Greenville, named after Revolutionary War hero Nathaniel Greene, began as a grist mill and trading post in 1768 at the foot of Reedy River Falls. Called Pleasantburg until 1831, the city experienced steady growth and by 1900 had a population of over 10,000.
Today, Greenville is a thriving metropolis of over 60,000 residents and is known for its Southern hospitality, diverse culture, and beautiful natural surroundings!
In this post, we will be taking a closer look at some of the key places you need to visit in Greenville, the food options you absolutely cannot miss, and some of the best places to stay. So when you’re in the area, you can hit all the major spots easily!
What To See And Do In Greenville SC:
There are many things to do in Greenville, South Carolina. A few examples include:
Exploring Falls Park On The Reedy: This park is located in the heart of Greenville and is one of the most popular tourist destinations. The park features a suspension bridge (Liberty Bridge), walking trails, and stunning views of the falls.
Checking Out The Greenville Zoo: The Greenville Zoo is home to over 300 animals from all around the world! You can learn about different species, watch animal feedings, and participate in educational programs.
Take a Drive down the Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway: This scenic highway offers breathtaking views of the Greenville area. You can stop at overlooks, waterfalls, and hiking trails along the way.
Stroll Through the Downtown Area: Greenville’s downtown area is full of shops, restaurants, and art galleries!
Where To Eat In Greenville SC:
One of the best parts about Greenville is that the people there celebrate their culture and history. That is something you see in their food too! The chef’s across the metropolitan area make sure to promote the local flavors and food history in their cooking. The ingredients are mostly locally sourced, and everything is always as fresh as it can be!
There are many great restaurants in Greenville, South Carolina, but a few stand out among the rest. Tandem, Trappe Door, Sobys, Camp Modern American, and The Anchorage are all excellent choices worth trying.
Places To Stay In Greenville SC:
There are many places to stay in Greenville, South Carolina. You can easily find great hotels and Airbnbs that match your style and give you the prime comfort levels that you may need!
The main ones include:
The Westin Poinsett, which is a twelve-story, landmark hotel in downtown Greenville that is both luxurious and historic. It is also grand and charming, and even features a cobble stone entrance! It’s like stepping into the past, and the future at the same time!
The Grand Bohemian Lodge, which is a boutique lodge that’s right on falls of the iconic Reedy River. It’s a rustic 19th century hunting lodge that’s got luxurious 21st century amenities inside, making for a unique and comfortable stay. This one-of-a-kind lodge is perfect for visitors looking to experience the best of Greenville, SC.
Greenville, South Carolina โ The Perfect Holiday Spot
Greenville, South Carolina, is the perfect holiday spot for those who want to experience culture, nature, and history all in one place. All of it comes together to make it the perfect holiday spot for everyone!
Are you suddenly dreaming of a trip to Greenville South Carolina?
See our favorite musts, our top five lists, the perfect weekend itinerary, our social media resources, and photo gallery below!
Map
Info
- Population 72,000
- Greenville and Spartanburg Counties
- Home To Furman University
- Close by: Paris Mountain State Park
Links
GREENVILLE SC MUSTS
Greenville County Museum of Art
The Greenville County Museum of Art is considered the premier art museum in the South. With the largest collection of watercolor paintings by Andrew Wyeth, it’s a must see.
GATHER GVL
There is something for everyone at this outdoor food hall. They often have live music on the weekends, too! We love the chicken sandwich at Hendough, but you might opt for a lobster roll from Lob Father.
Hotel Domestique
Just 20 minutes outside of Downtown Greenville sits Hotel Domestique. You’ll be transported to Italy during your stay here, and you have access to incredible amenities and world-class dining.
TOP FIVE PICKS
Where To Stay
- AC Hotel Greenville
- The Westin Poinsett
- The Grand Bohemian Lodge
- The Red Horse Inn
- The Cozy Treehouse
What To Eat
- The Anchorage
- Passerelle Bistro
- Willy Taco
- Larkin’s
- Biscuit Head
Grab A Drink
- Swordfish Cocktail Club
- Yee-Haw Brewing Company
- Hoppin’ Greenville
- Bar Margaret
- Connolly’s Irish Pub
Shop Local
- Savannah Bee Company
- O.P. Taylor’s
- Llyn Strong Fine Art Jewelry
- M. Judson Books
- Greenville Soy Candle Company
- Mast General Store
Things To Do
- Greenville Zoo
- Greenville Drive at Flour Field
- Swamp Rabbit Trail
- City Scape Winery
- Greenville Culinary Tours
Arts & Culture
- Peace Center
- Roper Mountain Science Center
- Metropolitan Arts Council
- Upcountry History Museum
- South Carolina Children’s Theatre
Spas & Wellness
- River Falls Spa
- Drift Float & Spa
- Pure on Main
- OASE Day Spa
- Greenville Spa
Nature
- Falls Park on the Reedy River
- Lake Jocassee
- Chimney Rock State Park
- Paris Mountain State Park
- Poinsett Bridge
ARTICLES
THE PERFECT WEEKEND IN GREENVILLE SC ITINERARY
Friday
- Stay at the Westin Poinsett
- Explore Downtown Greenville + do some local shopping
- Enjoy an easy pizza dinner at Coast Crust, and walk around the Village of West Greenville
- Grab some delicious dessert at Old Europe
- End the evening with a glass of wine at Foxcroft Wine Co.
Saturday
- Grab coffee and a breakfast sandwich at Coffee Underground
- Head for a walk through Falls Park on the Reedy River
- Enjoy the sites along the Swamp Rabbit Trail
- Lunch at Swamp Rabbit Cafe, or head off the trail to Willy Taco for some margaritas and specialty tacos
- Visit the Greenville County Museum of Art
- Dinner at Passerelle Bistro or The Anchorage
- Nightcap at Swordfish Cocktail Club
Sunday
- Eat a delicious (and probably unhealthy) breakfast at Biscuit Head
- Stop and have a taste of the wine at City Scape Winery
- On your way out of town, grab a late lunch at one of the coolest food halls, Gather GVL.