A Local’s Guide: Discover the Must-Do Activities in Greenville, SC

Adventure meets charm in the heart of the Upstate, Greenville, South Carolina. It’s no joke to say Greenville has it all: beautiful outdoor access, a thriving downtown area, farm-to-table dining, special events, and so much more. If you’re looking for a local perspective on the best activities, you’ve come to the right place. Find the best things to do in Greenville, SC, and experience it like a true local.

Exploring Greenville’s Outdoor Activities

Greenville packs in so many breathtaking natural landscapes waiting to be explored. Start with Falls Park on the Reedy, a 32-acre green space in the heart of downtown Greenville. The best views are from the Liberty Bridge, the iconic pedestrian suspension bridge featured in multiple brochures and Greenville websites. It’s easy to see why Falls Park is iconic. However, the pictures only partially capture the panoramic views of the stunning Reedy River Falls cascading through downtown.

The beautiful park also has lush gardens, scenic walking trails, and picnic spots. Greenville often uses the Falls Park grounds to stage seasonal festivals and events. For the kids, there are nine hidden mice statutes to find. Free two-hour street parking is off Main Street or park in the downtown parking garages.

Connect at the park with the Swamp Rabbit Trail, a 28-mile multi-use greenway from Greenville to Travelers Rest. It follows parts of the Reedy River, promising waterfalls, pretty views, and stops at multiple other parks. The trail links to the city’s largest park, Cleveland Park, home to the Greenville Zoo. The majority of the Swamp Rabbit Trail sections are paved bike trails, making them multi-use friendly. Rent a bike from one of the many bike-sharing stations along the trail and embark on a memorable journey through Greenville’s charming neighborhoods and nearby quaint towns.

Cleveland Park’s large green spaces include workout stations, a shaded playground, picnic tables, sports courts, and a botanical garden. Its pollinator garden runs beside the Swamp Rabbit Trail. The newest park, Unity Park, has a sports and wellness center in addition to outside walking paths, a water splash pad, and a music garden. The facilities at this newest park, plus the ongoing improvements to Falls Park and others, exemplify Greenville’s commitment to beautiful outdoor spaces.

Golf courses

Golfers will be delighted to discover eight public courses in Greenville County. These include championship-level courses and a PGA family course at Furman University. Between the country clubs and public courses, you’ll have plenty of ways to grow your skills.

State Parks

To truly immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Upstate South Carolina, pick from three state parks all in Greenville County: Paris Mountain, Jones Gap, and Caesars Head. These favorite parks pack stunning hiking trails, fresh, clear lakes for swimming or kayaking, and breathtaking vistas. Sulphur Springs Trail in Paris Mountain State Park is a popular 3.6-mile mountain bike and hiking trail. Caesars Head State Park is a must-see in the fall, as its stunning granite overlooks and dramatic Raven Cliff Falls are breathtaking as the leaves change. For many, it’s their favorite park in the state. Park trails connect to its neighbor, Jones Gap State Park, where its 17,000 acres of untouched wilderness have multiple hiking trails and primitive camping. 

What else can you do at the parks? Go on the hunt for towering waterfalls, like Rainbow Falls and Raven Cliff Falls. Join the annual “Hawk Watch” to spot migrating species at Caesars Head State Park during the fall. Table Rock State Park has some gorgeous views, but it’s also one of the hardest hiking trails around.

Adrenaline junkies will get their heart racing at Treetop Quest in Greenville with its suspended obstacles and ziplines. Or plunge over rapids in a raft or whitewater kayak on the Upper Green or Chattooga.

Want your furry family members to accompany you outdoors? No worries! Greenville and local parks have plenty of pet-friendly walking trails and green spaces, plus these dog parks in town.

Water Activities

Finally, Greenville is within three of the Upstate’s beautiful lakes: Lake Hartwell, Kiawah, and Jocassee. Spend a day boating on the massive blue waters framed by the Upstate hills. Lake Hartwell is the largest, and on the Georgia border. It’s a top destination for bass fishing. Lake Keowee’s sapphire waters wind by 71 islands and a popular jumping boulder. Waterfall Cove is another popular spot to anchor up and swim. Lake Jocassee features 75 miles of forested shoreline that hides even more waterfalls and famous ghost towns under its surface. Devils Fork State Park provides access to its undeveloped shores. Jones Gap State Park is also a favorite for mountain trout fishing. Cast lines on the state’s first wild and scenic river, the Saluda, that runs through most of the park.

Must-Visit Cultural And Historical Sites in Greenville

Greenville is blessed with natural beauty, thanks to the Upstate South Carolina location. But, it’s equally rich in history and culture. Dive into the city’s past by visiting the Upcountry History Museum. Discover the heritage of Greenville and the Upstate through interactive exhibits, artifacts, and multimedia presentations. From the Native American settlements to the Industrial Revolution, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the city’s evolution.

Another must-visit site is the Greenville County Museum of Art, considered a premier art museum in the South. Its impressively diverse collection of American art particularly emphasizes Southern artists. Admire works by renowned artists such as Andrew Wyeth, Jasper Johns, and Georgia O’Keeffe. Its Andrew Wyeth watercolor collection is the largest one available to the public.

These museums are part of the Heritage Green, an arts and cultural district central in Greenville. Other attractions at the Green include the Greenville Theater and Sigal Music Museum. The main branch of the library is another part of the cultural campus.

Moving slightly away from the city, find places like the Oconee Stations State Historic site, Shoeless Joe Jackson Memorial Park, and Poinsett Bridge. This beautiful bridge is the oldest in South Carolina.

If someone in your house loves cars, then a stop on the BMW Zentrum is sure to hold their attention. BMW has a large presence in Upstate South Carolina. This is the only BMW museum in North America and you can take body shop or factory tours.

Few sites are as historic as the Kings Mountain National Military Park. Here, American Revolutionary forces earned a victory against British troops. The park preserves the battle site and tells its story in historical exhibits. On the way is Cowpens National Battlefield, another Revolutionary War site.

As you can see, Greenville has a wide range of cultural attractions.

Sporting Fun

Greenville may not be large enough to support a professional sporting team, but that doesn’t mean it lacks for action. The city is ripe with up-and-coming sporting talent across multiple leagues. Feeder minor league teams prepare the sports legends of tomorrow.

The Greenville Drive are a AAA minor league affiliate of the Boston Red Sox. Catch their games at Fluor Field. The baseball field was modeled after Fenway Park but with cheaper ticket prices and better parking. Catch games at Fluor Field in the summer. 

The Greenville Swamp Rabbits are a minor league hockey team affiliated with the Florida Panthers and Charlotte Checkers. The Greenville Triumph (men) and Greenville Liberty (women) are in the United Soccer League and play games at Furman University’s Paladin Stadium.

Greenville has also hosted rounds of the NCAA College Basketball Championships. There’s also the college teams playing for Furman University, Bob Jones University, and North Greenville University.

Discovering Greenville’s Amazing Restaurants

First-timers are pleasantly surprised by Greenville’s thriving food and drink scene. The culinary landscape is making its mark, having earned the notice of Southern Living, Zagat, and Esquire–just for starters. Greenville has over 1,000 restaurants, plus dozens of breweries, wineries, and distilleries. These amazing restaurants include award-winning chefs and creations sure to please your appetite.

Start your culinary adventure at Gather Greenville, ranked the nation’s sixth-best food hall in USA Today’s Reader’s Choice Awards. Find local culinary artists whipping up artisanal pizzas, gourmet burgers, and international flavors to satisfy every palate. Grab a seat on the outdoor pet-friendly patio and soak in the lively atmosphere as you savor the mouthwatering dishes.

Or head to one of Greenville’s many farm-to-fork restaurants. These establishments prioritize sourcing ingredients locally, ensuring the freshest and most flavorful meals. Try Soby’s New South Cuisine, which takes inspiration from South Carolina food traditions. And Kitchen Sync is a green-certified farm-to-table venue. The hardest part of eating in Greenville is picking your favorite dinner spot.

Have even more fun exploring the craft beer scene. Breweries are scattered throughout the city, so you’ll have plenty of options to choose from. Take a brewery tour to learn about the brewing process, sample various unique beers, and soak in the atmosphere. Fireforge and Eighth State are trendy local favorites. And your pets are welcome at these dog-friendly Greenville restaurants.

Shopping And Entertainment in Greenville

Do you need things to do in Greenville, SC, that aren’t hiking in the woods or fun restaurants? Start a shopping spree at the Haywood Mall, the largest shopping center in Upstate South Carolina. With over 150 stores, including major brands and local retailers, you will surely find something that catches your eye. It has a convenient location right off Interstate 385 in east Greenville.

Head to the West End District if you want a more eclectic shopping experience. This hip district comprises Independent shops, art galleries, and antique stores. Browse through the handcrafted jewelry, locally made art, and vintage treasures as you soak in the bohemian vibes of the West End. Being near Falls Park, the district has proximity to downtown restaurants.

On the weekends, the locals head to the TD Farmer’s Market on Main Street. Over 75 vendors bring freshly picked farm produce, locally-made meats and cheeses, and other handmade goods. Everyone featured here works within 100 miles of Greenville, so feel good knowing you’re supporting local businesses and farmers.

Speaking of Main Street, browsing the retailers and dining venues lining the main boulevard is always fun. Find art galleries, unique gift stores, and fashion boutiques.  Some of Greenville’s favorite restaurants to stop for casual food or a more upscale dining experience are in between these independent stores.

Family-Friendly Activities in Greenville

Greenville is a fantastic city for families, as its diverse activities will keep everyone entertained. One don’t-miss stop is the Greenville Zoo, home to various exotic animals from around the world. Watch the giraffes gracefully roam their habitat, marvel at the playful antics of the monkeys, and learn about conservation efforts in the interactive exhibits. The Greenville Zoo runs educational programs and special events across the year.

For a unique outdoor experience, head to the Children’s Garden at Linky Stone Park. This whimsical botanical garden features interactive sculptures, a splash pad, and a butterfly garden. Children are encouraged to explore, play, and learn as they roam Hansel and Gretel’s cottage and find the secret garden. 

Cool off at Discovery Island Waterpark on those humid dog days of summer. This family-friendly waterpark features water slides, a lazy river, and a wave pool. Let the kids splash around in the shallow pools while you relax under the shade of a cabana. 

Little ones will love the three stories of the Children’s Museum of the Upstate in the Heritage Green District. It’s the seventh-largest children’s museum in the country, with 80,000 square feet of interactive play. The space is broken into 30 themes with hands-on exhibits on everything from the environment to dinosaurs. This family activity is perfect for rainy days or teaching the littlest ones.

Roper Mountain Science Center and Planetarium is another place for the whole family. Its interactive exhibits focus on science. At Friday Starry Nights, immerse yourself in the far reaches of space or play on the forested grounds. At the Living History Farm, you can see how pioneers lived, and at the Environmental Science Center, learn about the world around you. Roper Mountain is run in partnership with multiple community stakeholders, including Greenville County Schools.

Exploring Greenville’s Art and Music Scene

Greenville’s art scene is a testament to the city’s cultural richness. Besides the Greenville County Museum of Art, the city has 125+ public art installations, a ballet, an orchestra, and a children’s theater. There are many things to do in Greenville, SC, to stimulate your creative side!

The Peace Center is the home for Greenville’s performance artists. The six-acre campus and three venues host the Greenville Symphony and traveling performers. Listen to classical symphonies or contemporary pop acts. The expansive facility has a 2,100-seat concert venue, a 400-seat theater, and an outdoor pavilion for concerts. 

Heritage Green is another culture center. This urban arts and cultural district includes the Greenville County Museum of Art, the Sigal Music Museum, and the Greenville Theater.

Experience more art in action in the Village of West Greenville. Explore the numerous art galleries, studios, and creative spaces that line the streets. Smiley on the Roxx is a top entertainment venue with no cover charge and live music each week. The Greenville Center for Creative Arts includes an art gallery, working artist studios, and an art school.

Public art installations are scattered across Greenville. Walking tours take you by the statues, sculptures, and murals that bring color and culture to the city. The statues mix both important figures in Greenville history, like Shoeless Joe Jackson and Nathanael Green, and those invite reflections, like Water Blessing.

Seasonal Events And Festivals in Greenville

Greenville is known for its lively calendar of events and festivals. In the spring, don’t miss Artisphere, one of the Southeast’s premier art festivals and a headline event for Greenville. Explore the work of talented artists, enjoy live music performances, and indulge in delicious food from local vendors. Check out the public art installations, including any new additions around just for the event.

During the summer, the city comes alive with outdoor concerts, food festivals, and cultural celebrations. Downtown Alive brings live music to Noma Square, with food trucks and libations. Main Street Fridays shut down parts of downtown Main Street for a rotating cast of events. The Upstate Shakespeare Festival is a chance to experience a classic play in beautiful Falls Park. The actors speak in Old English to boot. 

The things to do in Greenville don’t stop when temperatures cool. Downtown becomes an Upstate winter wonderland with festive events and holiday celebrations as the temperature drops. Lace up your skates and hit the ice at Ice on Main, a seasonal outdoor ice-skating rink in downtown’s heart. Enjoy the twinkling lights, sip hot cocoa, and create lifelong memories with your loved ones.

Embrace The Charm of Greenville, SC

Greenville, South Carolina, is a city that combines natural beauty, rich history, and cultural scene effortlessly. We mean it when we say Greenville has fun activities for everyone. Explore outdoor activities, delve into the city’s history and art, or indulge in the local food and drink scene. There’s so much to do in Greenville, the hardest part will be choosing what to do next!

So grab your walking shoes, and go create memories in Greenville, SC. Get to know Greenville even better through our moving guide or search current listings if our town sounds like a great place to live. 

FAQs

What is the best month to visit Greenville, SC?

Generally, that depends on what you plan to do! Any month can be a great month to explore Greenville’s wide range of activities. The mildest temperatures will be from March to May and September to November. If you want a wildflower hike at Paris Mountain State Park, come in the spring. The fall months are a better choice for leap peeping at Caesars Head State Park. The walking trails are open all year round. Summer brings a variety of activities, from outdoor dining at your favorite restaurants to art shows or swimming at the lake.

Is Greenville a walkable city?

Greenville is incredibly pedestrian-friendly, especially in areas like the North Main Street District. WalkScore gave it a score of 80 for walking and bicycling. Paved bike trails connect multiple portions of the city. Full-service bike shops include rentals while the BCycle program is ideal for quick, on-the-spot rentals. Or, you can simply use your two feet to get around the vibrant city.

How expensive is Greenville, SC?

Overall living costs are 9% below the national average but 2% above the South Carolina average as of 2024. Your miscellaneous costs, which include admission fees to events and museums, typically run 7% under the national average. To give you an idea, ticket prices for the Children’s Museum of the Upstate in Greenville cost $13 for a South Carolina resident or $19 for a general admission non-resident. A Greenville Symphony concert had ticket prices started at $149.

Updated September 2024