Greenville, South Carolina is quickly becoming one of the region’s top destinations for both dining and outdoor exploration. Its location in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains provides countless opportunities, whether you’re looking to spend a relaxing weekend on the lake or hike the state’s highest peak.
Be sure to venture out to nearby communities like Greer and Travelers Rest while you’re there. Downtown sits on both sides of the Reedy River, with businesses and parks straddling both sides. Euphoria is one of the city’s top festivals, bringing in world-class chefs for a weekend of food and drink.
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What to Do in Greenville
BMW Zentrum– Located outside of Greenville, this facility is responsible for the production of millions of BMW cars. Inside, there’s a small museum showcasing some of the company’s most unique automobiles, the only one in North America. 1400 SC-101, Greer
Falls Park on the Reedy– Explore the 32-acre park located in the city’s historic West End. Garden tours are available, and the park features free two-hour parking. It’s open every day. 601 S. Main Street, Greenville
Greenville County Museum of Art– This humble art museum at Heritage Green has changing exhibits from around the country and is free to visit. Special events may cause some galleries to be closed, so check the website before you go. 420 College Street, Greenville
Shoeless Joe Jackson Museum– Few people know that the baseball legend’s roots are in the South Carolina Upcountry. Visit the small museum in his former home where he lived and died. Only open on Saturdays, plan your day around it. It’s located next to the city’s minor league baseball stadium and is free to visit. 356 Field Street, Greenville
Swamp Rabbit Trail– This nearly 20-mile rails-to-trails project runs from downtown Greenville to nearby Travelers Rest and is popular with families and cyclists. Restaurants and other businesses are located along the way and there are a few places to rent bikes. Various locations, Greenville and Travelers Rest
Upcountry History Museum– Operated by Furman University, this family-friendly museum showcases exhibits from around the region as well as traveling exhibits. 540 Buncombe Street, Greenville
Breweries– The city has a thriving craft beer culture, starting with Thomas Creek Brewery and Homebrew shop. Others include Quest Brewing Co. and Brewery 85.
Where to Eat in Greenville
The Anchorage– This cozy West Greenville restaurant is known for its small plates and colorful vegetable mural covering the building. Bring some friends to share items like the sweet potato puree and Royal Red shrimp scampi with craft cocktails. 586 Perry Avenue, Greenville, (864) 219-3082
Bacon Bros. Public House– A friend recommended this strip mall eatery that focuses on the humble pig. Korean-influenced pork sandwiches, house-smoked charcuterie, and local sides are menu highlights as well as craft beer and cocktails. 3620 Pelham Road, Greenville, (864) 297-6000
Greenfield’s Bagels & Deli– Another strip mall find is this Jewish-style deli that carries New York-style bagels, lox, and deli sandwiches. Take them to go or dine in. 101 Verdae Boulevard, Suite 180, Greenville, (864) 987-0064
Jianna– The restaurant is renowned for its refined Italian cuisine, house-made pasta, a curated wine list, and a scenic balcony overlooking Falls Park. Don’t skip the oysters from the raw bar and rigatoni with pork ragu. 600 South Main Street #2, (864) 720-2200
Methodical Coffee– Every city needs a hip coffee shop, and Methodical is Greenville’s. Stop by the downtown shop for coffee sourced from Africa and Latin America. They also have a small selection of baked goods. 101 N. Main Street, Suite D, Greenville, (864) 735-8407
Mike & Jeff’s BBQ Catering– For barbecue worth traveling for, visit Mike and Jeff’s. The pulled pork is cooked for 16 hours before being doused in their homemade sauces. Classic sides include baked beans and coleslaw. 2401 Old Buncombe Road, Greenville, (864) 271-5225
Scoundrel– The French-inspired fine dining spot was a James Beard semifinalist for Best New Restaurant. Menu highlights include duck fat fries, beef tartare, and the chef’s grandmother’s chocolate layer cake. 18 North Main Street, (864) 283-0095
Soby’s– A Greenville favorite, Soby’s draws inspiration from South Carolina and beyond. The menu includes shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, and their Sunday brunch. 207 S Main Street, Greenville, (864) 232-7007
Swamp Rabbit Cafe and Grocery– Located on the bike trail of the same name, this is the best place around to buy farm-fresh produce and all-natural products. Their cafe has pizzas and sandwiches, best enjoyed in their outdoor beer garden. 205 Cedar Lane Road, Greenville, (864) 255-3385
Tandem Creperie and Coffeehouse– Local college students love this light-filled cafe for its breakfast treats, including crepes, waffles, and pastries. They also carry North Carolina’s Counter Culture Coffee for cold brew, espresso, and more. 2 S Main Street, Travelers Rest, (864) 610-2245
Where to Stay in Greenville
The Westin Poinsett, Greenville, is a historic property in the heart of it all built in 1925. There’s even a fitness studio, restaurant, bar, and coffee shop on the property. Read our review here. 120 South Main Street, Greenville
Hilton Greenville is close to the airport and only a ten-minute drive from downtown, but it also offers shuttle services. 45 West Orchard Park Drive, Greenville
Swamp Rabbit Inn and Properties feels like home, with funky furnishings in a cozy inn as well as guesthouses. Danish pastries are included daily, and the property is close to downtown. 1 Logan Street, Greenville
Camping- Paris Mountain State Park and Travelers Rest / N Greenville KOA Holiday are two camping facilities close to Greenville.
Rentals- You can also rent a house for you and your group on sites like Airbnb.
Hall’s Chophouse is a must for wonderful food and atmosphere!