The Most Charming College Town In North Carolina Is Home To Delicious Dining, Shopping, And More
By Carolyn Harmon|Published September 26, 2023
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Carolyn Harmon
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Under Brown Mountain Lights the Beast of Blandenboro wanders this magical land where lighthouses shine on kingdoms only accessible by ferries. A Lost Colony of legends and pirates revealed in historical sites and majestic mountains with views that make us weep. The home of handmade sculptures and scrumptious cuisine. North Carolina leaves this long-time writer and artist breathless with endless surprises, including the unlikely warmth a winter walk on the beach can bring.
It all started with the railroad, as in 1881, this charming college town in North Carolina was nary a thought. Known back then as Mill Point by the North Carolina Rail Road system, Elon was a train station with a shipping point supporting the various cotton mills around the area. With some success and a growing population, the need for a post office was realized in 1888. And with that came people who wanted to learn, so in 1889 an old school, Graham Normal College, was relocated and opened in 1890 with one building. Elon University ranked #88 in the country in 2021 by U.S. News and World Report for the Best Universities in the U.S. Let’s explore some of Elon’s delicious dining, shopping, and local offerings in this charming college town.
1. Elon University
Elon University, 100 Campus Dr, Elon, NC 27244, USA
The college opened in 1890 with one completed brick building and 76 students. And since then, just like the town, it has grown into a university with an excellent reputation for academics and athletics. Discover more on the Elon University website.
2. Elon Farmers Market
Elon Community Church United Church of Christ, 271 N Williamson Ave, Elon, NC 27244, USA
Enjoy the freshness at this fun market located at Elon Community Church. It is open 3-6 p.m. on Thursdays, April-November. Find out more on the Elon Farmers Market Facebook page.
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3. Lawrence Slade Park
Lawrence Slade Park, 404 Ball Park Ave, Elon, NC 27244, USA
This pretty park includes a quarter-mile walking trail, bocce ball and basketball courts, and a playground. But the secret is it comes with the surprise of another park tucked inside - Harmony Park. This interesting space has musical instruments for interactive inspiration. The Lawrence Slade Park web page offers more details.
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4. Simply Oak Boutique
Simply Oak Boutique, 108 W Lebanon Ave, Elon, NC 27244, USA
We love the yummy Fried Green Tomatoes topped with chilled edamame succotash, crumbled queso fresco, goat cheese honey sauce, and crispy green onions. Read more on The Root website.
6. Latham Park
Latham Park, Bank of America Dr, Elon, NC 27244, USA
For the sports fans out there, pick up an exciting game, such as football or baseball. The impressive home of Elon baseball, with a seating capacity of 5,100 is played on Newsome Field named after Wilburn E. “Webb” Newsome who boxed and played football and baseball at Elon. Find the schedule and ticket information on the Elon Phoenix web page.
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In addition to the residents, Elon University brings in a yearly 19,000 applications for a first-year class of 1,800 students.
And Elon is better indeed, as these students and faculty enrich the community with their diverse backgrounds, knowledge, and community involvement. Pictured is the New Student Convocation on Aug. 19, 2023. What a success!
It is worth a trip to this charming college town in North Carolina, which earned a low violent crime rate in 2002 of 0.7 instances per 1,000 residents per year.
