Explore ENC: Local Adventures Unlocked

Pirate History, Fossil Hunting & Hidden ENC Gems

This week on ENC Explorer, we head to Beaufort for waterfront views and Blackbeard history at the newly reopened NC Maritime Museum, explore colorful murals in downtown Farmville, and preview Memorial Day weekend events across Eastern North Carolina — including the NC Fossil Festival in Aurora and Greenville’s Memorial Day observance ceremony. Plus, a reader recommendation for one of ENC’s most legendary old-school pork markets in Pikeville.

BBQ Road Trips, Bear Hunts & the Best Weekend Plans in ENC

This week on ENC Explorer, we’re heading out for one of the best late-spring weekends in Eastern North Carolina. From tobacco barns and classic Eastern NC BBQ in Kenly to garden strolls and downtown bear hunts in New Bern, we’re covering affordable day trips, local markets, outdoor fitness events, and hidden gems worth adding to your weekend plans. Plus, where to grab scratch-made breakfast in Greenville before everyone else gets there first..

Strawberries, Baseball & Easy Weekend Plans in ENC

This week in ENC: strawberry picking at its peak, a simple pizza + beer garden date night, a family-friendly museum trip in Kenly, ECU Baseball on Sunday, and New Bern’s Plein Air Art Festival. Easy, affordable ways to make the most of May in Eastern North Carolina.

Your weekend starts here: New Bern gardens and a hot dog stand since 1928

Gorgous gardens on the Trent River, a hot dog counter open since 1928, and a waterfront most people drive right past.

A Perfect Late April Weekend in ENC: PirateFest, Waterfront Walks & Local Favorites

Late April in Eastern North Carolina is the window locals wait for—mild mornings, fewer crowds, and just enough going on to fill a weekend without overplanning. This week’s lineup includes a relaxed stop at the NC Estuarium and Washington waterfront, a visit to Historic Bath with its Blackbeard connection, and a stacked Saturday in Greenville featuring the farmers market, PirateFest, and ECU baseball. If you’re looking for simple, affordable ways to enjoy ENC this is your guide.