28 Best & Fun Things To Do In Greenville (South Carolina)

If you’re looking for a true dose of southern comfort mixed with urban excitement, come to Greenville, South Carolina.

This is a wonderful city that takes advantage of both its natural backdrop and the hospitality of its people.

This is a list of the best things to do in Greenville so you can get to scheduling a trip.

1. Roper Mountain Science Center

All kinds of science can be appreciated at the Roper Mountain Science Center in Greenville.

This is a wonderful South Carolina institution that appeals to all kinds of ages and demographics.

Coming here is one of the best things to do in Greenville if you’re with your family.

The Roper Mountain Science Center provides a stimulating glimpse at many vital fields.

Walk through the arboretum, explore the butterfly garden, and take in a show at the planetarium.

It’s especially fun if you’re with your family and have children who are showing a new interest in science.

One of the best places to visit in Greenville, South Carolina, the Roper Mountain Science Center informs and entertains.

It’s open from Mondays to Fridays from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Address: 402 Roper Mountain Rd, Greenville, SC 29615, United States

2. Swamp Rabbit Trail

If you want to see a bunch of Greenville attractions and get some exercise, walk, or bike down Swamp Rabbit Trail.

This is a 20-mile trail that goes by numerous sites.

Be among the hundreds of thousands who have traveled down this awesome trail.

Close to downtown is Cleveland Park.

This is where you can begin your trek.

As you go down Swamp Rabbit Trail, you’ll go through other parks and see amazing art.

There’s also the total bliss that comes from just being out in nature and appreciating the glory of being alive.

It’s one of the best feelings in the world, and it’s one that isn’t experienced enough.

Swamp Rabbit Trail is one of the most wonderful things to see in Greenville, South Carolina.

There’s a good reason why so many people love this attraction.

It lets you clear your mind and just feel at peace with things.

If nothing else, it can provide you with some excellent exercise.

3. Peace Center

If you want to see a great show while you’re in Greenville, you’ll want to check out the downtown Peace Center.

This is a highly esteemed performance venue.

Here, you can see some of the most talented artists working today show off their craft with total force.

On looks alone, the Peace Center is one of the best parts of Greenville.

It’s outside has a gorgeous glass design.

On the inside, you can marvel at the design of its different performance spaces.

Then, there’s the wonders that happen on-stage.

Acclaimed touring Broadway productions, ballet, and local orchestra productions can be seen here.

The Peace Center is a blessing upon Greenville, South Carolina.

There is always a need for culture and zealous expression.

This is one of the best tourist attractions in Greenville for exactly that.

Address: 300 S Main St, Greenville, SC 29601, United States

4. Caesars Head State Park

You’ll learn pretty quickly that visiting parks is one of the best experiences in Greenville.

While Caesars Head State Park isn’t actually in Greenville, it’s worth making the journey to see it.

All kinds of incredible outdoor activities can be seen here, and you’ll see animals you might’ve never seen in person before.

Part of the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area with Jones Gap State Park, Caesars Head State Park offers incredible trails and views that make artists salivate.

The best to see is the powerful Raven Cliff Falls.

If you want to rough it, there are camping options available.

Since you’ll be out in the wilderness, you need to be mindful of the animals in the region, such as bears.

Caesars Head State Park is one of the best places to go in South Carolina.

If you want to check out the trail, it’s open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. during Daylight Saving Time and from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. during other times of the year.

Admission is $3 for adults, $1.50 for seniors who live in South Carolina, and $1 for children, ages six to 15.

Address: 8155 Geer Hwy, Cleveland, SC 29635, United States

5. Furman University

You don’t need to be pursuing a degree to check out Furman University.

South Carolina’s longest-standing private university, Furman is one of the most impressive educational establishments in the south.

Its campus is particularly gorgeous, full of various features that might have your high schoolers considering applying.

There are so many things to see at Furman University.

Where else can you see a full golf course or an Asian garden on a college campus?

For nearly 200 years, Furman University has been making Greenville and South Carolina proud.

Based on their academics and university design, the pride should continue.

Furman University is a school with passion and for passion.

If you’re interested in learning more, considering scheduling a visit.

This could be the place you or your children call home for the next four years, if not more.

Address: 3300 Poinsett Hwy, Greenville, SC 29613, United States

Visiting other parts of South Carolina? Be sure to check out our lists of things to do in Charleston, SC & fun things to do in Columbia, SC!

6. Greenville Zoo

The Greenville region is already teeming with animal life, but it’s still worth taking a trip to the Greenville Zoo.

There are animals from around the world here.

Through first-rate conversation efforts, the zoo has been able to provide them with the proper environments.

This is one of the top things to do in Greenville for bonding with family and learning some very important things about wildlife.

There are lots of great animals to see at the Greenville Zoo.

There are lions, giraffes, orangutans, and alligators.

Besides the animals, there’s are places for children and adults to play.

It’s pretty awesome to get in a game of tennis or volleyball when you’re done exploring the animal exhibits.

Going to the Greenville Zoo is one of the most fun things to do in Greenville.

Operating hours depend on the time of year.

Admission is $9.75 for adults, $8.75 for seniors, and military members, $6.50 for children, and $5.50 for children of military members.

Address: 150 Cleveland Park Dr, Greenville, SC 29601, United States

7. Jocassee Gorges

South Carolina knows how to highlight their star natural attractions. Case in point: Jocassee Gorges.

This might better be described as “Jocassee Gorgeous,” as it’s the kind of site that makes you so grateful to have sight.

There’s so much stuff to do here, and it’s all so beautiful.

If you’re coming to South Carolina this weekend and want to really see nature at its finest, come to Jocassee Gorges.

It’s such an immaculate place with such wondrous sights.

There are so many activities to enjoy and things to see at this amazing spot.

Address: 1344 Cleo Chapman Hwy, Sunset, SC 29685, United States

8. Greenville County Museum of Art

Greenville not only does a great job of preserving nature, but it also does a great job of preserving art.

In downtown Greenville, you can check out the Greenville County Museum of Art.

Incredible American artists have their work on display here.

You can see amazing pieces both new and old and in a variety of styles.

It’s definitely one of the top things to do in downtown Greenville.

If you’re familiar with the art world, you should be excited to see the incredible collection of Andrew Wyeth pieces.

There are also great exhibitions, such one focusing on use of impressionism amongst southern artists.

The Greenville Country Museum of Art really demonstrates just how much ingenuity American artists have.

The Greenville County Museum of Art is one of the biggest points of interest for art lovers in the south.

Art aficionados like yourself will definitely enjoy every piece of this great museum.

Address: 420 College St, Greenville, SC 29601, United States

9. Larkin’s on the River

Trying the local cuisine is a true delight of visiting a new city.

In Greenville, you’ll be amongst some of the top restaurants in South Carolina.

One of our favorite places to dine is at Larkin’s on the River.

Their refined menu, excellent location, and wonderful service make them a truly beloved part of Greenville.

True to its name, Larkin’s on the River is situated right by the Reedy River.

Its building goes back more than a century, but it doesn’t show it’s age.

Then, there’s the matter of the menu.

For lunch and dinner, Larkin’s is serving absolute deliciousness.

This might be the best place to get a steak in the city, especially if you get some lobster on the side.

Dining experiences should be just that.

They should expand your mind in some way, whether it’s through marveling at how good the service was or how tender your steak was.

Larkin’s on the River provides just that.

It’s open for lunch every day from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Dinner is available from Sunday to Thursday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. and on Fridays and Saturdays from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Address: 318 S Main St, Greenville, SC 29601, United States

10. Luna Rosa

As it turns out, you don’t have to go to Italy to have incredible gelato.

Luna Rosa Gelato Cafe & Restaurant is one of the best places for a downtown bite.

Whether you want something savory or are just seeing to indulge your sweet tooth, Luna Rosa will have you over the moon in appreciation.

For lunch, there are excellent soups, salads, paninis, pastas, and pizzas.

Dinner offers amazing seafood and items from the Chef’s Selections.

Plus, the famous gelato more than lives up to its reputation.

You can look at photos of their Mango Sorbetto or Caramel Latte Crunch and just want to lick the screen.

When you’re visiting downtown Greenville, make sure you check out Luna Rosa.

With a menu that balances the hearty and the light and mindblowing gelato, this is a true Greenville gem.

Luna Rosa is open from Thursdays to Sundays, from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. for lunch and from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. for dinner.

Address: 123 S Main St, Greenville, SC 29601, United States

Looking to explore other parts of South Carolina? Why not check out some of the top Myrtle Beach attractions & some of the things to do in Hilton Head, SC?

11. Blind Horse Saloon

One of the most fun things to do in Greenville is to visit the Blind Horse Saloon.

Far from a modest watering hole, it’s a country venue that’s become a legend in the community.

Whether you’re coming for a specific act or just to dance, the Blind Horse Saloon is a true countrified treat.

Legendary country artists like Garth Brooks and Charlie Daniels have performed at the Blind Horse Saloon.

Their regular band, One Eyed Jack, helps to keep the energy going.

There’s plenty of room and plenty of reason to dance when you’re at the Blind Horse Saloon.

Going to the Blind Horse Saloon should be on the bucket list of any country music lover.

It’s been a remarkable source of entertainment for more than 20 years.

The Blind Horse Saloon is open from Wednesdays to Saturdays from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m.

Address: 1035 Lowndes Hill Rd, Greenville, SC 29607, United States

12. Soby’s

Soby’s is a great downtown Greenville restaurant.

Its focus is on “new south cuisine.”

When you come here, you can eat some of your southern favorites but with some twists that make classics seem new.

Soby’s is a great place to come during the day or at night.

Their menu features southern staples like fried chicken, mac and cheese, and shrimp and grits.

You can also eat lighter, with first-rate salads.

Whether you’re coming for dinner or weekend brunch, you’ll be treated well when you’re eating at Soby’s.

Soby’s provides everything one would expect from a great southern dining experience and more.

It’s a pristine reminder of how much layering flavors can bring love into food.

Soby’s hours are listed below.

Dinner: Mondays to Saturdays, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. and Sundays, 4:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Brunch: Saturdays, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Sundays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Address: 207 S Main St, Greenville, SC 29601, United States

13. M.Judson Booksellers

You can’t call yourself a book lover in Greenville if you don’t know about M. Judson Booksellers.

This downtown Greenville shop has all the hallmarks of a great bookstore.

Here, you can pick up a new bestseller or renowned classic, get something to eat, and just savor the ambiance of it all.

Not only does M. Judson have a great collection, but it’s also tailored very well to its region.

Southern pride is felt through many books sold here.

Don’t let yourself just pop in and rush out either.

Take a good look at the books, find one you like, and then start reading while you enjoy a cookie or a savory scone at the in-store restaurant, Camilla Kitchen.

There are also plenty of literary-inspired lattes, like “The Sound & the Fury.”

Going to M. Judson Booksellers is what to do in Greenville if you love reading.

It’s the perfect place to find a few books and immediately jumping into them.

M. Judson Booksellers is open from Mondays to Saturdays from 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. and on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Address: 130 S Main St, Greenville, SC 29601, United States

14. UP on the Roof

There’s are lots of nice places to visit for drinks in Greenville, but people really love UP on the Roof.

This rooftop establishment combines incredible cocktails with amazing eats.

With plenty of fresh and local items, UP on the Roof gives you the best of Greenville.

Come here for dinner, lunch, brunch, or just a drink, and you should leave satisfied.

Their menu has refined items like lobster ravioli and mushroom risotto.

There are also plenty of options for vegans diners, such as their meat-less “Beyond Balls.”

As for the drinks, you might just crave a local beer or choose to go all-out with one of their renowned cocktails.

There’s so much craft that goes into creating drinks like “The Reedy Peach” or “The Black Dahlia.”

You’ll be giving your taste buds a true journey when you try one of these.

UP on the Roof is one of the top 10 places to dine or drink in Greenville, South Carolina.

There are also both indoor and outdoor dining options.

It’s open from Mondays to Fridays from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. and on Saturdays and Sundays from 12 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Address: 250 Riverplace #800, Greenville, SC 29601, United States

15. The Lazy Goat

Another one of the best places to visit for an excellent meal in Greenville is The Lazy Goat.

This restaurant brings the Mediterranean to the south with total poise.

It’s also near the Reedy River, and that water view is one you have to embrace.

Likewise, The Lazy Goat’s has some very cool seating options.

Different countries and continents are represented on The Lazy Goat’s menu.

Items like their Moroccan Lamb and “Lazy Paella” show just how dynamic Mediterranean cuisine is.

There are also communal tables, which is great if you’re with a group and want to share your meals.

The Lazy Goat is one of the top restaurants in Greenville.

Hopefully, you can eat there at least once during your visit.

It’s open for lunch from Fridays to Sundays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and for dinner from Tuesdays to Saturdays from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. and on Sundays from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Address: 170 Riverplace, Greenville, SC 29601, United States

16. Paris Mountain State Park

Near downtown Greenville is Paris Mountain State Park.

This is an already awesome sightseeing destination.

On land and in the water, you can have fun at Paris Mountain State Park.

You can go hiking or take a bike out one of Paris Mountain State Parks’ many trails.

The park is also surrounded by many lakes, including Lake Placid.

There’s also more than three dozen campsites and six places for picnics.

This is more entertainment than you could get from most movie theaters or bars.

Paris Mountain State Park is one of the most awesome places to visit when you’re in Greenville, South Carolina.

The numerous activities and marvelous setting should totally stun you.

Visit this park from Fridays to Mondays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and from Tuesdays to Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Address: 2401 State Park Rd, Greenville, SC 29609, United States

17. Downtown Trolley

A really fun way to see Greenville is by taking a ride on their Downtown Trolley.

With its colorful design, it can feel like you’re riding something out of a storybook.

Look at the various downtown attractions and enjoy the company of your fellow tourists and other passengers.

Something really cool about the Downtown Trolley is how affordable it is.

In fact, rides don’t cost a thing.

The only caveat is that you can’t go around the route multiple times if you’re already on.

However, that shouldn’t be an issue, as you’ll likely get off once you find your stop.

The Downtown Trolley can bring you to many Greenville attractions and is a great experience itself.

The fun of riding it and pulling the cord is really clear.

The trolley operates on Thursdays and Fridays from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m., on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m., and on Sundays from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m.

18. Grill Marks

The team behind Larkin’s on the River has another great Greenville restaurant.

Grill Marks has a very fun vibe, especially with their menu.

There are lots of American classics here, but it’s nothing like a retread.

Famous for their burgers and shakes, Grill Marks puts incredible quantities of flavor into their menu.

If you’re looking for a quality way to cheat on a diet, there are worse ways to do so that with a salted caramel shake and a “Hawaiian Punch” burger.

You can also get any burger made vegan with a Beyond Meat substitute.

Grill Marks is one of the top points of interest in South Carolina today for hearty food lovers.

Eating here is what to do when you really want to devour something.

Grill Marks has one location on Main Street and another in the Haywood Mall.

Address: 209 S Main St, Greenville, SC 29601, United States

19. Watch Improv Comedy

If you’re coming to Greenville tonight, try to take in an improv comedy show, courtesy of Alchemy Comedy Theater.

They perform at Coffee Underground, and you can count on them providing you with gut-busting laughter.

It’s one of the most fun things you can experience in Greenville.

The fun of improv is that anything can happen, because the performers don’t have any sort of script.

However, Alchemy Comedy knows how to make things funny without any preparation.

Enjoy a cup of coffee while you take in their hilarious antics and learn more about the craft of improv.

Alchemy Comedy Theater is what to see if you want to experience entertainment in a relaxed environment.

Address: 1 E Coffee St, Greenville, SC 29601, United States

20. Mice On Main

Greenville, South Carolina offers a very fun scavenger hunt experience.

One of the biggest tourist attractions is “Mice On Main.”

If you’re skittish around rodents, rest assured that these mice are made of bronze.

There are also nine of them.

They were installed in tribute to the classic picture book, “Goodnight Moon.”

As you travel down Main Street, you can get hints from each accompanying plaque to help you locate others.

Things like the “Mice On Main” make Greenville, South Carolina one of the best places to visit.

It’s such a whimsical and fun activity that gives you something to be proud about when you’re finished.

If you’re coming to Greenville this weekend, make sure you try to find these mice.

Address: Main Street, Greenville, SC, United States

Going on a road trip around South Carolina? Why not check out some of the best things to do in Beaufort, SC?

21. Greenville Glides

There are so many places to go and things to see in Greenville, South Carolina.

To take in all these Greenville attractions, you need to think about your transportation.

Sure, you could drive or use rideshare.

But why do that when you can take a Segway?

Greenville Glides offers Segway tours throughout downtown Greenville.

With helmets and trusted guides, you can cruise through the streets and learn all about this awesome city.

Talk with your fellow group members and swoon over all the awesome sites.

There are different tours offered, including one focused on food and a “Haunted Segway Tour.”

These Segway tours really reveal a lot of Greenville wonders.

Get your tour booked as early as possible and look forward to the fun of this Segway experience.

Address: Noma Flats, 233 N Main St #12, Greenville, SC 29601, United States

22. Escape Artist Greenville

An escape room is a very challenging but fun experience.

Greenville has an awesome one with “Escape Artist Greenville.”

You don’t have to be any kind of Houdini to get through this.

However, you will need to apply critical thinking and teamwork skills.

You can choose from a number of exciting scenarios.

Pretend you’ve become a superhero or you’re investigating a seedy motel.

This can be done with just two people or up to 10.

If you’re never done an escape room, the thrill of getting all the gears in your head working and solving it is incomparable.

Fun activities like Escape Artist Greenville make this such a great city to visit.

Be sure to call to get your desired room booked.

Escape Artist Greenville is open on Mondays and from Thursdays to Saturdays from 12 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and on Sundays from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Address: 209 E Stone Ave, Greenville, SC 29609, United States

23. The Children’s Museum of the Upstate

One of the best places in the United States for encouraging young minds is the Children’s Museum of the Upstate.

If you’re looking for enriching activities with your kids, be sure to come here.

The various exhibitions and topics explored make it perfect for broadening minds both young and old.

At this location, visitors can enjoy exciting attractions like the “News Studio” and “Toddler Lily Pond.”

It’s such a treat to see your children enamored with these refined play areas.

This could also be where they form their first career ambitions.

The Children’s Museum of the Upstate is one of the top aspects of this city.

It’s open from Tuesdays to Fridays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission is $10 for adults, and $9 for seniors, military members, and children ages one to 15.

Address: 300 College St, Greenville, SC 29601, United States

24. Haywood Mall

Going on vacation can also be a break from your budget.

Don’t let your credit cards get maxed out or deplete your bank account.

However, do let yourself have fun with stretching your budget at least a little bit.

When you want to go shopping, come to the Haywood Mall.

Located downtown, the Haywood Mall has two floors and plenty more stores, national and regional.

There are also many great places to eat.

Additional shopping opportunities are outside of the mall, on Haywood Road.

The Haywood Mall is one of the top tourist attractions in this city.

Whether you just want to pick up something small or go on a total shopping spree, there are great times to be had.

It’s open from Mondays to Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and on Sundays from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Address: 700 Haywood Rd, Greenville, SC 29607, United States

25. Mast General Store

While the Haywood Mall has plenty of great stores, it doesn’t have the Mast General Store.

This is one of the coolest places to visit in South Carolina.

The Mast General Store is full of kooky delights that you might not find anywhere else.

There are locations through the south, but the Greenville Mast General Store is located downtown.

It opened in 2003, but the Mast brand goes back to 1883.

Here, you can get amazing clothing, eclectic candy, and wonderful books.

It’s a store full of everything you need, whether you know it or not.

The Mast General Store is a top part of Greenville’s business community.

Coming here is what to do if you want a truly memorable shopping experience.

This store is open from Mondays to Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sundays from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Address: 111 N Main St, Greenville, SC 29601, United States

26. Shoeless Joe Jackson Museum

One of the most iconic baseball players of all-time, Shoeless Joe Jackson, was native to Greenville.

The Shoeless Joe Jackson Museum lets you tour his house, which is also where he passed away.

This is what to do if you love baseball and want to find out more about one of the most famous players of all-time.

The thoroughness of the curation makes this one of the best museums in South Carolina.

Not only will you be in Jackson’s home, but you’ll also see all kinds of invaluable pieces from his life and career.

The city has done a lot to preserve his legend, including having an honorary plaque on the building that held Joe’s Liquor Store and with Shoeless Joe Jackson Memorial Park, which includes a baseball field he himself played on.

Shoeless Joe Jackson was a legend of this city, and he’s been honored as legends should be.

The museum is open on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

There’s no cost for admission.

Address: 356 Field St, Greenville, SC 29601, United States

27. Bon Secours Wellness Arena

We encourage spending as much time as possible in Greenville.

However, we totally understand if you only have time for a one-day or one-night visit.

If you’re looking to really get excited, come to the Bon Secours Wellness Arena.

This is a great place to see sports and music.

The local hockey team, the Greenville Swamp Rabbits, calls this arena home.

Additionally, you can test your skating abilities in the winter, when regular folks can skate on the rink.

If you love concerts, you’ll surely love to know the Bon Secours Wellness Arena has had acts like Paul McCartney and Godsmack perform.

There are lots of thrills to be had at the Bon Secours Wellness Arena.

From sports excitement to seeing your favorite artists perform your favorite songs, there are so many things to enjoy here.

Consider making a trip to the Bon Secours Wellness Arena.

Address: 650 N Academy St, Greenville, SC 29601, United States

28. Greenville Theatre

The performing arts are very important in Greenville.

You’ll see that when you visit the Greenville Theatre.

As far back as 1926, this venue has been showcasing great productions of great shows and drawing in enraptured audiences.

As the Greenville Theatre approaches a century in the city, it’s doing anything but fading away.

It’s seeing more patronage and gone under serious infrastructure improvements.

Then, there are the shows.

The upcoming season includes great Broadway shows like “Jersey Boys” and “Mamma Mia!”

There are so many excellent shows that have been hosted here, and its history is another thing to celebrate.

As long as people have room in their hearts for creative expression, there’ll be a place for this theater.

Address: 444 College St, Greenville, SC 29601, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Greenville, SC

Greenville, South Carolina is a delightful city.

It’s one that honors its history while also making room for progress.

It’s southern living at its best, with plenty of friendliness for non-locals like yourself.

If you’ve been looking for a relatively unsung city full of great food and people to spend some time in, come to Greenville.