Top Things to Do on a Day Trip in Greenville, SC 

Recognized as the cultural and entertainment center of Upstate South Carolina, Greenville is filled with opportunities to explore the area while making memories. From the rushing waterfalls that flow right through downtown to the many art pieces scattered throughout the city, Greenville offers residents and visitors an engaging and memorable experience. 

To help you get inspired and plan a spectacular visit to the city, we have compiled a list of the top things to do during your time in the area. Continue reading to see a few of the things that Greenville, SC has to offer! 

1. Fuel Up With Breakfast in Town

Get the day started with a hearty breakfast at one of the many cafes and breakfast spots in town. If you’re looking for a Southern-inspired breakfast, head to Tupelo Honey for classics like shrimp and grits, fried chicken and buttermilk waffles, and cast iron scrambles. For biscuit lovers, Biscuit Head offers a large selection of biscuit options topped with gravy, eggs, ham, grits, and a variety of other toppings. 

If you prefer coffee and a fresh pastry, Coffee Underground is one of the most popular coffee shops in the city. During the evening, they even host shows in their theater room –– so if you see something you like on their schedule, you may plan to come back later on in the day.

2. Stroll Down Main Street

After a delicious breakfast, head out to Main Street to explore the attractions located along this five-block area. Among the most famous and must-visit places in town is Falls Park on the Reedy. Located right in the heart of downtown, this park has dozens of small gardens and the Reedy River running through. Connecting downtown to the West End is the Liberty Bridge –– a 345-foot suspension bridge that offers a stunning view of the river and falls from above. After visiting the park, be sure to stop by the many boutiques and shops to search for souvenirs of your trip. For lunch, you may want to try ​​Willy Taco-Feed & Seed or Passerelle Bistro which is located right in Falls Creek –– then head out for your next adventure in the area.

3. Art in Public Spaces

As you wander through the streets of Greenville, SC, keep your eyes peeled to spot any art pieces that can be seen on display in the various public areas of the city.  

One of the art installations is Mice on Main Scavenger Hunt, imagined by Jim Ryan and sculpted by artist Zan Wells. With nine bronze mice statues tucked away along Main Street, this is a kid-friendly activity sure to get every family member engaged. If you need a hint to find the family of mice, use this guide.

4. The Swamp Rabbit Trail

Connecting Travelers Rest with Greenville, SC is The Swamp Rabbit Trail. This 22-mile walking and biking trail opened in 2009 and has since grown to connect many of the areas parks and outdoor recreation areas. One way to enjoy your time here is to rent a bike in downtown Greenville and go explore the trail and the many parks en route. 

5. Conestee Nature Preserve

Located along The Swamp Rabbit Trail is the Conestee Nature Preserve. Here, visitors can take advantage of more than 600 acres of the untouched Upstate landscape to practice bird watching, photography, hiking, and biking. With 11 wildlife observation decks and 40 self-guided learning stations, there are many opportunities to explore this protected area and learn about the wildlife that calls the area home.

6. Dinner in Town

After a day filled with so much activity, we know you’ve worked up an appetite –– and in Greenville, SC there are a number of excellent dining options to choose from. One option is Trappe Door, offering Belgian-inspired cuisine, served alongside a vast selection of beers, signature cocktails, and wines. Or, try Larkin’s on the River, a steak and seafood restaurant with stunning views of the river. 

Another dining option is Smoke on the Water, a gastropub that offers an upscale take on Southern cuisine. With favorites like fried green tomatoes, beef brisket, and Lowcountry boil, you’ll feel right at home here. And, if you’re looking for an upscale steakhouse, Halls Chophouse Greenville has a fine selection of steaks, wine, and family-style sides, served along with true Southern hospitality. 

From The Cliffs, Greenville is Only a Short Drive Away

When you live at The Cliffs, Greenville, SC is just one of the many charming mountain towns that are found just outside your door! With seven communities scattered throughout the Western North Carolina mountains and Upstate South Carolina, exploring the beauty of the region is easy. To learn more about our private luxury communities and the many amenities our lifestyle affords members, click on the button below.