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Experience
Downtown
Elizabeth City
Things to Do in Downtown Elizabeth City
Downtown Elizabeth City, NC offers a vibrant mix of locally owned restaurants, unique boutiques, waterfront attractions, and historic charm. Located along the beautiful Pasquotank River, our walkable downtown historic district is the perfect destination for a day trip, weekend getaway, or waterfront dining experience. Visitors can explore independent shops, enjoy award-winning restaurants, and discover why Elizabeth City is one of coastal North Carolina's hidden gems.
Dining & Drinking in Downtown Elizabeth City
Full-Service Restaurants
Photo | Restaurant | Phone | Address | Description | Pet-friendly |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Bistro Tropical | (252) 202-8707 | 400 S Water St, Ste 201 | Caribbean & Hispanic-inspired seafood with a beautiful waterfront view. | Deck seating available | |
Colonial Cafe | (252) 562-6541 | 418 E Colonial Ave | Classic American breakfast in a casual diner atmosphere. | No | |
Cypress Creek Grill | (252) 334-9915 | 113 S Water St | Innovative American cuisine with fresh seafood, hometown charm, and daily specials. | No | |
Hoppin' Johnz New South Cuisine | (252) 679-7716 | 606 E Colonial Ave | Delicious Southern cuisine with a modern twist and weekly specials. | Patio seating available | |
Proof Roma Ristorante | (252) 333-1575 | 35 Camden Causeway | Dishes with local ingredients and freshly made pasta on a beautiful waterfront location. | Deck seating available | |
The Bistro | (252) 562-6545 | 200 N Poindexter St | Proud of their "chaos menu" and Fri-Sun brunch. | No | |
Tooley's Tavern at the Boathouse | (252) 621-1162 | 400 N MLK Jr Dr | Pub-style favorites and Sunday brunch. | No | |
Toyama Japanese | (252) 338-2437 | 218 N Poindexter St | Sushi and Japanese classics including bento boxes on the lunch menu. | No |
Counter Service Restaurants
Photo | Restaurant | Phone | Address | Description | Pet-friendly |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
The Corner Mexican Restaurant | 102 B N Water St | Made-to-order burritos, tacos, quesadillas, and salads. | No | ||
Electric Garden | (252) 340-0520 | 608 E Fearing St | Premium smoothies and smothie bowls with fresh ingredients. | No | |
Elizabeth City Pizza Co | (252) 698-3017 | 507 E Main St, Ste D | Family-friendly Neapolitan style pizzeria | No | |
Mustang Cafe | (252) 334-2058 | 715 N Poindexter St | MACU's student cafeteria, open to the public. | No | |
Quality Seafood Restaurant & Market | (252) 335-7648 | 309 E Ehringhaus St | Fresh-caught seafood. | No |
Coffee Shops & Cafés
Photo | Name | Phone | Address | Description | Pet-friendly |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Kraken Coffee House | (252) 855-7246 | 615 E Main St | Pireate-themed coffee drinks, Canonballs, Bubble Tea, and more. | Yes | |
Main Street Tea House | (252) 510-9175 | 104 W Main St | Southern High-Tea experience with international tea, finger sandwiches, and desserts. Reservations Required. | No | |
Muddy Waters Coffeehouse | (252) 338-2739 | 100 W Main St | House-roasted beans, hand-crafted drinks by experienced baristas and homemade treats. | Yes | |
The SweetEasy | (252) 698-0109 | 507 E Main St, Ste C | Creative daily treat specials and ice cream along with coffee, refreshers, and books. | Yes |
Breweries, Bars, and Nightlife
Photo | Name | Phone | Address | Description | Pet-friendly |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2 Souls Wine Bar | (252) 679-7223 | 512 E Main St | A premium wine bar from 2 friends to bring you the best there is to offer in wine & charcuterie boards. | Sidewalk table seating available | |
Coasters Downtown | (252) 335-9463 | 216 N Poindexter St | Small town Cheers-style bar has a surprisingly large number of brews on tap. | No | |
Ghost Harbor Brewing Company | (252) 340-4643 | 602 E Colonial Ave | A microbrewery and taproom located in historic Pailin's Alley, offering a rotating menu of craft beer. | Yes | |
Juniper Cocktail Bar | (252) 679-7001 | 210 N Poindexter St | Speakeasy-inspired cocktail bar specializing in hand-crafted espresso martitnis located off Historic Pailin's Alley. | No | |
Pine & Porch | (252) 340-2116 | 105 E Colonial Ave | Cozy beer and wine bar selling local & state brews with lots of outdoor seating, plus home goods. | Yes | |
River City Biergarten | (252) 312-1789 | 106 E Fearing St | Relaxed atmosphere with inviting outdoor and indoor seating and a diverse selection of beer, wine, and liquor. | Outdoor seating available | |
Seven Sounds Brewing Company | (252) 679-7507 | 112 N Water St | Craft beer brewed on site and gorgeous waterfront views of the Pasquotank River. | Yes |
Shopping in Downtown Elizabeth City
Boutiques & Jewelery
Photo | Name | Phone | Address | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Bijoux Vibes | (252) 698-3044 | 104 S Poindexter St | Chic women's clothing and accessories, including a hat bar. | |
Eclectic Jewelry & Design | (252) 331-2770 | 513 E Fearing St | Estate, handcrafted, and unusual jewelry, along with special orders and jewelry repair. | |
Jade Whale Co | (252) 301-6520 | 605 E Main St | Teen-friendly skate emporium with unique clothing & gifts. | |
Lavoro Leather | (252) 562-6020 | 205 N Water St | A working leather shop creating custom luxury leather goods. By appointment only. | |
Lazzy Frog | (252) 338-2328 | 603 E Fearing St | Casual and fun clothing for everyone, with practical accessories & gifts. | |
Water's Edge Boutique | (252) 548-4668 | 507 E Main St, Ste A | Women's clothing, accessories, and fragrance with an Instagram-worthy dressing room. |
Gift Shops
Photo | Name | Phone | Address | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Arts of the Albemarle Gift Shop | (252) 777-2787 | 516 E Main St | Diverse range of visual arts and jewelry from the local community and beyond. | |
Harbor Pharmacy & Gift Shop | (252) 331-6502 | 400 E Main St, Ste A | Independently owned pharmacy offering an array of market and gift items. | |
In Stitches Embroidery & Gift Shop | (252) 338-3094 | 607 E Main St | Custom embroidery for family, friends, and businesses. | |
Water & Main Décor & Gifts | (252) 335-9522 | 111 S Water St | Home decor, jewelry, wedding registry, baby shower gifts, and lots more! |
Specialty Shops
Photo | Name | Phone | Address | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
All The Things | (252) 455-0848 | 111 N McMorrine St | Vintage items at great prices. Check out the Man Cave, SciFi area, and more! | |
Copper Canyon Soap Co | (252) 621-1472 | 507 E Main St, Ste B | Hand-made soaps, candles, laundry detergent, bath bombs, and skincare. | |
Elizabeth City Sewing Center | (252) 335-5115 | 117 S Water St | Sewing machine sales and service, notions, and fabric. | |
Kitchen Kuriosities | (252) 310-0311 | 613 E Main St, Ste B | Something for every aspect of cooking, baking, and serving your favorite meals. | |
My Corner Butcher | (252) 335-2254 | 508 N Poindexter St | Features locally sourced meats, poultry, seafood, and groceries. | |
River City Vapor | 304 E Ehringhaus St | Vape & THC products. | ||
Roots Plant Company | (252) 621-1236 | 114 N McMorrine St | Plant nursery specializing in tropical houseplants, specialty soils, pots, baskets & plant accessories. | |
The Recycled Reader | (252) 331-7771 | 606 E Main St, Ste A | New & used books, puzzles, and book-themed gifts. |
Attractions & Activities in Downtown Elizabeth City
Waterfront Parks in Downtown Elizabeth City
Located along the scenic Pasquotank River, the waterfront parks in downtown Elizabeth City offer walkable green spaces, boating access, fishing spots, and some of the best riverfront views in coastal North Carolina.
Waterfront Park
508 S Water St
A central gathering space along the Pasquotank River featuring a scenic riverwalk, pavilion, gazebo, and boat access. Amenities include public restrooms, picnic tables, boat trailer parking, and convenient downtown parking—perfect for relaxing or launching a day on the water.
Coast Guard Park
710 Riverside Ave
A peaceful waterfront spot with a floating dock, fishing pier, and benches overlooking the river. Home to local sailing and rowing clubs, this park is ideal for watching activity on the water or enjoying a quiet riverside break.
Charles Creek Park
719 Riverside Ave
A family-friendly park with a playground, picnic shelter, and fishing opportunities. Visitors can also explore the Martin Luther King Jr. educational boardwalk while enjoying scenic creek and river views.
College Park
600 Southern Ave
A popular access point for boating and kayaking with a public boat ramp, trailer parking, and a kayak kiosk. The park also features a half-court basketball area and a rentable concessions stand for events and gatherings.
Mariners’ Wharf
112 S Water St
Located in the heart of downtown, this waterfront destination offers a riverwalk, public boat docking, restrooms and showers, picnic tables, and a pavilion. A great starting point for exploring downtown shops, restaurants, and waterfront views.
Moth Boat Park
799 E Main St
A quiet river overlook with seating benches, offering a peaceful place to enjoy views of the Pasquotank River and watch boats pass by.
Veterans’ Park
222 N Water St
A reflective waterfront space featuring benches, river views, and memorials honoring our local veterans, including the Major General Proctor Memorial Wall.
Public Art in Downtown Elizabeth City
Downtown Elizabeth City is home to a vibrant and growing public art collection, featuring over 20 murals, sculptures, and installations created by local and regional artists. Visitors can explore these works through a self-guided, walkable tour across the downtown historic district, discovering colorful murals, interactive installations, and waterfront-inspired pieces along the way.
Highlights of the collection include the striking Max Roach mural honoring the legendary jazz musician, as well as a series of interactive metalwork wings—including eagle, butterfly, and angel wings—designed for visitors to step into and capture memorable photos. Downtown’s playful side shines through pieces like the whimsical “Heron on Turtle” and “Fairy Resting on Mushroom” murals, while the oversized Hot Cocoa Mug invites visitors to step inside and celebrate Elizabeth City’s title as the “Hot Cocoa Capital of the World.”
More than 30 artist-designed bike racks are located throughout downtown, transforming everyday infrastructure into creative, functional art. Each rack reflects the personality and talent of local artists, making even a casual walk or bike ride an opportunity to discover something new.
Explore the full collection through our self-guided public art tours and downloadable map.
Arts & Culture in Downtown Elizabeth City
Downtown Elizabeth City offers a rich arts and culture scene that blends history, creativity, and live entertainment. Visitors can explore regional history and interactive exhibits at the Museum of the Albemarle or enjoy hands-on learning experiences at Port Discover Children's Museum, making downtown a great destination for families and lifelong learners alike.
The creative spirit continues at Arts of the Albemarle, where rotating art exhibits, performances, and community events showcase local and regional talent. Visitors looking for a more interactive experience can join a class or workshop at Poindexter Paint & Pottery, a welcoming studio offering activities for both adults and children. For a fun and easy creative experience, visit Lily Pad Pottery, where guests of all ages can paint their own pottery and return later to pick up a one-of-a-kind souvenir from their time in downtown Elizabeth City.
In the evenings, downtown comes alive with live music and entertainment at local restaurants, bars, and breweries, creating a lively and inviting atmosphere. Whether you’re exploring museums, creating your own artwork, or enjoying live performances, downtown Elizabeth City offers a vibrant cultural experience in a walkable, historic waterfront setting.
Entertainment in Downtown Elizabeth City
Downtown Elizabeth City offers a variety of entertainment options for visitors looking for fun, interactive experiences. From lively nightlife and group activities to relaxing creative outlets and scenic river cruises, there’s always something to enjoy in this walkable waterfront district.
For a high-energy night out, visit Kin'Folk Axe Throwing, where guests can try their hand at axe throwing, enjoy pool tables, join cornhole tournaments, and catch live DJs throughout the week. It’s a popular spot for date nights, group outings, and evening entertainment in downtown Elizabeth City.
Visitors of all ages can also enjoy a laid-back, creative experience at Lily Pad Pottery, a paint-your-own pottery studio perfect for a fun afternoon or rainy day activity.
For a truly unique waterfront experience, keep an eye out for visits from the Albemarle Queen Riverboat, which offers scenic river tours and occasional dinner cruises along the Pasquotank River.
Looking for live music or events?
Check out our events calendar or our Facebook Events page to see what’s happening during your visit.
Wellness in Downtown Elizabeth City
Whether you’re looking to relax, recharge, or stay active, Downtown Elizabeth City offers a variety of wellness experiences in a welcoming, walkable setting. From spa services and holistic healing to fitness classes and salons, it’s easy to incorporate self-care into your visit.
Relax & Recharge
Unwind with spa treatments, skincare services, and alternative healing experiences designed to help you feel refreshed and restored. Downtown offers everything from traditional spa services to holistic wellness options, making it a great place to slow down and reset.
Spas, med spa, and alternative healing
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All About Skin, 400 S Water St, Ste 202
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Dockside Esthetics, 115B S Water St
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Elizabeth City Med Spa, 203 W Main St
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Functional Health Collective EC: Acupuncture, Massage & More, 201 E Elizabeth St
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Hands On Health Massage, 217 S Poindexter St
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Highlands Holistic Hypnotherapy, 201 N Poindexter St, Ste 101
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KD Esthetics, 217 S Poindexter St
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Sacred Healing Space, 111 S Road St
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Serenity Healing, 201 N Poindexter St, Ste 1
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Skintuition Glow Bar, 201 N Poindexter St, Ste 2
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Total Balance Massage & Coaching, 201 N Poindexter St, Ste 1
Move & Energize
Stay active during your visit with yoga classes, fitness centers, and dance-based workouts. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful stretch or a high-energy session, there are options for all fitness levels in downtown Elizabeth City.
Yoga, fitness, and dance
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The Fitness Warehouse, 216 N McMorrine St
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Haven Mental Wellness, 111 S Road St
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Madhouse Dance & Fitness, 212 N MLK Jr Dr
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Revitalize Fitness, 515 E Main St
Refresh Your Look
Treat yourself to a little self-care with one of downtown’s many locally owned salons. From hair and nails to full-service beauty treatments, it’s easy to leave feeling polished and refreshed.
Hair, nails, and beauty services
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Crystal's Unique Styles Nail Salon, 313 S Road St
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Glimmer Beauty Lounge, 601 E Main St
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iKandy Hair Studio, 511 S McMorrine St, Ste C
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Keystone Barber Shop, 402 Shepard St
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Nails by Holly, 201 N Poindexter St, Ste 2
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Pearl Hair Studio, 112 S McMorrine St
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Phyllis' Creations, 506 E Colonial Ave
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Polished by Kenzi, 601 E Main St
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Premier Visions Hair Studio, 115 N McMorrine St
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Roots on the River Salon, 105A S Water St
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Sammy's Barber Shop, 508 E Colonial Ave
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True Images Salon, 217 S Poindexter St
Suggested Downtown Elizabeth City Itineraries
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Foodie Trails in Downtown Elizabeth City
Downtown Elizabeth City is a destination for food lovers, offering a variety of self-guided dining trails that highlight the best of the local restaurant scene. Whether you’re planning a casual bite or a full culinary tour, these curated itineraries make it easy to explore the flavors of downtown.
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Burger Trail – Discover some of the best burgers in Elizabeth City, from classic favorites to creative local twists.
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Shrimp & Grits Trail – Experience a Southern staple done right, with each restaurant offering its own take on this coastal Carolina favorite.
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International Influences Trail – Explore globally inspired cuisine right in Downtown Elizabeth City, featuring a mix of flavors and culinary traditions.
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Best of Downtown Elizabeth City – A comprehensive guide to downtown dining, showcasing every restaurant and their signature dish for the ultimate food tour.
Follow the trails, explore at your own pace, and enjoy one of the most delicious ways to experience Downtown Elizabeth City.
A Wellness Weekend in Downtown Elizabeth City
Slow down, recharge, and reconnect during a wellness-focused getaway in downtown Elizabeth City. With its walkable waterfront, calming green spaces, and variety of self-care experiences, downtown offers the perfect setting for a relaxing and rejuvenating weekend.
Day 1: Relax & Recharge
Start your morning with a grounding experience at Haven Mental Wellness, where therapeutic yoga and salt therapy sessions help you ease into the day feeling centered and refreshed.
Afterward, enjoy a nourishing breakfast or smoothie at Electric Garden, Downtown’s all-vegan café offering fresh juices, smoothies, and plant-based meals that energize without weighing you down.
Spend your afternoon focusing on deeper relaxation with a session at Highland Holistic Hypnotherapy, or treat yourself to restorative services like IV infusions at Elizabeth City Med Spa.
For lunch or dinner, unwind with waterfront views at Cypress Creek Grill, where fresh seafood and healthy salads can be enjoyed overlooking Mariners’ Wharf and the harbor.
End your day with a peaceful stroll along the waterfront, taking in the moonrise over the Pasquotank River.
Day 2: Move & Refresh
Start your morning with a peaceful walk along the waterfront in downtown Elizabeth City as the town wakes up. Grab a coffee from a local café and enjoy a slow start to your day.
Mid-morning, ease into movement with a fitness session or dance workout at one of Downtown’s fitness studios—an energizing way to reset and recharge.
For lunch, head to Bistro Tropical and enjoy fresh seafood and river views from their outdoor deck—an ideal spot to linger and soak in the waterfront atmosphere.
After lunch, lose yourself exploring a few of the area’s most calming shops. Step into Roots Plant Co, a serene plant shop that feels like a quiet retreat, then browse nearby All the Things, a nostalgic vintage store filled with unique finds.
Wrap up your wellness weekend feeling refreshed, recharged, and inspired by the relaxed coastal charm of Downtown Elizabeth City.
Looking for more ways to unwind? Explore additional wellness, dining, and waterfront experiences throughout Downtown Elizabeth City.
Date Night in Downtown Elizabeth City
Whether you’re planning a special evening or a spontaneous night out, Downtown Elizabeth City offers the perfect mix of waterfront views, great dining, and memorable experiences. With its walkable historic district and relaxed coastal charm, it’s easy to create a night to remember.
Settle in for dinner at one of downtown’s many locally loved restaurants, where everything from waterfront views to intimate indoor settings creates the perfect date night atmosphere. Enjoy fresh seafood and riverfront scenery at Bistro Tropical, Proof, and Cypress Creek Grill, or opt for a cozy, flavorful dining experience at favorites like Hoppin' Johnz, The Bistro, or Tooley's Tavern. With a variety of cuisines and atmospheres to choose from, Downtown Elizabeth City offers plenty of options for a memorable meal, whether you’re celebrating something special or simply enjoying a night out together.
After dinner, keep the night going with something interactive. Try your hand at axe throwing, play a round of pool, or catch live music at Kin'Folk Axe Throwing, a lively spot perfect for a fun and memorable night out.
End the night with a drink at one of Downtown’s bars or breweries, many of which feature live music on weekends. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back vibe or something more energetic, downtown Elizabeth City offers plenty of options to wind down or keep the evening going.
If you’re visiting when it’s in town, consider a sunset cruise or dinner experience aboard the Albemarle Queen Riverboat for a truly unforgettable date night on the water.
From waterfront dining to live entertainment, Downtown Elizabeth City makes it easy to plan a date night that’s both relaxing and memorable.
Girls' Weekend in Downtown Elizabeth City
Grab your friends and plan a memorable getaway in downtown Elizabeth City, where waterfront views, unique shopping, and relaxing experiences come together for the perfect girls’ weekend. With a walkable historic district and a welcoming small-town vibe, it’s easy to spend a couple of days exploring, unwinding, and enjoying time together.
Day 1: Shop, Sip & Explore
Start your day with a relaxing and memorable experience at Main Street Tea House, where you can reserve a tea party and enjoy a charming, leisurely time with friends.
Take a break for a light lunch or refreshing drink at Electric Garden, where fresh smoothies and plant-based options offer a healthy and energizing midday stop or grab a slice of fresh Neopolitan-style pizza at Elizabeth City Pizza Co.
In the afternoon, continue exploring creative and calming spaces like Roots Plant Co and All the Things, or browse for your next great read at The Recycled Reader.
As the evening begins, settle in for dinner at one of Downtown’s locally owned, full-service restaurants, where a variety of cuisines and atmospheres make it easy to find the perfect spot for your group. From fresh coastal seafood and Southern favorites to globally inspired dishes, Downtown Elizabeth City offers plenty of options for a relaxed, memorable meal. Whether you’re looking for a lively setting or a more intimate table to unwind and catch up, you’ll find just the right place to enjoy great food and even better company.
Wrap up the night with drinks and conversation at a local wine bar or brewery, such as 2 Souls Wine Bar or Seven Sounds Brewing Company, or enjoy the laid-back charm of Pine & Porch, where North Carolina beers, wine, and home décor create a cozy and social setting.
Day 2: Relax, Create & Indulge
Start your weekend with a stroll through downtown’s collection of locally owned boutiques and specialty shops. Browse everything from stylish clothing and home décor to books, plants, and handmade goods. Stop into favorites like Water & Main Decor, Lazzy Frog, Water's Edge Boutique, and Bijoux Vibes, or discover unique spots like Kitchen Kuriosities—home to the South’s Largest Rolling Pin Collection and a featured stop on North Carolina’s Main to Main Trail.
Afterward, explore your creative side with a hands-on activity like painting pottery at Lily Pad Pottery, art classes at Poindexter Paint & Pottery, or browsing local artwork at Arts of the Albemarle.
Spend the afternoon unwinding with one of Downtown’s many wellness and self-care options, including spa services, yoga classes, or salon visits—perfect for a little extra relaxation before heading home.
Before you leave, take one last stroll along the waterfront or revisit your favorite shops to pick up a few final treasures from your weekend in downtown Elizabeth City.
From boutique shopping and creative experiences to great food and relaxing moments, Downtown Elizabeth City offers everything you need for a fun and refreshing girls’ weekend getaway.