If you're looking for a fun and historic vacation spot, look no further than Elizabethton. This small town is full of off-the-beaten-path attractions and unique activities for everyone to enjoy!
You'll find a variety of outdoor adventure spots, as well as plenty of places to shop and eat! So, whether you're planning a romantic escape or a family vacation, these things to do in Elizabethton TN are sure to make your trip unforgettable.
Located along the Doe River, the Covered Bridge is one of the most iconic sights in Elizabethton. Though it does not seem to have much significance at first glance, it has shaped the history and culture of the region in a profound way.
The Covered Bridge was built in 1882 and is a contributing structure in the Elizabethton Historic District on the National Register of Historic Places. It is a single span wooden Howe Truss that stretches 137 feet long.
It features a single traffic lane and a walkway that connects Hattie Avenue and 3rd Street in downtown Elizabethton. The bridge was designed by local civil engineer Colonel Thomas Edmund Matson, who had worked for the East Tennessee and Western North Carolina Railroad.
The Covered Bridge is only one of the many landmarks and attractions in this small town full of history and beauty. It’s a place that’s worth a visit whether you’re on a family vacation or just looking for a great spot to take a break from all the hustle and bustle of city life.
Cat Island Park, located in Elizabethton, is a great place to enjoy outdoor fun with family and friends. It has three small pavilions that are available for rent, and you can find a variety of playground areas, walking trails, tennis courts and softball/baseball fields.
This 3.2-acre mini-park along the Doe River is another stop on the Elizabethton Linear Path. It is also home to the Rotary Pavilion, which can be rented for events and parties.
While there, you can visit the Healing Hole, a salt lake that has been proven to help with healing ailments such as arthritis. There are also several underwater cave entrances.
You can also explore the ruins of 18th-century plantation homes and outbuildings. These ruins are fascinating and can teach you more about the culture of the area. For more information, check out Cat Island Experience, a local tour company. They will put together an amazing island adventure that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful walk by the lake, a thrilling hike on a challenging trail, or an exhilarating rafting adventure, Elizabethton has everything you need to experience the best of Upper East Tennessee.
Located in the heart of Carter County, this historic town is full of quaint and historical landmarks, gorgeous waterfalls, and incredible outdoor activities. Surrounded by rolling mountains, rippling rivers and crystal-clear lakes, this quaint little town is a true gem of the Appalachian Highlands.
The Watauga River is a favorite among anglers for its trophy rainbow, brook and brown trout. It’s also a popular rafting destination in the area with many options for whitewater rafting, kayaking and canoeing.
For the kayaker in you, the Watauga Gorge is one of the Southeast’s most unique and fun whitewater runs. It used to be known as the “hairiest” in the country and is still a coveted run for kayakers, despite the fact that other gorges in the region offer more challenging whitewater.
A towering obelisk that straddles East Elk Avenue and Main Street, the Veterans Monument is one of Elizabethton’s most recognizable landmarks. Built to honor soldiers from Carter County in all the wars from the Revolutionary War to present day, the Monument has become a place for community members to connect with their heritage.
This attraction also offers visitors a chance to take a moment to reflect on the countless lives lost in service of their country, and what it means to be American. It’s a moving experience that’s sure to leave you with a sense of gratitude and appreciation for the men and women who have given their lives in service.
The Vietnam Veterans Memorial is another important site that pays tribute to America’s fallen warriors. The monument includes a large wall with the names of more than 58,000 soldiers who gave their lives in combat. It also features The Three Soldiers statue, a bronze depiction of three Vietnamese soldiers that reflects the unity required in conflict.
