The Elizabethan Gardens, a private 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization located within the Fort Raleigh National Historic Site on Roanoke Island, is a ten-acre botanical and sculptural delight created as a living memorial to Sir Walter Raleigh's lost colonists. Established in 1950, the gardens are designed to evoke the spirit of an Elizabethan pleasure garden, featuring a diverse collection of plants, Italian Renaissance sculptures, and unique Elizabethan elements. Visitors can explore seasonal flower displays, a butterfly house, a children's play area called Discovery Cottage, and enjoy breathtaking water views. The gardens also serve as a venue for events, workshops, and are a popular location for weddings and photoshoots. Recognized as an Accredited Arboretum with ArbNet and part of the NC Birding Trail, The Elizabethan Gardens offers a serene and historically rich experience for visitors of all ages.
