Autumn in Greenville, SC

10 Ways to Fall in Love with Greenville

It’s fall, y’all! Cooler temperatures bring a season bursting with family-friendly festivals, college football, lively farmers markets, and countless opportunities to explore. Whether you’re picking apples, wandering pumpkin patches, cheering at hockey games, or braving haunted houses, Greenville has everything you need to create unforgettable autumn memories. Here are 10 of the best ways to savor the season with your loved ones right here in our vibrant corner of South Carolina.

2.  Wind Your Way Through Some of the Southeast's Largest Corn Mazes

Get ready for twists, turns, and plenty of fall fun at some of the Southeast’s most impressive corn mazes, all just a short drive from Greenville!

Denver Downs 

Recently named one of the "Top 10 Best Corn Mazes in the U.S. to Visit This Fall" by USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice, Denver Downs delivers a family-friendly maze experience by day and night—so pack your flashlights and glow sticks! Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this farm has been run by the Garrison Family since 1869. Originally a cotton farm turned dairy operation, it’s now a hub for agritourism and entertainment.

But the fun doesn’t stop at the maze! Enjoy live music, s’mores around the bonfire, a petting zoo, a pumpkin patch, the quirky PigTucky Derby, and so much more. Other attractions include swings, slides, ziplines, gem mining, a cow train, and special weekend events.

1515 Denver Rd., Anderson
Open September 27–November 10 (Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays)

Stewart Farms 

For a corn maze with a twist, head to Stewart Farms and their Peanuts-themed corn MAiZE, celebrating the 75th anniversary of the beloved comic strip. Families can enjoy daytime maze adventures, while thrill-seekers can take on "The Big Boo" haunted MAiZE on select October nights (not recommended for kids under 6).

After dark, Stewart Farms transforms into a glowing wonderland with nighttime wagon rides along a lit-up trail featuring Halloween scenes and jack-o-lanterns. Explore their 10-acre UPIK pumpkin patch with over 70 varieties, meet the farm animals, and visit the Bee Barn to learn how pumpkin pollen becomes honey. Before you go, stock up on fresh fall veggies, colorful mums, and autumn decor at the Farm Market.

6600 Highway 92, Enoree
Open September 21–October 27 (Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays)

Strawberry Hill USA 

Strawberry Hill’s 14th annual corn maze is back with a whimsical Wizard of Oz theme for 2024! Navigate through designs featuring Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Cowardly Lion, the Emerald City, and more. After tackling the maze, hop on a weekend hayride to their farm playground, where kids can jump, slide, swing, and meet the friendly farm animals.

Round out your day with lunch or a sweet treat at the Strawberry Hill USA Café, then browse pumpkins, seasonal décor, and fall essentials before snapping family photos with their festive outdoor backdrops.

3097 Hwy. 11 W., Chesnee
Open September 28–October 27 (Daily, 10 a.m.–6 p.m.)

        

3. Dine Alfresco

Fall is the perfect time to savor Greenville’s culinary scene outdoors, whether you prefer rooftop views, sidewalk seating, or cozy patios.

For a meal with a side of fresh air, check out Limoncello, Cantina 76, or UP on the Roof —a favorite for its skyline views and weekend brunch. Looking for a unique spot? Grab a pumpkin-inspired treat from Camilla Kitchen at M. Judson Booksellers and enjoy it while sitting on their inviting steps. Or, swing by Rise Bakery for an artisanal pastry and take a stroll around The Village of West Greenville with your croissant in hand. From muffins and scones to cookies and fresh bread, the flavors of fall are calling!

Looking for more options? Try dining on the patio at one of these local favorites:

Whether you’re indulging in a decadent dessert, sipping on a seasonal cocktail, or enjoying a full-course meal, Greenville’s outdoor dining options make every bite better.

              

The Lazy Goat

Guests can enjoy house made drinks and a delicious menu on the patio overlooking the Reedy River. Whatever your pleasure, The Lazy Goat is truly time well wasted.

           

7. Take a Hike to See Beautiful Fall Leaves & Waterfalls 

Lace up your hiking boots and immerse yourself in the vibrant colors of autumn at three breathtaking state parks near Greenville. Each offers its own unique way to experience fall leaves, cascading waterfalls, and the beauty of the season.

  • Caesars Head State Park (Cleveland, SC): Hike the 4.4-mile round-trip trail to a scenic overlook of the 420-foot Raven Cliff Falls, the tallest waterfall in South Carolina. Feeling adventurous? Take on the Dismal Trail Loop—a strenuous 6.6-mile round trip that leads to Wilderness Bridge, a one-of-a-kind suspension bridge crossing the very top of Raven Cliff Falls.

  • Jones Gap State Park (Marietta, SC): With over 60 miles of trails, Jones Gap is a hiker’s paradise. One must-see trail is the Rainbow Falls Trail, a 5-mile round trip to a stunning 140-foot waterfall plunging over a granite cliff. The dramatic scenery will leave you in awe.

  • Paris Mountain State Park (Greenville, SC): Just minutes from downtown Greenville, Paris Mountain offers fun for the whole family. Enjoy hiking and biking trails, picnic shelters, and a scenic campground perfect for a weekend getaway.

Greenville and Upcountry area waterfalls delight nature lovers and photographers alike. Over 30 accessible waterfalls grace Greenville, Oconee and Pickens Counties in northwestern South Carolina.

 

Insider's Tip: Fall foliage in Greenville County typically peaks in late October, with the northern areas like Caesars Head and Jones Gap blazing with color first. By early November, downtown Greenville will be awash in autumn hues.

Person walking across Wilderness Bridge in Autumn


 

8. Mark Your Calendar for Fall Festivals in Greenville

With crisp autumn air and Halloween just around the corner, there’s no better way to embrace the season than by attending a fall festival (or two, or three)! Here’s a lineup of can’t-miss events happening in Greenville this fall:

  • Oktoberfest | Sept. 27–29 | Fireforge Crafted Beer
    Raise your stein at this festive celebration featuring stein-hoisting competitions, live music, and German-inspired food and drinks.

  • The Cook’s Station Fall Festival | Sat, Oct. 5 | 9 AM–4 PM | The Cook’s Station
    Explore tent sales, enjoy food samples, and enter to win raffle prizes at this local favorite.

  • 2024 Kroc Fest | Sat, Oct. 5 | 11 AM–2 PM | Kroc Center
    Fun for the whole family! Dive into a floating pumpkin patch, meet animals at the petting zoo, enjoy pony rides, trick-or-treating, and snap memories at a 360-degree photo booth.

  • Bank of America Fall for Greenville | Nov. 8–10 | Downtown Greenville
    This iconic three-day event is a foodie’s dream! Sample 250+ dishes from 50+ local restaurants, sip on craft beers and wine, and enjoy live performances from over 80 musical acts—all while soaking up the vibrant downtown atmosphere.

From food and fun to pumpkins and pints, fall festivals in Greenville are ready to delight locals and visitors alike. Which one will you attend?

        

9. Get Your Kiddos in Costume and Celebrate Halloween

Looking for a spooktacular time? Head to the Greenville Zoo’s Boo in the Zoo 👻 (Oct. 16–20 and Oct. 23–30) for an evening of family-friendly Halloween fun. Enjoy trick-or-treating, slightly spooky decorations, Ghost Town, Dragon Alley, and—of course—the animals!

Want more festive fun? Here’s another great event to check out with your little ghouls and goblins in tow:

  • Jeepers Creepers Cruise Inn | Sat., Oct. 26 | 6–9 PM | Downtown Fountain Inn
    Dress up, trunk-or-treat, and wander through 175 decked-out Jeeps while enjoying live tunes by the Vinyl Junkies, Halloween-themed food, pumpkin painting, games, and contests. It’s a frightfully good time for the whole family!

More events will be announced in mid-to-late September 2024—stay tuned for updates!


 

10. Hang out with Stomper for Ear-resistible Hockey Fun!

Watch the Greenville Swamp Rabbits thump some pucks and kick some tails (on the ice) this fall! This professional ice hockey team (ECHL affiliate of the LA Kings and AHL affiliate of the Ontario Reign) opens its season against the Orlando Solar Bears on October 18, 2024, at the Bon Secours Wellness Arena. What better way to enjoy the crisp, cool fall weather than cheering with the Rabbettes rink-side at a fast-and-furious paced hockey match?! The Swamp Rabbits' season goes through mid-April 2025 and includes 36 home games. Get your tickets today and gear up at the Hop Shop! 

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