48 Things to do in Greenville, South Carolina

Known as an up and coming city, Greenville is the perfect mix of a modern city and outdoors adventures. With a population of mostly young to middle-aged residents (and a decent college population thanks to three local colleges), there is a nightlife scene for everyone and a wide variety of coffee shops to try!

After four years of soaking up the best of everything Greenville has to offer, here are 30 things to do while visiting one of the top cities in the Southeast USA.

Outdoor Activities

1. Walk Falls Park on the Reedy

2. Picnic at Bald Rock

Take a 25-minute drive (and 5 min walk) to Bald Rock. You can bring blankets and some food and make a picnic out of the trip. The views are absolutely amazing, and the spray paint graffiti on the rocks are impressive!

3. Sunrise at Pretty Place

4. Hike!

There are so many awesome hikes to take near Greenville. Some you might have to drive a bit to (like Turtleback Falls), but they are so worth it! Some hikes to check out: Triple Falls, Raven Cliff Falls and Dismal Trail, and Sulphur Springs Trail.

5. Run, bike, or walk the Swamp Rabbit Trail

The Swamp Rabbit Trail is a local favorite. The trail is about 20 miles with multiple entry and exit points throughout Greenville and Travelers Rest. You'll find people running, biking, rollerblading, and walking their dogs at all hours of the day (and night). The trail starts near Greenville Tech and crosses through downtown Greenville, Furman University, and Travelers rest, ending just beyond TR's city limits.

6. Walk Swan Lake

With a paved path just over 1.5 miles, Furman University's Swan Lake has beautiful views and the perfect outdoor charm for those who aren't typically active but want to spend some time outdoors in Greenville. You will often find students running around the lake and community members taking weekend strolls. Be sure to keep an eye out for Furman's famous swans and, of course, stay out of the way of students throwing their friends into the lake - a birthday tradition!

7. Go golf

For the golf enthusiast, there are numerous golf courses. The Furman University Golf Course sits on the far edge of Furman's campus and attracts golfers from all over the Upstate. There are also over ten other golf clubs and courses in the area! If you are looking for something less intense, you can always check out TopGolf!

8. Major Rudolf Anderson Jr. Memorial at Cleveland Park

This is one of my absolute favorite monuments in Greenville. The memorial commemorates local hero Major Rudolf Anderson Jr. and the 13 days of the Cuban Missile Crisis through informative plaques surrounding an F-86 Saber Jet. The area is so peaceful, and the park itself is a great place to go and enjoy the outdoors as well.

9. Wander the streets and shops downtown

Take some time to explore downtown Greenville. There are lots of local shops, statues, and plaques. Challenge yourself and find the nine hidden Mice on Main. Walk through the farmers market on Saturday mornings, which takes over Main Street (don't drive through downtown Saturday mornings, road closures everywhere).

Good Eats

1. Soby's

With a rustic vibe, Soby's offers a contemporary twist to southern cuisine. Be sure to make a reservation and request indoor or outdoor seating - depending on your preference and the season!

2. Trio

Trio is a classic Family Italian restaurant with complimentary cheesy bread, specialty pizzas, and a variety of pasta options for gluten-free and gluten loving individuals.

3. Willy Taco

Willy Taco is a staple Mexican Fusion restaurant serving a wide variety of tacos. The atmosphere is fresh, funky, and casual. Beware of the long wait - put your name on the waitlist virtually!

4. Jiana's

With homemade pasta that is to die for, Jiana's offers both inside seating, balcony seating, and a bar area. Located on the corner across from Spill the Beans, it is the perfect local Italian restaurant for those looking to score some ice cream after dinner.

5. Coastal Crust

Located in the West End, the new up and coming area of Greenville, Coastal Crust has delicious pizza and a great atmosphere. Parking is easily accessible too!

6. The Lazy Goat

If you are looking for Mediterranean food, this is the spot to hit. The food is served family-style, so be prepared to try a bit of everything. Seating is offered both inside and outside, overlooking the Reedy River.

7. LTO Burger Bar

The perfect mix between a burger joint and bar, you won't find anything else like it. With more than 10 TVs, as well as pool and darts, this is a fun spot to hit on your Greenville food tour. Be sure to try their spiked milkshakes!

8. Cantina 76

There are so many awesome Mexican food places in Greenville and Traveler's Rest, but Cantina is my favorite. The restaurant provides a fun, lively, and casual atmosphere for watching sports, hanging out with friends for happy hour, or grabbing a quick bite. There are seating options indoors and outdoors for everyone's preference.

9. Sidewall

With three different locations in the area, Sidewall serves homespun pizza, seasonal salads, craft beer, wine, and homemade ice cream.

10. Tandem

This crazy busy crepe place is a local favorite and a must-try for visitors. The line is typically out the door, but not to worry, it moves quickly. Walk-in, order your sweet or savory crepe and hot chocolate (or coffee or tea), and find a table inside or on the enclosed patio! Highly recommend the Lumberjack Crepe or the Lemon Sugar Crepe.

11. Grill Marks

Located downtown (and in the mall), Grill Marks is another iconic burger joint with delicious food and tasty milkshakes. Don't forget to order fries!

12. The Commons: Food Hall

The Commons is an indoor food hall offering a friendly gathering space and local foods. You can find Methodical coffee, GB&D bakery, Community Tap, Automatic Taco, and the Bake Room, each with different hours ranging from 7 am to 10 pm.

13. Biscuit Head

Need a brunch spot? Biscuit head as you covered. Located just outside the downtown area, they serve hot biscuits with your choice of eggs, chicken, bacon, and a variety of jams and honey.

14. Happy & Hale

Stop by Happy & Hale for some healthy food options as they help you build your own salad or wrap!

15. Gather Greenville

Gather Greenville is one of the newer additions to the Greenville foodie family. Offering 13 different restaurant options, Gather Greenville is an outdoor food hall with covered and uncovered seating located downtown. You can find almost anything you are in the mood for, from German to Asian.

Coffee Shops

1. The Village Grind

Located in the West End, this small coffee shop is a local favorite with comfortable seating, friendly staff, and easy parking access.

2. Due South

Due South is a small coffee shop found in a newly built strip with ax throwing, tacos, and a local brewery. They have a scanty food selection, but you can always pop across the way for tacos. Grab your drink of choice and sit inside or out.

3. Methodical Coffee

Not only does Methodical have great coffee and tea, but they also have the most delicious morning buns! Hang out in the shop or grab a to go cup.

4. Swamp Rabbit Cafe

This is a local favorite. It began as a small organic cafe and has extended to include a small local market and brick oven pizza joint in the evenings. Located along the Swamp Rabbit Trail, you will find people stopping in for a quick bit on their run, as well as college students studying for exams and families running around with kids. Be sure to try their Stecca bread - I personally go for either the grilled cheese or egg, cheese, and avocado (both on Stecca, obviously).

5. Leopard Forest Coffee Co.

For great coffee and a quiet atmosphere, check out Leopard Forest. The staff is always super sweet, and the shop is cozy and away from the hustle of downtown Greenville.

6. The Chocolate Mousse

Half bookstore half coffee shop, this is my absolute favorite place to study. The Chocolate Mousse is located with M Judson in the heart of downtown. Be sure to try their deserts and grab a good book (I'd go for the blind date with a book) on the way out!

7. Atlanta Bread Co.

I know this is a chain, BUT ABC was my go-to spot when I was in a rush and needed a quick snack or lunch. The food is always good. It is right near a large shopping area, so it is convenient.

Nightlife

1. Sip Whisky & Wine Bar

Known for their cocktail pouches, Sip is a local and visitor favorite with balcony rooftop seating and a small inside bar area. Half covered and half totally outside, the space is always warm (there are heaters in the winter) and always has good vibes. Head on over and play large Jenga while sipping your drink!

2. Reys

This is one of my all-time favorite bars. Located in the center of downtown, Reys has a low-key atmosphere with a rustic-chic edge and a youthful dive bar vibe.

3. Neat Bar

The new bourbon bar in town gives off a speakeasy feel as you walk down the steps and into the bar. They have an impressive selection of Bourbon and Whiskey. There is nothing like it in Greenville!

4. Gringos

Gringos shifts from a restaurant to a bar each evening. While I have never eaten here, the drinks are decently priced, and the atmosphere is lively. The bar is colorful and filled with Day of the Dead decor. Head upstairs to find a dance floor with great music and energetic staff.

5. Jack n' Diane's

This piano bar is one of the few nightlife scenes in the area with a cover charge, but if you stay awhile, it is worth it! Jack n' Diane's offers themed drinks like jello shots and fishbowls, as well as great entertainment. Catch a sing-along or a roast that will keep you laughing all night!

6. Up on the Roof

The views are the biggest draw for Up on the Roof. The bartenders are friendly and attentive. There is a lot of space so long as the weather is nice. Check out their handcrafted cocktails and craft beer!

7. Vine Nightclub

Vine is the top nightclub in Greenville. Here you will find a generally younger crowd. Depending on the night, there may be a cover charge, so be prepared to pay the bouncer. There is a dress code, but it is not strict - basically, they just ask that you dress to impress (no hoodies).

8. Nose Dive

The bar is located on the second level of the restaurant. Walk up the stairs to find tables, booths with curtains and chairs lined up in front of large glass windows. Nose Dive has an elevated bar/lounge feel.

9. Vault & Vator

Vault & Vator is a speakeasy that can be difficult to find but does not disappoint. Give the bouncer the password and enter the secret bar located downtown near Rick Erwin's and Smoke on the Water. Cocktails can be a bit pricey, but the ambiance is worth it.

10. Connolly's Irish Pub

I wouldn't be a true Furman student if I didn't mention Connolly's. This Irish pub is the go-to spot for Furman students. On weekends you will find it packed with a line down the block. The music switches between live bands and a playlist depending on the night. The large area allows for a dance floor, and the double bar gives enough room to separate partiers there to dance and those there for the bar.

Sports, Entertainment, Culture

1. Watch a Furman Basketball game at Bon Secours

2. See a show at The Peace Center

The Peace Center hosts traveling Broadway shows as well as other local artists. Look online here to see if there are any shows offered during your stay. Some highlights include Anastasia, The Play That Goes Wrong, and Hamilton.

3. Catch a Greenville Drive game at Flour Field

Big baseball fan? Greenville has you covered! Located downtown, Flour Field is dedicated solely to the Greenville Drive. You can get tickets for as little as $8!

4. Stop by The Children's Museum of the Upstate

The Children's Museum of the Upstate is a fun and interactive museum to spend a few hours with kids! Definitely recommend for families with young ones looking for something to do.

5. Get tickets to a Swamp Rabbits hockey game

The Swamp Rabbit, Greenville's minor league hockey team, play at Bon Secours arena downtown. Tickets are pretty cheap, and the games are great!

6. Walk through the Upcountry History Museum

7. Watch a Furman Pauper Players Performance

The Furman Pauper Players put on a few performances each year that are always amazing. If you happen to be in town during them, be sure to get tickets and check them out!