10 Fun Things To Do Near Greer, South Carolina (Greenville County)
If you’re planning a trip to
Greer, South Carolina, or you just moved to the area, you’re in a great spot. Greer sits between
Greenville and
Spartanburg, close to the Blue Ridge Mountains, and it has that small-town charm with easy access to big-city fun.
Whether you’re into food, history, nature, or family activities, there are plenty of things to do in and around Greer. Below are
10 things to do near Greer, SC that are great for weekend plans, road trips, or a quick afternoon adventure.
1. Stroll, Shop, and Dine in Downtown Greer
If you do nothing else, make time for a slow walk through
Downtown Greer, especially along
Trade Street. The city has invested a lot into making this area walkable and beautiful, and you really feel that when you’re there.
You’ll find:
- Local restaurants with outdoor seating
- Coffee shops and bakeries
- Boutiques and gift shops
- Public art and murals perfect for photos
On a nice evening, you’ll see couples on date night, families with strollers, and friends meeting up after work. It has a cozy, hometown feel, but with enough variety to keep you coming back.
If you like planning trips around food, downtown Greer can easily fill a whole afternoon and evening—shop a little, grab a coffee, then try one of the local spots for dinner.
2. Enjoy the Outdoors at Greer City Park
Just a few steps from downtown,
Greer City Park is one of the best free things to do in Greer.
The park offers:
- A large pond with fountains
- Walking paths for an easy stroll
- Green lawns and shaded areas for picnics
- A playground for the kids
- An amphitheater for concerts and events
On sunny days, it’s common to see people laying out blankets, tossing a football, or reading a book by the water. In the evenings, the lights around the pond make it feel almost like a movie set.
If you’re visiting with kids, this is a simple, low-stress spot where they can run around while you relax. If you’re just passing through, it’s a great place to stretch your legs after a long drive on I‑85.
3. Discover Aviation History at the BMW Zentrum & Nearby Airport Area
Just a short drive from Greer, near the Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (GSP), you’ll find one of the most unique attractions in the area: the
BMW Zentrum Museum.*
Here, you can:
- See historic and modern BMW cars up close
- Learn about the BMW plant in Greer (the only one in the United States)
- Explore exhibits about automotive design and technology
Even if you’re not a huge car person, it’s still pretty cool to see the different models through the years. It’s also an easy indoor activity if the weather turns bad.
Because the museum sits near the airport, you can also drive around and see planes taking off or landing. For kids (and some adults, too), that’s half the fun.
*Always check current hours before you go, as schedules and tours can change.
4. Play by the Water at Lake Robinson and Lake Cunningham
If you love being near the water, you’re in luck. Just northeast of Greer are two peaceful lakes:
Lake Robinson and
Lake Cunningham.
Both lakes offer:
- Boat ramps (great for small fishing boats or kayaks)
- Picnic shelters and tables
- Quiet spots to sit and enjoy the view
These lakes aren’t built up like big resort areas, and that’s part of the charm. They feel more like local secrets, with calm water and mountain views in the distance on a clear day.
This is a nice option if you’re looking for simple things to do near Greer, SC that don’t involve crowds. Pack a cooler, bring some folding chairs, and you’ve got a relaxing afternoon ready to go.
5. Take a Day Trip to Downtown Greenville
One of the biggest perks of staying in Greer is how close you are to
Greenville, South Carolina—usually about a 15–20 minute drive, depending on traffic.
Downtown Greenville has become a top destination in the Southeast, and for good reason. You’ll find:
- Falls Park on the Reedy – a beautiful park with a waterfall right in the middle of downtown
- Liberty Bridge – a suspension bridge that gives you amazing views of the falls
- Dozens of restaurants, bars, and dessert spots
- Shops and galleries lining Main Street
You could easily spend an entire day there—start with coffee on Main Street, walk through Falls Park, grab lunch, and then stay for dinner and maybe live music.
If you’re wondering what to do near Greer that makes you feel like you’re really “on vacation,” a day in downtown Greenville should be at the top of your list.
6. Hike and Chase Views in the Blue Ridge Foothills
Greer sits close to the edge of the
Blue Ridge Mountains, which means hiking and scenic drives are just a short trip away. If you’re up for a little adventure, consider heading toward the northern part of Greenville County.
Popular nearby outdoor spots include:
- Paris Mountain State Park – about a 25–30 minute drive from Greer, with miles of hiking and biking trails, a lake, and picnic areas.
- Caesars Head State Park – a bit farther out, but offers stunning overlooks and mountain views.
Even if you’re not a hardcore hiker, there are easier trails and overlooks that are worth the drive. On clear days, you can see for miles and miles—an awesome change of scenery from everyday life.
If you’re visiting in the fall, the changing leaves turn the whole area into a mix of orange, red, and gold. It’s a great time for photos and a classic “leaf-peeping” road trip.
7. Catch a Game or Event in Greenville or Spartanburg
Sports fans will find a lot to do near Greer, thanks to its location between
Greenville and
Spartanburg.
In Greenville, you can:
- Watch a Greenville Drive baseball game at Fluor Field (a minor league team with a fun, family-friendly stadium)
- Check out Greenville Swamp Rabbits hockey games (if you’re there in season)
Both are great for a budget-friendly night out, and the energy in the stadiums is hard to beat.
Spartanburg, on the other hand, often hosts festivals, concerts, and events around its downtown and local colleges. You can easily turn a game or show into a full evening by grabbing dinner before or after.
This is one of the best ways to experience local culture in the Upstate area—cheering with the crowd, trying local food, and feeling like you’re part of the community, even if you’re just visiting.
8. Visit Local Farms, Orchards, and Roadside Stands
Greer sits in an area with a strong farming tradition, and you’ll still see that as you drive around Greenville County. Depending on the season, you may find:
- Fruit orchards with peaches or apples
- Roadside stands selling fresh produce
- Local farms offering tours or “u-pick” experiences
If you’ve never picked your own fruit straight from the tree, it’s a simple pleasure that sticks with you. Kids especially love running through the orchards, and the taste of a fresh peach or apple right there is hard to beat.
It’s also a great way to support local businesses and experience a side of South Carolina that many people driving through on the interstate never see.
9. Explore Local Breweries, Wineries, and Coffee Shops
The Upstate area around Greer has developed a growing
craft beverage scene. Within Greer and nearby Greenville County, you can find:
- Local breweries with outdoor seating and food trucks
- Cozy coffee shops perfect for a slow morning or getting some work done
- Regional wineries and tasting rooms
Even if you’re not a big drinker, many of these places are just fun to hang out in. Some have live music, board games, or events like trivia nights.
Traveling with friends or as a couple? You could easily build a relaxed “Greer and Greenville County” brewery or coffee crawl—grab a latte in Greer, then head into Greenville for an afternoon flight at a brewery.
10. Join Local Festivals and Seasonal Events
One of the best ways to experience
Greer, SC like a local is to time your visit with a festival or community event. Throughout the year, Greer and the greater Greenville area host:
- Music and food festivals
- Holiday events and Christmas tree lightings
- Outdoor movie nights and concerts in the park
- Art and craft fairs
Greer City Park and downtown streets often become the center of the action, with food vendors, live bands, and families walking around with folding chairs and blankets.
If you’re planning a trip, it’s worth checking the city’s event calendar ahead of time. A normal weekend can quickly turn into a special one when you stumble into a local festival you didn’t even know was happening.
Final Thoughts: Greer Is the Perfect Upstate Home Base
Greer may not be as famous as some big-name cities, but that’s part of its charm. It’s small enough to feel friendly and relaxed, yet close enough to
Greenville, Spartanburg, and the Blue Ridge Mountains to keep your schedule full.
From quiet lakes and mountain views to city parks, shopping, and sports, there’s a little something for everyone. If you’re looking for
things to do near Greer, SC for a weekend getaway, a family trip, or even scouting a new place to live, this area is worth a closer look.
What Did We Miss? Share Your Greer Favorites!
Have you spent time in Greer or around Greenville County?
- Do you have a favorite restaurant, park, or hidden gem?
- Is there a hike, lake, or local shop you think everyone should try at least once?
Drop your tips and experiences in the comments so other travelers can discover them too. And if you found this guide helpful, please
share it with friends or family who are planning a trip to South Carolina’s Upstate. Your share might be the reason someone discovers their new favorite small town.
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