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☀️ Spring Is Calling: Two Perfect Ways to Get Outside This Week
Sun, trails, art, and coffee—discover Greenville’s best low-cost escapes
Frank Jones
April 16, 2025
Hello, ENC Explorers!
With bright skies and breezy spring temps in the forecast, there’s no better time to step away from the screen and soak up what Greenville has to offer. Whether you’re craving a quiet moment in a creative space or a fresh-air family outing, this week’s guide is packed with simple ways to reset, recharge, and reconnect—without spending a fortune. Keep scrolling for this week’s top picks! 🌿✨
🧭 Unlock Local Adventures Without the Price Tag!
Ready to experience more of Greenville while keeping your budget in check? The ENC Explorer Passport gives you exclusive access to discounts at local restaurants, attractions, and hidden gems. 🍽️🎨 Whether you're planning a laid-back afternoon or exploring somewhere new, this pass makes it easy—and affordable—to do it all.
Your next adventure (and savings) starts here.
🌟 Nominate a Local Hero Making a Difference in Greenville!
Know a business or nonprofit that’s helping our community thrive? From neighborhood favorites to organizations creating meaningful change, we want to highlight the people and places making Greenville stronger, kinder, and more connected.
📋 Nomination Criteria:
✔ Supports the community through outreach, service, or advocacy
✔ Offers standout programs, services, or experiences
✔ Contributes to Greenville’s growth, resilience, and local pride
Let’s celebrate the changemakers who go above and beyond—nominate your local hero today! 🙌💙
ENC Adventures: Where to Dine Outdoors This Spring 🍽️☀️
With warm weather settling in and daylight lingering longer, now’s the perfect time to enjoy a meal outdoors. Whether you’re catching up with friends over tacos, sipping wine by the river, or treating yourself to farm-to-table flavors, these local spots offer fresh air and great vibes—no reservations (or plane tickets) required.
Seasonal Tip: Top Spots for Patio Dining & Spring Nights Out
These locally loved restaurants and breweries all offer outdoor seating—perfect for relaxed evenings, weekend lunch dates, or a golden hour happy hour:
🌮 Amante Taco (Greenville, NC)
Creative tacos, bold flavors, and laid-back patio seating just off 5th Street.
🍕 Luna Pizza Café (Greenville, NC)
Enjoy a wood-fired slice or dessert on the sidewalk patio with Uptown energy.
🍷 Ford+Shep (Greenville, NC)
Elevated Southern dining with a garden patio tucked behind the restaurant—perfect for date nights or special occasions.
🍻 Pitt Street Brewing Company (Greenville, NC)
Casual, dog-friendly patio with live music, rotating food trucks, and a great local vibe.
🌊 Pitt Street Brewing on the Pamlico (Washington, NC – 30 min drive)
Craft beer and sunset views over the water—one of the best riverfront patios around.
🍽️ Mulberry House (Washington, NC – 30 min drive)
Rooftop patio and locally inspired cuisine right in the heart of downtown Washington.
🌱 Blu Farm to Table (Washington, NC)
Fresh, seasonal ingredients served with small-town hospitality on a charming garden patio.
☕ Water Street Cafe (Belhaven, NC – just over 30 min)
Charming riverfront cafe perfect for breakfast or brunch by the water.
🍸 The Hackney (Washington, NC)
Upscale dining with a cozy patio and in-house distillery—ideal for an unforgettable evening out.
Pro Tip: Arrive around golden hour to enjoy the best lighting and avoid dinner crowds. Want to make it special? Grab dessert or a drink to-go and stroll through nearby waterfronts or historic districts.
🎶 Next up: This week’s date and family outing ideas—think art, greenways, and unplugged time well spent.
Date Idea: Greenville Museum of Art + CoffeeWhere: Greenville Museum of Art & Blackbeard Coffee Roasters Take a break from the usual and enjoy a quiet, artful outing. Start with a stroll through the Greenville Museum of Art, where admission is always free and the galleries rotate regularly with local and regional work. After soaking up some inspiration, walk over to Blackbeard Coffee for a cozy drink and conversation. Whether you sit inside or on their front patio, it’s the perfect setting to unwind and connect. Tip: Want to make it extra fun? Each choose a favorite piece in the museum and explain why—it’s a great way to spark meaningful conversation. | Family Outing Idea: South Tar River Greenway AdventureWhere: South Tar River Greenway, Greenville, NC Grab your bikes, scooters, or walking shoes and head to the South Tar River Greenway for a scenic 3.1-mile family-friendly trail. Safe, smooth, and surrounded by nature, it’s ideal for a relaxed family 5K, a casual walk-and-talk, or an afternoon picnic along the way. Tip: Pack snacks or lunch to enjoy riverside, and bring along a scavenger hunt list (birds, bridges, flowers, squirrels) to keep kids engaged along the route. |
How helpful was this edition of the City Guide by ENC Explorer?We’re always looking to make our emails even more useful in helping you discover great things to do in the region. |
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Have a friend who’s always up for something new? Share ENC Explorer with them and introduce them to the best of Greenville and Eastern NC—hidden gems, local happenings, and fun that won’t break the bank.
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Explore More, Pay Less with the ENC Explorer Passport! 🌄
Want to make the most of Greenville without overspending? The ENC Explorer Passport gives you access to exclusive discounts at local restaurants, attractions, and must-visit spots around town. 🍽️🗺️ Whether you're planning a weekend adventure or a casual night out, this pass helps you do more for less.
🎁 Don’t miss your chance to win—enter now and start saving while you explore! 🎟️🌟
Spring Fun Around ENC: BBQ, Art, and Outdoor Connection 🌸🎶
Looking for simple ways to enjoy spring in Eastern North Carolina? ENC Explorer has rounded up a few standout events that capture the season’s best—think barbecue by the river, social strolls through the park, and a night of art and elegance. Whether you're planning a weekend with friends or a quiet reset in nature, these events offer something refreshing, local, and worth showing up for.
📍 Want more ways to explore? Head to ENCExplorer.com for weekly guides, local gems, and new ideas to make the most of spring!
What’s Coming Up: Spring Celebrations, Community Vibes & Can’t-Miss Events 🎉
When: April 18, 2025
Where: Wildwood Park, 3450 Blue Heron Dr, Greenville, NC
Join fellow community members for a leisurely walk through the scenic trails of Wildwood Park. This event is a great opportunity to connect with others, enjoy nature, and engage in light physical activity. All ages and fitness levels are welcome.
When: April 26, 2025, 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Where: Hilton Greenville, Greenville, NC
A celebration of art featuring auctions with regional artists, live music by Trainwreck, dancing, and fine dining. Funds raised support the Greenville Museum of Art's mission to inspire and connect people through visual arts.
When: Saturday, May 3, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Where: Wildwood Park, 3450 Blue Heron Drive, Greenville, NC
Kick off National BBQ Month with this lively outdoor festival featuring:A variety of BBQ food trucks
Live music performances by The Castaways and Chairmen of the Board
Bounce houses for family fun
A beer garden to enjoy local brews
And more exciting activities
This event is perfect for families, food enthusiasts, and anyone looking to enjoy a festive day outdoors.
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?🌟 We Want to Hear From You! Your input helps us tailor this City Guide to your interests, making sure every issue is packed with ideas you’ll enjoy. Take a quick moment to vote and shape the future of our content! |
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 looking for their next local adventure? Send them ENC Explorer and help them uncover hidden gems, can’t-miss events, and affordable things to do around Greenville and Eastern North Carolina. The more we explore together, the more we discover—so pass it on and make every week count! 🌟
Happy Exploring!
-The ENC Explorer Team