Top Ten Fun Things to Do in East Hill

article by LIZ BIGGS

With so many cool things to do in fun and funky East Hill, it is hard to choose just ten. In no particular order, start with these and you will surely earn your neighborhood stripes!

1. Take a rowing class or rent kayaks at Bayview Park

Adult Learn-To-Row classes are offered by the Pensacola Rowing Club in eight sessions, then you are able to join experienced members in weekly open rowing. Children’s classes are also available. Contact pensacolarowing.org to sign up. The Bayview Outdoor Pursuits Center offers rentals of kayaks, paddleboards, pedal boats, bikes, and even hammocks to enjoy.

2. Pack a picnic and listen to live music at St. Christopher's

Christopher’s St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church hosts a free spring/summer concert series every Thursday night 6-8pm, April-June. Local favorites like Not Quite Fab, A Touch of Gray, the Reunion Band, and Crosstown rock out while fans dance and picnic on the church lawn. 3200 N. 12th Avenue.

3. Join or watch the kickball league at Lions Park

The Kaboom kickball league plays Wednesday nights at Lions Park, which is located on LaRua Street at 12th Avenue, south of Cervantes. Even if you don’t play, it is super fun to watch! Kaboom is Pensacola’s largest provider of social sports leagues. For more information or to register for a team visit kaboomssc.com.

4. Grab a cold beer at the iconic Wisteria Tavern

The “Wiz” is the oldest bar in East Hill, opening in 1935! I tend towards a PBR (or choose your fave from the 100+ beers they have in stock). Outdoor seating and food truck deliciousness is available if you’re hungry. Located at 3808 N. 12th Avenue, under the locally famous tree tunnel aka “Avenue of the Oaks.”

5. Attend one of the many fun events at Bayview Park

Bayview Park hosts many exciting family-friendly events, including the Bands on the Bayou concert series and Big Screen on the Bayou movie nights as well as Earth Day Festival (April), Dragon Boat Festival (October), and the Holiday Golf Cart Parade (December), which begins and ends at the park but follows a parade route through the neighborhood. You’ll also frequently find free yoga classes and salsa lessons on the pier.

6. Gather a team for Tuesday trivia night at ALGA Beer Co.

Enjoy a riveting game of trivia with Ranger Brandon as you order a flight of their East Hill brews like the East Hillsner Pilsner, the Neighborhood (made with East Hill honey), and the Shania Twang cherry lime wheat beer. The delicious Brown Bagger Food Truck is located out back if you’re hungry. Trivia is on Tuesdays 7-9:30 pm. 2435 N. 12th Avenue.

7. Take a fitness class at Wild Lemon Studio

Movement is good for the mind, body, and soul. Group classes include Pilates Mat, Barre, TRX, Yoga, Interval Training, Stretch and Release, Bounce and Meditation. Visit wildlemonstudios.com for class schedules. 3000 N. 12th Avenue (Group Fitness) and 904 E. Scott Street (Pilates Equipment Studio).

8. Shop at the eclectic Revolver Records

They have the best selection of vinyl records in town! Owner Eric Jones is there daily from 11-6 to help you find the rare, obscure record you’ve been looking for. If he doesn’t have it in stock, he can get it. Located inside the locally-owned Jitterbug Beverage Co., 2050 N. 12th Avenue, so while you’re there you might as well have a cup of coffee, too.

9. Grab some fresh juice at The Daily Squeeze

Get healthy by treating yourself to some cold-pressed juice at The Daily Squeeze Juice and Smoothie Bar. They also serve great coffee and healthy food options like coconut energy balls, overnight oats, and house-made hummus. Open weekdays 7:30-4, located at 901 N. 12th Avenue next to the East Hill Publix.

10. Order a top-shelf marg at Cactus Flower

My go-to is the Purist—a Patron and fresh squeezed citrus margarita with a splash of Grand Marnier. The jalapeno margarita is excellent too. You may not find it on the menu, but ask the bartender to make you a Prickly Pear margarita, it’s a local favorite. Cactus Flower’s Californiainspired Mexican cuisine is arguably the best in the neighborhood. 3525 N. 12th Avenue.