🌅 Evenings Just Got Better: Paddle, Play & Chill Treats

Catch golden hour on the water and sunshine fun in the park—all for under $25

Hello, ENC Explorers!

We’ve officially hit that sweet spot in June when the days feel long, the evenings glow just right, and the impulse to get outside kicks into high gear. Whether you're plotting a midweek breather or a weekend micro-adventure, this week offers a chance to slow down and savor the early summer energy. With sunshine in the forecast and Father’s Day just around the corner, it’s the perfect moment for a relaxed outing that doesn’t break the bank. We've got two effortless ways to get moving and stay cool—with a little sweet treat or friendly competition on the side.

🎧 Just Dropped: The ENC Explorer Podcast

Ready to explore without the scroll? 🗺️ Each week, our bite-sized episodes deliver quick, upbeat rundowns of the best local happenings—from hidden gems to can’t-miss events and budget-friendly ways to enjoy ENC life. Perfect for your drive, dog walk, or porch swing session. New every Wednesday—press play, then get out and enjoy your week!

You can listen on:

Your weekly audio guide to affordable fun in Greenville 🎧

🍽️ The ENC Explorer Passport: Local Eats, Big Savings

🎉 20+ Exclusive Deals | Just $35 with Code SUMMER25

Craving more flavor for fewer dollars? The ENC Explorer Passport hooks you up with unbeatable discounts at some of Greenville’s favorite local spots—no app, no printouts, no fuss.

Here’s what’s on the menu:

🍕 BOGO pizzas, $1 off subs, free apps
🌮 Up to 15% off meals at top local favorites
🥤 Sweet deals on sushi, smoothies, and snacks

Participating spots include:
Mellow Mushroom • Nash Hot Chicken • Firehouse Subs • Sushi Q • Shogun • Smoothie King • Red Robin • Jet’s Pizza • The Rickhouse • Waffle House—and more!

📆 Valid through December 31, 2025
💲Regularly $45—yours for $35 with code SUMMER25

👉 Dine local. Save big. Explore often.

👉 Grab yours here and start saving today!

Know a Local Legend? Nominate Them for the Spotlight!

Greenville thrives thanks to everyday heroes—neighbors, business owners, mentors, and volunteers who make our community better, brighter, and more connected.

🌟 Nominate someone who:
✔ Champions service, outreach, or advocacy
✔ Runs a local biz or program that creates real impact
✔ Sparks pride, kindness, or positive change

Whether it’s a teacher who goes the extra mile, a small business owner making a difference, or a quiet force behind the scenes—we want to hear their story.

📬 Your nomination might be featured in an upcoming issue of ENC Explorer!

Let’s lift up the people who make Greenville shine. 🧡

ENC Adventures: Evenings Made Easy

There’s something magical about summer evenings in ENC. The light lasts longer, the pace slows down, and the best moments often come after 6 PM. This week, make the most of it with a screen-free night that blends good food, a scenic stroll, and something sweet. Grab local takeout (think tacos, subs, or sushi), head to a riverside bench or park picnic table, and enjoy your meal with a breeze and a view. Then stretch your legs on the greenway or wander by the water before capping it off with a frozen treat downtown.

And if you’re in the mood for more post-dinner fun—maybe on the water or with lawn games—we’ve got two easy outings you’ll want to add to your list.

Seasonal Tip: The No-Screen Summer Reset

Summer evenings are the secret sauce of ENC life—longer light, cooler temps, and just enough breeze to make you want to linger outside. You don’t need a big plan or a packed calendar to enjoy it. Here are a few easy ways to turn a regular evening into a mini escape:

Pair takeout with a view.
Pick up your favorite local eats (subs, sushi, tacos—you name it) and head to Town Common, Wildwood Park, or a greenway overlook for a simple riverside dinner. No reservations, no prep—just good food and golden hour.

Take a no-scroll stroll.
Leave your phone tucked away and go for a sunset walk. Whether you loop around your neighborhood or wander the trails at Wildwood, it’s a low-effort way to decompress and actually notice the world around you.

Cool down with something sweet.
End your evening with a cone, cookie, or smoothie from a local favorite like Simply Natural Creamery, Insomnia Cookies, or Smoothie King. It’s a small treat that makes the whole outing feel like summer.

💡 Pro Tip: Keep a picnic blanket, lawn chair, or deck of cards in your trunk—you’ll be ready for spontaneous summer fun whenever the mood strikes.

👀 Coming Up...

Ready to turn this laid-back energy into a full evening plan? Whether you're craving a peaceful paddle at golden hour or a playful afternoon with lawn games, these two local outings make it easy.

Date Idea: Sunset Paddle & Ice Cream

Where: Riverside Recreation Rentals (Town Common) + Downtown Greenville
Cost: $25 per person

Trade dinner-and-a-movie for something a little more breezy. Rent a kayak or paddleboard from Town Common and cruise the Tar River as the sun sets—no experience needed. Afterward, head downtown for ice cream at Simply Natural Creamery or your favorite dessert spot nearby. It's simple, summery, and just the right amount of adventure.
Pro tip: Walk-ups are welcome, but booking ahead guarantees your spot at golden hour.

Family Outing Idea: Wildwood Park Lawn Games & Rentals

Where: Wildwood Park
Cost: $15 per person

Bring the crew and embrace some good old-fashioned fun. Wildwood Park now offers lawn game rentals like cornhole, giant Connect 4, and XL Jenga—plus boats for a little water exploration. Rentals are available through Riverside Recreation Rentals. Pack a picnic, bring drinks, and settle in for an easygoing afternoon filled with laughs, sunshine, and movement.
Pro tip: Check out the boat house for game rentals and shaded seating near the water.

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📣 Got a Friend Who Needs More Local Fun? Send Them ENC Explorer!

We all know someone who says, “There’s nothing to do around here.” Time to change that.

ENC Explorer City Guide delivers the best of Greenville and Eastern NC straight to their inbox—think hidden gems, free events, and low-cost ideas perfect for families, couples, or anyone looking to shake up their week.

Planning a date night? Entertaining the kids? Just need something new to try? We’ve got it covered.

👉 Forward this email and help them rediscover what makes ENC feel like home.

💳 Locals Know: The ENC Explorer Passport Pays You Back

Dining out in Greenville? This pass is your wallet’s secret weapon.

The ENC Explorer Passport gets you exclusive deals at local go-to’s—free apps, BOGO slices, % off meals, and more. No apps, no printouts—just flash your Passport and save instantly at places like:

🍗 Nash Hot Chicken
🍣 Sushi Q
🍕 Jet’s Pizza
🥤 Smoothie King
🥯 Bagelman
🍽️ The Rickhouse

Use code SUMMER25 to grab yours for $35 (normally $45).
It’s valid through December 31, 2025—plenty of time to eat well and save often.

🌟 ENC Adventures: Connect, Celebrate & Catch the June Vibe

With daylight stretching longer and the weather settling into summer mode, there's no better time to mix work, play, and celebration. Whether you're coworking at a local café, grooving to live music by the river, or honoring heritage under the stars, ENC is full of ways to show up, slow down, and soak it all in.

🎶 From quiet focus to full-on festivity, June moves to its own beat—and you’re invited.

🔍 Craving more weekly picks, hidden gems, and budget-friendly fun? Explore it all at ENCExplorer.com—your next local adventure is just a scroll away. 🌿

☀️ What’s Happening: Local Beats, Community Seats & Summer Streets

  • When: June 11, 2025

  • Where: Coastal Fog, Greenville, NC
    Join fellow community members as we gather in a cafe and bang on our keyboards. We'll work online in a group with coffee, tea, and snacks available at the cafe. Please buy something at the cafe to help them pay the rent for the space we will be using.

  • When: June 15, & 29, 2025 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM

  • Where: Town Common Park, Greenville, NC
    Settle in for a summer tradition: free live music at the riverfront amphitheater. Pack a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy good tunes, good company, and those golden-hour vibes. Perfect for families or low-key date nights.

  • When: Saturday, June 21, 2025

  • Where: Greenville Town Common
    Celebrate freedom and community with live music at the Greenville Toyota Amphitheater, a Black-owned vendor fair, food trucks, bounce houses, and a fireworks finale. Free guided trolley tours of the African American Cultural Trail will be available earlier in the day.

Your Voice Matters

Reader Spotlight: Wildwood Park

Looking for a spot with something for everyone? Barbara J recommends Wildwood Park—perfect for picnics, playtime, and peaceful views.

Barbara J loves Wildwood Park and for good reason! Whether you’re packing a picnic, bringing the kids to play, or looking to bike the trails, this spot has it all. Don’t miss the 1.5-mile loop around the lake or the dock where you can launch your boat—or rent one if you don’t have your own. A must-visit for your next outdoor adventure!

What’s your favorite type of budget-friendly activity in ENC?

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Share Your Thoughts

We want to hear from you! What’s your favorite spot in and around Greenville, NC? Whether it’s a hidden gem, a local eatery, or a scenic park, your input could be featured in an upcoming City Guide! Take a moment to share your pick in our one-question survey.

🌄 Know Someone Who’s Always Down to Explore?

Share the local love! ENC Explorer is your go-to guide for free events, hidden gems, and budget-friendly fun across Greenville and Eastern NC.

Because the best adventures don’t require a long drive—or a big budget.

📬 Forward this to a friend and start planning your next local outing together!

Happy Exploring!
-The ENC Explorer Team