Fred W. Symmes Chapel - Pretty Place

Built in 1941 and renovated in 2012 and 2018, the Fred W. Symmes Chapel sits atop Stone Mountain at 3,200 feet and overlooks the rolling hills of Greenville County. Known by the locals as “Pretty Place,” a reflection on its panoramic mountain views, this open-air sanctuary is housed in the YMCA Camp Greenville but is also a common spot for weddings and other celebratory occasions.

The chapel was given to Fred W. Symmes to host Camp Greenville each summer and acts as the camp’s spiritual centerpiece. Camp Greenville has been owned and operated by the YMCA of Greenville for 106 years and at 1,400 acres, ranks as the 5th largest Y Camp in the country.

When Pretty Place is not closed due to an event, morning worship, or camp being in session, the destination is open to the public from daylight to dusk. The chapel is the perfect spot for visitors to enjoy a sunrise like no other. It may take some getting used to navigating the twists and turns on the way up, but we can assure you that once you reach the top, the views will be well worth it!

While most come to Pretty Place to connect with nature, pray, meditate, or get some fresh air from an out-of-this-world vantage point, it is important for all visitors to the chapel to be respectful. No alcohol, pets, or smoking is permitted on the property and visitors should call ahead or check the website in advance on availability.