Greenville, South Carolina, is a great place to be if you plan a vacation. There is a mix of nature, history, and art. It is good to know that there are plenty of places to explore if you stay longer than a few days. So where should you go? Here are the best day trips from Greenville, South Carolina, which we think are worth doing.
When exploring the beautiful landscapes and historical treasures of Greenville, South Carolina, there is no shortage of exciting day trips. Whether you’re a resident or visiting our charming city, this ultimate guide will unveil the absolute best day trips from Greenville.
From scenic mountain getaways to enchanting coastal escapes and everything in between, prepare to be captivated by an array of remarkable destinations that sit just a stone’s throw away from our vibrant city. Join us as we unravel the hidden gems and must-visit attractions awaiting your discovery beyond the borders of Greenville.
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Best Day trips from Greenville, SC
Asheville, North Carolina
Located just over an hour’s drive from Greenville, Asheville is a must-visit destination for any day trip. With its vibrant arts scene and stunning mountain views, this city has something to offer everyone.
- Breathtaking Scenery: Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville boasts picturesque scenery that will awaken you. Take a hike along the famous Blue Ridge Parkway or visit the nearby Pisgah National Forest for breathtaking views of waterfalls and lush forests.
- Arts and Culture: Known as an artsy haven, Asheville is home to numerous galleries and studios showcasing works by local artists. Explore the River Arts District and discover unique pieces of pottery, paintings, and sculptures. Don’t forget to check out the iconic Biltmore Estate – a mansion with beautifully landscaped gardens that offers guided tours.
- Foodie Paradise: Indulge your taste buds in some of North Carolina’s finest cuisine in Asheville’s thriving food scene. From farm-to-table restaurants serving locally sourced dishes to craft breweries offering unique brews, endless options exist to satisfy any palate.
Whether seeking adventure in nature or immersing yourself in art and culture, Asheville promises an unforgettable day trip experience from Greenville.
DuPont State Forest, South Carolina
Located just a short drive from Greenville, South Carolina, DuPont State Forest is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. With its stunning waterfalls, picturesque trails, and diverse wildlife, this natural oasis offers plenty of opportunities for adventure and relaxation.
DuPont State Forest is home to some of the most breathtaking waterfalls in the region. Visitors can marvel at the cascading beauty of High Falls as it plunges 150 feet into a deep pool below or take a stroll to Triple Falls with its triple-tiered splendor. For a more peaceful experience, Hooker Falls provides a tranquil setting for picnicking by the river.
With over 80 miles of hiking and biking trails, DuPont State Forest provides endless possibilities for exploration. From easy walks to challenging hikes, there is something for everyone. Marvel at panoramic views while hiking up Cedar Rock Mountain or discover hidden gems along the scenic Grassy Creek Trail. Cyclists can navigate through rolling terrain on well-maintained mountain biking routes like Ridgeline Trail.
Whether you’re seeking serenity among nature’s wonders or craving an adrenaline rush through thrilling adventures, DuPont State Forest promises an unforgettable day trip from Greenville that will leave you yearning for more outdoor escapades in this remarkable wilderness.
Table Rock State Park, South Carolina
Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, not far from Greenville, lies the captivating Table Rock State Park – a veritable paradise for those who find solace in the embrace of nature. With its breathtaking views and myriad recreational opportunities, this park promises an experience that caters to all, from the thrill-seeker to the tranquil wanderer.
A network of hiking trails, suitable for all skill levels, weaves through the dense forest, leading explorers to hidden gems of cascading waterfalls. But the crown jewel of the park is undoubtedly Table Rock Mountain. Rising majestically to an elevation of 3,124 feet, it challenges the more adventurous hikers to conquer its peak, rewarding them with panoramic vistas that stretch as far as the eye can see.
Yet the allure of Table Rock State Park extends beyond its trails. Picnicking areas dot the landscape, inviting visitors to relax and soak in the serene beauty of their surroundings. Lake Oolenoy adds a touch of tranquility, offering opportunities for fishing and swimming.
A visit to Table Rock State Park is an invitation to embark on an adventure, a journey of discovery, where natural beauty unfolds at every turn. Just a short drive from Greenville, it’s an escapade that will leave you with lasting memories.
Helen, Georgia
In the Blue Ridge Mountains, Helen is a quaint Bavarian-style village that feels like it was plucked straight from Europe. With its charming architecture, cobblestone streets, and alpine atmosphere, this town offers a unique day trip experience that will transport you to another world.
- Breathtaking Scenery: Surrounded by stunning mountain views and nestled along the Chattahoochee River, Helen boasts some of the most picturesque landscapes in Georgia. Whether you’re strolling downtown or exploring nearby hiking trails like Anna Ruby Falls or Unicoi State Park, you’ll immerse yourself in nature’s beauty at every turn.
- Cultural Delights: From traditional German cuisine to lively beer gardens and annual Oktoberfest celebrations, Helen is known for embracing its Bavarian heritage. Don’t miss out on indulging in a delicious bratwurst or schnitzel meal while enjoying live music and dancing. You can also explore local shops filled with handcrafted treasures and souvenirs inspired by German traditions.
- Outdoor Adventures: If you’re an adrenaline junkie or simply love outdoor activities, there’s no shortage of adventure to be found in Helen. Go tubing down the river during summer months, paddleboarding on Lake Burton or take on one of Northeast Georgia’s challenging hikes such as conquering Blood Mountain – all guaranteed to get your heart racing
Congaree National Park, South Carolina
The stunning Congaree National Park is located just a short drive from Greenville, South Carolina. This hidden gem offers visitors an enchanting escape into nature’s wonders.
Congaree National Park boasts some of the tallest and oldest trees on the East Coast, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts. Explore miles of scenic trails that wind through towering forests and alongside tranquil rivers. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife such as deer, bobcats, and over 200 species of birds that call this park home.
Take a leisurely canoe or kayak ride down Cedar Creek to truly immerse yourself in the beauty of this untouched wilderness. Don’t forget to bring your camera as you’re bound to capture breathtaking photographs along the way.
With lush greenery in every direction, Congaree National Park provides an unparalleled opportunity to reconnect with nature while enjoying peace and solitude away from city life.
Spartanburg, SC
Spartanburg, SC, offers a variety of attractions and activities for day trippers from Greenville to enjoy.
- Visit the Chapman Cultural Center: This vibrant center houses multiple cultural organizations, including the Spartanburg Art Museum and the Spartanburg Science Center. Immerse yourself in art exhibits or learn something new about science in an interactive setting.
- Discover history at Walnut Grove Plantation: Step back in time by visiting this preserved plantation that dates back to the 18th century. Take a guided tour of the historic house or explore the grounds on your own to gain insight into Southern colonial life.
- Enjoy nature at Croft State Park: This state park is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts with over 7,000 acres of woodlands and lakes. Take a hike through scenic trails, go fishing or boating on one of its many lakes, or have a picnic surrounded by picturesque views.
Whether you’re interested in art and culture, history or outdoor adventures, Spartanburg has something for everyone seeking an enriching day trip experience.
Athens, GA
Athens, Georgia, is a vibrant city just over an hour’s drive from Greenville. Home to the University of Georgia, this bustling city uniquely blends Southern charm and youthful energy.
- Visit the Georgia Museum of Art: Explore a vast collection of American art spanning several centuries at this impressive museum. From paintings to sculptures, there’s something here for everyone to appreciate.
- Stroll through the picturesque North Campus: Take a leisurely walk through the historic North Campus of the University of Georgia. Admire stunning architecture, beautifully manicured gardens, and iconic landmarks like the majestic Phi Kappa Hall.
Indulge in delectable cuisine at Athens’ thriving food scene:
- Dine at The National: This farm-to-table restaurant presents an innovative menu featuring seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms. Enjoy dishes inspired by Mediterranean flavors paired with carefully crafted cocktails.
- Treat yourself to Chops & Hops: An upscale gastropub serving mouthwatering burgers made with grass-fed beef and inventive craft brews on tap.
Discover why Athens, GA is not only known as a college town but also as a cultural hub with its diverse culinary offerings and artistic treasures.
Charlotte, NC
Just a two-hour drive from Greenville, the bustling city of Charlotte, North Carolina, awaits. Begin your exploration with a trip to the NASCAR Hall of Fame, where you can get up close to iconic race cars and learn about the sport’s rich history. From there, step into a natural sanctuary at the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden. Spanning 380 acres, the garden hosts an awe-inspiring array of flowers and plants that provide a tranquil respite from the urban hustle.
Charlotte is also a gastronomic delight, especially at The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar. This unique eatery offers fusion dishes that daringly blend sushi rolls with hamburgers for an unforgettable culinary experience. For shopping aficionados, SouthPark Mall is the go-to destination with its high-end retailers like Louis Vuitton and Tiffany & Co., making it perfect for those with a taste for designer items.
For the more adventurous, the U.S. National Whitewater Center offers exhilarating outdoor activities, including whitewater rafting, ziplining, and rock climbing. Finally, end your day with a rush of adrenaline at Carowinds Amusement Park, promising a thrilling ride on its various attractions.
Spartanburg, SC
Spartanburg is an ideal day trip destination from Greenville, South Carolina. Located just 30 miles east of Greenville, this lively city offers a mix of history, culture, and outdoor activities to explore.
- History buffs will appreciate a visit to the Walnut Grove Plantation, where they can step back in time and learn about life during the American Revolution.
- For art enthusiasts, the Chapman Cultural Center houses multiple galleries showcasing local and regional artwork.
- In need of some retail therapy? The WestGate Mall offers a wide variety of stores for shopping enthusiasts.
Whether you’re interested in delving into history or immersing yourself in creative endeavors or simply indulging in some retail therapy, Spartanburg has something to offer for everyone on your day trip from Greenville.
Atlanta, GA
Home to the busiest airport in the world, Atlanta is only a three-hour drive from Greenville.
- The Georgia Aquarium showcases an impressive collection of marine life with exhibits featuring whale sharks, dolphins, and penguins.
- Centennial Olympic Park, built for the 1996 Summer Olympics, offers open green spaces and fountains perfect for picnics or strolling.
Venturing downtown, you can explore:
- The historic neighborhood of Sweet Auburn Curb Market which has been serving up fresh produce and specialty foods since 1924.
- A visit to the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, where you can tour his childhood home and stand on the steps where he gave his iconic “I Have a Dream” speech.
Travelers seeking retail therapy will find their fix at:
- The upscale shopping destination of Lenox Square Mall, housing high-end brands like Louis Vuitton and Cartier. Atlanta’s eclectic neighborhoods are worth exploring:
- In Little Five Points, known as Atlanta’s bohemian district you’ll find unique boutiques, record stores, and vibrant street art.
Blue Ridge Mountains
If you are based in downtown Greenville, the best way to get up in the mountains is by train. Amtrak does have a stop in the town of Greenville. If you leave the station on the main street there is a bus stop where you can catch a bus to the Blue Ridge Mountains.
The Blue Ridge Mountains are beautiful all year round and make a great day trip from Greenville SC. The great thing about mountains is the winters are mild, the summers are hot and the fall is the most amazing time for scenery.
If you travel from Greenville, South Carolina to Asheville, North Carolina, you will find one of the most fascinating places in the country. Although Asheville is in NC, the city does not feel like one. The mountains are always there and in the backdrop, the city buzzes.
The mountains dominate the city. The River Haywood flows through the town. There are a number of interesting downtown areas, which you can stroll around and take time out from walking around to take in the culture.
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Check out the Town
Downtown Travelers Rest is a great little place to check out. You will start on a highway that will take you up to the mountains and then carry on in a lovely little loop around the town.
There are several waterfalls in the area and an old cemetery which is so picturesque. People also love to hang out on the River.
One of the best things about the town is that the roads are wide, making driving around easy. There is also an Amtrak stop in Travelers Rest.
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Explore the Historic District
Downtown Greenville is very pretty and is a great spot to stroll around. Some visitors will fall in love with Greenville.
You can do so many attractions and tours in the area. From food tours to history tours, there are lots of options for you to choose from.
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The Shops
Downtown Greenville has a great selection of shops. If you enjoy coffee, then there are some great coffee places.
Some other great shops are Bakers Bake Shop, which offers the best brownies and cookies in town. The old-fashioned doughnut shop, at Bakers Bake Shop, also has some great doughnuts.
There are also a number of bookshops downtown. Visit these places if you want to stock up on books, or just spend some time looking around.
Greenville also has a great little market area which is centrally located downtown. You can get fresh fruits, vegetables, baked goods, and other goodies here. It is also great for people-watching.
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Clemson
If you want a college town vibe then Clemson is the place for you. It is the main town of Clemson University. Most people love Clemson. It is easy to get to and if you are on a budget then you will be amazed at what you can find cheaply.
Clemson also has a beautiful lake, Lake Hartwell. If you are into your boating then the lake is the best place to be.
See Related: Best Day Trips from Asheville, North Carolina
The Avenue
If you are staying in Greenville, The Avenue is a great place to live. The Avenue is the heart of Greenville and the town’s heart.
The Avenue hosts lots of events throughout the year, the most popular being The Greenville Wine and Food Experience. This is a great event, where you can sample food and sip wine.
There are a number of great restaurants and bars along the Avenue. If you are walking then there is a bench area available so you can sit down and enjoy a cold drink while people-watching.
Whatever your interests are, The Avenue is a great place to be in Greenville. Check out the shops, check out the bars and restaurants, and enjoy the food, the smells, and the sounds.
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Fall is a Great Time
Greenville always has something to do all year round. However, during the fall there is a lot of excitement. The leaves change color and the town buzzes.
Greenville is a great town all year round, but if you time your visit for the fall then.
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