Tucked away into the eastern region of the state, Elizabethtown is a quaint, small town that many drive through, or know only because of the famous Melvin’s Burgers. While Elizabethtown is indeed one of the best places in the state to get an “all the way” style burger, there’s so much more to this lovely place filled with history. From beautiful architecture to must-try restaurants, here are our recommendations for fun and unique things to do in Elizabethtown, North Carolina.

Flickr / Gerry Dincher
Located in Bladen County, Elizabethtown is just shy of 4,000 year-round residents. A popular dwelling for families, the charming small-town atmosphere is paired with a revitalized historic, downtown district and plenty of natural and manmade things to see and do.
Flickr / Gerry Dincher
Popular tourist attractions include the Battle of Elizabethtown, Jones Lake State Park, and White Lake. The Battle of Elizabethtown took place during the Revolutionary War on September 29, 1781, and established the small town as we know it today. The Battle is a source of pride for many residing in the town, with a marker indicating where it took place. For one of the most historic places here, check out the Tory Hole Battleground. Here you'll find a park, pathways dotted with historical markers, an amphitheater, and a playground.
Flickr / Gerry Dincher
Yelp / Olivia D
Of course, a must-stop staple is Melvins. Since 1938 it has been *the* place to get a Carolina-style dog or hot dog. The line might get long but the wait is always worth it.
Yelp / Nicole F
It's hard to say no to a cheeseburger that looks that delicious. For one of the best burgers you'll have in North Carolina, save up your appetite for a stop here.

You'll find Melvin's at 133 W Broad St, Elizabethtown, NC 28337

Related Stories

Get Away From It All At This Remote And Beautiful Campground In North Carolina

Get Away From It All At This Remote And Beautiful Campground In North Carolina

 The Magnificent Lakefront Airbnb In North Carolina That Is Perfect For A Spring Retreat

The Magnificent Lakefront Airbnb In North Carolina That Is Perfect For A Spring Retreat

 The Breathtaking Scenic Drive Through North Carolina That Celebrates The New River

The Breathtaking Scenic Drive Through North Carolina That Celebrates The New River
Facebook / Cape Fear Winery
Yelp / Rachel B
If you're more into the finer things, there's also Cape Fear Winery.
Yelp / Barry R
Featuring dining, live music, wine events, event spaces for weddings and other parties, exploring the vineyard or doing a tasting; there's plenty to keep you occupied.
Yelp / Racheal B
If you want to sip some vino and relax into the night, there are gorgeous lakeside cabins available for rental. The cottages are exquisite and tastefully designed, fitting right in to the winery's aesthetic. Perfect for two, it's a great romantic getaway. Each cottage features its own flair and theme, letting guests choose the vibe they're going for. There's the seaside-inspired Shoals, the whimsical Cloud Nine, the simply elegant Carriage Cottage and the romantic, Victorian-esque Cape Fear Bridal Cottage.

195 Vineyard Drive, Elizabethtown, NC 28337
Yelp / Courtney H
With so much food, history, and fine wine you must walk it off somehow. A great place to do just that is Jones Lake State Park. The area started as a private land tract for lowland farmers and attracted much population growth and industry up until the Great Depression. In 1939 the property was owned by the state of North Carolina and also became the first state park for African Americans.
Yelp / Courtney H
Today the park is fully established and offers much to see and do. There's a small beach for sunbathing and swimming. Other popular activities include boating, fishing, and exploring the 2,208-acres including the bay lakes of Jones Lake and Salters Lake.

Be sure to visit the Cape Fear Winery website for more information on their lodging, rates, and availability.

What a lovely place this is! Who knew Elizabethtown had so much to offer? Have you visited here before, what are some of your favorite things to do here?

Of course, we couldn’t forget to mention White Lake, but we’ve already written a comprehensive guide to visiting and also how a mysterious crystal clear lake came to be in eastern North Carolina.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

things to do in Elizabethtown, North Carolina

Beth C. | March 24, 2023

What are some fun North Carolina road trips?

North Carolina offers so much in the way of scenery, roadside attractions, and lovable small towns that naturally, a road trip is one of the best ways to experience it all! Fortunately, we've put together a list of some of our favorite road trips in North Carolina, which include the following:

 

Speaking of natural wonders, what are the best natural wonders in North Carolina?

From the mountains to the coast, you'll find no shortage of spectacular natural wonders in the Tar Heel State. Below is a list of our top recommendations for the best natural wonders in North Carolina:

  • The Outer Banks -- a 200-mile-long stretch of coastal beauty
  • Jockey's Ridge -- one of the best state parks in North Carolina
  • Lake Mattamuskeet -- the largest natural lake in North Carolina
  • Pilot Mountain -- a stunning mountain rising 2,241 feet
  • New River State Park -- home to a segment of one of the earth's oldest rivers
  • Linville Gorge -- one of the most beautiful stretches along the Blue Ridge Parkway
  • Mt. Mitchell State Park -- home to the tallest mountain on the East Coast, Mount Mitchell
  • Chimney Rock -- offering a stunning view of the Piedmont valley near Asheville
  • Looking Glass Rock -- one of the state's most unique natural wonders
  • Whitewater Falls -- a stunning waterfall cascading 811 feet

Related Articles