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Meet Molly
Hello there! I'm Molly Haviland, Visitor Experience Specialist at Visit Greenville, NC. North Carolina has always been home — I was born and raised in Fayetteville before packing up (with my cat, Frankie) and moving to Greenville in 2021 to attend East Carolina University. Go Pirates! ECU is what brought me here, but the community is what made me stay. I finished undergrad and grad school in May 2025 and jumped straight into working with Visit Greenville, NC.
What I love most about Greenville is the feeling you get just being here — it has the energy of a city with the charm of a small town, the best of both worlds. When I'm not sharing reasons to explore Greenville, you'll find me outside, hunting for a local find or turning an ordinary day into my next little side quest. You never quite know what you'll stumble into — that's half the fun!
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Emerge Gallery & Art Center
One of my favorite things about Greenville is how easy it is to try something new, and Emerge is the perfect place for that. Now I'm no artist, but Emerge has a way of making you feel like one! Their instructors are encouraging and patient, and they make it easy to create something you're proud to take home. I've tried everything from pottery and jewelry making to sewing a cat ornament. If you're here the First Friday of the month, don't miss the Downtown Greenville First Friday ArtWalk, when Emerge comes alive alongside other businesses to celebrate our vibrant arts community. Be sure to hop onto The Emerald Express Trolley to take you all around downtown.
Wine & Design
For a creative twist on your night out, head to Wine & Design and try something a little different. I love how their events go beyond the traditional paint night, with themed experiences inspired by popular books, unique art classes and even special events featuring animals (including adorable baby Highland cows and kangaroos!). I once painted a pop-art portrait of my cat, Frankie, and had the best time creating something completely unique. They also offer opportunities to explore other creative skills like glass-blowing ornaments and stained-glass art.
The 5th Street Inn
For your weekend, I love the idea of staying somewhere that feels like part of the community, and The 5th Street Inn does just that. This charming inn is located near downtown and ECU, making it easy to explore local restaurants, shops and attractions without being far from the action. Instead of feeling like just a place to sleep, it feels like a cozy home base where you can settle into the rhythm of Greenville. On my own walks around town, I always smile when I pass by the inn and see cats relaxing around the property. It’s such a small but memorable detail that perfectly captures Greenville’s welcoming, neighborhood feel.
Blackbeard Coffee Roasters
Coffee and books are a match made in heaven, and this downtown duo is one of my favorites. Blackbeard Coffee Roasters is my go-to coffee stop thanks to their incredible house-roasted beans and ever-changing seasonal menu. While I love picking up a bag of espresso beans to make coffee at home, my favorite order is a sweet iced latte. My insider tip? Ask the barista to surprise you with the flavor! I've discovered some of my favorite drinks that way. A short stroll away, Ever After Booksellers is the perfect place to sip your coffee while searching for your next great read. This independent bookstore has a little bit of everything, from the latest bestsellers to books by local authors.
Leroy James Farmers Market
If you're in Greenville on a Saturday morning, this is a must-do. Grab a reusable bag and wander the Leroy James Farmers Market, where you'll find everything from fresh, seasonal produce and locally raised meats to handmade goods from talented vendors across Eastern NC. I never leave without picking up a loaf of homemade sourdough (the cinnamon roll focaccia is a personal favorite!), a bar of locally made soap, and whatever fruits and vegetables are in season. Once you've filled your bag, take your finds across the street to Alice F. Keene District Park. The shaded, paved walking trail is one of my favorite places for a leisurely stroll, especially on warm mornings.
Jack Brown's Beer & Burger
If I'm craving a burger, there's no question where I'm headed. Jack Brown's is one of my favorite lunch spots, and it's just as fun as it is delicious. My go-to order is the Greg Brady burger (mac and cheese and potato chips!) with fries (don't skip the addicting JB sauce!), one of their rotating craft beers, and, if I somehow still have room, a fried Oreo for dessert. The walls are covered in quirky decorations and dollar bills, including a few that my friends and I have drawn ourselves. Jack Brown's even keeps Sharpies and a stapler handy so you can leave your own mark! If you're visiting on a Saturday, be sure to check out their Freestyle Burger. They're always experimenting with creative toppings, and I'm still thinking about the fajita burger I had there once.
Aji
After Jack Brown’s, make one more side quest and pop next door to Aji. This international market is packed with unique snacks, spices, sweets and wines from around the world. I always love browsing the different flavored Kit Kats and picking up spices or ingredients that inspire me to try a new recipe at home. They also host live music, trivia nights, and food-and-wine pairing events throughout the week, so it's worth checking their calendar to see what's happening during your visit.
Elm Street Park
One of my favorite ways to spend an afternoon is meeting up with friends for a few rounds of pickleball at Elm Street Park, where the public courts are free and always make for a fun time. I love that it's the kind of place where you can laugh your way through a game, cheer each other on and maybe get a little competitive along the way! Even if pickleball isn't your thing, the park has plenty to enjoy including a playground and access to the Green Mill Run Greenway. If you're visiting during the summer, don't miss a stop next door at Stallings Stadium at Elm Street Park, home of the Little League Softball World Series. It's one of Greenville's signature events and an exciting way to experience the community in action.
Plant and See Nursery
Plant and See Nursery, which has been open for 50 years, is one of those hidden gems I find myself recommending all the time. Even though I don't exactly have a green thumb, I could spend hours wandering through the beautiful greenhouses and colorful displays; it honestly feels a little magical. If you're looking to bring home a new plant, don't worry if you're a beginner. The staff is incredibly knowledgeable and always happy to help you find the perfect plant for your space and lifestyle, along with tips to help it thrive.
Uptown Brewing Company
When I’m looking for a fun night out with friends, Uptown Brewing is always a great choice. Their welcoming atmosphere makes it the perfect place to unwind, grab a locally crafted beer and enjoy time together. One of my favorite things to do is join friends for trivia night, and whether we walk away as champions or completely miss the winning answer, it’s always a good time filled with laughs. My favorite drink is the pumpkin cider they make in fall or their cotton candy sour.
Cali Donuts
No weekend adventure is complete without a little something sweet! Start your morning with a stop at Cali Donuts, a local favorite for fresh, creative donuts that make the perfect companion for your coffee run.
The Shoppes at Copper Mill
If you love the thrill of finding something unique, set aside time for a little treasure hunt. Cook's Closet is a great spot to browse for vintage clothing and one-of-a-kind pieces, while Dickinson Avenue Antiques is full of character with antiques, collectibles and unexpected finds. I have found classic ECU gear and staple household decor at both. But for the ultimate treasure hunt, head to The Shoppes at Copper Mill. This place is huge, and you could easily spend hours wandering through different vendors. I love that every visit feels a little different. There is a side with curated vintage items and another side of the building with local vendors.
Simply Natural Creamery
After a weekend full of sunshine, side quests and local finds, there’s no better way to end your trip than with ice cream in hand. Make your way to Simply Natural Creamery for a scoop (or two!) of homemade ice cream, with two locations to choose from: one’s in Greenville and their main location with dairy cows is in Ayden. Grab a spot outside and take a moment to appreciate all the little discoveries you made along the way.
This insider itinerary was produced in partnership with Visit Greenville, NC.