Things to do in Greenville, SC

Visitors are amazed to see Greenville's beautiful tree-lined Main Street, tons of exciting restaurants and bars, great shopping, performance venues, nice hotels, and a river with its own waterfalls . . . right in the heart of downtown.  City leaders from across America flock to see a downtown that's won countless national awards and press for its spectacular revitalization success.

Visitors are amazed to see Greenville's beautiful tree-lined Main Street, tons of exciting restaurants and bars, great shopping, performance venues, nice hotels, and a river with its own waterfalls . . . right in the heart of downtown.  City leaders from across America flock to see a downtown that's won countless national awards and press for its spectacular revitalization success.

Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the fastest growing city in South Carolina offers arts and culture, economic opportunity and unlimited recreational pursuits.  Home to Furman University, Bob Jones University and within 30 miles of Clemson University, the city has a rich academic tradition. Greenville - halfway between Charlotte and Atlanta - also has over one hundred Fortune 500 companies, is a major center for business, manufacturing and warehousing (especially relating to automotive) and attracts a high rate of foreign investment.  Adding to its cosmopolitan vibe, several international corporations such as Lockheed Martin, Michelin, and BMW have facilities in the metro area.  Originally occupied by the Cherokee Indians, Greenville was settled in the late 18th century and later developed into a booming mill town along its now-beautiful Reedy River.  The city's history is as rich as its penchant for progressive decisions.

Greenville's award-winning downtown has been key in attracting businesses, residents and visitors to the city.  A tree-shaded main street - specifically redesigned to attract pedestrian traffic - is lined with outdoor bistros, coffee shops, art galleries, bars and specialty...  Read more »

Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the fastest growing city in South Carolina offers arts and culture, economic opportunity and unlimited recreational pursuits.  Home to Furman University, Bob Jones University and within 30 miles of Clemson University, the city has a rich academic tradition. Greenville - halfway between Charlotte and Atlanta - also has over one hundred Fortune 500 companies, is a major center for business, manufacturing and warehousing (especially relating to automotive) and attracts a high rate of foreign investment.  Adding to its cosmopolitan vibe, several international corporations such as Lockheed Martin, Michelin, and BMW have facilities in the metro area.  Originally occupied by the Cherokee Indians, Greenville was settled in the late 18th century and later developed into a booming mill town along its now-beautiful Reedy River.  The city's history is as rich as its penchant for progressive decisions.

Greenville's award-winning downtown has been key in attracting businesses, residents and visitors to the city.  A tree-shaded main street - specifically redesigned to attract pedestrian traffic - is lined with outdoor bistros, coffee shops, art galleries, bars and specialty stores. Community events including outdoor concerts, art shows, festivals and markets are mainstays of downtown.  Among the district's most popular attractions, Falls Park - a stunning green space surrounding the Reedy River - features a gorgeous waterfall which flows beneath a pedestrian-only suspension bridge.  The park draws countless visitors and locals alike, and has stimulated growth on Greenville's West End, where new businesses and community attractions occupy former factories and warehouses.  The city's minor league baseball team, the Greenville Drive (farm team to the Boston Red Sox) draws the community together for games at Fluor Field.  For those who wish to escape the crowds, Greenville is filled with parks and is must minutes away from mountains, waterfalls and scenic drives.

A wealth of cultural activities adds to the city's appeal. The Peace Center for the Performing Arts hosts numerous performances including Broadway productions, ballets, symphony and choral programs, and children's theater. Several community organizations such as the Greenville Symphony, Greenville Chorale and the Warehouse Theatre encourage locals to cultivate talent in the arts. Major pop concerts, ice shows, circuses, sports events and other entertainment gigs frequently appear at the Bi-Lo Center, the downtown, state-of-the-arts arena, and the city's museums are also worth exploring. Greenville County Art Museum houses a fascinating collection of American art, including 32 paintings by Andrew Wyeth, while the Museum and Gallery at Bob Jones University features an amazing collection of world-famous religious art.

As local attractions have taken off, the dining and nightlife scenes have grown, and Greenville is now filled with culinary draws. Once a town that thrived on Southern cooking and burger joints, the city still offers classic local fare, but you'll also find an impressive selection of contemporary high-end dining venues and international cuisine. Neighborhood watering holes compete for bragging rights over their beer selection, and at happy hour, folks take advantage of restaurant bars, sports bars, and hotel lounges.

Offering vibrant community life, combined with passion for the arts and corporate strength, Greenville continues to foster excitement among locals and visitors. Whether you're attending a free outdoor concert, dining on Main Street or simply strolling in the park, you're sure to enjoy both the rich heritage and creative flair that pervade the city.