48 Hours in Greenville, South Carolina
Tucked between waterfalls and mountain trails, Greenville surprises with vibrant food, indie charm, and a downtown you’ll want to explore on foot
Tucked into the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Greenville, South Carolina, is a delightful blend of Southern charm and modern flair. With its tree-lined streets, award-winning cuisine, indie boutiques, and a calendar packed with lively events year-round, this up-and-coming gem is the perfect spot for a weekend trip. Here’s how to spend 48 hours in this scenic Upstate city in the South.
Arrival Day
Road trippers will love how easy it is to get to Greenville. Less than two hours from Charlotte and roughly two hours from Atlanta, Greenville makes for a convenient stop on any Southern itinerary. The Greenville-Spartanburg Airport (GSP) offers more than 100 daily departures, including nonstop flights to major hubs across the country. Once you land, grab a rideshare or book a private transfer, and head straight to your hotel.
The AAA Four Diamond Grand Bohemian Lodge Greenville is a modern retreat nestled in the heart of Greenville’s downtown. Perched beside the waterfalls and the iconic Liberty Bridge in Falls Park on the Reedy, the hotel offers guests a front-row seat to one of Greenville’s most picturesque spots—a true urban oasis. If you prefer something with a touch of old-world charm consider the AAA Four Diamond Westin Poinsett Hotel, a beautifully restored 1920s landmark listed on the National Register of Historic Places, a nod to its architectural and cultural significance.
After dropping your bags, step out onto Greenville’s charming Main Street to enjoy a lovely stroll past local shops and boutiques. If you love cooking, check out Oil & Vinegar, where shelves are stocked with artisan oils, infused vinegars, exotic spices, and gourmet gifts. Pink Bee GVL is a great option for women’s fashion and accessories, while the nostalgic Mast General Store delights kids and adults alike with its huge selection of old-school candies and souvenirs. Need a pick-me-up? Grab a beautifully brewed cup at Methodical, a local favorite.
If you’re visiting between March and September, don’t miss Main Street Fridays. This weekly outdoor concert series, held at NOMA Square on Main Street, brings live music, dancing, and laid-back Southern energy to the heart of downtown. After taking in some music, head to The Lazy Goat, a riverside favorite known for Mediterranean small plates, sparkling lights, and prime views of the Reedy.
Day 1
Start your day by grabbing a coffee and pastry at Camilla Kitchen, a coffee shop tucked inside M. Judson Booksellers, Greenville’s beloved independent bookstore housed inside a beautifully restored courthouse. While there, take time to browse the thoughtfully curated selection of books and quirky finds.
If your weekend visit falls on a Saturday between May and October, spend your morning at the lively TD Saturday Market. Stretching across two blocks of Main Street—from Court Street (right in front of M. Judson Booksellers) down to E. Washington Street—this bustling open-air market features more than 75 vendors selling produce, handmade goods, and locally crafted treats. Be sure to sample a juicy South Carolina peach; locals will proudly tell you they’re even better than Georgia’s (a state that South Carolina outproduces when it comes to peach tonnage).
After the market, spend the rest of the morning and early afternoon exploring the Swamp Rabbit Trail, a 28-mile greenway that winds through downtown and beyond. Rent a bike from Reedy Rides, or enjoy a relaxed walk along the scenic path. For a quick bite, stop at Swamp Rabbit Cafe & Grocery, a favorite trail-side spot offering fresh local fare, or return downtown for an al fresco lunch at Passerelle Bistro, perched right by Falls Park.
As evening approaches, make a reservation at Jianna. This standout dining destination serves modern Italian cuisine using regional ingredients whenever possible. Request a seat on the balcony for lovely park and city skyline views.
If you still have energy to spare, cap off the night with a round of indoor mini-golf or duckpin bowling—plus craft cocktails—at Group Therapy Pub & Playground. Kids are welcome during the day, but after 8 p.m., this spirited spot becomes adults-only.
Day 2
Start your morning with breakfast at Old Europe Desserts, a cozy café where fresh-baked goodness fills the air. Indulge in flaky croissants, savory quiches, or a slice of coffee cake alongside your fresh-brewed coffee.
For a low-stress way to enjoy your final day in Greenville, let someone else lead the way by joining an organized tour tailored to your interests and timeframe. Here are a few to consider.
- Historic Neighborhoods and Architecture Driving Tour – This 1.5-hour tour wends through a handful of Greenville’s charming neighborhoods showcasing historic homes and buildings, which span 200 years and an array of architectural styles.
- Downtown Greenville Tour – If you’re short on time, opt for this one-hour stroll that hits the city’s highlights.
- Carolina Countryside Tour – This five-hour journey takes you into the scenic outskirts of Greenville to explore its landscape, history, and cuisine.
If you’d prefer something with a little more horsepower, consider booking an experience at the BMW Performance Driving School, which is just a short drive from downtown. Whether you're drifting through high-speed corners or honing your precision on the track, it’s an adrenaline-pumping way to see another side of the Upstate. While you're there, pop into the BMW Zentrum Museum, or book a factory tour to see German engineering in action.
As you wrap up your visit and prepare to head home, don’t be surprised if you’re already thinking about planning your next weekend in welcoming Greenville.