christmas-inelizabeth-city/

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Visit Elizabeth City Visitors Guide

Christmas in Elizabeth City Annual Christmas Parade

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Elizabeth City, NC 27909 MuseumOfTheAlbemarle.com

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Elizabeth Street HWY 158

Sheriffs Office

Pool St. Park

Public Library

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City Offices

E. Colonial Avenue

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US District Court

County Courthouse

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Ives Alley

E. Main Stree

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Police/Fire Department

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McMorrine St.

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Pool St. Park

S. Elliot St.

S. Road Street

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MLK Jr. Blvd.

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E. Fearing Street

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E. Church Street

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PARKING RESTROOMS

ELIZABETH CITY DOWNTOWN 1. Women Suffragist Mural 2. Lighthouse & Flowers Murals 3. Harbor of Hospitality Sign 4. Max Roach Mural 5. Coca Cola Mural 6. Pailin’s Alley Mural 16

7. Butterfly Wings & String Art Sailboat 8. Heron on Turtle Mural 9. Metalworks Tree 10. Chesson’s Dept Store Sign 11. Metalworks Sailboat

Visit Elizabeth City Visitors Guide

Weatherly Historic Landmark

Veterans Park

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S. Poindexter St.

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Moth Boat Park

Water Street

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Fowler Alley

Pailin’s Alley

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Pasquotank River

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Public boat ramp

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N PUBLIC ART & ATTRACTIONS 12. Main Street Clock

18. Vintage Post Cards

13. Fairy Resting On Mushroom Mural

19. Southern Hotel Window Project

14. Vintage Post Card Mural 15. Pool Street Park Fountain

21. Black Lives Matter Street Painting

16. Hot Cocoa Mug

22. Crystal Stone Work

17. Eagle Wings

23. Angel Wings

20. Mural at Muddy’s

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Places to Stay

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hether you are here for business or visiting loved ones, we invite you to choose the lodging option that best suits your personal travel style. Find your perfect home-away-from-home and discover our quaint, coastal charm!

HOTELS & MOTELS Baymont by Windham 848 Halstead Blvd 252.331.7751

Hampton Inn 402 Halstead Blvd 252.333.1800

Comfort Inn 306 South Hughes Blvd 252.338.8900

Quality Inn 522 South Hughes Blvd 252.338.3951

Days Inn 308 South Hughes Blvd 252.335.4316

Queen Elizabeth Motel 1160 US Hwy 17 South 252.338.3961

Econo Lodge Travelers Inn 522A South Hughes Blvd 1211 North Road Street 252.338.4124 252.338.5451 Fairfield Inn & Suites

by Marriott 1640 City Center Blvd 252.333.1003 18

Whistling Pines Motel 1151 US Hwy 17 South 252.335.0817

Visit Elizabeth City Visitors Guide

Blue Ruby Inn 200 South Road Street 252.312.1789 Culpepper Inn 609 West Main Street 252.335.9235 Pepperberry Inn Historic Downtown Main Street 252.340.1431

In addition to our traditional accommodations, we also have a large selection of Airbnb rentals in historic downtown, waterfront retreats, and tranquil country settings. To see them all, visit: www.airbnb.com/ elizabeth-city-nc/stays

Places to Stay

BED & BREAKFASTS

Blue Ruby at Grice-Fearing House

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Taste & Toast Around Town

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hether you’re craving Sushi, Thai, or a think steak, our charming city is sure to have the perfect option to satisfy your tastebuds. While you’re exploring our Harbor of Hospitality® we invite you to sip and savor all the flavors of Elizabeth City.

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Visit Elizabeth City Visitors Guide

Where to Eat and Drink 2 Souls Wine Bar

BREAKFAST

They say breakfast is the most important meal of the day; kick off your morning with a hometown breakfast to keep you fueled for exploring the town. Everyone in your group will find something appetizing at long-time local favorites Colonial Cafe and Circle II. For a quick bite and friendly service, Southern Maid Donuts is sure to satisfy.

You can’t go wrong with a pick-me-up iced coffee, latte from one of our amazing coffee shops Muddy Waters Coffeehouse and The Kraken Coffee House or even a refreshing smoothie from Electric Garden.

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Paradiso Roma Ristorante

LUNCH

After a long morning of exploring the shops and taking in the sights you’re sure to have worked up an appetite. For locally sourced, classic American fare you can’t go wrong with well-known Cypress Creek Grill. For new downtown favorites, The Bistro and Bistro Tropical are sure to please, or Tooley’s Tavern for comfort food and full-service bar. For locals’ favorite Mexican food, try Mi Cancun and 3 Amigos.

DINNER

Whether you’re out with the whole family or on date night, Elizabeth City has several delectable options. Big Daddy’s Pizza and Tony’s Italian Restaurant offer fun family vibes. Montero’s Restaurant has been serving amazing food with customer service to match since 2005 and even offers a plant-based menu. For riverfront dining or drinks on the deck, check out Paradiso Roma Ristorante — for pasta, steak, seafood and more!

Toyama Japanese Restaurant’s sushi, noodle and rice dishes are well-known, with their prime downtown location. Just down the street in Pailin’s Alley is Hoppin’ Johnz New South Cuisine with fantastic food and atmosphere too; if you ask a local, they’ll tell you to make sure to try the shrimp and grits!

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Visit Elizabeth City Visitors Guide

Where to Eat and Drink

Hoppin’ Johnz New South Cuisine

DRINKS

Wrap up your dining excursion through Elizabeth City with a nightcapin these cozy favorite spots — 2 Souls Wine Bar, Pine & Porch and speakeasyinspired Juniper cocktail bar!

And for locally-crafted brews — Ghost Harbor Brewing Company and Seven Sounds Brewing Company. With cozy environments, live music and a variety of events, each place offers something unique.

If you have a sweet tooth, try Sweet Easy’s freshly made pastries, coffees, and ice cream.

With a surprising amount of dining options, and new ones opening all the time, you’ll never go hungry in Elizabeth City! For a full list of dining options, go to: VisitElizabethCity.com/eat-and-drink

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Walking Tours

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lizabeth City’s rich history and vibrant culture come alive on foot. Explore the city at your own pace or follow a guided tour to uncover the stories behind its streets, architecture, and communities.

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Elizabeth City Main Street Historic District Walking Tour

Stroll through beautifully preserved buildings and landmarks that tell the story of Elizabeth City’s growth from a riverfront settlement to a thriving historic downtown.

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Elizabeth City Main Street Commercial District Walking Tour

Discover the city’s historic commercial heart, where charming storefronts and period architecture showcase Elizabeth City’s role as a regional center for trade, business, and community life.

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Visit Elizabeth City Visitors Guide

Walking Tours

3 African American Experience Trail

Celebrate the stories, contributions, and heritage of African American communities in Elizabeth City.

This trail highlights significant sites, from churches and schools to cultural landmarks, giving visitors a deeper understanding of the city’s diverse history.

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Elizabeth City State Teacher’s College Tour

Now the site of Elizabeth City State University, the Elizabeth City State Teachers’ College was founded in 1891 as a Normal School for the purpose of “training teachers of the colored race to teach in common schools of North Carolina” and marked a significant period in African-American history.

Elizabeth City Civil War Markers Tour

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Part of the national Civil War Trails program, this tour weaves together the history of Union occupation in Elizabeth City through real-life accounts of arson, ambush, guerilla warfare and the tragic tale of a family murdered on a trip to town.

This list doesn’t even scratch the surface of all there is to explore in Elizabeth City, but it’s a great start! For more information about our region’s Black History, visit: NCBlackHeritageTour.com 25

Outdoor Adventures

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lizabeth City is proud to be part of Outdoor NC, a statewide initiative that encourages responsible recreation and helps preserve North Carolina’s natural beauty for generations to come. By following simple Leave No Trace principles, visitors can enjoy our rivers and trails while keeping them pristine.

SAILING & ROWING

With the Pasquotank River right at our doorstep, River City Community Sailing and Elizabeth City Rowing Club offer lessons for children to adults.

Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your technique, the water is waiting!

KAYAKING & PADDLING

Paddlers can rent gear from the Kayak Kiosk at College Park or launch their own kayak or paddleboard from the Coast Guard Park launch.

Glide along the calm waters while taking in the scenic views of Elizabeth City.

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Visit Elizabeth City Visitors Guide

Fenwick Holowell Trail

TRAILS & WALKING

For land-based adventures, the FenwickHollowell Trail on the College of the Albemarle campus provides a scenic riverside walk perfect for birdwatching, jogging, or simply enjoying a peaceful outdoor escape.

SPORTS & SPIRIT

Catch the River City Skippers baseball for an evening of classic summer fun or cheer on the Elizabeth City Rowing Team as they glide across the Pasquotank River. In the fall, join fans at Elizabeth City State University to experience the excitement of Viking football.

PARKS

From neighborhood playgrounds to open and green spaces, Elizabeth City and Pasquotank County offer plenty of spots to relax and play.

Families love Fun Junktion, with its playgrounds and fishing area, while Newland Park provides more wide open space perfect for kids and community gatherings.

FISHING

Fishing is both a tradition and an adventure here.

Albemarle Fishing Charters and Avery’s Guide Service offer guided trips for anglers of all levels, making it easy to reel in striped bass, crappie, and other local favorites while soaking in the beauty of Elizabeth City from the water. Have your own boat? We’ve got a few public boat ramps that make getting on the water a breeze: • Halls Creek ramp 1043 Halls Creek Road • Big Flatty Creek ramp 265 Shadneck Road • Sawmill Park 481 Sawmill Road • Waterfront Park 508 South Water Street • College Park 600 Southern Avenue 27

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earing wedding bells? Say “I do” in our picturesque harbor town and enjoy all the southern charm and scenic beauty Elizabeth City has to offer. You’ll find hospitable restaurants, accommodations, and venues featuring scenic views from rehearsal to reception. Elizabeth City is a perfect place for brides and grooms to plan and prep for their celebration while outof-town guests enjoy sightseeing and shopping.

Whether you envision an intimate waterfront gathering or are looking for something more extravagant, Elizabeth City is ready to help you make your special day come to life.

Start planning your big day at VisitElizabethCity.com/weddings

Museum of the Albemarle

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Visit Elizabeth City Visitors Guide

Weddings in Elizabeth City

Pool Street Park

Visit Elizabeth City Visitors Guide

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Educational Institutions

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ounded in 1891, Elizabeth City State University is a constituent institution of the University of North Carolina System. Visitors can take part in public events like music concerts, sporting events, and the Community Connections series. ECSU partners with USCG Base Elizabeth City in their College Student Pre-Commissioning Initiative to train future USCG pilots and is the only university offering a bachelor’s in Aviation Science in North Carolina.

Mid-Atlantic Christian University, located on the riverfront, is focused on strengthening the next generation of leaders who are confident in their faith and future. Visitors can attend a leadership or continuing education event, community training, or just stop by to enjoy a scenic walk by the river!

Our local community college, College of The Albemarle, is home to the Fenwick-Hollowell Trail. This free boardwalk runs along the Pasquotank River and is perfect for sightseeing local flora and fauna.

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Visit Elizabeth City Visitors Guide

Proud to be a

Coast Guard City

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s the 17th U.S. city designated a “Coast Guard City” and home to the second largest Coast Guard base in the country, the U.S. Coast Guard is dear to our hearts. Base Elizabeth City sits on over 800 acres of land in the Weeksville area of the county. While the base is accessible to military personnel only, civilians can drive by to check out the decommissioned HH-52 Seaguard helicopter and 32 ft. PWB at the entrance. If your timing is right, you just might catch an aircraft taking off overhead!

Did you know Elizabeth City is the home to the only sanctioned road race of the U.S. Coast Guard? The one and only Coast Guard Marathon offers a 26.2, 13.1 and 5K with the unique ability to run on base, past the air station and more.

To learn more about the race, visit: CoastGuardMarathon.com

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Pailin’s Alley

FIND US ONLINE!

Elizabeth City-Pasquotank County Tourism Development Authority

400 S. Water St., Suite 100, Elizabeth City, NC 27909

252.335.5330 • VisitElizabethCity.com