On a recent girls\u2019 getaway weekend to Lake Keowee in South Carolina, we decided to take a day trip to nearby Greenville, an hour\u2019s drive away. It was my first visit to Greenville, and instantly, I fell in love. Within just a few minutes of walking the paths in Falls Park on the Reedy in the heart of downtown, I knew Greenville was a special place. I have traveled to over 50 countries and 40 US states and have happily been on countless trips with friends, family, and couples. I found Greenville to offer the perfect blend of outdoor, arts, culture, and culinary appeal for a weekend getaway.<\/p>\n
Based on my experience, I share how you can make the most of a visit by sharing top things to do<\/a>, places to eat<\/a>, where to stay<\/a>, and recommendations for exploring nearby areas<\/a> to extend your getaway.<\/p>\n In the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Greenville is easily accessible by car or plane. If driving, Greenville is conveniently off I-85, making it a quick trip from nearby cities like:<\/p>\n<\/div>\n If you live too far away to drive, I have happy news. The Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (GSP)<\/strong>, just 15 minutes from downtown, offers direct flights from nearly 30 US cities, including New York, Chicago, and Dallas. Conveniently, renting a car is optional since so many top attractions are within walking distance in the lively downtown area\u2014a benefit for travelers who want to keep costs down and logistics simple.<\/p>\n For a luxurious and memorable experience, consider staying at the Grand Bohemian Lodge<\/a>. Adjacent to the Reedy River in Falls Park, this boutique lodge radiates rustic charm and modern elegance. Included with a stay? Stunning views from rooms and balconies, a gorgeous lobby, a gourmet riverside restaurant, and easy access to downtown Greenville. If you do not plan to book a room, detour while wandering Falls Park to walk through its picture-perfect lobby like we did.\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div>\n The AC Hotel Greenville<\/a> is another fantastic option for a more contemporary vibe. Right on Main Street, this sleek hotel has stylish rooms and one of the best rooftop bars in town. Come to Juniper to sip cocktails while taking in panoramic views of the city skyline, which is exactly what we did. Just be sure to book a reservation for this popular spot.<\/p>\n The\u00a0Hyatt Place Greenville Downtown<\/a>\u00a0offers clean, comfortable rooms in a central location for a more affordable alternative<\/span>. It\u2019s just steps from many of the city\u2019s attractions, making it an excellent option for exploring on foot. For groups, search for top-ranking downtown and riverside rentals on VRBO<\/a> that best fit your size, budget, and location needs.\u00a0<\/p>\n Greenville offers an impressive range of activities sure to please outdoor lovers, shopping enthusiasts, foodies, and culture seekers. I know this because, as a traveler, I check each of these boxes. Here are some top highlights to make the most of a weekend visit.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n Start your Greenville experience like we did by visiting Falls Park on the Reedy, in the heart of downtown Greenville. The park is home to the stunning Liberty Bridge, a pedestrian suspension bridge that curves gracefully over the Reedy River, and the waterfalls that cascade below.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n Explore the park by following the 1.0-mile Reedy Fiver Falls Loop Trail<\/a> to enjoy the park\u2019s pretty gardens, hear the rushing water, and take in the picture-perfect blend of urban and nature. This area is ideal for a leisurely morning stroll or afternoon spent picnicking, people-watching, or relaxing and soaking in the scene.<\/p>\n See my AllTrails map recording of our walk\u2014along the way, we stopped to visit the Art Crossing galleries and admire the interior of the Grand Bohemian Lodge<\/a>. I accidentally forgot to turn off the recording once we left the park and hit Augusta Street to start shopping.<\/p>\n Greenville has some seriously stylish boutiques, especially on Augusta Street. There, you\u2019ll find stores like Augusta Twenty offering contemporary, fashion-forward labels and Copper Penny delivering modern Southern chic dresses and separates. Northeast along Main Street find more options, like Vintage Now Modern, for eye-catching home decor and collectible treasures. Then, where Main Street crosses the river, hang left at Halls Chophouse to browse the artist studios at Art Crossing at Riverplace<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n Cap off a day spent exploring with rooftop drinks at Juniper, located atop the AC Hotel<\/a>, which is what we did. This uber-chic spot serves craft cocktails and small plates with views of downtown Greenville. We loved our zero-proof Root for Me cocktail, a refreshing blackberry, lime, and ginger beer blend. We paired this with rosemary focaccia served with spreads\u2014the olive tapenade was our favorite\u2014and the garden crudit\u00e9 plate.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n For those who love the outdoors like I do\u2014Greenville delivers with its natural beauty. To experience more adventure, consider a hike at Paris Mountain State Park, just a 15-minute drive from downtown. The park offers hiking trails for all skill levels. The 4.0-mile Sulphur Springs Loop Trail is a challenging favorite. For a more moderate experience, try the Brissy Ridge or Lake Placid Loop trails. Park visitors can also picnic and rent kayaks and canoes (on Saturdays and Sundays) to explore the lake.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n If you are up for a slightly longer drive, visit Caesar\u2019s Head State Park, about an hour north. Explore routes like the Raven Cliff Falls Trail, a 3.8-mile moderate out-and-back hike to a 420-foot waterfall.\u00a0However, if cycling is more your speed, rent bikes and ride along the Swamp <\/strong>Rabbit Trail, a 22-mile greenway from downtown Greenville to nearby Travelers Rest. It\u2019s a great way to explore more ground while getting some exercise.<\/p>\n If you love getting the lay of the land for a new place with a guided walking tour or group activity, check out these three top Greenville options:\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div>\n In town on a Saturday?<\/strong> Stop by the Greenville Farmers\u2019 Market<\/a>, which spans two blocks on Main Street and features over 70 produce and craft vendors.<\/em><\/p>\n Greenville is home to a thriving food scene that will satisfy discriminating palates. Here are some top dining spots for your trip:<\/p>\n<\/div>\n For casual, authentic Mexican fare and a perfect break while shopping on Augusta Street, head to Papi\u2019s Tacos. On the banks of the Reedy River, this laid-back eatery serves some of the best street tacos in the city. Enjoy its spacious outdoor area by grabbing a picnic table and ordering tacos and a refreshing margarita.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n For French-inspired cuisine within Falls Park, include a meal at Passerelle Bistro. This open-air restaurant offers dishes like mussels, ratatouille, and steak frites, all served with peaceful wooded and river views. It\u2019s an ideal spot for brunch, a leisurely lunch, and some welcome vacation relaxation.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n Perfect for a celebration, book a reservation at Between the Trees, an upscale dining experience in the Grand Bohemian Lodge. With its menu focusing on locally sourced ingredients, the restaurant offers elevated Southern cuisine in a refined atmosphere. Secure a table on the outdoor deck for tranquil views of Falls Park and the Reedy River while savoring regionally inspired dishes.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n If you\u2019re craving Italian cuisine, book a meal at Jianna. This modern restaurant on Main Street offers handmade pastas, fresh oysters, and an extensive wine list. Its open-air balcony overlooks Falls Park, making it a desirable spot for a night out.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n A short 5-minute drive from downtown, head to The Anchorage, an intimate restaurant in the Village of West Greenville. Get locally sourced and seasonal ingredients and inventive fare. Sample their four-course tasting menu or order seafood and vegetarian-friendly dishes ala carte.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n Want to make your trip extra special? Plan your visit around these annual major Greenville festivals:<\/p>\n On my visit to Greenville, I traveled with my Atlanta-based friend, Juli Hall, a bespoke travel advisor at Celebrate and Explore<\/a>. She says attending Fall for Greenville is a wonderful experience and worth the trip alone.<\/em><\/p>\n If you want to extend your trip, add a few days in these nearby destinations:<\/p>\n<\/div>\n Just an hour away, Asheville is known for its vibrant arts scene, historic Biltmore Estate, and craft beer. Spend a day exploring the city\u2019s downtown or drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway for breathtaking mountain views. Get ideas for a girls\u2019 trip<\/a> based on a group getaway that includes hiking, rooftop bars, and gallery visits I did with friends in this guide<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n For an even more outdoorsy and relaxing adventure, head to Lake Jocassee, a getaway gem about 1.5 hours northwest of Greenville. Declared by National Geographic <\/em>as one of the world\u2019s 50 last great places, the largely undeveloped lake is known for its crystal-clear waters and picturesque waterfalls. It is perfect for swimming, kayaking, and hiking. You can also take a guided boat tour<\/a> to learn more about the area\u2019s history and geology. Find places to stay lakeside<\/a> or in nearby locations on VRBO<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n![\"Pinterest](\"https:\/\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/pinterest-perfect-weekend-in-greenville-south-carolina.webp\")
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<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nHow to get to Greenville, SC.<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n<\/p>\n
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Where to stay in Greenville, SC.<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n![\"The](\"https:\/\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/juniper-front-sign-ac-hotel-greenville-sc.webp\")
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What to do in Greenville, SC.<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n
Explore Falls Park on the Reedy.<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n
![\"Reedy](\"https:\/\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/reedy-river-with-bridge-and-downtown-view-greenville-sc-landscape-1-1024x575.webp\")
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Shopping on Augusta & S. Main Street.<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n![\"The](\"https:\/\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/copper-penny-boutique-exterior-greenville-sc.webp\")
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Rooftop drinks at Juniper.<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n
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Outdoor adventures.<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n
Guided activities.\u00a0<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n
Where to eat in Greenville, SC.<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\nPapi\u2019s Tacos.<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n
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![\"Street](\"https:\/\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-tacos-and-chips-papis-tacos-greenville-sc.webp\")
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Passerelle Bistro.<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n
Between the Trees.<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n
![\"The](\"https:\/\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/between-the-trees-restaurant-grand-bohemian-lodge-greenville-sc.webp\")
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Jianna.<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n
The Anchorage.<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n
Plan your trip around these festivals.<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n
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Extend your trip: day trips from Greenville.<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\nAsheville, NC.<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n
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Lake Jocassee, SC.<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n
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