Enter through iron gates into a magical, sun-drenched garden, where beautiful touches adorn nearly every square inch. The Elizabethan Gardens’ beginnings date back to 1953 and are the imaginative concept of an Elizabethan pleasure garden. With roots that extend back nearly 70 years, this special garden is still wowing visitors today. Whether you’re interested in plants, are yearning for an afternoon of solitude, or are in search of a beautiful place to walk your pet, the Elizabethan Gardens are worth a stop. Paths wind their way through the landscape, where native plants, azaleas, crape myrtles, hydrangeas, conifers and seasonal blooms line the walkways. The garden is meticulously cared for, which is evident in each well-tended area.
Attractions at the Elizabethan Gardens
Children who come to the Elizabethan Gardens are inevitably drawn to the Discovery Cottage, where hands on learning and play are at the forefront. Elizabethan playhouses with living roofs are a picturesque touch as well as an invitation for children to play and explore. Kitchen gardens and dig areas welcome children to try their hand at finding the joy in gardening. Indoors, additional hands-on activities, models, terrariums, and microscopes keep kids interested and engaged all while learning!
The Elizabethan Gardens are also part of the NC Birding Trail, which supports hundreds of species of birds and other wildlife. Bird houses are located throughout the gardens and are great spots for sighting species such as the great crested flycatcher, magnolia warbler, black-throated blue warbler, brown-headed nuthatch, Baltimore oriole, wintering waterfowl, and more!
Maps and audio tours are onsite, helping you make the most of your tour at the Elizabethan Gardens. Statues, fountains, and benches are located throughout the grounds, providing many points of interest along the sun-dappled paths.
Planning Your Excursion to the Elizabethan Gardens
The Elizabethan Gardens is located in Manteo at 1411 National Park Drive. In January they are open daily from 10am-3pm, March from 9am-5pm, April through September 9am-6pm, October 9am-5pm, November 9am-4pm, December 11am-4pm, and they are closed in February. Be sure to check their website for updated seasonal hours. The admission price is $9 for adults, $6 for youth ages 6-17, and $2 for children 5 and under. Even your pet can gain admission to the Elizabethan Gardens with an additional $3 fee!
Outer Banks Accommodations
Still in need of accommodations for your getaway to the Outer Banks? Top attractions such as the Elizabethan Gardens are just a short drive away from the Outer Banks vacation homes offered through us at Shoreline OBX, which can be viewed here!
