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2-Day Greenville Adventure Itinerary: For Locals with Friends

Greenville, South Carolina

2 days

Garden and stairs at the Falls Park on the Reedy
Panoramic view of downtown
Falls Park Waterfall
East Carolina University (ECU)
Solar clock at Tar River Park

About Greenville, South Carolina

Experience the charm of the South in Greenville, South Carolina. This vibrant city offers a blend of urban sophistication and southern tradition. Explore the downtown area, filled with local boutiques, art galleries, and a variety of dining options. Visit Falls Park on the Reedy, a stunning nature park in the heart of the city. Enjoy a bike ride on the Swamp Rabbit Trail, or take a hike in the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains. Greenville's rich history can be discovered at the Upcountry History Museum. For art enthusiasts, the Greenville County Museum of Art houses an impressive collection. Don't miss the Peace Center for performing arts and the Bon Secours Wellness Arena for sporting events. Greenville, SC is a destination that offers something for everyone.

2-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Adventure and Culture in Greenville

Morning

Start your day with a thrilling bike ride on the Swamp Rabbit Trail. This 22-mile multi-use greenway runs along the Reedy River connecting Greenville County with schools, parks, and local businesses. It's a great way to get your blood pumping and see the city from a different perspective.

Lunch

Enjoy a picnic lunch in Falls Park on the Reedy. This beautiful urban oasis is the perfect spot to relax and refuel before your afternoon adventure. Don't forget to check out the Liberty Bridge, a unique pedestrian suspension bridge that offers stunning views of the park and the city.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon exploring the Greenville Zoo. This small but well-maintained zoo is home to a variety of animals from around the world. It's a fun and educational experience for all ages.

Dinner

For dinner, head to one of Greenville's many farm-to-table restaurants. These establishments pride themselves on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create delicious and innovative dishes.

Evening

End your day with a show at the Peace Center. This performing arts center hosts a variety of events, from Broadway shows to concerts and comedy acts. It's the perfect way to unwind after a day of adventure.

Morning

Kick off your second day with a hike in Paris Mountain State Park. This park offers a variety of trails for all skill levels, as well as beautiful views of the surrounding area.

Lunch

After your hike, enjoy a leisurely lunch in one of the many eateries in the West End Historic District. This area is known for its diverse culinary scene, so you're sure to find something to satisfy your appetite.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon exploring the Upcountry History Museum. This museum offers a fascinating look at the history of the Upcountry South Carolina region, from the early Native American inhabitants to the present day.

Dinner

For your final dinner in Greenville, why not try one of the city's many Southern cuisine restaurants? These establishments offer a taste of traditional Southern dishes, often with a modern twist.

Evening

End your trip with a visit to Fluor Field, home of the Greenville Drive. Catch a baseball game and soak up the atmosphere in this replica of Boston's Fenway Park, complete with its own "Green Monster".

Attractions in Itinerary (9)

Swamp Rabbit Trail

1
Swamp Rabbit Trail

A 22-mile multi-use greenway system that runs along the Reedy River connecting Greenville County with schools, parks, and local businesses.

Attractions
Parks
Tours
Falls Park on the Reedy

2
Falls Park on the Reedy

A beautiful urban park that features a waterfall, scenic overlooks, and a pedestrian suspension bridge.

Parks
Liberty Bridge

3
Liberty Bridge

A unique pedestrian suspension bridge that offers stunning views of Falls Park and the Reedy River.

Attractions
Landmarks
Greenville Zoo

4
Greenville Zoo

A small but well-kept zoo featuring a variety of animals from around the world.

Attractions
Entertainment
Peace Center

5
Peace Center

A performing arts center that hosts a variety of shows, including Broadway productions, concerts, and comedy shows.

Attractions
Entertainment

6
Paris Mountain State Park

A state park offering hiking, camping, and picnicking with beautiful views of the surrounding area.

Attractions
Parks
West End Historic District

7
West End Historic District

A vibrant neighborhood known for its historic buildings, trendy boutiques, and eclectic restaurants.

Attractions
Neighborhoods
Architecture
Upcountry History Museum

8
Upcountry History Museum

A history museum that tells the story of upcountry South Carolina from the early Native Americans to the present day.

Attractions
Museums
Fluor Field

9
Fluor Field

A baseball stadium in Greenville that is modeled after Fenway Park, home of the Boston Red Sox.

Attractions
Sports

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Shrimp and Grits

Shrimp and Grits

A classic southern dish popular in Greenville, South Carolina. It consists of shrimp served with a sauce on top of creamy grits.

Pimento Cheese

Pimento Cheese

A staple in Greenville, South Carolina, Pimento Cheese is a spread made with cheese, mayonnaise, and pimentos. It's often served with crackers or bread.

Carolina BBQ

Carolina BBQ

Greenville, South Carolina is known for its Carolina-style barbecue, which is slow-cooked pork with a tangy, mustard-based sauce.

Fried Green Tomatoes

Fried Green Tomatoes

A popular southern dish in Greenville, South Carolina. The tomatoes are sliced, breaded, and fried until crispy.

Chicken Bog

A traditional dish in Greenville, South Carolina, made with chicken, rice, and sausage, all cooked together in a savory broth.

Sweet Tea

Sweet Tea

A popular drink in Greenville, South Carolina. It's a refreshing iced tea sweetened with sugar.

Boiled Peanuts

A popular snack in Greenville, South Carolina. The peanuts are boiled in salt water until they become soft and flavorful.

Collard Greens

Collard Greens

A traditional side dish in Greenville, South Carolina. The greens are slow-cooked with ham hocks or bacon for a rich, smoky flavor.

Peach Cobbler

A popular dessert in Greenville, South Carolina, made with fresh peaches and a sweet, buttery crust.

Hoppin' John

Hoppin' John

A traditional dish in Greenville, South Carolina, made with black-eyed peas, rice, and pork. It's often eaten on New Year's Day for good luck.

Chow Chow

Chow Chow

A pickled relish made from a mix of vegetables. It's a traditional condiment in Greenville, South Carolina, often served with meats and beans.

Cheerwine

Cheerwine

A cherry-flavored soft drink that's popular in Greenville, South Carolina. It's known for its sweet taste and burgundy color.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Greenville, South Carolina as a tourist is during the spring and fall seasons. The months from April to June and September to November offer the most pleasant weather. During these periods, you can enjoy outdoor activities and festivals without the extreme heat of the summer or the chill of winter. The city's beautiful parks and gardens are in full bloom in spring, while fall offers stunning foliage views.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

January 15

Mon

Martin Luther King Jr. Day

February 19

Mon

Presidents' Day

May 27

Mon

Memorial Day

June 19

Wed

Juneteenth

July 4

Thu

Independence Day

September 2

Mon

Labor Day

October 14

Mon

Columbus Day

November 11

Mon

Veterans Day

November 28

Thu

Thanksgiving Day

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Renting a car is a convenient way to get around Greenville, especially if you plan on visiting areas outside of the city center. There are several car rental companies available at the Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport and throughout the city.

Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available in Greenville. This can be a convenient option if you prefer not to drive yourself. Simply download the app, request a ride, and wait for your driver to arrive.

Greenville's public transportation system, Greenlink, offers bus service throughout the city. Buses run Monday through Saturday and cover most of the city. This can be a cost-effective way to get around, especially if you're staying within the city limits.

Greenville is a bike-friendly city with numerous bike lanes and trails. The city's bike share program, B-Cycle, allows you to rent a bike for a short period of time. This can be a fun and healthy way to explore the city.

Downtown Greenville is very walkable, with many attractions, restaurants, and shops within a short distance of each other. The city also has a beautiful network of walking trails, including the Swamp Rabbit Trail, which is a great way to see the city and enjoy the outdoors.

Taxis are available in Greenville, although they may not be as readily available as ridesharing services. You can usually find taxis at the airport, hotels, and major attractions.

Several hotels in Greenville offer shuttle services to and from the Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport. This can be a convenient option if you're staying at one of these hotels.

If you're comfortable driving, Greenville is easy to navigate by car. There's plenty of parking available downtown, and the city is served by several major highways, making it easy to get to other parts of South Carolina.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency$ USD

Time zoneUTC-5

Driving sideRight

Emergency phone911

Drinking waterYes

Power sockets

Power socket type APower socket type B

Voltage120 V

Things to know about Greenville, South Carolina as a first time visitor

1

Greenville is located in the Upstate region of South Carolina, which is in the northwest part of the state.

2

The city experiences a humid subtropical climate, with hot and humid summers and cool to cold winters.

3

The average high temperature in summer is around 89°F (32°C), while the average low in winter can drop to 34°F (1°C).

4

Greenville is a very walkable city, especially downtown, which is filled with shops, restaurants, and parks.

5

Public transportation is available through the Greenville Transit Authority, which operates a bus system throughout the city.

6

Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also readily available.

7

Greenville is known for its Southern hospitality, so don't hesitate to ask locals for directions or recommendations.

8

The city is home to a diverse culinary scene, with a focus on farm-to-table dining and Southern cuisine.

9

There are several farmers markets in the area where you can buy fresh, local produce.

10

Greenville is a bike-friendly city, with numerous bike lanes and trails, and a bike share program.

11

The city has a vibrant arts scene, with many galleries, theaters, and music venues.

12

Greenville is home to several colleges and universities, including Furman University and Greenville Technical College.

13

The city is in the Eastern Time Zone and observes daylight saving time.

14

Greenville has a strong economy, with a focus on manufacturing, healthcare, and education.

15

The city is known for its high quality of life, with a low cost of living and a strong sense of community.

16

Greenville is a green city, with numerous parks and green spaces, and a strong commitment to sustainability.

17

The city is home to several major festivals throughout the year, including Artisphere and Fall for Greenville.

18

Greenville has a rich history, with many historic buildings and sites throughout the city.

19

The city is located near the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering opportunities for hiking and outdoor activities.

20

Greenville has a small but growing craft beer scene, with several local breweries in the area.

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Underwear

  • Socks

  • T-shirts

  • Pants/Shorts

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Sleepwear

  • Light jacket or sweater

  • Swimwear (if your hotel has a pool)

  • Toiletries

  • Toothbrush

  • Toothpaste

  • Floss

  • Deodorant

  • Razor

  • Shaving cream

  • Shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash

  • Face wash

  • Moisturizer

  • Sunscreen

  • Makeup (if applicable)

  • Hairbrush or comb

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Driver's license or ID card

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash

  • Health insurance card

  • Hotel reservation confirmation

  • Car rental confirmation (if applicable)

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Headphones

  • Camera (if not using smartphone)

  • Charger for camera (if applicable)

  • Portable power bank

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Snacks

  • Water bottle

  • Travel pillow

  • Travel guidebook for Greenville

  • Notepad and pen

  • Umbrella

  • Sunglasses

  • Reusable shopping bag

Weather Conditions

Greenville, South Carolina is known for its mild and pleasant climate, but it's still important to be prepared for the weather when you visit. In the summer months, from June to August, Greenville can get quite hot, with temperatures often reaching up to 90°F (32°C). It's advisable to pack lightweight, breathable clothing, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. Also, remember to stay hydrated, especially if you're planning on outdoor activities. Spring and fall are generally mild and comfortable, with temperatures ranging from 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C). These seasons are perfect for exploring the city's parks and outdoor attractions. Pack layers, as the mornings can be cool but the afternoons can get quite warm. Winter, from December to February, is relatively mild compared to many parts of the U.S., with temperatures usually ranging from 30°F to 50°F (-1°C to 10°C). However, it can occasionally get colder, and there's a chance of snow, so it's a good idea to pack a warm jacket, gloves, and a hat. Rain can occur throughout the year in Greenville, but the city sees the most rainfall in the winter and spring months. It's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip and pack an umbrella or raincoat just in case. Remember, weather can be unpredictable, so it's always best to be prepared for a variety of conditions. Enjoy your visit to Greenville!

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

15° / 1°

January is the coldest month in Greenville with temperatures ranging from 1 to 15 degrees Celsius. It's also the month with the highest snowfall, so pack warm clothes and enjoy the winter scenery.

February

18° / 2°

February sees a slight increase in temperatures, ranging from 2 to 18 degrees Celsius. The weather is still chilly, but the snowfall decreases, making it a good time for outdoor activities.

March

22° / 6°

March marks the beginning of spring with temperatures ranging from 6 to 22 degrees Celsius. The weather is pleasant, and the city starts to bloom, offering beautiful landscapes.

April

26° / 10°

April is a warm month with temperatures ranging from 10 to 26 degrees Celsius. The weather is perfect for exploring the city and its surroundings.

May

30° / 15°

May brings summer to Greenville with temperatures ranging from 15 to 30 degrees Celsius. It's a great time to visit the city's parks and enjoy outdoor activities.

June

34° / 20°

June is a hot month with temperatures ranging from 20 to 34 degrees Celsius. It's the perfect time to enjoy the city's water parks and cool off in the Reedy River.

July

36° / 22°

July is the hottest month in Greenville with temperatures ranging from 22 to 36 degrees Celsius. Make sure to stay hydrated and take advantage of the city's indoor attractions.

August

35° / 22°

August continues the summer heat with temperatures ranging from 22 to 35 degrees Celsius. It's a great time to visit the city's lakes and enjoy water sports.

September

30° / 18°

September marks the beginning of fall with temperatures ranging from 18 to 30 degrees Celsius. The weather is pleasant, and the city's fall foliage starts to appear.

October

24° / 12°

October offers cooler temperatures ranging from 12 to 24 degrees Celsius. It's the perfect time to explore the city's trails and enjoy the fall colors.

November

19° / 7°

November is a cool month with temperatures ranging from 7 to 19 degrees Celsius. The weather is perfect for exploring the city's historic sites and museums.

December

14° / 2°

December brings winter back to Greenville with temperatures ranging from 2 to 14 degrees Celsius. It's a great time to enjoy the city's holiday festivities and winter activities.

Did you know?

Did you know that Greenville, South Carolina is home to the largest collection of waterfalls in the southeastern United States?

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