Your Local Travel Guide: Burlington

If you’re anything like me, restlessness strikes quickly after staying in one spot for too long. I knew going from Newport Beach, a highly populated city in Southern California, to the tiny yet adorable four square mile town of Elon was going to be a bit of a culture shock. I typically spent weekends at home taking trips to Los Angeles and trying new restaurants, yoga studios, or dessert places nearby. Burlington, close to Elon’s campus, is a great starting place for those wanting to explore a little piece of their second home.

8:00am Yoga Class at Om Shanti Yoga

Om Shanti offers a wide range of classes, including all levels of Vinyasa, heated practices, and gentle yoga. A sweat session is sure to reset your mind after a busy week. If necessary, be sure to bring a change of clothes.

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9:30am Breakfast at The Park

Replenish your energy with a bite at The Park restaurant, a cozy, charming nook that prides itself on affordable, homey meals. This is hometown diner food at its prime.

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11:00am Mani-Pedi at Pro Nails

Sometimes you just need to treat yourself. Sit back and let the friendly nail technicians wash, buff, and polish away your worries.

12:00pm Lunch at Blend Juice Boutique

After a filling breakfast, you’ll be more apt for a lighter, healthy lunch. Drop by the Blend Juice Boutique, a fresh restaurant that serves vegan dishes, juices, smoothies and oatmeal combinations.

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1:30pm Conservator’s Center

The Conservator’s Center, a nonprofit conservancy center, is home to about twenty species of exotic animals, some of which are facing extinction or have been rescued. As a student, you can take a tour of the center for $12 to learn about each species and why they are so important to the sustainability of our environment.

5:30pm Fun on Front St.

Take a stroll on Front St. to pop into cute shops like Southern Glen, an artisan boutique, Mary Katherine’s, a women’s accessory and clothing store, and Bella’s Furniture, a consignment shop. Top it all off with dinner at the Burlington Food Co-op and grab a coffee at The Blend & Co.

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8:00pm Showtime

Feeling theatrical? Head to the Paramount Theater to watch a locally produced play. Their upcoming show is “Bye Bye Birdie.”

10:30pm Sweet Treat

If you’re not ready to go back to Elon just yet, grab some fresh-churned ice cream at Cold Stone Creamery to end your day on a sweet note.

A friendly reminder: many stores are closed on Sundays, so it’s best to complete this guide on a Friday or Saturday. Have fun exploring!