Bursting Out of the Elon Bubble
Let’s be real here, Elon doesn't have too much to offer when it comes to weekend activities. Luckily, we go to school in the Piedmont Triad area, and there are so many sweet spots to adventure to on a sunny weekend afternoon. This area has everything from cute riverside towns to delicious restaurants in the downtowns of local cities. And wherever you decide to go, just know it’ll be a little more exciting than being on campus during a pandemic!
Just remember: While getting off campus might be enticing, it’s important to wear your mask and keep your circles small. We must continue to be aware of how to we keep ourselves and others safe and healthy! So, without further adieu, here are a few spots you should add to your “Elon bucket list.”
Charming, sustainable, quaint and local. What more could you ask for? Photo found on Saxapahaw, NC website.
Saxapahaw.
Just a 30-minute drive from Elon, Saxapahaw is the cutest town located on Haw River. Saxapahaw is a former mill town that has been transformed into an area that is passionate about sustainability, community development and environmental stewardship. Take time out of your Saturday to come here and grab a yummy brunch at the Saxapahaw General Store, do some school work at Cup 22 Coffeehouse or walk around the river on one of the many Haw River trails. Check out the town's website and everything else they have to offer here.
Lake Brandt.
Despite being hidden just outside of Greensboro, you’ll feel like you are miles and miles away from civilization once you’re there. There is so much that Lake Brandt has to offer; it’s almost irresistible on a weekend. Take a Saturday trip here to rent a paddle board, walk one of the many trails, have a picnic lunch or go on a nice bike ride around the lake. It’s a great spot for spending time outside without being too far from campus. Drop by downtown Greensboro after for a fun lunch/dinner—it's only 10 minutes away from Friendly Center!
Carrboro Farmers’ Market.
The Carrboro Farmers’ Market is probably one of the greatest in the area. The perfect way to get your Saturday started is by driving out to Carrboro and shopping around this incredible market. Carrboro is right next to Chapel Hill, and the farmers’ market is actually within walking distance from Franklin Street, a super hot spot for UNC students. Also, the market is a short drive to Saxapahaw, so you can always tackle two of these spots in one day! For more information about the market, visit this site.
Gibson Mill Market.
If it’s a rainy Saturday or you’re just wanting to change up your usual weekend routine, the Gibson Mill Market is a great option. The Gibson Mill Market is the largest antique shop in all of North Carolina, and it’s only an hour drive from Elon. As students, we are probably not investing in antique furniture, but that doesn’t take away from the fact that this market is a sight to see. Besides, a visit here is the perfect opportunity to dress cute and snap some pictures while you’re there. Let's be real… That's probably the reason you’re planning a day trip, right?! Us too.
What’s not to love about a wine and llama duo? Nothing. Photo found on Divine Llama Vineyard website.
Divine Llama Vineyard.
Name something better than drinking wine with llamas. Oh wait, you can't! Divine Llama Vineyard is about an hour drive from Elon, and it’s exactly what it sounds like: a winery on a llama farm! On the weekends they bring in food trucks and you can pay a cheap price for a tasting and visit to the llamas. It’s a great weekend spot if you want to dress up and act like you are walking around the vineyards of Tuscany. We won’t tell that you're in Yadkin County, North Carolina, if you don’t! Find out more information on events and pricing here.
We hope this list inspires you to burst out of the Elon bubble and explore all the awesome places we are fortunate to live so close to. Grab some of your pals and treat yourselves to a fun and adventurous (and safe!) weekend trip!
Featured image found here.
We do not own any of the photos in this article.