June 15, 2018
If you’re like most Americans, you end up forfeiting a significant chunk of your vacation time each year. On a national scale, this resulted in 662 million unused days and $66.4 billion in lost benefits in 2017. This begs the question – with so little time left to enjoy yourself due to today’s “always-on” culture, shouldn’t the time you are able to take be spent somewhere truly out of the ordinary?
That’s why you should treat yourself to a one-of-a-kind weekend getaway in Elizabeth City, North Carolina, this summer. Perched alongside the shores of the Pasquotank River, this picturesque town offers the perfect destination to kick back and relax in some comfortable accommodations and also enjoy countless attractions at your own leisure.
Whatever it is that puts your mind at ease – whether it be nature, the arts or a thriving culinary scene – chances are you’re going to find exactly what you’re looking for in Elizabeth City. Here’s just a taste of what you can expect to find upon your arrival.
Elizabeth City is centrally located between four different state parks, making it a favorite place for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Spend a day fishing for largemouth bass in the state’s second largest natural lake and observing an abundance of wildlife at Pettigrew State Park, the state’s least populated area.
On another day, canoe on a 750-acre millpond while taking in the beauty of “the enchanted forest” at Merchants Millpond State Park or explore over 20 miles of trails at Dismal Swamp State Park, an area rich in history, mystery and adventure. If you’re looking for someplace a little less wet and wild, visit Jockey’s Ridge State Park, the highest sand dune on the eastern seaboard. Climb to the top of the dune for unbelievable views of the Atlantic Ocean and breathtaking sunsets.
Are you a history buff? Be sure to visit Museum of Albemarle, located downtown across from Waterfront Park on the Pasquotank River. This unique museum is home to a number of inspiring exhibits, programs and events that highlight state, regional and local history.
Charles O. Robinson House built as a wedding present for Ivy Blades, from her father, as she married Charles O. Robinson in 1914.After that, take in the stunning architecture of Elizabeth City’s
historical residences on a
self-guided walking tour
or visit Arts of the Albemarle to enjoy
a local performance at The Center or discover regional works of art at the
Jaquelin Jenkins Gallery. And if you happen to be traveling with your
four-legged friend, feel free to bring them along because the majority of
Elizabeth City’s downtown businesses are
pet-friendly!
Justin Falls/Visit Elizabeth City
Both man’s best friends and their hoomans give Elizabeth City’s downtown two paws up!
If you’re a die-hard foodie, you’ve come to the right place because Elizabeth City is absolutely brimming with restaurants offering culinary experiences you won’t find anywhere else. Serving everything from southern cuisine to mouth-watering seafood dishes, everyone will find something they love at one of the city’s many independently owned and operated eateries.
Hoppin’ Johnz New South Cuisine offers new twists on classic southern dishes.Hoppin’ Johnz New South Cuisine
is a favorite amongst visitors and locals, offering delicious classic
southern dishes, craft beers, hand-picked wines and an impressive selection
of fine bourbons in
a comfortable atmosphere
with a sense old school charm. If you’re a beer lover, be sure to visit
Ghost Harbor Brewing Company, a four-barrel microbrewery and taproom
offering several high-quality beers
that are interestingly flavored and reasonably priced.
Liza Franco/Visit Elizabeth City
Whether it’s lounging under the rising cypress trees along the waterways, taking a liberating hike through a state park or going on a downtown adventure, this city provides just what you need to disconnect from the stresses of daily life for a few days and clear your mind.
