Nestled along the Scuppernong River in eastern North Carolina, Columbia is a small town with a big heart. As the county seat of Tyrrell County, it is a hidden gem for travelers seeking a slower pace, scenic outdoor adventures, and a glimpse into the state’s natural beauty. Whether you are planning a weekend getaway or passing through on your way to the Outer Banks, this Columbia NC travel guide will help you discover the best of what this charming town has to offer.
Columbia NC Travel Guide: Discovering the Charm of Tyrrell County
Why Visit Columbia, NC?
Columbia is the kind of small town where history, nature, and community all come together. With its riverside setting, nearby wildlife refuges, and welcoming downtown, it makes for a peaceful retreat from busier destinations. Tyrrell County is the least populated county in North Carolina, which means you will find plenty of wide-open spaces and opportunities to connect with nature.
A Glimpse into Columbia & Tyrrell County History
Tyrrell County, established in 1729, is one of North Carolina’s oldest counties. Named after Sir John Tyrrell, a Lord Proprietor of Carolina, the county has deep colonial roots. Columbia, originally called Elizabethtown, became the county seat in 1799 and quickly grew as a vital river port on the Scuppernong River. Timber, fish, and crops moved through Columbia’s docks, tying the town to the state’s early agricultural and maritime economy.
The surrounding pocosin wetlands and cypress swamps played a key role in the area’s history, too. Once sources of tar, pitch, and timber for shipbuilding, they later became a haven for wildlife as large-scale farming proved difficult in the swampy terrain. That legacy of preserved wilderness is part of why Tyrrell County is now home to the Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge, one of the state’s, and country’s, most important conservation areas.
Today, Columbia is still known as the “Gateway to the Outer Banks”, though its history, natural beauty, and community spirit make it a destination worth exploring in its own right. It is especially perfect if you are looking for a place with a slower pace to relax and rejuvenate while experiencing art and nature.
Things to Do in Columbia & Tyrrell County
Explore the Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge
Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge spans over 100,000 acres of wetlands and forest and the Walter B. Jones, Sr Center for the Sounds and Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge Headquarters is located right as you cross the Scuppernong River into Columbia. It is a haven for birdwatchers, photographers, and outdoor enthusiasts. In winter, thousands of migratory waterfowl fill the skies, while year-round visitors can spot black bears, deer, and countless bird species. Given how expansive the refuge is, there is the Red Wolf Center about a mile from the headquarters in Columbia and then the Pungo Unit, about 18 miles outside of Plymouth, North Carolina.
Walter B. Jones, Sr Center for the Sounds and Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge Headquarters is at 205 South Ludington Dr.
Visit the Pocosin Lakes Red Wolf Center
One of Columbia’s most unique attractions is the Pocosin Lakes Red Wolf Center, where you can learn about the endangered red wolf recovery program. Educational exhibits, guided talks, and the chance to see red wolves up close make this a memorable stop for families and wildlife lovers alike. Check the program schedule here.
Pocosin Lakes Red Wolf Center is located 1 mile south of Columbia, NC on Highway 94. The Center is on the east side of the road (on your left as you approach from Columbia). Apple Maps has an incorrect location for the Center–please use written directions or a different navigation app to find the Center.
Wander Downtown Columbia
Take a stroll along Main Street to experience the small-town charm Columbia offers. You will find a mix of locally owned shops, art galleries, and spots to grab a bite to eat. The Scuppernong River Interpretive Boardwalk is a must for its scenic views and peaceful walking trails.
A must-visit is Inner Banks Mercantile, which has a little bit of everything, including frozen meals from The Farmer & the Dail, wine and beer, North Carolina food and gift items, women’s clothing, baby items, candles, and more, plus a coffee shop.
The Scuppernong River Interpretative Boardwalk is at 205 South Ludington Dr. Inner Banks Mercantile is at 117 Elm St.
Enjoy the Water
The Scuppernong River offers plenty of opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, or simply relaxing by the water’s edge. Consider taking a river boat cruise with the Albemarle Queen. Check their schedule here. Sunset views from the river are especially breathtaking.
Take an Art Class at Pocosin Arts School of Fine Crafts
Photo via Pocosin Arts School of Fine Crafts Facebook
Learn to make jewelry, pottery, and more. Whether it is your first time trying art or you have made art before, the artists at Pocosin Arts welcome you to join their classes. Space is limited, so register online. Check back often for new classes, or join their mailing list to see new offerings.
Pocosin Arts School of Fine Crafts is at 202 Main St,.
Where to Eat
Black Dirt Coffee Shop & Café
Open for breakfast and lunch, and located right along the river walk, this spot serves up specialty coffee drinks, smoothies, and post their daily specials on their Facebook page.
Black Dirt Coffee Shop & Café is at 107 Water St.
Columbia Crossing Restaurant
This casual, local spot serves up Southern classics and fresh seafood. Their shrimp po-boy was delicious and had some of the freshest veggies to pair with it.
Columbia Crossing is at 306 Scuppernong Dr.
The Depot
Call ahead and order yours to go so that is ready when you get into town. Their pizzas and cheesy sticks with garlic smear are must-try orders. There are a couple of tables in the restaurant, though they are much more of a to-go space.
The Depot is at 412 Scuppernong Dr.
Tienda Mexicana Peniel#2 Authentic Mexicana Grill
Photo via Tienda Mexicana Peniel #2 Facebook
This spot serves up authentic Mexican food that features fresh flavors and ingredients ideally located on Main Street right across from Pocosin Arts School of Fine Crafts.Unfortunately, they were closed when we visited, though the Quesabirria tacos, which are three tacos stuffed with melty mozzarella cheese and beef and pan-fried until crispy, are going to be my order when I return to Columbia.
Tienda Mexicana Peniel #2 is at 201 Main St.
Bonus: Barnyard Betsy’s Cheesesteaks and Hoagies
Okay, hear me out. I know that Creswell is in Washington County; however, it is 10 minutes from Blue Juniper Inn, so we stopped here on our way back to Raleigh. And you should, too! These authentic cheesesteaks are incredible and the fries are a good move, too. The portions are huge so you may consider sharing a sandwich. It is a must-visit!
Barnyard Betsy’s Cheesesteaks and Hoagies is at 106 E Main St.
Where to Stay: The Blue Juniper Inn
A highlight of any Columbia trip is a stay at The Blue Juniper Inn, a boutique bed and breakfast that blends historic charm with modern comforts. The inn is known for its stylish guest rooms, thoughtful amenities, and warm hospitality. Guests can enjoy morning coffee on the porch, enjoy the cozy living room that features board games and local artists’ work, and walk downtown to explore local shops and dining. It is the perfect home base for a relaxing Tyrrell County escape.
The Blue Juniper Inn is at 415 Main St.
Seasonal Highlights
Winter: Thousands of tundra swans and snow geese migrate to Pocosin Lakes—perfect for birdwatching.
Spring: Wildflowers bloom, and mild weather makes the boardwalk and being out on the water ideal.
Summer: Enjoy fishing, boating, and long days by the river. You could also spend time at the Palmetto-Peartree Reserves
Fall: Cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage make for a picturesque visit.
Check the Greater Tyrrell County Chamber of Commerce for more events, like the Ghost Walk and the River Town Christmas celebration.
Planning Your Trip to Columbia, NC
Columbia is located about 40 minutes west of Manteo and the Outer Banks, making it an easy stop on a coastal road trip. Whether you’re seeking nature, history, or small-town charm, this Columbia NC travel guide shows why Tyrrell County is worth exploring.
With a stay at The Blue Juniper Inn, a visit to the Red Wolf Center, and time spent enjoying the Scuppernong River, Columbia makes for a peaceful and memorable getaway in eastern North Carolina. Use this intearactive map to plan your trip to Columbia NC.
Thank you to the Blue Juniper Inn for hosting us for the weekend. This inn is absolutely spectacular and I cannot recommend a stay here more. As always, all opinions are my own.
