An Edenton Getaway

Sashay to the shores of a charming NC town.

The shores are calling! Escape to quaint, coastal, old-fashioned Edenton for a charming vacay that will end with a “recharged and reset” feeling—rather than the dreaded post-travel “in need of vacation 2.0” feeling (iykyk). 

Upon arrival to the storied historic haven, delve into the richness of intimate eateries, sightseeing and restful accommodations that abound in the “prettiest small town in the South.” But the best part? The drive to NC’s initial Colonial Capital is but a ~two-hour trip from Raleigh—with the salty air and slow pace of a charming town awaiting. … See you by the bay! 

EAT 

Old Colony Smokehouse 
It’s always a smokeshow at Broad Street’s “Southern culinary revival” chefing up wood-smoked BBQ and scratchmade sides the Eastern NC way—aka no shortcuts. Beyond the BBQ, pop a gringo popper or two for a flavor explosion of bacon-wrapped smoked Anaheim pepper goodness stuffed with brisket pimento cheese. It’ll have ya cheesin’ hard, guaranteed. oldcolonysmokehouse.com

Edenton Bay Oyster Bar
Shuck ’em real good along the Albemarle Sound via the fresh air and fresh fare (hello, oysters Rockefeller!) of an ubercurated and elevated experience. Scenery? Check. Live entertainment? Check. Craveworthy seafood dishes and cocktails? Check and double check. A pearl, indeed! edentonbayoysterbar.co

The Herringbone on the Waterfront
Settle into your seat at an ice house-turned-restaurant so vibey it’s also used as a wedding venue. Munch on brunch, lunch, dinner and/or dessert (choose from waterfront faves like pan-seared sea scallops, fish and chips, the Herringbone burger, and more) amid cozy woodsy surrounds—and don’t miss the live tunes. We’re absolutely reeling (!). the-herringbone.com

DRINK

Edenton Coffee House
But first, coffee. Chat up the barista as you get your locally roasted (s/o Roanoke Roasting!) caffeine fix in an eclectic atmosphere. And treat yourself to a flurry of sweet or savory snacks to sate your sweet tooth—from cinnamon rolls and muffins to breakfast biscuits and more. Talk about the perf pick-me-up!
@edentoncoffeehouse

Edenton Bay Trading Company 
Enter your classy wine—or craft beer bro—era as you lounge and swig at this Broad Street watering hole offering courtyard seating by the koi pond (it’s giving The Secret Garden energy)—or settle in for a cozy indoor experience amid intimate environs overlooking the historic Cupola House and its lovely gardens. Plus, don’t forget to pair your bev(s) of choice with a few handpicked artisan cheese selects. Catch ya in the court(yard)? edentonbaytradingcompany.com

309 Bistro and Spirits
Eat—or, more importantly, drink—your way through the oodles of selects offered at this cozy lounge helmed by executive chef/owner Kevin Yokley and his wife, Jennifer. Known for its fine fare starring ingredients from local fishermen and purveyors, as well as its handmade cocktails, draft beer and wine lineup feat. a scad of local selects, the 309 is an ideal perch for patrons seeking a cozy sit-down and good imbibes. 309bistro.com

DO

Bennett’s Millpond
Calling all silly geese! Jump—er, paddle—into the pond via kayak or canoe at a hidden hideaway for the outdoor-inclined. For those fancying a stroll, venture along the NC Birding Trail or peep the views from the scenic pavilion and boardwalk. Ah, how water-ful. visitedenton.com

Chowan Arts Council
Experience the beauty of history by perusing  the always-rotating local art exhibits keeping one-of-a-kind works on display. The gallery, which first opened in 1976, is essentially an oasis for community connections through art appreciation—and what a lovely image, indeed. Ready to paint a picture of the past? chowanarts.com

Trolley Tours
All aboard! Ride in style and transport back in time on a vintage trolley that’s taking a trip back through ~300 years of history. The narrated tour explores notable landmarks such as the Colonial Chowan County Courthouse, Roanoke River Lighthouse and The Cupola House. ehcnc.org

STAY

Mulberry Hill Inn
Indulge in “elegant lodging on the Albemarle Sound,” by acquiring room and board at this luxe ~350-year-old establishment serving up a gourmet breakfast on the daily (Virginia ham and cheese scones for the win). Not to mention it’s surrounded by an 18-hole golf course. BRB, catch us hitting the links or sipping tea on the verandah. mulberryhillinn.com

Inner Banks Inn
Get your accommodations in the bank with a stay at Tripadvisor’s top-ranked bed-and-breakfast ideal for a low-key romantic getaway or a solo escape. With 20 rooms/suites balancing contemporary luxuries and historic charm, the opportunities to unwind and awe-inspiring views abound. And with a full-service breakfast experience starring locally sourced bacon and sausage, and original heritage Carolina Plantation Grits, you’ll never want to leave. innerbanksinn.com

Pleasant Sounds
Book a stay with surround sound (!) by way of Airbnb at this coastal-curated home feat. a sea view and an open airy ambiance—with ample space for all to spread out. Enjoy a morning cuppa or an evening nightcap on the waterfront patio or screened-in gazebo, and pamper yourself in the large soaking tub. Splish, splash! airbnb.com