A College Kid’s Guide to Elon
It’s no secret that I’ve been a die-hard Elon fan from day one—some might even call me obsessed. My sister introduced me to Elon as an eighth grader, and I knew I was in trouble as soon as I stepped on campus to move her in. Elon is the only university located in a town with the same name. Although we don’t have immediate access to a major city, that small-town Southern charm gets me every time. Soon enough, Elon became home. I’ve put together all the necessary spots to hit when you visit.
Where to Eat: To be frank, I am a creature of habit. I genuinely do love the options that Elon Dining has to offer. Local produce from nearby farms keep meals fresh and enticing every week. Elon has curated an array of options that we choose for three meals a day. As a sophomore who lives on campus, I have figured out exactly how to make a drab meal into a loaded one. In addition to three dining halls, there are several campus hot spots whenever I have a sudden craving.
Pandora’s Pies always hits the spot, whether it's a busy Saturday or a fun dinner with friends. Being able to pick your toppings is a total game-changer, and their garlic knots are to die for. Pandora’s take-out boxes always have a sweet message written on the outside that make me smile every time. To satisfy your sweet tooth, get a scoop of Smitty’s Homemade Ice Cream, conveniently located inside of Pandora’s Pies. The Root is every Elon student’s number one choice. Its family-friendly atmosphere and energetic staff make every meal there not only quick and affordable, but enjoyable. Their wraps, burgers, and salads are quality, but take my word for it and get their incredible grilled cheese. The adorable interior and mouth-watering tacos at Tangent Eat + Bar make it the perfect spot for lunch or dinner. Fan favorites include the fried green tomato taco, chicken and waffle taco, and the Taco 101. Located inside McEwen dining hall, Village Juice is my go-to for smoothies, salads, and acai bowls. MaGerks Pub and Grill is the newest addition to Elon’s downtown strip and beloved by all. The sports bar outdoor patio combination makes it the perfect spot for students to watch a game and grab drinks. MaGerks has an extensive beverage menu and the most delicious loaded nachos.
If you’re looking for the best North Carolina BBQ, you’re in luck. For a fun night-time experience and some delicious brisket sliders with a complimentary side of hush puppies, head over to The Smokehouse at Steve’s in Graham, NC.
For a fresh Mediterranean meal close to campus, Mediterranean Deli has the broadest array of items to choose from. Mediterranean Deli is a relatively new and incredible local business that has mastered acai bowls, filling greek salads, falafel, and homemade pita bread that is to die for.
There are two options near campus to satisfy a sushi craving: Simply Thai is more of an intimate meal with a menu full of complex and fresh sushi. Red Bowl is a more affordable alternative. It has every roll imaginable, plus complimentary customizations and speedy service.
What to Do: Every Friday night, local bands and folk musicians play outside the School of Communication. Listen to live music as you eat at the picnic tables parallel to S. Williamson Rd. Afterward, grab drinks with friends at The Mission, which has an unbeatable outdoor atmosphere. Not only does The Mission have a full menu, but it’s conveniently located just five minutes from campus. Their margarita samplers and taco trays make for an impeccable pair. Burlington Beer Works is a cool brewery and a ten-minute drive from the main campus. Their outdoor seating and brewed in-house flights of beer allow for a fun-filled afternoon off-campus. There’s a new daily special every day; Tacos and $6 Flights on Mondays, and custom Bloody Marys on Fridays.
Going hammocking is one of my favorite activities, especially here at Elon. A large part of Elon’s student body comes out to sit by Lake Mary Nell whenever the weather is nice, which in North Carolina, thankfully, is most of the year. Grab your Eno hammock and set up by the lake to hang out with friends and blow off some steam over the weekend.
Every Friday night, Elon’s Student Union Board puts on multiple movies for anyone on campus to enjoy. With your Phoenix Card, all students get in for free and even receive their pick of candy. Going to Turner Theatre, conveniently located inside of the School of Communications, is the best way to pass the time and see the latest hits.
Another spot for a relaxing afternoon is at The Oak House, where students and faculty alike come for a fresh cup of coffee and to meet up on their couches. The ultimate coffee shop vibe is what attracts everyone to spend their afternoon doing homework and reading inside. On Friday and Saturday nights, they also have local musicians featured.
For more of an outdoorsy adventure, it is an Elon right of passage to go to Hanging Rock State Park. If you’re up for a drive, Hanging Rock has multiple trails to choose from. Their instagrammable top of the mountain is a tradition for all to ascend before receiving their oak sapling on graduation.
Where to Shop: For a fun afternoon with so many stores to choose from, Elon students love the Tanger Outlets for cheap sales on their favorite brands. Only 20 minutes from campus, it is easy to spend the day there walking around and window shopping. For both Elon and Greek apparel alike, All That Jas is Elon’s local boutique right on the main strip that runs parallel to campus. You can customize any sweatshirt or embroider any apparel, students spend hours in there making their clothing. The Friendly Center in Greensboro has an abundance of quirky boutiques in addition to franchises like Ben and Jerry’s, Anthropologie, and Chop’t. Its outdoor seating and music bring entertainment every night, and is big enough to walk around to shop and eat. If you’re a fan of thrifting, The Muse in downtown Burlington is a student favorite as well. While you’re there, go check out The Blend next door for incredible lattes, acai bowls, and a charming earthy atmosphere. Students go to grab a coffee but also stay to study and do homework.
