An A-to-Z Tour of Greenville's Hidden Gem Attractions


Hundreds of national media mentions in recent years have put Greenville, SC, in the esteemed company of the Southeast's top destinations, and many of those mentions highlight our greatest hits, like Falls Park on the Reedy River, the Prisma Health Swamp Rabbit Trail System, our award-winning Main Street, or our abundance of outdoor adventure. Greenville is packed with lesser-known, perhaps overlooked things to see, do, and experience that deserve mention alongside our popular attractions, so come along as we bring some gems out of hiding on our alphabetical guide of attractions in Greenville.

 


 

Jump to:    B - D       |      E-G      |      H-J      |      K-M      |      N-P      |      Q-S      |      T-V      |      W-Z

 

 


 

A is for "Axe Throwing at Hampton Station"

Channel your inner lumberjack with a modern twist at Craft Axe Throwing, a unique spot that everyone can enjoy, whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned thrower.

 

No axe-throwing experience is required to play this game. Located in Hampton Station, you can create quite a memorable outing with friends or even date nights! Aside from axes, you can also try your hand at throwing ninja stars, knives, and daggers.

 

A Greenville staple, you can think of an outing with friends at Craft Axe Throwing as the perfect combination of fun and adrenaline. Toss in offerings like local craft brews, comfy seating, and friendly staff to show you the ropes, and you're in for some competitive fun. So, round up your friends, reserve a lane, and enjoy sharpening your skills & aiming for the bullseye!

 



 

B is for "Burning Rubber at BMW Performance Center"

If a stroll around Falls Park isn’t your speed and you're looking for something faster-paced, make your way to the BMW Performance Center in nearby Spartanburg, where you'll find over 1.7-combined miles of track to embrace the adrenaline rush.

 

A visit here offers a variety of experiences, all with top-notch safety and training, speed, and you in the driver's seat. This massive outdoor track complex is the dream to drive for any motorsport enthusiast, and is one of only two designated BMW Performance Centers in the entire United States!

 

From drifting around a concrete skid pad to offroading over rocky terrain, an outing here is one to remember. For even more thrills, jump in the passenger seat and let a pro take you for a one-minute Hot Lap around the high speed courses. Witness the peak of BMW performance as your instructor goes from dead-stop to an odometer-crushing velocity in seconds.

 



 

C is for "Chihuly's Crystal Tower"

Renowned glass sculptor and artist Dale Chihuly has created works that live all over the world in permanent collections, and Greenville, SC, is on that esteemed list of places to boast the claim. But unlike the sculptures, murals, and plaques that make up more than 160+ individual pieces of public art in Greenville, Chihuly's "Rose Crystal Tower" requires just a bit of seeking to locate if you'd like to admire it with a close-up view.

 

The Wyche Sculpture Committee commissioned Chihuly to sculpt a piece honoring Harriet Wyche, a pivotal figure in the creation of Falls Park. You'll find the sculpture in Harriet's Garden, a secondary entrance to Falls Park on the Reedy River, located behind the West End Market.

 

The tower is made of a material Chihuly created himself while installing a chandelier at the Sydney Opera House in Australia when he needed something lighter than glass but also somehow stronger. The final product was something he termed Polyvitro, which many of his sculptures would be made of following its conception. Some of the pieces that make up the tower were used in a sculpture he did in Jerusalem and had brought to Greenville.

 



 

D is for "Dog Days Out in Greenville"

Bring your furry friend along on your visit to Greenville! Our pet-friendly city offers plenty of places for pups (or other pets) to explore with their humans. From scenic walks & sniffs along the Prisma Health Swamp Rabbit Trail to dog-friendly patios at local restaurants, there's plenty to fill your trip with. Depending on when you plan to visit, you can cool off at "Waggin' at the Waterpark," where participating waterparks, Otter Creek and Discovery Island host dog-only days to mark the end of summer.

 

Greenville is also home to several dog-friendly bars and "barkeries" where you can stop for a locally-made treat for your pup. Check out our guide to pet-friendly adventures and start planning your trip!

 



 

E is for "Exhibits at the Museums of Heritage Green"

Peruse Greenville’s cultural heartbeat at Heritage Green, a vibrant campus that brings arts, history, and education together in one dynamic location. Home to institutions like the Greenville County Museum of Art, The Children’s Museum of the Upstate, the Greenville Theatre, the Upcountry History Museum, Sigal Music Museum, and Greenville County Library System Hughes Main Library, this hub offers something for all ages.

 

Explore fascinating exhibits, engage in interactive learning, or enjoy a performance—all just steps away from Downtown. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, history buff, or curious explorer, Heritage Green invites you to celebrate Greenville’s rich cultural heritage.

 



 

F is for "Free Mini Golf at McPherson Park"

Enjoy a classic family-friendly activity without spending a dime at McPherson Park's free mini golf course in Downtown Greenville! Nestled in the city's oldest park, you'll find this charming 18-hole course.

 

To test your putt-putt skills, simply bring your own putter and some golf balls and get ready for some hole-in-one fun. These items aren't available at the course, so make sure to load them up in the car for your Greenville trip. This free activity makes for a perfect outing for all ages to enjoy the outdoors while creating a little friendly competition!

 



 

G is for "Gliding Through Greenville on a Segway Tour"

Greenville Glides offers a variety of tours to explore Greenville, and your experience starts by spending some time getting acquainted with a Segway and how to ride it safely. Then, it's all about gliding around Greenville as you're guided through some of our favorite parts.

 

Take the West End & Falls Park tour, which will take you to some gorgeous views of Falls Park and the Prisma Health Swamp Rabbit Trail System. Or, sample some of Greenville's greatest bites on the Taste & Glide tour. If you prefer a spookier escapade, the Haunted Segway Tour runs in the fall, which combines ghostly tales with visits to Springwood Cemetery and other eerie locations along the Reedy River.

 

No matter what you choose, the whole family can experience the history of Greenville with a fun, "glided" tour.

 



 

H is for "Hangouts at Holland Park "

Discover the energy and excitement of Holland Park, Greenville’s hub for fun, food, and entertainment. This vibrant mixed-use development is home to local favorites like Double Stamp Brewery and Home Team BBQ, making it a must-visit for craft beer lovers and food enthusiasts alike.

 

Plus, you can spend hours climbing, jumping, swinging, and ziplining at Flying Rabbit Adventures. With a spacious outdoor area nearby perfect for gathering with friends and family, Holland Park is a favorite spot to relax and unwind in Greenville.

 



 

I is for "Immersive Dining at Keipi"

Imagine a long table filled with delicious food and wine, bustling with the conversation of friends, family, and strangers. That's the Keipi dinner experience, a Georgian tradition you won't want to miss. To experience the warmth of Georgian hospitality means celebrating connection and longstanding traditions during your meal.

 

Inspired by the ancient Georgian practice of gathering around a communal table for a feast, Keipi's immersive dining experience is unlike any other in Greenville. Savor authentic Georgian dishes, raise a toast with their signature wines, and embrace the spirit of togetherness in a cozy, welcoming setting. You'll find that it’s not just about the food—it’s about the stories, laughter, and bonds shared over the table.

 



 

J is for "Jazz, Blues, and More Live Music Venues"

Greenville, SC's music scene ranges from the soulful ambiance at Blues Boulevard Jazz, where smooth melodies and electric performances set the stage, to lively rhythms at Jack n' Diane's Dueling Piano Bar. With many venues situated in Downtown Greenville, the environment is perfect for a night of jazz, blues, or R&B. 
 

Stop by the Westin Poinsett Greenville or Wine House for live piano music in the evenings—times vary—or snag tickets to one of the larger venues like the Peace Center or Bon Secours Wellness Arena.

 



 

K is for "Kayaking on Lake Jocassee"

Greenville's outdoor scene is known for a multitude of options, but spending time at a nearby lake is a must while visiting. Paddle through crystal-clear waters surrounded by mountain scenery at Lake Jocassee, one of the gems of the Upstate. Paddle around and explore, or get directions and head right for Lake Jocassee's waterfalls that can only be seen or accessed by boat.

 

If you don't own a watercraft, Jocassee Lake Tours has single and tandem kayak rentals available daily from 10:30 am to 5:00 pm. Or, if you're looking for some of the lake's waterfalls and coves only accessible by boat, book one of their guided tours for up to 6 hours of exploration. No matter if you're exploring solo or paddling with a crew, kayaking on Lake Jocassee is one of those activities that makes lifetime memories during a trip to Greenville, SC!

 



 

L is for "Liberty Bridge"

It is by far the best view of Downtown Greenville, suspended high above Falls Park on the Reedy. At 345 feet long, 12 feet wide, and 8 inches thick, the Liberty Bridge has become a visitor's favorite! A single suspension cable supports the bridge itself, forming a miraculous curvature for locals and guests to walk across and take in the sights.

 

Although similar structural work exists in Europe, the Liberty Bridge is a one-of-a-kind creation in the United States. It's hard to miss this breathtaking structure that serves as the centerpiece of Downtown as it draws everyone's attention. From panoramic views of the numerous gardens and rushing waterfalls below to the bustling city scene, one can witness all of this by just walking across the Liberty Bridge.

 

 



 

M is for "Mice on Main Scavenger Hunt"

Embark on a Downtown adventure with the Mice on Main Scavenger Hunt, an experience unique to Greenville that's as fun as it is charming. This public art installation features nine tiny bronze mice hidden along Greenville's tree-lined Main Street in their own distinct hiding spots, waiting to be discovered by sharp-eyed adventurers of all ages.

 

Fun for families, solo travelers, or anyone in between, the Mice on Main Scavenger Hunt adds a playful activity to your visit. Grab a clue from our Downtown Visitor Center or challenge yourself to find them without any hints at all. Start your hunt and see if you can find all nine!

 



 

N is for "Natural Beauty at Conestee Nature Preserve"

A trip to Lake Conestee Nature Preserve means getting to observe over 400+ acres of water, wetlands, and wildlife. Just minutes from Downtown Greenville, this preserve offers trails and a boardwalk for birdwatching, trekking at your own pace, or soaking up the sounds of nature.

Owned and operated by the Conestee Foundation, a private non-profit, Lake Conestee Nature Preserve trails also offer learning stations for kids to enjoy an interactive educational element. Admission is free, but the Foundation encourages visitors to donate to the extremely worthy cause of preserving this wild and historic place.

 



 

O is for "Overlook at Caesars Head State Park"

Stand in awe at the overlook at Caesars Head State Park, where sweeping vistas of the Blue Ridge Mountains stretch as far as the eye can see.

 

Perched at an elevation of over 3,200 feet, this iconic viewpoint offers breathtaking panoramas, especially stunning during the fall foliage season. Don’t miss the chance to spot the dramatic Raven Cliff Falls in the distance or witness the annual hawk migration. Soak in the scenery at this State Park and make this overlook a stop on your Greenville adventure.

 



 

P is for "Pinot the Pig at City Scape Winery"

While City Scape Winery's beverage offerings stand on their own as a reason to stop by, we're presenting another reason to make your way to Pelzer during your Greenville visit: Pinot the Pig. Winery owners Josh and Deb Jones grew up near the Finger Lakes wine region of New York State and developed a love of wine before eventually making Greenville—and its much milder winters—home. When City Scape went up for sale by previous owners in 2015, Josh and Deb took a chance and bought the winery. Pinot The Pig is not only Josh and Deb's personal pet, but he's also the official City Scape mascot.

 

Although Pinot is approaching his senior years, he still loves visitors, playing in his mud pit, and finishing up any leftovers from charcuterie boards. You can find him at the bottom of the vineyard or on the back of City Scape wine bottles and glasses!

 



 

Q is for "Quiet Time in Falls Park's Seldom-Seen Spots"

Falls Park on the Reedy River is anything but a hidden gem—it's a crown jewel. When most visitors come to Greenville, SC, they'll stop by the Liberty Bridge and its breathtaking view of Reedy River Falls; once checked off the list, check out the other lesser-known nooks away from the main attraction. Weave your way below and behind the Liberty Bridge toward the river's pooling area, where you'll find a rocky gully that intersects with a footbridge. (View the City of Greenville's Falls Park interactive map).

Follow footpaths to areas like the Lower Amphitheater where events like the Shakespeare in the Park are held, or Old Mill Garden, home to the remaining foundation of the historic Vardry Mill and used today as an intimate wedding site.

 



 

R is for "Refractor Telescope at Roper Mountain Science Center"

Under a large dome among 62 acres of Greenville County Schools learning space sits a piece of glass so historic, it might surprise you. Roper Mountain Science Center is home to the eighth-largest refractor telescope in the U.S. from 1882, originally hailing from Princeton's Halsted Observatory. At 23-inches in diameter, it was the 2nd-largets telescope in the country at the time and famously dubbed "The War of the Worlds' Telescope" because of its use by "Professor Richard Pierson, famous astronomer" to monitor Mars while being interviewed for the 1938 radio broadcast of War of the Worlds.

Watch for Roper Mountain's Starry Nights laser shows to get a glimpse of the universe through a new lense.

 



 

S is for "Shoeless Joe Jackson"

Born in Pickens County, baseball icon Joe Jackson moved to Greenville, where he was working in one of its many textile mills by age seven. He got his start on the diamond playing for one of the mill teams, and that very same diamond can be visited behind the Brandon Mill on Draper St.

A stop at the Shoeless Joe Jackson Museum and Baseball Library that sits inside his old residence and bears his name is a must for baseball fans. Keep the tour going with a visit to a commemorative statue outside the entrance of Fluor Field.

 



 

T is for "The Towns of Greenville County"

Step beyond the city and explore the charming towns of Greenville County, each with its own unique character and appeal. From the quaint streets of Travelers Rest, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, to the historic charm of Greer with its downtown illuminated by twinkle lights, there’s something special to discover around every corner.

 

Head to Simpsonville for family-friendly parks and vibrant events, or venture to Fountain Inn for small-town charm and local flavors. Mauldin is nearby and home to a 40-acre development that combines restaurants, shopping, and more. Don't miss Taylors, home to creative spaces and gems like an arcade bar, or travel to Landrum, where antiques, art, and mountain views await.

 

Together, these towns offer a rich tapestry of experiences that showcase the diverse beauty of Greenville County.

 



 

U is for "U-Pick Flower Farms"

Brighten your day with a visit to one of Greenville's farms for a U-Pick Flower event! Wander through fields of lavender, dahlias, sunflowers, and more at farms like Elf Leaf Farm, Twin Creeks Lavender Farm, and Sassafrass Flower Farm. These events are local favorites for making personalized bouquets while taking in the sights located just outside the city. Perfect for a fun afternoon with friends, a family adventure, or simply treating yourself to some time outdoors.

 

Most U-Pick dates are held in the summertime when flower fields are at their prime, but keep an eye on the calendars for their pop-up events at farmers markets or local restaurants.

 



 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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V is for "Views for Miles at Sassafras Mountain"

Take your adventures to new heights with a visit to Sassafras Mountain, the highest point in the state of South Carolina. Located just a short drive from Greenville, this stunning peak features an observation tower with panoramic views of four states—South Carolina, North Carolina, Georgia, and Tennessee. On a clear day, you can see for miles, take in the rolling hills and other peaks in the distance. Visitors can plan for an easy drive, park, and short walk to the observation tower.

 

For a challenge, you can also opt to hike your way up. A popular option is picking up part of the Foothills Trail for a steady yet not-too-steep nine-mile roundtrip walk. No matter how you choose to get there, Sassafras Mountain delivers a view that's worth the journey.

 



 

W is for "Wineries, Breweries, and Distillieries"

Sip your way through Greenville’s vibrant craft scene with visits to its wineries, breweries, and distilleries. You can enjoy the peaceful views of Travelers Rest at Eagle Mountain Vineyards & Winery or sip European-style vintages at Victoria Valley Vineyards near Table Rock.

 

Beer enthusiasts can explore innovative brews at spots like Liability Brewing Co. or Yee-Haw Brewing Co., while spirit lovers can savor handcrafted whiskeys and gins at Six & Twenty Distillery. Whether you prefer a flight, a glass, or a cocktail, Greenville offers a flavorful journey for every palate.

 



 

X is for "Xtreme Thrills at Speed Factory Indoor Karting"

Rev up for action at Speed Factory Indoor Karting, where you'll experience the heart-pounding thrill of wheel-to-wheel indoor kart racing. This Greenville hotspot offers European-style electric karts that can reach speeds up to 40 mph, putting you in the driver’s seat for an adrenaline-fueled experience.

 

The expertly designed track challenges racers with twists, turns, and straightaways, perfect for friendly competitions or just channeling your inner speedster. Buckle up and race to the finish line!

 



 

Y is for "YMCA Camp Greenville Landmark: 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. Still, it is also a common spot for weddings and other celebratory occasions.

 

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. Because of its popularity, we suggest checking the website in advance or calling ahead for availability.

 



 

Z is for "Ziplining The Gorge"

Just across the border in North Carolina, an easy drive from Downtown Greenville, SC, The Gorge Zipline is packing a couple of adrenaline-pumping superlatives into one ride—America's steepest and fastest zipline canopy tour. The Gorge features 11 ziplines spanning 1.25 miles, all while overlooking 18,000 acres of protected, unspoiled land. There's also a gravity-defying sky bridge and three rappels you must negotiate, making this a full-on experience with a few obstacles to meet before you even harness up.

 

The suggested minimum age to take the tour is 10 years old, and there's a weight requirement of being somewhere between 70-250 pounds. You also must be in reasonably good condition as you'll be pulling yourself hand-over-hand along a cable and taking a couple of very short hikes along the way. The entire tour will take you around 3-3.5 hours to complete, so it's a perfect day trip for a visit to Greenville.