Story and photos by Scott Kendall (unless otherwise indicated)
Greenville, South Carolina is an up and coming destination that has become a favorite for those wishing to enjoy the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. With a current population of around 70,000, the sixth largest city in South Carolina is one of the fastest growing cities in the US. A charming walkable downtown, great shops and restaurants, a variety of arts and cultural events, and friendly folks put Greenville, South Carolina at the top of many travelers’ must see lists.
Map of Greenville, South Carolina
Greenville is in the northwest corner of South Carolina, roughly halfway between Atlanta and Charlotte, and not far from the North Carolina and Tennessee state borders. Greenville lies in the foothills of the Blueridge Mountains, which are part of the Appalachian Chain.
Greenville’s Charming Walkable Downtown
One of the great things about Greenville is its pedestrian friendly walkable downtown. Main Street serves as the central focus for many shops, restaurants, artwork, and galleries in town. With the redevelopment of Falls Park and downtown buildings and roads, construction of the Liberty Bridge, and other improvements, Greenville has greatly enhanced downtown experiences for locals and visitors alike.
The Falls on the Reedy River, surrounded by parks and artwork, is a major draw for both locals and visitors. At Christmas time, the town is aglow with twinkling lights, the Festival of Trees, a lighting ceremony, a skating rink, and other special events to brighten up the holiday season.
Shopping and Playing in Greenville
Downtown Greenville is a shopping, artsy, outdoorsy, and foodie delight. Most stores, restaurants, galleries, and activities are on or within a few blocks of Main Street.
Mast General Store at 111 N. Main St has served the community since 1883. The store is filled with quality clothing, camping and outdoor gear, toys, and other goods. Towards the back is the candy corner, with all kinds of old and new favorites to satisfy that sweet tooth in your group.
Rush Wilson Limited at 23 W North Street carries high end clothing and assessories. I had my eye on a nice selection of Barbour jackets.
Oil & Vinegar at 220 N Main St #203 offers a variety of oils, vinegars, spices, and other products every kitchen needs.
Kilwins (next door to Oil & Vinegar), founded in 1947, has a reputation for providing high-quality chocolates, ice cream, and other candies and confections.
River Street Sweets started in Savannah in 1973, and has since expanded into several locations in Charleston, Myrtle Beach, and other southern cities. Try their world famous pralines, and I can vouch for the delicious White chocolate oreo pretzels and the fabulous loggerheads. Yum!
Poppington’s Gourmet Popcorn is a local favorite, popping sweet and savory popcorn all year round. I had to try the Greenville Mix, a combination of caramel popcorn mixed with White Cheddar and Golden Cheddar flavors. Delicious. And, yes, they ship!
Vintage Now Modern at 633 South Main Street is one of the largest distributors of Decorative Paint by Annie Sloan. They also have a wide range of vintage items and other collectibles are decorative items.
Savannah Bee at 123 N Main Street loves bees and honey – in that order! Lots of great honey and honey products and paraphernalia, including a Mead (Wine honey) Tasting Bar.
Craft Axe Throwing at 1320 Hampton Ave is Greenville’s premier destination to experience the exhilarating sport of axe throwing. With plenty of space for small or large groups, visitors can indulge in cold craft beer while enjoying axe throwing, events on multiple TVs, and fun with friends
Group Therapy Pub & Playground at 320 Falls Street in Campertown Plaza is a fun place to congregate with family and friends. Cocktails, beer, food, and a variety of games make Group Therapy the perfect place to relax and enjoy. Try your hand at mini-golf, axe throwing, duckpin bowling, or any of the other fun activities.
King Arthur’s Baking Popup
We all had so much fun at the King Arthur’s Baking popup store on Main Street. With headquarters in Vermont and another facility in Washington state, King Arthur Baking Company is one of the top specialty flour and baking companies in the nation. They supply top quality flours, baking mixes, spices, and other helpful kitchen ingredients and products.
We were also fortunate to attend a baking demonstration conducted by King Arthur’s Melanie Wanders, who flew down from corporate headquarters in Vermont. Next door in the kitchen of Le Petit Croissant, Melanie walked us through the steps to make a delicious apple pie and answered our many questions. We then tried our hand at making our own personal handheld apple pies, and then ate our experiment. So much fun, and so delicious!
Heritage Green Museum Complex
Heritage Green Museum Complex, in northwest downtown, is Greenville’s center for history and the cultural arts. At Heritage Green you will find the Upcountry History Museum, the Children’s Museum of the Upstate, the Sigal Music Museum, the Museum of Art, Greenville Theater, and the Greenville County Library. I enjoyed time at the Upcountry History Museum. This well curated museum includes fascinating exhibits highlighting the history of the Greenville area. They also had a delightful special exhibit, “A Very Grinchy Christmas.”
Westin Poinsett Hotel on Main Street in Greenville
Westin Poinsett Hotel at 120 South Main Street is one of the top hotels in downtown Greenville. In fact, the Westin Poinsett was 2021 Winner of Best City Center Historic Hotel by Historic Hotels of America. This beautiful hotel is housed in a historic building once set to be torn down. Instead, developers gutted the building and renovated to create 200 modern, comfortable rooms while maintaining its historic charm.
With its central location, there are over 100 restaurants, shops, and other attractions within an easy walk. The Peace Center, home of the Performing Arts, Falls Park, Soby’s Restaurant, and many more downtown attractions are just down the street.
Other Special Hotels in Greenville
Other wonderful hotels in Greenville include the SpringHill Suites by Marriott, Hyatt Place, Courtyard by Marriott, Drury Inn & Suites, Embassy Suites, the Grand Bohemian, AC Hotel, and others. Many are on or near Main Street within easy walking distance of the many wonderful destinations. Atop the Embassy Suites you will find Up on the Roof, a downtown hotel whose roof is Elfed Up during the holidays, with spectacular views of the city below.
In early December, we were treated to the Gingerbread Exhibit at the SpringHill Suites by Marriott. I ran into Ava Braatz, the Hype Girl from the local Channel 7 News station. Ava and her cameraman were filming a segment for Channel 7 local news, highlighting the gingerbread creations by amateur and professional bakers throughout the area.
Eat in Greenville, South Carolina
Soby’s, a Greenville Landmark
Soby’s at 207 South Main Street is a Greenville institution. For over 20 years Soby’s has served up their New South Cuisine to local and visitors on Main Street in the the middle downtown. Soby’s is just across from the Westin Poinsett, the Peace Center, and Falls Park on the Reedy River. I enjoyed their iconic Shrimp and Grits, and can happily say this Texas boy heartily approved! Others in my party enjoyed the Braised Short Ribs and Grits, the Grilled Salmon, and the delicious crab cakes. The chocolate Creme Brûlée was a crowd pleaser for dessert.
Up on the Roof
Up on the Roof is a fun, unique restaurant on the roof of the Embassy Suites, offering spectacular views of the city. The restaurant features a small plates menu focused on locally sourced ingredients, creative cocktails, artisan wines, and craft beers.
We enjoyed Honey Soy Fried-Chicken Lettuce Wraps, Fried Brussel Sprouts with chili lime sauce, and a Charcuterie Block. We also chowed down on sautéed cod, seared tuna, and . Wagyu flat iron steak fingerling potatoes. Up on the Roof in the perfect place for a friendly meet up with friends or a romantic date night up on the roof.
Juniper
We had an interesting evening dining inside a transparent igloo at the fabulous Juniper atop the AC Hotel. With our door zipped up, heater on, and soft, warm blankets, we settled in for a wonderful holiday meal.
We started with some of their signature cocktails. A couple of us tried the Rossa Spritz with patron blanco, pama, blood orange cordial, cava, club soda, while I ordered the Smooth Operator, a flavorful concoction of Grey Goose vodka, cannon coffee, mozart chocolate liqueur, arbol chile, and cinnamon.
The menu had many tempting choices, and some of us decided on the Roasted Loupe de Mer, a flavorful seabass served whole and stuffed with edamame, bell peppers, onion, lemon, EVOO, and roasted marble potatoes. Another favorite was the Pappardelle Bolognese, Italian sausage, grass fed beef, porcini, and freshly grated pecorino.
We completed our feast in an igloo by sharing some decadent desserts: Baked Alaska Sundae, a Cannoli Trio, and a Chocolate Coulant. Triple yum!
Southernside Brewing
Southernside Brewing is a fantastic place on the Swamp Rabbit Trail serving up delicious craft beer, southern food, and creative cocktails. Next to Unity Park, this expansive brewery has plenty of space inside and out to host small or large groups.
When we first walked in the front door, we were welcomed by a festive holiday scene and friendly folks. Festooned in reds and greens, the dining area was full of Santa and Mrs. Claus, polar bears, snow, stars, wreaths, and other holiday regalia. Christmas tunes filled the air.
After taking in the festive scene, we sat down for some great southern food. I started with Southernside’s Belgian State of Mind, a Belgian style Wit Bier brewed with sweet orange peel and coriander. The zucchini fries, fried green beans, and fried green tomatoes appetizers whetted our appetite. Mains included a delicious Southern Fried Chicken Sandwich, a Caesar Salad with grilled chicken, and a Hummus and Veggie Wrap.
Whether you are walking or biking Swamp Rabbit Trail or taking a short drive from downtown Greenville, Southernside Brewing is an excellent choice to grab some fun, food, and drink.
Other Great Eats
Other great eateries include:
Indaco, an Italian Restaurant and Bar, is a casual yet elegant restaurant serving an Italian inspired menu. Highlights include wood fired pizzas, handmade pastas, and other Italian favorites. Diners can also enjoy a creative cocktail menu and wines from around the world, focusing on Italian wines.
Sully’s Steamers at 6 East Washington Street is part of a popular chain with locations in the Carolinas, Tennessee, and Georgia. Sully’s offers a delicious variety of steamed bagel sandwiches, as well as a kids menu. I enjoyed The Griswold, a delicious combination of turkey, bacon, provolone, pepper jack, lettuce, bbq and parm-peppercorn.
Old Europe Coffee and Desserts at 716-A South Main Street, is another top place for coffee, breakfast, desserts, and other treats. A second location is coming soon to nearby Simpsonville.
Fireforge Crafted Beer at 311 E Washington Street is a former tire warehouse turned into a really cool place to enjoy craft beer and share time with family and friends.
Jeni’s Ice Cream is located at 12 East Broad Street, next to Group Therapy in Camperdown Plaza. Jeni’s serves uniquely smooth and flavorful ice creams perfected over 20 years.
Creme Shack at 120 N. Main Street is home to handcrafted artisanal rolled ice cream, a unique confection with a delightful taste sensation.
Greenville Breakfast Tour with John Nolan
John Nolan, owner of Greenville History Tours, took us on a wonderful Breakfast Tour of Greenville. Along with history of the area, John took us to three prime breakfast stops – Southern Pressed Juicery, Biscuit Head, and Papi’s Tacos.
Southern Pressed Juicery, at 2 West Washington Street, is full of healthy juices, fruits, breakfast bowls, and supplements. They carry the line of the popular Wildcrafted Collection of health and beauty aids.
Biscuit Head, at 823 S Church Street, is a favorite of locals on the West End with fabulous biscuits, jams, toppings, and fresh brewed coffee. Sides choices include eggs, bacon, ham, pulled pork, grits, and a wide variety of gravies.
Papi’s Tacos is full of flavorful tacos, tortas, nachos, gorditas, burritos, bowls, and other Mexican favorites, all made with fresh ingredients and love. Papi’s has two locations: the original at 300 River Street 123 and the newest at 21 Augusta Street in the West End.
City Scape Winery
City Scape Winery in nearby Pelzner at 589 Dunklin Bridge Road, owned by Josh and Debra Jones, is the oldest winery and vineyard in Greenville County. Starting as s hobby, Josh and Debra took a giant step forward by purchasing City Scape Winery near their hometown of Greenville. The passion and pride is evident in the elegant tasting room, the quality of the wines, and in the faces of the team that makes City Scape Winery such a delightful place.
We especially enjoyed the light floral flavors of the Viognier, the refreshing Urban White Blend, and the fruity bursts of flavor in the Pomegranate Pinot Noir. Come join Josh and Debra and Pinot Pig for an enjoyable, fun time with wonderful wines at City Scape Winery.
Reedy Rides and the Swamp Rabbit Trail
The Swamp Rabbit Trail is a 28 mile long walking, jogging, and biking trail. This family friendly trail follows the Reedy River from Travelers Rest through downtown Greenville and Falls Park. Bike rentals are available at Reedy Rides at 50 South Richardson Street and other places throughout town. I rented an adult bike for half a day, and was given directions, tips, and a helmet for protection by a very friendly staff member. The ride from Reedy Riders downtown to Furman University was a fun, exhilarating trip up the nearby Swamp Rabbit Trail. In addition to downtown sites, there are numerous parks, restaurants, a general store, a brewery, and other great attractions along Swamp Rabbit Trail.
Escape Artist in Greenville
If you love puzzles, riddles, and whodunits, you will love Escape Artist Greenville’s escape rooms in Greenville.
Our group of six experienced the Yuletide Magic, a fun Christmas themed challenge. Other experiences include Starlight Hotel, Dark Lullaby, Inventor Enigma, and other unique adventures. Immerse yourself and challenge your skills so you can solve the mystery – and escape! It was fun working together to figure out the clues, and we were given help by the guides when we got stuck. And yes – we did manage to safely escape.
Escape Artist is ranked the #1 Thing to Do in Greenville by TripAdvisor, was voted Top 10 Escape Room in 2021 by USA Today, and received other top awards from escape room enthusiasts. Will and Kim Rutherford have melded their previous careers in theme park engineering and set design to create some of the most fun, creative, innovative escape rooms in the US.
Oh Yeah – THAT Greenville! (South Carolina)
Oh yeah – THAT Greenville! With 48 Greenvilles in the United States, be sure to put Greenville, South Carolina in your future travel plans. Come enjoy the walkable downtown, fantastic shops, restaurants, museums, performing arts, parks, biking trails, the friendly folks, and so much more.
Yeah, THAT Greenville!
Greenville, South Carolina
Thanks to VisitGreenvillesc.com, Westin Poinsett, Upcountry History Museum, King Arthur’s Baking, Mast General Store, Rush Wilson, Vintage Now Modern, Samantha Grace, Soby’s, Juniper, Up on the Roof, Southernside Brewery, Indaco Italian Restaurant and Bar, Sully’s Steamers, Kilwins, Oil & Vinegar, River Street Sweets, Savannah Bee, Reedy Rides, Old Europe Coffee and Desserts, Le Petit Croissant, Greenville History Tours, Southern Pressed Juicery, Biscuit Head, Group Therapy Pub & Playground, Craft Axe Throwing, Jeni’s Ice Cream, Papi’s Tacos, and City Scape Winery for hosting me. All opinions are my own.
