Grow Memories at The Gardens — The Elizabethan Gardens

A Living Garden Experience

CELEBRATING OVER 70 YEARS!

Within Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, beside The Lost Colony’s Waterside Theatre, The Elizabethan Gardens brings together ten acres of plants, sculpture, and Elizabethan character. Flowering plants, shrubs, and trees change with the seasons, giving visitors new reasons to return again and again.

The Gardens’ collections and surroundings include a bronze Queen Elizabeth I, ancient Italian Renaissance statuary, Elizabethan design elements, and the solitary figure of Virginia Dare. Extensive horticultural collections and seasonal annual color create a different view of The Gardens throughout the year.

Over 70 years of beauty seen by millions!

Part of ArbNet, NC Butterfly Highway and the NC Birding Trail.

Wedding Wire Couples Choice Award

Highlights

• Seasonal Butterfly House
• Discovery Cottage, a children's "educational play" area
• Museum-Quality Italian Renaissance Sculptures
• Unique Elizabethan Features
• 10 Acres with Dapple-Shaded Paths
• Summer Programs for Children
• Breathtaking Water Views
• Prize-winning Camellia collection
• Native plants, azaleas, crape myrtles, hydrangeas, conifers and seasonal blooms
• Gift Shoppe and Plants Sales
• Workshops & Seasonal Events
• Picture-Perfect Wedding/Reception Locations
• Garden Rentals
• Tour Bus Parking
• Vending Machines
• Handicap Accessible Walkways
• Picnics on The Great Lawn
• Non-Profit Rates Available
• Free Mobile Phone Audio Tour
• Pet Friendly

Weddings and Special Photos

The Elizabethan Gardens offers an unforgettable Outer Banks setting for weddings of every size, combining beautiful grounds, colorful plantings, classic sculpture, and a peaceful location.

Wedding sites include The Great Lawn, The Sunken Garden, The Gazebo, and The Queen’s Rose Garden. Each setting has its own character, while the distinctive charm of The Elizabethan Gardens also creates striking backdrops for engagement photos and wedding photos.

The experienced staff helps couples choose a ceremony site, plan seating arrangements, and map a route through The Gardens for guests. The team works with couples to make their special day memorable and enjoyable, including arranging site visits.

Location and Contact

Hwy. 64/264, Roanoke Island
Location: 35 56.2N 75 42.7w

1411 National Park Drive
Manteo, NC 27954

252-473-3234
info@elizabethangardens.org
weddings@elizabethangardens.org
www.elizabethangardens.org

Amenities

• Pet Friendly
• Work w/Motorcoach Groups in Senior/Student Markets

Events

Butterfly Release

Location: Elizabethan Gardens
April 1, 2026 - September 24, 2026
Recurring weekly on Wednesday, Thursday until September 24, 2026

A Night of 1587 Pumpkins & Pumpkin Carving

Location: Elizabethan Gardens
October 28, 2026 - October 30, 2026

WinterLights

Location: Elizabethan Gardens
November 20, 2026 - December 29, 2026

Meeting Facilities

Odom Hall

• Total Sq. Ft.: 1320
• Width: 33
• Length: 40
• Height: 10
• Banquet Capacity: 100

Visitor Reviews

The source page includes Yelp feedback from visitors describing The Elizabethan Gardens as beautiful and enjoyable, with recurring mentions of flowers, butterflies, children’s enthusiasm, the gift store, and the importance of seasonal bloom timing. The attributed reviewers are Elle G., dated 06/02/2026; Nicole H., dated 09/05/2025; and Johnny H., dated 08/28/2025. The page reports 86 reviews.