20 Things To Do In Greenville SC

European immigrants came to Greenville, South Carolina, in the 18th century and over the years, it blossomed from being a small trading post into a vibrant textile town. Greenville is often called “The Textile Center of the South” and although this industry has moved out of Greenville, the city maintains its historic charm. A hub for culture and arts with steamy summers and mild winters, this is a city with a rich history and plenty to explore. Where is Greenville? It’s in the northwest part of South Carolina near the North Carolina border.

There are a range of things to do in Greenville for everyone, including visiting the County Museum of Art and the city’s zoo while those who enjoy being outdoors will certainly lovely the Blue Ridge Mountains and getting out in the city’s green spaces. This family-friendly destination has a reimagined downtown area that blends shops, restaurants and cultural attractions with beautiful opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty of its protected parks and the Blue Ridge Mountains. Whether you’re looking for delicious Southern food, a learning experience at a new museum, or the chance to connect with nature, these are the top 20 things to do in Greenville, South Carolina.

Greenville, South Carolina

20 Things To Do In Greenville, South Carolina

1- Discover Art At The Greenville County Museum Of Art

Downtown Greenville is home to several museums that allow you can take a deep dive into the culture of the city.

If you only have time to visit one, make it the Greenville County Museum Of Art or if you have more time you could easily visit other nearby museums including the Upcountry History Museum, The Greenville Theater and The Children’s Museum of the Upstate, The Greenville County Art Museum.

On display is an impressive collection of artworks, including pieces by American artists such as Andrew Wyeth, Jasper Johns and Mary Cassatt.

The Greenville County Art Museum is open Wednesday to Saturday (10 am to 5 pm) and Sunday (1 pm to 5 pm).

Admission to the museum is free, so it’s a great option if you are sticking to a budget.

Greenville County Museum Of Art is at 420 College St, Greenville, SC 29601.

2- Stroll Through The Swamp Rabbit Trail

This popular multi-use trail spans 22 miles (35 km) through picturesque natural spaces and urban spots in the Greenville area.

You will find visitors and locals walking, jogging, cycling, or inline skating through the Swamp Rabbit Trail, which gives you access to art installations, trailside cafes, and charming neighborhoods.

You can start the trail at almost any point along the way, but we recommend starting in Greenville near the Greenville to Asheville Bridge landmark and traveling to Trailblazer Park in Travelers Rest, South Carolina, just 19 minutes north of Greenville by car.

The Swamp Rabbit Trail is at 103 McDaniel Ave, Greenville, SC 29601.

3- Shop and Dine at West End Historic District

West End is a neighborhood in Greenville, South Carolina across the Reedy River.

This historic district was established in 1852 when it became a temporary home to Furman University.

This charming side of town is home to art galleries, coffee shops, parks such as the Riverplace River Watch, and local dining spots including Rick Erwin’s West End Grille and Pomegranate on Main.

You’ll also find Fluor Field on this side of town, so if you plan to catch a baseball game during your visit you should definitely take some time before or after the game to check out this side of town.

West End Historic District is at SC-124, Greenville, SC 29601.

4- Attend A Show At The Peace Center

The Peace Center is a performing arts venue in Greenville.

The center is known for producing a wide range of events including Broadway shows, concerts, community gatherings, and dance performances.

The state of the art facility has beautiful architecture to create the perfect background for enjoying a show.

The Peace Center is at 300 S Main St, Greenville, SC 29601.

5- Hike To Caesar’s Head State Park

Caesar’s Head State Park is nestled in the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains and spans 7,467 acres (2,990 ha).

The state park is renowned for its vistas.

The most popular is Caesar’s Head Overlook, which offers breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge peaks and nearby valleys.

As you can imagine, this is an awesome spot to go hiking and connect with nature.

The park has tons of hiking trails, including the most challenging Raven Cliff Falls Trail.

This is a must-visit destination for those looking to engage with native plant species, wildlife, waterfalls, and beautiful views.

Caesar’s Head State Park is open Monday through Friday (10 am to 5 pm), Saturday and Sunday the park opens an hour early at 9 am.

Caesar’s Head State Park is at 8155 Geer Hwy, Cleveland, SC 29635.

6- Explore Falls Park on the Reedy

Falls Park on the Reedy is essentially the heart of Greenville, just near downtown.

This natural gem has been turned into an urban oasis that brings many visitors.

The Liberty Bridge is the center of the park, which spans across the Reedy River.

From the bridge, you can catch a panoramic view of the 28-foot (8.5 m) waterfall.

The park also offers lush greenery, walking paths, and well-maintained gardens that create a tranquil atmosphere.

Falls Park is a perfect spot for picnics, leisurely strolls, and photography.

Falls Park on the Reedy is open daily from 6 am to midnight.

Falls Park on the Reedy is at 601 S Main St, Greenville, SC 29601.

7- Take a Brewery Tour

Greenville has tons of local breweries in the downtown area.

You can taste beers with locally sourced ingredients to get the true taste of the city.

You’ll find visitors and locals relaxing, tasting, and enjoying the community.

Schedule a guided brewery tour to get insider information on each site, or simply walk into one of the breweries yourself and order a flight.

Some of our favorite spots are Birds Fly South Ale Project, Fireforge Crafted Beer, and New Realm Brewing Company.

Birds Fly South Ale Project is at 1320 Hampton Ave, Greenville, SC 29601.

Fireforge Crafted Beer is at 311 E Washington St, Greenville, SC 29601.

New Realm Brewing Co. is at 912 S Main St, Greenville, SC 29601.

8- Enjoy A Greenville Drive Baseball Game

Greenville’s Minor League baseball team is the Greenville Drive.

The team’s home field is Fluor Field, where you can catch a game and enjoy the stadium’s delicious concessions including 7th Inning Stretch which serves up classic baseball fare such as hot dogs and popcorn.

The Greenville Drive schedules games each year with the season running April through September.

You can check the calendar to see if a home game is being played during your stay and purchase tickets ahead of time.

Fluor Field is at 945 S Main St, Greenville, SC 29601.

9- Experience History at the Upcountry History Museum

Dive into the city’s past at the Upcountry History Museum.

The museum features interesting and engaging exhibits that walk through how Greenville became what it is today.

Whether you’re a history buff or simply someone who wants to do a little learning on their vacation, this is one of the best places to be.

The Upcountry History Museum is open Tuesday to Saturday (10 am to 5 pm) and Sunday (1 am to 5 pm).

The Upcountry History Museum 540 Buncombe St, Greenville, SC 29601.

10- Relax At Lake Conestee Park And Nature Preserve

Conestee Park is a beautiful park on the outskirts of the Conestee Nature Preserve.

The 100 acre (40 ha) natural area offers a sparkling lake for fishing, picnic areas that line the beach, baseball fields, a community garden, a dog park, playground, and walking trails that take you through the mature forests.

Conestee Park is open daily from 7 am to 8 pm.

Entry to the park is free.

Lake Conestee Park and Nature Preserve is at 840 Mauldin Rd, Greenville, SC 29607.

11- Walk Around The Greenville Farmers Market

Attending a city’s farmers market is a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture.

Check out fruit and vegetables grown in nearby farms, crafts and art handmade by local artists, and even enjoy live music.

There are over 75 vendors that set up at the market each week.

The Greenville Farmers Market opens on the first Saturday in May and ends on the last Saturday in October.

The market is open from 8 am to 12 pm.

Greenville Farmers Market is at 1354 Rutherford Rd, Greenville, SC 29609.

12- Visit the Bob Jones University Museum and Gallery

Bob Jones University is a prominent Christian institution in Greenville.

Visiting the university offers the opportunity to gaze at the stunning architecture and well-maintained gardens.

The Bob Jones University Museum and Gallery features diverse artwork from around the world dedicated to faith and spirituality.

The gallery is in one of the university’s originally constructed buildings, built in 1947.

You can also view works of art throughout the campus.

The Bob Jones University Museum and Gallery is at 1700 Wade Hampton Blvd, Greenville, SC 29614.

13- Try Paddleboarding On Lake Jocassee

Although not technically in Greenville, Lake Jocassee is a short distance away in Salem, South Carolina.

The large lake is filled with crisp Appalachian Mountain river waters leading it to be one of the cleanest and clearest lakes in the whole state.

This offers a great place for all paddling sports such as kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding as you peer deep into the lake and see all of the wildlife below.

The best place to access Lake Jocassee is through Devils Fork State Park.

Lake Jocassee is at 161 Holcombe Cir, Salem, SC 29676.

14- Golf At One Of The Many Courses

Due to the beautiful year round weather, Greenville is a popular place for golfers to visit.

The city has many public and private golf courses sprinkled throughout, so if you are interested in playing a few holes you’re in luck.

A few of the top public courses in the area are 3’s Greenville, Legacy Pines Golf Club, and the Greenville Country Club which has two separate courses.

Each course offers different challenges, views, and well maintained greens.

It’s a good idea to reserve your tee time in advance, simply call the club or book online.

• 3’s Greenville – Golf and Grubhouse is at 61 Villa Rd, Greenville, SC 29615.
• Greenville Country Club is at 239 Byrd Blvd, Greenville, SC 29605 and 502 Garden Trail, Greenville, SC 29605.
• Legacy Pines Golf Club is at 200 Ranch Rd W #5033, Greenville, SC 29607.

15- Explore Paris Mountain State Park

Paris Mountain State Park is just minutes from downtown Greenville and offers over 1,500 acres (667 ha) of rolling hills, lush forests, and pristine lakes.

The park features hiking and biking trails, camping sites, historical exhibits, picnic shelters, a children’s playground, educational programs, and a gift shop.

Common activities in the park include fishing, bird watching, photography, canoeing and kayaking, swimming, and more.

Admission to the Paris Mountain State Park is $6 per adult.

The park is open daily from 8 am to 8 pm.

Pets are allowed in outdoor areas but are not allowed in or around the cabin areas.

Paris Mountain State Park is at 2401 State Park Rd, Greenville, SC 29609.

16- Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth at Carmella’s Cafe and Dessert Bar

​​Carmella’s Cafe and Dessert Bar is a Charleston-based dessert company that opened its second location in Greenville.

The Italian-style cafe is well-loved for its rotating dessert menu including cannolis, cookies, gelato, and sorbetto.

If you aren’t in the mood for sweets, Carmella’s also has delicious deli sandwiches and cappuccinos.

Carmella’s Cafe and Dessert Bar is open daily from 11 am to 11 pm.

Carmella’s Cafe and Dessert Bar is at 355 S Main St Suite P301, Greenville, SC 29601.

17- Attend the Euphoria Food and Wine Festival

The Euphoria Festival was founded in 2006 by platinum-selling singer/songwriter Edwin McCain and a prominent Greenville restaurateur.

The event highlights the culinary and musical arts of the city.

Euphoria happens each year in September, featuring tastings, musical experiences, cooking demonstrations, and wine seminars.

Tickets for the Euphoria Festival must be purchased in advance, as they sell out quickly.

You can join the waitlist for ticket sales on the festival’s website in order to stay up to date.

If you want an enhanced experience, you can join the Producers Circle, which gives you a customized event schedule and VIP access.

Euphoria Food and Wine Festival is at Fuor Field at 945 S Main St, Greenville, SC 29601.

18- Kayak The Saluda River

The Saluda River starts in the Blue Ridge Mountains, combining with the Broad River to form the Congaree River, and flows all the way to Columbia, South Carolina.

It spans about 200 miles (321 km).

The picturesque river flows through forests, parks, and scenic spots, making it a great place to kayak, canoeing, and even fishing.

You can access the Saluda River through many points, we recommend Lake Greenwood State Park, Karl H.

Dixon Memorial Park At Boyd’s Mill Pond, Charlie Lollis Memorial Park, or Cedar Falls Park.

The Saluda River is at 208 Deborah Ln, Greenville, SC 29611.

19- Discover Artisan Goods at the Makers Collective Market

Makers Collective Market is one of the coolest and most unique “art galleries” you’ll come across.

on the north side of the city, this creative community serves as a central location for local artists, makers, and entrepreneurs to collaborate and sell their creations.

The Makers Collective Market hosts special events and workshops dedicated to handmade crafts and arts.

Depending on the time of year you’re visiting, you can check out the Indie Craft Parade, Valentine Pop-Up Shop, or the Holiday Markets.

The market is open Friday through Sunday from 11 am to 5 pm.

Makers Collective Market is at 2909 Old Buncombe Rd, Greenville, SC 29609.

20- Attend A Greenville Swamp Rabbits Hockey Game

The Greenville Swamp Rabbits is a professional ice hockey team that competes in the South Division of the ECHL (East Coast Hockey League).

The team’s home rink is in the Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville.

Attending a hockey game is an exhilarating experience due to the fast-paced nature of the game and the up-close interactions of the players.

Whether you’re a hockey fan or just looking for something to do, attending a Swamp Rabbits game is a Greenville experience you won’t forget.

Tickets can be purchased on a season or single game basis.

The Bon Secours Wellness Arena is at 650 N Academy St, Greenville, SC 29601.