Soar With These 10 Outdoor Activities in Greenville-Pitt County

From hiking and biking to kayaking and listening to live music, you'll never be bored in this fun-filled region.

By Karsen Titus on April 3, 2024

Aaron Hines/City of Greenville

When searching for your forever home, access to outdoor recreation and green space is high on the list, whether you are a “fresh graduate” or an empty nester. The Greenville-Pitt County area in eastern North Carolina offers a variety of fun and affordable outdoor recreation opportunities that can improve your well-being, nurture an inclusive community and reduce the stressors of city living. New to the area or planning a visit? Here’s a great list of fun outdoor activities in Greenville and Pitt County: 

1. Try Kayaking or Paddleboarding

Back in the day, North Carolina was a top supplier of tar and turpentine, and the Tar River garners its name from this history. The slow-moving waterway is a must-see, and it is home to a plethora of wildlife. Book a guided tour or rent a kayak, canoe or paddleboat from local outfitters such as Knee Deep Adventures or bring your own vessel and get in at one of three Pitt County camping platforms on the Tar-Pamlico Water Trail. 

Aaron Hines/City of Greenville

2. Go for a Jog Along Greenville Greenway

Grab your running shoes and pound the trail at Greenville Greenway, a 9-mile trail that connects several notable attractions, such as Greenville Town Common, Greenville Dog Park, Greensprings Park, and East Carolina University’s campus. Feeling a slower pace? It’s also a great place to walk. 

3. Take Your Pup to the Greenville Dog Park

Pups need outdoor time, too! Take your best friend for a meet-and-greet at the Greenville Dog Park, maintained by the Greenville Recreation and Parks Department. “The park was renovated in 2023 and provides dog owners with a great place to let their pet run free and meet new friends,” says Don Octigan, director of the city’s Recreation and Parks Department.

4. Practice Your Swing at Bradford Creek

Bradford Creek Public Golf Course provides enjoyable experiences for novice and experienced golfers. The 185-acre course features open, rolling terrain, tree-lined fairways, water obstacles and the only lighted public driving range in the area. Aficionados can consider the monthly membership option, which provides an affordable per-round weekly deal.

5. Jam to Live Music Outdoors

The Greenville Town Common features 21 acres of green space plus the Greenville Toyota Amphitheater, where you can enjoy the outdoors, meet your neighbors and listen to live music by attending the Sunday in the Park series – a community staple since 1973. Check out offerings for the Concert on the Common, and don’t miss PirateFest in the spring! 

Aaron Hines/City of Greenville

6. Explore Wildwood Park

Wildwood Park is one of the city’s newest parks, and it’s worth exploring, Octigan says. “Since the park opened in October 2021, several development projects have taken place, such as a welcome center, a nature-themed playground and a BMX skills course,” he says. Go for a hike, meet friends or family for a picnic, or stroll down to the sandy beach. Be on the lookout for community events and new developments.

7. Cruise the Newly Opened Bike Trails

While at Wildwood Park, check out the Chris Smith Mountain Bike Trails, which opened in 2023. The city’s first system of public mountain bike trails was made possible by donations from Eddie Smith, CEO of Grady-White Boats, and is designed to be used as a National Interscholastic Cycling Association racecourse, complete with a skills park and pump track.

Justin Kase Conder

8. Cast a line at River Park North

Grab your rod and take advantage of a community co-op program at River Park North, an initiative of the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission. The commission stocks the River Park North’s largest fishing pond April through September with channel catfish that are prime for catching … and eating! Rates are $1.50 a day for Greenville residents; $3 a day for nonresidents. 

9. Cheer on the East Carolina Pirates

Attend a game at East Carolina University and cheer on the Pirates. You might need to plan a bit in advance to nab tickets to a football game at Dowdy-Ficklen Stadium, but there are plenty of outdoor sports you can enjoy as a spectator, including baseball, softball, lacrosse and soccer. Or take your cheers inside and enjoy basketball, volleyball or swimming.

10. Garner Gardening Inspiration at the Arboretum

Explore The Pitt County Arboretum’s 7 acres, featuring unique, well-tended gardens in a variety of themes, from wildflower, perennial, vegetable and herb to fruits, container and butterfly. Enjoy a shady seat and ponder the beautiful blooms.