Elizabethton is a beautiful city that is the county seat of Carter County. This town holds the distinction of being the site of the first independent American government. Aside from this, it served as an important location during several significant wars in the history of the United States. Today, it is a peaceful city that is home to several attractions as well as accommodations, including Airbnb vacation rentals and Vrbo vacation rentals. This relatively small city also offers over 10 parks that welcome guests and tourists with beautiful views and loads of exciting activities to enjoy. The popular Tweetsie Trail opens up the opportunity to enjoy walking, hiking, running, biking, and more on a flat and even surface. All these and more make up the attractions of this beautiful city. In this post, we highlight the best things to do in Elizabethton, Tennessee; check them out.
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1. Explore Carter Mansion
Carter Mansion is widely regarded as the oldest frame house in the State of Tennessee. It lies just by the Watauga River at Sycamore Shoals and is one of the iconic attractions in the area. According to locals, this structure was constructed by an early settler in the region, John Carter. This elegant house stood in contrast to the log houses around it and was one of the most architecturally unique homes at the time. Come with the group or family to enjoy a tour of the house. The trip will take you back in time as you enjoy the presentations of the daily lives of the early settlers. You can also enjoy some rifle demonstrations, military music, and more at this iconic site.
Carter Mansion
Address: 1031 Broad St, Elizabethton, TN 37643, United States
Website: Carter Mansion
Price: 7 USD
2. Watch a show at Bonnie Kate Theatre
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
TONIGHT is the night! Jonesborough Rhythm Express takes the stage at 7:30 and Riverside Taphouse is serving your...
Posted by Bonnie Kate Theater on Saturday, May 22, 2021
The Bonnie Kate Theatre is located in downtown Elizabethton and is a top-rated site in the region. It was built during the great boom of the town and features a Classical Revival architectural style. It made its first debut with a silent movie to a wide in 1926. Today, Bonnie Kate Theatre shows different movies during weekend nights, holds an open mic night on Thursdays, and offers a great time to all who walk through its grand doors.
Bonnie Kate Theatre
Address: 115 S Sycamore St, Elizabethton, TN 37643, United States
Website: Bonnie Kate Theatre
3. Relive history at Fort Watauga
Fort Watauga was an American Revolutionary War fort that played a significant role in defending the inhabitants of Watauga from the Cherokee attacks. In the 1970s, permission was granted by the state for the fort to be reconstructed. The renovated site is currently part of Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park. Enjoy the Annual Siege at Fort Watauga, with hundreds of re-enactors at the reconstructed site to relive the attacks faced by the inhabitants in the past. Visit with a group or family and see how the whole action is brought to life. During the event, several vendors sell period goods that you can buy as souvenirs or as decors for your home.
Fort Watauga
Address: 1504 W Elk Ave, Elizabethton, TN 37643, United States
Website: Fort Watauga
4. Buy antiques at Corner Nest Antique Mall
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Located east of Downtown Elizabethton, Corner Nest Antique Mall is, as part of the name implies, an antique mall that sells several antiques to customers. No matter how often you visit the mall, you will never get tired of it. There is always something new to see, with several items of high quality. The displays put up are charming, and buying antiques here doesn’t have to be an extreme sport since the goods come at a low price. The extensive collection of large items, furniture, décor items, and more will leave you enthralled and wishing you could buy everything on display.
Corner Nest Antique Mall
Address: 100 W Elk Ave, Elizabethton, TN 37643, United States
Website: Corner Nest Antique Mall
Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)
5. Have fun at Watauga Dam Campground
Watauga Dam Campground is a recreation center that boasts of a large picnic area and other facilities that can ensure an excellent time for you or the whole group. It lies along the Watauga River in East Tennessee and offers beautiful, relaxing views. It is a lovely, picturesque campground that is surrounded by mountains and will have you feeling refreshed. There are several storefronts and vendors on the grounds. You can check out the store that sells bait for fishing, ice cream, and other kinds of stuff. You can also unwind for a while in any of the 29 RV sites on the grounds. The RV sites come with electricity, water, and sewer connections.
Watauga Dam Campground
Address: 744 Wilbur Dam Rd, Elizabethton, TN 37643, United States
Website: Watauga Dam Campground
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
6. Visit Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park
Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park is one of the most popular and most visited parks in the state of Tennessee. The site boasts of around 70 acres ( 28.3 hectares) of land and lies along the Sycamore Shoals of the Watauga River. Aside from the beautiful environment and view that you will enjoy, the park is also famous as the location where many historical events took place. It is listed as a National Historic Landmark, and on its grounds, you will find a visitor center, a museum, Fort Watauga, Carter Mansion, and many other top attractions.
Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park
Address: 1651 W Elk Ave, Elizabethton, TN 37643, United States
Website: Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park
Opening hours: Sun: 1pm - 4:30pm; Mon - Sat: 9am - 4pm
Price: Free
7. Enjoy a baseball game at Joe O'Brien Field
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Enjoy watching America’s favorite sport at Joe O'Brien Field. It is a municipal-owned baseball stadium in Elizabethton and is used for Appalachian League Minor League Baseball. Visit alone or with friends to cheer on the local team – the Elizabethton Twins. The venue is built to provide seating for up to 2,000 people. You can also enjoy the tasty food served on site and the recreational atmosphere with your friends.
Joe O'Brien Field
Address: 208 Holly Ln, Elizabethton, TN 37643, United States
Website: Joe O'Brien Field
Price: 17 USD
8. Pay respects at Veterans Monument
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Veterans Monument is one of the two most famous landmarks that lie in this quaint town. This revered site was constructed in 1912 and lies almost at the end of downtown Elizabethton. The spot is built in the shape of an obelisk. This shape originates from Egypt and signifies the entrance to a temple or a building of great significance. The monument also lies as a testament to the sacrifice of fallen soldiers. Pay your respects while noting the eerie beauty of the memorial.
Veterans Monument
Address: Elizabethton, TN 37643, United States
9. Experience kayaking with Watauga Kayak
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Watauga Kayak on Friday, May 21, 2021
A visit to Elizabethton without kayaking is not complete. Ensure you head to Watauga Kayak, which is a locally owned and operated outfitter on the Watauga River. You can also enjoy a tailored kayaking experience at a low price. Visit and make memories with Watauga Kayak in Elizabethton! The kayaking experiences are designed for people of all ages so you can rest assured that everyone in the group will have a safe and enjoyable time.
Watauga Kayak
Address: 1409 Broad St, Elizabethton, TN 37643, United States
Website: Watauga Kayak
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 6pm (closed on Sun)
Price: 39 - 49 USD
10. Stroll across Elizabethton Covered Bridge
Elizabethton Covered Bridge is located over the Doe River in the Elizabethton region. Spanning 134 feet (41 meters), this link is a popular spot for visitors and locals. An old bridge with great history, it has been in existence since the late 18th century. Rent a bicycle and ride over the bridge or you can choose to have a stroll with your lover across it. If your visit to Elizabethton is during June, you might enjoy the opportunity of being a part of the week-long celebrations at this site. The festivities include live music shows, activities for kids, a car club show, and more!
Elizabethton Covered Bridge
Address: Elizabethton, TN 37643, United States
Website: Elizabethton Covered Bridge
11. Go swimming in Watauga Lake
Looking for a fun time in Elizabethton? Then head over to Watauga Lake. This waterbody lies between the Appalachian Mountains and the Cherokee National Forest. Check out and enjoy some of the most stunning scenes of natural beauty in the region. It offers beautiful mountain-side and forest views. If fortunate, you might even catch sight of some of the wildlife in the area. Aside from the views, the city offers several family activities. You can enjoy several water sports or dive into the lake to escape from the heat of the region. The lake is full of different types of fish – including bluegill, rainbow trout, bass, and more. Hence you can also enjoy a good fishing experience here.
12. Observe Veterans Walk of Honor
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Take the time out of your trip to see the Veterans Walk of Honor. It is a memorial for the veterans of all wars. Visit and reflect on the importance of the monument and the sacrifice of those who lay down their lives to ensure liberty. It lies in downtown Elizabethton and has a beautiful layout of rose bushes around its base. You can tour the spot with paper and crayons to make a rubbing of the dates and other information from the plaques on the monument.
Veterans Walk Of Honor
Address: 441 E Elk Ave, Elizabethton, TN 37643, United States
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
13. Take a walk around Harmon Park
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Harmon Park might not be as glamorous as some of the other grounds in this town, but it stands as an excellent location to hang out with friends or enjoy a leisurely walk. The park has an area of 0.77 hectares (1.9 acres) and lies on the US Highway 19E. North of the venue also lies Carter County Chamber of Commerce. Some of the facilities you will find include several picnic areas, a playing field that can be used for different purposes, a pair of pavilions, play areas, and more. Enjoy the walking trail and the scenic park surroundings with your loved one.
Harmon Park
Address: 434 US-321, Elizabethton, TN 37643, United States
Website: Harmon Park
Opening hours: 8am - 10pm (daily)
Price: 5 USD
14. Tour Sabine Hill State Historic Site
Sabine Hill is also referred to as Happy Valley. It is a historic two-story house that has a distinguished place on the National Register of Historic Places. If you seek examples of federal architecture, you will be hard-pressed to find a better model than Sabine Hill. It lies in Sycamore Shoals State Park and is one of the main attractions in the town. The family of Nathaniel Taylor constructed the building around 1818 and you can go back in time by enjoying a tour of it.
Sabine Hill State Historic Site
Address: 2328 W G St, Elizabethton, TN 37643, United States
Website: Sabine Hill State Historic Site
Price: 3 - 7 USD
15. Enjoy American cuisine at Applebee's Grill + Bar
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Established in 1980, Applebee’s Grill + Bar is an ideal place to unwind and enjoy some delicious American food. This restaurant is the go-to spot for comfort food – including burgers, chicken, steaks, and more. It lies in downtown Elizabethton and offers a view of the hustle and bustle of the residents of the area. You can savor a wide variety of food served in this favorite diner. The eatery is famous for the family-friendly and relaxed atmosphere. You can also relish classic drinks and local drafts.
Applebee's Grill + Bar
Address: 1010 Over Mountain Dr, Elizabethton, TN 37643, United States
Website: Applebee’s Grill + Bar
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 11am - 12am; Fri - Sat: 11am - 1am; Sun: 11am - 11pm
16. Sample beers at Riverside Taphouse
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Riverside Taphouse, located in Elizabethton, is one of the best spots to grab a beer in the town. It is a charming establishment that made its debut in 2018 and quenches your thirst with some of the best beers this side of Tennessee. Many folks that had dropped by have complimented the friendly, passionate environment. Tucked away in the corner of East Elk Avenue and North Riverside Drive, it offers a great avenue to relax. Aside from the great beer on sale and that can be sampled, you can also enjoy the bar games available on site.
Riverside Taphouse
Address: 635 E Elk Ave, Elizabethton, TN 37643, United States
Website: Riverside Taphouse
Opening hours: Sat: 2pm - 11pm; Sun: 2pm - 8pm; Tue - Thu: 4pm - 10pm; Fri: 4pm - 11pm (closed on Mon)
17. Shop at West Towne Square
Editor’s note: establishment is permanently closed
No vacation is complete without a shopping spree, and where better to spend your money on quality items than at West Towne Square? This shopping mall is home to several stores that sell all you need. If you seek antiques or souvenirs to take away with you, then you can visit the antique store in the mall. You can also eat at any of the excellent restaurants and diners found in the mall.
West Towne Square
Address: 101 Hudson Dr, Elizabethton, TN 37643, United States
Opening hours: 8am - 10pm (daily)
18. Make a splash at Franklin Pool
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Franklin Pool is an Olympic-size swimming area found in Elizabethton’s Joe LaPorte Recreation Facility. It comes with several facilities that will ensure an excellent time for all members of the group, including kids. Some of the upscale amenities on site include a pair of diving boards, a fenced-in kid pool, a lounging area, and even covered pavilions. It is a perfect spot for a party or reunion. With 1.58 hectares (3.9 acres) of space, you can have as much space and fun as you want. The site also cradles the pool; hence, you can enjoy a lovely view of the majestic trees in the area.
Franklin Pool
Address: 1499 W Elk Ave, Elizabethton, TN 37643, United States
Website: Franklin Pool
Opening hours: Sat: 10am - 5:30pm; Sun: 1pm - 5:30pm; Mon - Fri: 11am - 5:30pm
Price: 3 USD
19. Have a picnic at Kiwanis Park & Don Tetrick Pavilion
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
This city is famous for the several parks it features. These parks are great for parties and picnics, but Kiwanis Park & Don Tetrick Pavilion is arguably the pick of the bunch. The spot lies along Carter Boulevard, and it is an excellent place for kids and all other members of the group. The venue boasts of several swings, different modern playground equipment, a pair of pavilions replete with picnic tables, and more. There is a pavilion (Don Tetrick Pavilion) on the grounds that come with a kitchenette and restrooms. If you are looking for a great place to have a memorable picnic, Kiwanis Park is an excellent option.
Kiwanis Park & Don Tetrick Pavilion
Address: Carter Blvd, Elizabethton, TN 37643, USA
Website: Kiwanis Park & Don Tetrick Pavilion
Price: 5 USD
20. Unwind at Cat Island Park
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Another great park in Elizabethton, Cat Island Park offers a respite from busy city life. There are three small pavilions at guests’ disposal to hold events like family gatherings or parties. One can be reserved while the other two are on a first-come, first-serve basis. It is also a great place to bring your kids as it offers three exciting playgrounds. There’s also a tennis court, softball field, and lovely walking trails.
Cat Island Park
Address: 19E US Highway Elizabethton, TN 37643
Website: Cat Island Park
Opening hours: 11am - 8pm (daily)
21. Organize parties at Edward's Island Park
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
A vacation is a perfect excuse to set up that party you have always wanted and Edward’s Island Park is the ideal location. This beautiful venue lies along the Doe River and a few minutes away from Covered Bridge Park. The site, when compared with its more popular companions mentioned above, is regarded as a mini-park. It has a land area of around 1.3 hectares (3.2 acres). However, it serves as a lovely location for friends and families to hang out. As one of the 10 parks that are situated along the Elizabethton Linear Path, it offers a beautiful view of the surrounding area. Many families enjoy coming here due to the pavilions with picnic tables. If you have a reunion, a party, or a get-together, Edward’s Island Park is an excellent place to consider.
Edward's Island Park
Address: 211 N Riverside Dr, Elizabethton, TN 37643, United States
Price: 5 USD
22. Unwind at Walter Curtis Park
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
With a land area of 0.65 hectares (1.6 acres), Walter Curtis Memorial Park is one of the smallest parks in the area. It is situated just adjacent to the Senior Citizens Center and boasts of some excellent facilities, despite the relatively small size. You can enjoy a game of shuffleboard at any of the two courts available. You can also play a game of basketball with your friends here. The pavilion on the grounds is a popular place to hold parties, reunions, and other special gatherings
Walter Curtis Park
Address: H Street and Holston Avenue Elizabethton, Tennessee 37643
23. Let your kids have fun at Douglas Park
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Douglas Park used to be a school park, but it has now been transformed into one of the best parks in the town. This 1.5 hectares (3.7-acre) park comes with all the necessary toys and equipment to treat your kids with a good time. You can play basketball at the basketball court, or even enjoy a game of baseball on the multi-use field found in the on-site. Unlike some other parks in the area, the pavilion here is free to use for the public, to host your party or get-together in style.
Doulgas Park
Address: Church St, Elizabethton, TN 37643, USA
Enjoy a great time at Elizabethton
As this city is home to several parks, there is seemingly no shortage of picnic spots and places where you can throw a party. The gardens also have dedicated playing areas so your kids are sure to have a great time as well. As you plan your vacation, try out these exciting things to do in Elizabethton, Tennessee, for an unforgettable time.
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