15 Best & Fun Things to Do in Greenville SC

A once-secret sweet spot in the South, Greenville, South Carolina, is now widely known. TravelRaval names it as the “#1 Friendliest City in the U.S.” in 2021, and there are numerous awards that just keep adding. There are plenty of things to do in Greenville SC.

Greenville, South Carolina’s Upcountry, is less than an hour from the North Carolina state line and has become a popular location for both tourists and those who are willing to relocate. 

Greenville is the county headquarters of Greenville County and the sixth-largest city in South Carolina.

Numerous commercial areas surround the city, which adds to the area’s vibrant vibe.

Additionally, there are many free art galleries and breathtaking views all over Greenville that are definitely worth visiting.

Direct flights are available from Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport to seventeen U.S. cities. This guarantees simple access to a fun-filled family vacation or weekend trip in Greenville, along with its close proximity to Interstate 85.

Why does Greenville have such great allure? Maybe it’s her unique blend of refined smoothness and Southern charm. 

Or perhaps it’s because visiting Greenville is a surefire cure for monotony, melancholy, and pessimism. Here is a selection of the top sights and things to do in the city.

1. Photograph the Joel Roberts Poinsett Statue

There is a bronze monument flanked by imposing structures on Greenville’s Main Street.

Inscribed on that statue is Joel Roberts Poinsett, one of the 19th century’s most well-known national figures.

As a diplomat, botanist, politician, and scholar, Poinsett is best remembered for bringing the poinsettia plant to the United States.

Even though Poinsett had slaves, he participated in the 1830s abolitionist movement.

Many South Carolinians at the time favoured extending slavery.

The Joel Roberts Poinsett Statue is located in Court Square, in the heart of downtown Greenville.

2. Partake in the Brewmiceter Hops Hunt

In Greenville, drinking doesn’t have to cost anything because you may join in the Brewmiceter Hops Hunt.

The Brewmiceter Hops Hunt is a scavenger hunt created by three Greenville locals who share a love of beer.

If you find the hidden mouse in each of the eight participating breweries, you might win a complimentary drink here.

One of the fun things to do in Greenville SC where you’ll have a fantastic opportunity to visit the city’s breweries. Here you’ll also take part in an exciting journey that is unique.

Go in search of Grandpa, Frances Encounters, Tristan, Wacky Fretta, Godfather, Paul Verstappen, Rural Jack, and Gaspar hamsters!

You might even get a free glass of cold brew!

3. Try Out the Culinary and City Tours

There are numerous ways to explore Greenville, including driving, riding on a Segway, self-guided walking tours, and culinary tours. 

Take one or more to sample Greenville’s diverse offers. Decide where and how you want to spend the remainder of your time in the city.

The well-known business Greenville History & Culinary Tours offers a variety of wonderful tours that vary in length and cost, and is one of the fun things to do in Greenville SC.

4. Greenville is Awash in Art

If you’re still seeking for places where creativity thrives, check out Art Crossing in downtown Greenville.

The live art demonstrations at Art Crossing last for hours and are available from Tuesday to Saturday.

In addition, artists can sell their creations at Art Crossing.

Walking around the area and looking at the artwork is free if you don’t intend to spend money.

There is a wide variety of authentic artwork available, including canvases, jewelry, ceramics, mixed media pieces, photography, and more.

If you’re thinking about purchasing a keepsake from your vacation to Greenville, artists also provide personalized works to make your collectibles more distinctive.

5. Spend a Relaxing Day in Falls Park

Pack your bags, as well as your favorite snacks and beverages, and head to Falls Park on the Reedy River.

Falls Park provides visitors with the most breathtaking vistas while visiting Greenville’s attractions, such as the Reedy River and the Liberty Bridge.

Take a photo tour of the waterfalls and neighboring historic buildings while you unwind at Falls Park.

You can visit the park at night to see how the area’s lights accentuate the shimmering waterways.

One of the best outdoor places to visit in Greenville SC which features numerous walking trails that you may like to explore during your visit.

6. At Falls Park By The Reedy River

Greenville is a city full of marvels. But Falls Park, a 36-acre urban sanctuary with vibrant gardens and lush green areas, may be the greatest triumph of this city. 

Allow yourself to be enchanted by the Reedy River cascade as you stand on the 345-foot Liberty Bridge, the only single-suspension bridge of its sort in the Western Hemisphere. And, is one of the top places to go in Greenville SC.

The prestigious Liberty Bridge, the only single-suspension bridge in the Western Hemisphere, is situated along Main St.

The bridge, which honors Liberty Corporation founder W. Frank Hipp, is a well-liked destination where you can enjoy beautiful views of Greenville.

From the Liberty Bridge, you can see the Reedy River Falls and its cascading waters down the stream.

Take a tour of the abandoned mills that once fueled Greenville’s economy. 

Pack a picnic and enjoy the park’s happy environment. Take a look at some of Greenville’s public art installations. Take a leisurely stroll over the wide, level paths. In other words, personalize your visit to Falls Park.

7. Participate in the Artisphere

Visit the annual Artisphere to admire local artists while immersing yourself in Greenville’s cultural scene.

One of the cultural activities in Greenville where everything is related to art is there, from paintings and antiques to glassware and accessories.

The festival is traditionally held during Mother’s Day weekend in downtown Greenville on Main Street.

Additionally, visitors will observe regional artists showing their abilities and demonstrating how they make their creations.

The Kidsphere, live art demos, street chalk art, Art Lab, live music, performing arts, and other programmes are all available in the Artisphere.

Naturally, there is no charge to attend this event, so you may take advantage of the free admittance to take in the local art scene and urban life.

8. Tour the Confederate History Museum and Library

Visit Greenville’s Museum and Library of Confederate History on Boyce Avenue to learn about America’s history.

This well-liked Greenville attraction examines the Civil War, which raged in America from 1861 to 1865 and was its bloodiest conflict.

One of the unique things to do in Greenville SC where you can wander the halls and take a good look around to learn more about the history of America.

Discover how the Civil War influenced South Carolina’s and Greenville’s past.

The Emancipation Proclamation and the Confederate state flags are additional attractions that are worth considering.

9. Ride a Bike, Stroll, or Run on the Swamp Rabbit Trail

The Prisma Health Swamp Rabbit Trail is just another crowning achievement for this city, and is among the top places to visit in Greenville SC. 

This 22-mile urban route connects Lake Conestee Nature Preserve to the city of Travelers Rest. The path is completely paved and winds through serene parks, bustling downtown streets, and gorgeous college campuses. 

You do not need to walk the entire path at once because there are numerous entrance points from which you can enter or exit. Several entrances offer parking, bathrooms, and dining options.

The Prisma Health Swamp Rabbit Trail in Greenville is a terrific place to go if you’re a traveler on a budget. Here you can soak into nature as the trails will take you through the city’s well-kept neighborhoods.

The Gateway, Trailblazer, Poinsett, and Conestee Parks, among many others, can be found during your travels.

10. Visit the Shoeless Joe Jackson Baseball Library and Museum

Baseball lovers will have a great time strolling the corridors of the Shoeless Joe Jackson Museum and Baseball Library on Field Street, and it is one of the unique things to do in Greenville SC.

Joe Jackson, one of baseball’s best all-natural hitters, is honored by this Greenville landmark.

As soon as you enter the museum—which is also Jackson’s original residence—you will see a large number of genuine items, images, and publications honoring Jackson’s legacy.

The museum was originally located on E Wilburn St before being relocated to Fiel St.

The entrance to the museum is free.

The parking spaces only allow guests to stay for two hours before charging them.

11. Discover Main Street’s Attractions

The main route in the center of Greenville is a beautiful, tree-lined avenue perfect for leisurely strolls. You can take part in the Mice on Main Scavenger Hunt while you stroll through the shops and stop for lunch at a neighborhood restaurant. 

One of the top things to do in downtown Greenville SC where you can discover how many little bronze mice you can find concealed throughout Main Street.

Spring through early October are busy seasons for free activities in Greenville, and NOMA Square on Main Street is a well-liked location. 

If you’re worn out, you can take the complimentary cart, which travels up and down Main and makes a number of convenient stops along the way.

12. Ride the Downtown Trolley to Explore Greenville

You may explore every part of the city by strolling through the streets of Greenville.

One of the best things to do in Greenville South Carolina If you want to spice up your visit. Here you can ride an electric trolley around the area, soak into the charm of the downtown.

From Thursday to Sunday, these trolleys travel six routes in Downtown Greenville.

Greenville’s downtown trolley service began in 1908 as a paid service for a nickel. Today, anyone can ride the downtown trolley for free, making it a fantastic tourist attraction for people on a modest budget.

The trolleys have fixed stops, so all you have to do is wait at one of them.

13. Visit the Children’s Museum of the Upstate

Children don’t always have to find museums to be monotonous.

The Children’s Museum of the Upstate in Greenville ought to be a blast for them to explore while you’re there.

With over 80,000 square feet of play area and 30 original exhibits, the museum is one of the biggest for kids.

Allow your children to explore the entire universe and discover the sciences, the arts, and a variety of other subjects such as medicine, aviation, the ecology, and much more.

Observe the displays, such as the animation station, Bib’s World, punk music, Reedy River Loop, and open art studios, while you stroll about.

14. View Exhibits at the Greenville County Museum of Art

One of the great places in Greenville that features the exhibits on College St. that delight the art aficionados from all over the globe.

The Greenville County Museum of Art is home to hundreds of artifacts created by artists from throughout the globe.

The most notable feature, however, is that it houses the largest collection of watercolors created by American artist Andrew Wyeth.

You can also notice the Southern influence in the museum’s displays, which include both modern conceptual art and Federal portraits.

The county museum houses an American art collection from the South that includes colonial pieces, abstract expressionism, and more.

Additionally, the Greenville County Museum of Art has changing exhibits, so on particular days, a fresh batch of pieces will be on display.

15. Take a Stroll Along with your Favorite Furry Friend

Greenville is not only welcoming to people, but it’s also a pet lover’s paradise. This community welcomes canines with pet-friendly lodging, water bowls outside of shops, and a variety of outdoor dining options. The evidence is all the dogs you’ll see accompanying their owners on walks wherever you go.

Best Places to Eat in Greenville SC

Greenville, one of South Carolina’s premier cuisine destinations, has a bustling culinary culture that is always innovating.

This city celebrates its own by showcasing regionally owned eateries that produce world-class cuisine, from refined Italian cuisine to traditional Southern favorites.

The cuisine scene in Greenville is extremely varied and may satisfy any craving you may have.

So, if a unique culinary experience is what you’re after, think about visiting this great city.

Check out this ranking of Greenville’s top restaurants to make sure you try the finest of the best.

Kitchen Sync

If you enjoy red meat, get the 10 oz. Meyer Natural Black Angus Sirloin Steak, which is charbroiled before being served with house-smashed Whitehorse golds, onion hash, and brisket pan sauce.  We advise you to order the Asian BBQ-glazed Carolina Catfish, which is served with some collard greens, a spicy peach melt, and grits if you prefer seafood over meat.

Saffron Indian Cuisine

The excellent dishes at Saffron Indian Cuisine, which is situated in the city’s downtown, showcase India’s distinctive and robust flavors.  Order a plate of Lamb Samosa to get things going. This pleasantly spicy turnover is stuffed with lamb and peas.  The Vegetable Samosa is a fantastic substitute if you’re a vegetarian.  The Chicken Tropical Biryani is a surefire way to please your palette for your main course. It includes chicken that has been prepared in a nicely flavored coconut curry sauce and is served with Basmati rice.

Smoky Dreams Barbecue

The Smoky Dreams Barbecue and Catering is a great option if you’re seeking for casual restaurants in the city.  In particular, if you’re dining with a group, this restaurant is a wonderful place to grab a quick bite.  This restaurant’s outdoor area evokes the atmosphere of a backyard BBQ on the weekends, letting customers relax and savor a delectable meal.  Two of the restaurant’s top-selling meat dishes, the Sliced Brisket and Baby Back Ribs, can be ordered in full portions. Choose your favorite sides and a cup of tea for each plate. A sumptuous slice of the Lemon Pie or Peanut Butter Pie is a delicious way to finish your dinner.

Ruth’s Chris Steak House

Ruth’s Chris Steak House is one of Greenville’s top-rated eateries and offers an outstanding range of premium steaks, gourmet food, and good wine.  Start with the chilled seafood tower, which includes giant prawn, Atlantic crayfish, colossal royal green lobster, and Norwegian king lobster tails as an appetizer. Order the 16 oz USDA Prime New York Strip for your dinner and have it prepared to your preferences. You can also add some of Ruth’s Dipping Trio to the dish to enhance the tastes even more.

Best Places to Stay in Greenville SC

The first step in any trip to the charming Downtown Greenville, South Carolina, is choosing the ideal lodging. Greenville has you covered whether you want a room that is close to where you want to play, something central that will let you easily access all locations Downtown, or all the restaurants and opulent amenities a hotel can provide.

Take a step back in time with the Westin Poinsett’s grandeur, book a stay at the Hyatt Regency, the primary landmark that served as the catalyst for Downtown Greenville’s revitalization, or spoil yourself with the opulence of the more recent Embassy Suites at Riverplace. There are many places to find exquisite dining, rooftop bars and pools, and breathtaking city views. Every hotel on this list provides a unique perk to make your subsequent trip to Greenville exceptional, and we are glad to serve as your tour guide.

Courtyard by Marriott Greenville Downtown

You can easily stroll to more restaurants, stores, galleries, and parks outside than you’ll probably be able to see during your next time in Greenville. To ensure your stay is comfortable, there are flat-screen TVs, free high-speed internet access, and a modern fitness facility inside. Choosing this hotel for your next visit to the area is simple thanks to the free shuttle service to and from the Greenville-Spartanburg Airport. 

Grand Bohemian Lodge

The Grand Bohemian Lodge, which is a new addition to Downtown Greenville, is both a hotel and a spectacle. The vast lodge-style architecture in Greenville is equally at home on a mountaintop in Europe as it is there. Visitors can choose between the Reedy River and Falls Park or the Downtown skyline as their perspective. Among the amenities are the Michelin-starred restaurant Between the Trees, run by Chef Nicolas Abello, and the cocktail lounge Spirit & Bowser, which serves tasting menus. The hotel’s fitness center and spa are also available to guests, even though they are also obviously accessible to the general public.

Aloft Greenville Downtown

You are a better guy than I am if you can avoid using the word “swanky” even once or twice while at Aloft. The boutique hotels’ modern architecture feels more at home in Manhattan than in Greenville. The hotel’s prime location in ONE Plaza gives it quick access to everything and a wealth of on-site amenities. The rooftop pool will be your main attraction, and the WXYZ bar features excellent views, specialty drinks, live music, and puppies. 

Hampton Inn & Suites Greenville Downtown

Riverplace – One of Greenville’s top hotels, the Hampton Inn Riverplace, has a view of the Reedy River. There are many stores, eateries, and attractions in Downtown that are close by, including Falls Park, the Liberty Bridge, the Swamp Rabbit Trail, the Peace Center, and many others. You may frequently see a live concert without ever leaving your apartment thanks to the balconies’ fantastic views of the Peace Center Amphitheatre. The vista of the river and the Downtown skyline is enough to make the trip worthwhile even without the music. There are a tonne of restaurants in Downtown that you can choose from, including Hall’s Chophouse.

When are you Planning your Trip to Greenville SC?

Greenville is, without a doubt, just one of those cities. It rejuvenates the spirit and soul of a person. This is all thanks to the numerous sights and activities that are available to everyone who visits Greenville SC. Anyone who has visited Greenville will definitely agree: there is no better place for fun and relaxation than this southern city!