The Best Things to Do Off Campus
While we all love our beautiful campus at Elon, let’s face it: we all need an escape sometimes, whether that’s a weekend getaway or a Sunday brunch. Here are some of our favorite places and things to do off-campus, ranging from a five-minute drive to a short road trip!
Let’s start with our favorite bites to eat locally.
Burlington Beer Works: Whether you’re looking for a killer bloody mary, a burger or a stack of pancakes, Beer Works has it all. It is located in downtown Burlington and is a great place to bring visiting family or friends. To note, it is also pretty affordable for quality food.
Another hidden gem located in downtown Burlington is the Burlington Food Hall. Get the picture of a mall food court out of your head because this place consists of all local restaurants and a bar. It’s the perfect place to visit when you’re not sure what you’re in the mood for. They’ve got Mexican, hibachi, acai bowls and Hawaiian food — an amazing selection to choose from!
If the Elon dining breakfast isn’t cutting it, check out Press Crepes and Coffee located in Graham. Offering sweet and savory flavor combinations, it’s perfect for breakfast. They also have artisanal coffee that will leave you wanting more!
Next, we’re moving on to Print Works Bistro, located in Greensboro. If you’re looking for a more boujee brunch, this is the place for you. The interior of this ornate restaurant is nothing short of high-class. The vibes are immaculate, and the food is delicious.
Print Works Bistro Interior (Greensboro)
Converge is the mecca of coffee shops with amazing coffee and delicious bites to eat. Once you step into Converge, you won’t want to leave for hours. They have endless toast options, which is the perfect snack to eat while getting in some studying. Their avocado toast with feta cheese is life-changing, and their lavender latte is a MUST.
The Famous “Greenie” Toast (Converge - Burlington)
If you’re looking to travel a bit further, we’ve got you covered, too. Whether it’s a weekend at the beach or a trip to the mountains, you’ll never be bored exploring this beautiful state.
With the weather warming up, everyone wants to spend time outside and take a dip. With the lack of pools in Elon, that can be a challenge sometimes. The Eno River, located in Durham, is a great place to visit when you’re yearning for some sunshine with some friends. It’s a short hike to reach the Quarry, where you can swim and lay out all day.
North Carolina is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the country. Sometimes, we all need a weekend getaway, and the North Carolina coast is just a brief road trip away. Wrightsville Beach and Carolina Beach are two great options. With sprawling beaches, delicious food and great shopping, what more could you ask for?
If you haven’t already been to it, Hanging Rock State Park is another must. Just about a 90-minute drive away, you can hike up to the top of the rocks for breathtaking views of North Carolina — perfect for a sunny day when you’re in need of some nature and quiet time. Hop in the car, bring your friends and get ready for some amazing photo-ops. If you don’t have a car, Elon Outdoors offers a trip to Hanging Rock every year!
While we all love our beautiful campus at Elon, don’t be afraid to venture out and explore new things. Happy adventuring!