Edenton, North Carolina

Originally Written for Authentically Alexa Blog and published in 2021. Updated 2025.

As part of my dietetics program at UNC, I completed my required dietetic internship. This involves 1,200 hours of supervised practice before sitting for the exam. In the summer of 2021, I interned in Elizabeth City, but I stayed in nearby Edenton, North Carolina. During the week I commuted between these two coastal towns. On the weekends I was taking the opportunity to explore these towns and more.

During my six weeks in coastal North Carolina, I tried to learn more about the area and support local businesses. While I didn’t find many gluten-free food options in Edenton, the town itself is worth a visit, especially for anyone interested in history, architecture, and small-town charm.

I do believe you could do many of the attractions in Edenton in a day. Just maybe don’t chose a Sunday. Many shops and attractions in downtown Edenton close on Sundays.

Here are some of the top things to do in Edenton, NC, from historic tours to local sports and local coffee spots. These highlights capture some of what makes the town special.

Edenton Bay Cruises

For a relaxing and scenic experience on the water, Edenton Bay Cruises is a must-try. Run by a husband-and-wife duo who retired to the South, they operate a charming six-seater boat called the Liber-tea. Cruises run multiple days a week, launching several times per day, and last about 45 minutes, offering a leisurely tour of Edenton Harbor without straying far from shore.

The cruise costs $18 per adult, with some discounts available. I’d recommend arriving early due to limited seating. Note that cash and checks are the only accepted forms of payment.

During the tour, Captain Mark shares fascinating stories about Edenton’s history and local landmarks. While some of the information overlaps with the Historic Trolley Tour, his storytelling makes the experience unique and engaging. For anyone visiting Edenton, NC, a cruise on the Liber-tea offers a peaceful, informative, and picturesque way to enjoy the town from the water.

Edenton Coffee House

In downtown Edenton, there are plenty of charming, locally owned shops including one coffee spot you won’t want to miss. As far as I could tell, it’s the only locally owned coffee shop in town, offering a spacious and quirky space with plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. The shop also sells fun merchandise and mugs, perfect for souvenirs.

The menu features a variety of coffee and tea drinks, including frozen beverages, along with small food items and pastries. I opted for my usual iced mocha with almond milk, which was rich, chocolatey, and satisfying. Prices are comparable to other coffee shops, and the friendly, relaxed atmosphere makes it a great spot to unwind.

Whether you’re grabbing a quick caffeine fix or looking for a cozy place to relax in downtown Edenton, Edenton Coffee House is a must-visit.

Edenton Historic Trolley Tour

One of the first things I did in Edenton, North Carolina was take the Historic Edenton Trolley Tour. The tour was such a great introduction to this charming coastal town. The tour begins at the Penelope Barker House Welcome Center and winds through the streets of Historic Edenton. In this hour narrated ride you will hear stories, learn local history, and see beautifully restored homes.

Our driver and guide were wonderful, knowledgeable, friendly, and clearly proud to share their hometown’s history. Many of the homes and buildings along the route have been lovingly restored to their original grandeur, giving you a true sense of what life looked like in this coastal town centuries ago.

Tickets for the Historic Trolley Tour are available for purchase inside the Penelope Barker House Welcome Center. Prices vary, and group rates are available. The trolley isn’t air-conditioned, so beat the heat and book a morning tour.

If you’re looking for one of the best things to do in Edenton, NC, this tour is a must. It’s the perfect way to learn about Edenton’s rich history while seeing its most picturesque streets and landmarks.

Edenton Steamers

Don’t miss a night out at Historic Hicks Field to watch the Edenton Steamers. This is a great way to experience small-town summer charm. The Steamers features college players who come to Edenton to keep playing after their school season ends.

Getting into the game requires a ticket, but once inside it’s open seating. I started out along the third baseline but ended up moving to the first baseline for a better view. Unfortunately, I didn’t find many gluten-free concessions, so I stuck with a gluten-free seltzer. Thankfully, I was prepared and ate before the game.

The crowd’s energy was great, with plenty of fans proudly wearing Edenton Steamers gear. It’s clear this team means a lot to the community.

If you’re in town for the spring or summer, I definitely recommend catching a Steamers game. It’s a relaxed, affordable, and genuinely local experience that captures what makes Edenton special.

Penelope Barker House

The Penelope Barker House was once owned by Penelope Barker herself, a trailblazing woman known for leading the Edenton Tea Party. This was a historic act of political protest similar to the Boston Tea Party, but organized entirely by the women of Edenton. Today, the house serves as the Edenton Welcome Center and museum, offering visitors a glimpse into both local history and the lives of women in the area over the years.

During my visit, the museum featured an exhibit celebrating women’s contributions throughout history, including a fascinating display of clothing from different eras — from colonial dresses to a 1920s flapper outfit. It felt especially meaningful to experience this tribute to women inside the home of a woman who made history right here in Edenton.

The staff at the house were incredibly helpful, offering recommendations for things to do in Edenton and must-see local spots. There’s also a gift shop where you can pick up your favorite souvenir to remember your visit by.

Overall, the Penelope Barker House is a must-visit landmark in Edenton. It is a great first stop to learn about the town’s rich history. And don’t forget to grab your ticket for the trolley tour while you’re there.

Final Thoughts

After exploring Edenton, I left with a greater appreciation for the town’s history, charm, and small-town vibes. While gluten-free dining options were limited in Edenton (at least I didn’t find them), there are a few places I enjoyed in Elizabeth City. If you’re looking for restaurant recommendations, take a look at my Elizabeth City blog post here. Whether you’re visiting for a day or a longer stay, Edenton offers a mix of historic attractions, outdoor adventures, and local flavors that make it a worthwhile stop in coastal North Carolina.

Browse my other gluten-free travel and restaurant recommendations.

Disclaimer

The opinions expressed in this blog are based on my personal experiences with restaurants offering gluten-free options. While I aim to provide accurate and helpful information, I cannot guarantee that the gluten-free options at these establishments will meet everyone’s needs or expectations. Cross-contact and ingredient changes are always a possibility.

Please exercise your own judgment and diligence when dining out, particularly if you have Celiac Disease or gluten sensitivity. I am not liable for any adverse effects that may occur from consuming food at any of the restaurants mentioned in this blog. Always confirm with the restaurant staff to ensure your meal meets your specific dietary requirements.

Your safety is your responsibility—eat smart and stay gluten-free!

If you would benefit from individualized support navigating Celiac Disease, book a free discovery call here.

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