Greenville is a city known for its picturesque downtown, four mild seasons, a blend of historic and modern architecture, welcoming residents, and numerous nearby waterfalls – making it the epitome of “pervasive happiness”.
Travelers to Greenville County will find an incredible range of activities and sights to experience. Art lovers should not miss visiting the Greenville County Museum of Art, home to Andrew Wyeth watercolors.
Downtown Greenville
Downtown Greenville is one of the oldest cities in South Carolina and is home to an exciting community that values history and education.
Culture abounds in Greenville County, including several theatres that host year-round musical performances and other entertainment. Furthermore, visitors should visit the Greenville County Museum of Art to view stunning collections by American artists.
Downtown Greenville offers an array of restaurants and bars that will make any night unforgettable. From burgers to ice cream, there are sure to be dishes that will have you coming back for more.
If you’re in search of a peaceful retreat, Falls Park on the Reedy is perfect. This 32-acre park features a waterfall, nature trails, and gardens – making it an ideal spot for visitors to take in both city sights and sounds while taking a leisurely walk.
You can also visit Roper Mountain Science Center, which is an ideal spot to spend a day learning about science. There are interactive displays, hands-on activities, and shows that will engage and educate you alike.
Another activity suitable for the whole family is a Segway tour of downtown. You can pick up your Segway from Main Street’s meeting point, and receive an instructional session before embarking on your tour led by an experienced guide.
With more than 300 events taking place each year, Greenville offers something special for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood to catch a concert, take in a Broadway tour, or take the kids to the indoor playground, there’s something here that appeals to everyone.
Upcountry Greenville
The Upcountry, including Anderson, Cherokee, Greenville, Oconee, and Pickens counties, is an idyllic getaway for people of all ages who appreciate its blend of Southern traditions, American history, and stunning natural attractions. Here you’ll find both old-fashioned charm and modern amenities alongside ample entertainment options for visitors to enjoy.
Discover the vibrant culture of this Southern destination by strolling through its charming downtown. Filled with unique shops, boutiques, and local and regional art galleries, there’s plenty to see and do here – from delicious restaurants to exciting music venues. No matter what time of day or night it is, a walk downtown will leave you with lasting memories.
Take a trip back in time with an Upcountry History Museum visit. Here, exhibits cover the region’s earliest history from pre-European settlement to the Civil War and beyond – perfect for kids with their interactive displays and games!
If you’re an art enthusiast, the Greenville County Museum of Art is an excellent destination to view some of America’s finest artwork. From Renaissance periods to modern times, visitors can view paintings and sculptures by renowned artists like Andrew Wyeth and Georgia O’Keeffe up close and personal.
Another fantastic way to experience the Upcountry is by hiking or biking along the Swamp Rabbit Trail, which follows along the Reedy River. This 20-mile route provides plenty of exercises while letting you take in all the natural splendor of Greenville.
The historic Peace Center is a must-stop attraction for visitors to the Upcountry. It features three performance venues – Gunter Theatre, Concert Hall, and TD Amphitheatre – that showcase renowned ballet, opera, and orchestral performances.
Outdoor in Greenville
If you’re a nature enthusiast or simply want to take advantage of Greenville’s beautiful weather, there are plenty of ways to enjoy nature while here. The city has numerous outdoor attractions and activities from parks to museums, spas to restaurants – there’s something for everyone in Greenville!
Greenville offers something for everyone in terms of activities. From lazing on the Reedy to exploring its many waterfalls, enjoying nature with family and friends is always an adventure. And the best part? There’s always something new to discover outdoors!
Another excellent way to explore nature is geocaching. It’s an enjoyable and straightforward way for families with kids to discover a new area!
If you’re seeking an active adventure, Paris Mountain State Park is just north of Greenville and offers plenty of outdoor activities like kayaking, swimming, hiking, and camping. Soak up the beauty of nature to its fullest with these activities!
For a more leisurely activity, try tubing down one of the local rivers. It’s an enjoyable, low-key activity that will help you escape from Greenville for some time and forget about its bustling city life.
After enjoying some time outdoors in the sun, explore local brewpubs and pub-style eateries for delicious food options and local craft beers. There’s something here for everyone – including something perfect for a family meal!
Spend some time at the Greenville County Museum of Art to admire works by Southern artists. Or visit Upcountry History Museum to discover South Carolina’s history through exhibits and activities.
Food & Drink in Greenville
Greenville is becoming a foodie mecca with an array of restaurants to please any palate. From locally sourced dishes that celebrate South Carolina to international fusion dishes, the city’s dining scene has become a sought-after destination for visitors from far and wide.
Biscuit Head is a must-try for breakfast, offering hearty Southern dishes like chicken and waffles that will leave you satisfied. Their sustainable brand means everything they serve is sourced locally – even the flour for biscuits and milk in their coffee.
Nothing beats the aroma of freshly baked bread to start your day off right. That’s why scones at Swamp Rabbit Cafe and Grocery are such a hit with locals. Their artisan bakers use whole grains from their farm in each loaf they deliver daily, along with other ingredients sourced within 150 miles of their facility.
It’s no secret that Greenville loves barbecue, and Bucky’s doesn’t disappoint with any of its smoked meats. The ribs are a favorite but for something sweeter, try their Sweet Potato Crunch casserole.
Steamed sandwiches offer something special from traditional hot sandwiches; the warmth of vapor heat unlocks the sweetness in the dough and warms up fillings and cheese. Brooklyn Bagels’ steamed bagels and cold cuts are made with NYC-made open-face bagels that have been steamed in special steamers.
Experience something special at Sassafras with their five-course tasting table. Chefs carefully curate plates and pair them with wines for an exquisite Southern dining experience that must not be missed when visiting Greenville. With its award-winning reputation, visiting this award-winning establishment should not be missed by any food enthusiast visiting Greenville.
Culture in Greenville
Greenville’s cultural landscape is shaped by its heritage and history. For instance, the Danish Cultural Center of Greenville strives to preserve and transmit the traditions of its many Danish immigrants who settled here, as well as teach residents about their heritage.
Another draw to Greenville is its vibrant performing arts scene, which includes four resident companies such as Carolina Ballet Theatre and Greenville Symphony. Plus, you can catch a wide range of touring acts and local talent at the Peace Center Theater.
Greenville offers plenty of activities to keep you occupied, from the popular Artisphere art fair and festivals such as Fall for Greenville to Music in the Park. But it’s not all about events: With Greenville’s growing culinary scene, you can sample locally-sourced dishes in many styles at top-rated restaurants.
From high-end BBQ spots to global cuisine, Greenville’s culinary scene offers something for everyone. James Beard Award-nominated chefs like Adam Cooke of Topsoil Kitchen & Market and French Laundry alumni Drew Erickson of Camp bring American cuisine to life with globally inspired flavors.
Greenville is a haven for craft beer connoisseurs. With more than a dozen breweries and distilleries, including one certified B Corp brewery, you’re sure to find your ideal craft brew here.
In addition, Greenville County boasts several museums and historic sites to discover. The Greenville County Historical Museum and Dutch Treat Museum are two excellent stops on your tour; further afield you should check out the Greenville Museum of Art or Greenville County Library for even more fascinating experiences.
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