10 Unforgettable Things to Do Near Greenville, South Carolina (Greenville County)

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10 Fun Things To Do In And Around Greenville, South Carolina

If you’re looking for a Southern getaway that’s easy to explore, full of good food, and packed with outdoor fun, Greenville, South Carolina should be on your list. This friendly city in Greenville County feels just the right size: big enough to stay busy, but small enough that you can park the car and just wander. Below are 10 awesome things to do near Greenville, SC that work for couples, families, solo travelers, and friend trips alike.

1. Stroll Falls Park on the Reedy & Liberty Bridge

Right in the middle of downtown Greenville, you’ll find Falls Park on the Reedy, a beautiful green space built around a waterfall. The star here is the Liberty Bridge, a sleek, curved suspension bridge that hangs over the falls. It’s only for pedestrians, so you can stop, take photos, and just listen to the water.
  • Walk the paved paths along the river.
  • Grab a bench and people-watch.
  • Bring a coffee and enjoy a slow morning.
If you arrive early, the park is peaceful and quiet. Later in the day, it feels more lively, with kids running around and locals walking dogs. It’s an easy, low-cost way to start your Greenville trip.

2. Explore Downtown Greenville’s Main Street

From Falls Park, you can easily walk up to Main Street, the heart of downtown Greenville. Think tree-lined sidewalks, twinkle lights at night, and plenty of places to eat and shop. You don’t really need a plan here. Just wander. Some ideas:
  • Pop into local boutiques for gifts and souvenirs.
  • Try a local coffee shop or bakery for a mid-day break.
  • Check out seasonal festivals, live music, or farmers markets.
Main Street is also very walkable and family-friendly. If you’re coming from a bigger city, the slower pace might surprise you in a good way.

3. Bike or Walk the Swamp Rabbit Trail

Greenville is known for the Prisma Health Swamp Rabbit Trail, a popular multi-use path that runs about 22 miles along an old railroad line. You can:
  • Rent a bike from a shop near downtown.
  • Walk or jog a short stretch with kids.
  • Stop at coffee shops, breweries, and parks along the way.
One of the most popular sections runs between downtown Greenville and Travelers Rest, a small town just north of the city. It’s mostly flat, so even casual riders can handle it. If you’ve ever wished for a trail where you could ride, eat, and sightsee all in one day, this is it.

4. Eat Your Way Around Greenville’s Food Scene

Greenville’s food scene is surprisingly strong for a mid-sized city in South Carolina. Southerners take food seriously, and it shows here. You’ll find: If you like planning meals ahead, search for: On my last visit, I made the mistake of not booking dinner reservations on a Saturday night. Don’t be like me—if you’re visiting on a weekend, reserve a table at least a few days ahead.

5. Catch a Game or Event at Fluor Field

Baseball fans will love Fluor Field in Greenville’s West End. It’s home to the Greenville Drive, a minor league team affiliated with the Boston Red Sox. The cool part? The field is a mini version of Boston’s Fenway Park, complete with a “Green Monster”-style left field wall. Why go?
  • Tickets are usually very affordable.
  • The stadium is clean and family-friendly.
  • They often have fun theme nights, fireworks, and promos.
Even if you’re not a huge sports fan, there’s something special about a warm evening game, a hot dog in hand, and downtown just a short walk away.

6. Visit the Greenville Zoo & Cleveland Park

If you’re traveling with kids—or just like animals—the Greenville Zoo is a great half-day stop near downtown. You can see:
  • Giraffes
  • Lions
  • Monkeys and more
It’s a smaller zoo, which actually works well for families with younger children. You can walk it comfortably in a couple of hours without feeling rushed or exhausted. Right next door is Cleveland Park, a large green space with:
  • Playgrounds
  • Picnic areas
  • Access to the Swamp Rabbit Trail
Pack a simple picnic, visit the zoo, then let the kids burn off energy at the park. It’s an easy, budget-friendly day in Greenville.

7. Take a Day Trip to Paris Mountain State Park

Just a quick drive (about 15–20 minutes) from downtown Greenville, Paris Mountain State Park feels like a peaceful escape into nature. Here you can:
  • Hike shady trails of various lengths.
  • Swim in the lake during warmer months.
  • Rent a canoe, kayak, or pedal boat.
  • Enjoy a relaxed picnic by the water.
The park is especially pretty in the fall when the leaves change color. If you’re looking for things to do near Greenville that involve fresh air and trees instead of crowds and traffic, this is a great pick.

8. Head Up to Caesars Head & Pretty Place Chapel

Want more mountain views? Drive up into northern Greenville County toward the state parks and overlooks along the Blue Ridge Escarpment. Two spots stand out: Keep in mind:
  • Weather can change quickly in the mountains—bring layers.
  • Some spots may close for private events, so it’s smart to check hours online before you go.
If you enjoy scenic drives, the ride alone is worth it. You’ll go from downtown streets to winding mountain roads in under an hour.

9. Explore Travelers Rest, a Chill Small Town Nearby

Just up the road on Highway 25, you’ll find Travelers Rest, a small town that has become a favorite stop for people biking the Swamp Rabbit Trail. Things to do in Travelers Rest:
  • Walk along its compact Main Street.
  • Grab a burger, pizza, or ice cream at a local spot.
  • Check out local breweries and coffee shops.
You can either:
  • Bike there from Greenville on the Swamp Rabbit Trail, or
  • Drive up and explore at a slower pace.
It’s a simple side trip, but it gives you a taste of small-town life in Greenville County.

10. Dive Into Greenville’s Art, Museums, and Live Shows

If you like art and culture with your travel, Greenville delivers more than you might expect for its size. Consider checking out:
  • Peace Center – A beautiful performing arts venue where you can catch Broadway tours, concerts, and comedy shows.
  • Greenville County Museum of Art – Known for its collection of American art, including works by Andrew Wyeth and Southern artists.
  • Local galleries and public art – As you walk downtown, look for murals, sculptures, and small galleries tucked along the side streets.
On a rainy day in Greenville, these indoor options become especially handy.

Planning Your Greenville, SC Trip

Here are a few quick tips to make your visit smoother:
  • Best time to visit: Spring and fall bring mild temperatures and pretty scenery. Summers can be hot and humid, but still fun if you plan early mornings and evenings.
  • Getting around: A car is useful for exploring Greenville County, but downtown itself is very walkable.
  • Where to stay: Look for hotels or rentals near Main Street if you want to walk to restaurants, Falls Park, and the Swamp Rabbit Trail.
If you love mixing outdoor adventures, good food, and small-city charm, Greenville, South Carolina makes a great long weekend or road trip stop.

What Would You Add to This Greenville List?

Have you been to Greenville, SC or anywhere else in Greenville County? Did I miss your favorite coffee shop, hike, or local hangout?
  • Drop a comment below and share your favorite things to do near Greenville.
  • Ask questions if you’re planning a trip—I’m happy to help you brainstorm ideas.
  • If you found this helpful, please share this post with a friend who loves road trips or is planning to visit South Carolina.
The more tips we share, the easier it is for everyone to plan a fun, stress-free Greenville getaway.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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