Top 10 Things to do in Greenville, South Carolina
Written and Photographed by Carrie Hanrahan
Greenville is one of the fastest-growing cities in South Carolina, a cosmopolitan area with a small-town feel and incredible southern charm. Many people visit to experience the bustling community and discover a place full of the arts, sports, nature and a sense of community with a “bless your heart” attitude. It’s no wonder that after a visit, many consider a move to Greenville to make it home. Take advantage of these top 10 things to do on your stay and discover why a trip here could be the beginning of your adventure in the South.
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10. The Swamp Rabbit Trail—Begin your visit with a bike ride on the Swamp Rabbit Trail. This multi-use trail connects many things on the top 10 list, so it’s the perfect place to start. The paved trail runs 22 miles through the heart of Greenville and is a popular destination with locals and visitors alike. Pack a lunch to enjoy at one of the parks along the way, or stop at one of the restaurants or breweries that dot the trail. If you didn’t bring a bike, no worries. You can rent one at a local shop or stroll the path at your own pace.
9. The Greenville Zoo—Greenville Zoo is a small, urban zoo with a big heart located just off the Swamp Rabbit Trail in the famous Cleveland Park. There are more than 90 species of animals to discover, including the ever-popular lions, giraffes and flamingos. The zoo admission fee allows full-day access to explore and is open year-round (with occasionally closed dates). If you happen to be there in October, plan on attending the popular Boo in the Zoo event with trick-or-treating for the kids.
8. Unity Park—Greenville has so many city parks to enjoy, but a standout is the newly built Unity Park. Located along the Reedy River with the Swamp Rabbit Trail running through it, this family-friendly park is excellent for an afternoon of fun. The 60-acre park is remarkable, as it merges two previously segregated parks within the city and pays homage to the surrounding neighborhoods. You’ll find a great play area, splash pad, sport court and ample green space to run and throw the frisbee. Connected to the park is The Commons, a gathering space where you can grab a coffee, a taco or rent a bike.
7. Craft Breweries—With more than 20 breweries in the Greenville area, there’s a taste for every beer lover. Downtown Greenville has four easily walkable, dog-friendly tasting rooms. A quick drive outside the town will take you to many incredible breweries whose brewers put their heart and soul into their offerings.
6. The Sports Scene—If you’re looking for a different type of activity, head to one of the many sports venues in town. Greenville is home to the much-loved Greenville Drive Minor League Baseball team. Located in the historic West End at Fluor Field, you can park for free to enjoy family-friendly activities and the Friday night fireworks. Suppose you want a different type of ball. In that case, the professional men’s Greenville Triumph and the pre-professional women’s Greenville Liberty soccer teams are new to the area and provide an afternoon of fun. Are you looking for a high-energy and passionate hockey team? Greenville has that, too. The Greenville Swamp Rabbits is the town’s professional hockey team, with great theme nights and fun family activities. Don’t miss the mascot, Stomper.
5. Shoeless Joe Jackson Museum and Baseball Library—A must-stop before or after a Greenville Drive game is the Shoeless Joe Jackson Museum and Baseball Library. Located across the street from the stadium is the brick house that was his home. It’s free to enter and houses personal memorabilia and a research library to preserve and honor his life. Be sure to look for his bronze statue at the entrance to the stadium too.
4. Food—Are you a foodie looking for that perfect place to eat? Greenville has an abundance of unique places downtown and in the surrounding area. You’ll find various ethnicities, from classic southern cuisine at Soby’s New South Cuisine, BBQ at Henry’s Smokehouse, Mexican at Cantina 76 or breakfast at the Biscuit Head. You can even enjoy two unique food festivals in the fall. Euphoria, in September, is a four-day food, wine and music festival fundraising event where tickets sell out quickly. The family-friendly Fall for Greenville in October requires “Taste Tickets” to enjoy the food and drinks, though the entertainment is free.
3. BMW Zentrum Museum—Do you have a need for speed? The BMW plant and museum are just a short drive outside of Greenville. Take a free self-guided museum tour, Monday through Friday, from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., to discover BMW’s beginnings to the present-day state-of-the-art technologies. If you have a little more time, you can buy a plant tour ticket.
2. Performing Arts—The arts are booming in downtown Greenville, and the Peace Center complex is its hub. Take in an incredible Broadway show or ballet in the Gunter Theatre, the Greenville Symphony Orchestra at the Concert Hall or a legendary musician at Riverside Park’s amphitheater. Not to be outdone, numerous smaller venues are sprinkled throughout town, providing a fantastic array of entertainment options when the curtain goes up. The Warehouse Theater, Centre Stage and many more have professional-level entertainment.
1. Falls Park on the Reedy and the Liberty Bridge—One of the most stunning urban parks ever created is in downtown Greenville. Falls Park on the Reedy is an oasis in the heart of the community with Reedy Falls and the Liberty Bridge suspended above it as the main attractions. With more than 20 acres of public gardens, walking paths and the Swamp Rabbit Trail running through it, it has become a tourist destination not to be missed.
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