How to Spend One Dog-Friendly Day in Greenville, South Carolina
Greenville, SC is one of my favorite day trips from Asheville, NC. After living in Columbus, OH for 10+ years, it’s still wild to me that I can take a reasonable day trip without driving 2.5+ hours one way!
About Greenville, South Carolina
Founded in 1768 as Pleasantburg, Greenville, South Carolina, has a storied history that gained momentum during the 19th century. The town's transformation was driven by the booming textile industry, with mills like the Brandon Mill playing a pivotal role in shaping the local economy. This era marked Greenville as a thriving mill community, attracting a diverse population and contributing significantly to its economic development.
The mid-20th century saw Greenville undergo a revitalization phase, marked by urban renewal projects and the establishment of Falls Park on the Reedy River. The iconic Liberty Bridge now spans the park, symbolizing Greenville's commitment to preserving its natural beauty. Today, the city stands as a vibrant cultural and economic hub, with downtown Greenville teeming with shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. The legacy of the textile mills is evident in the city's rich history, blending seamlessly with modern developments and a commitment to sustainability, making Greenville an intriguing destination for those seeking a unique blend of Southern history and contemporary progress.
You can easily spend a long weekend exploring Greenville and its surrounding area. But if you only have one day in the city, these are my top recommendations!
Where to Eat & Drink
Methodical Coffee: The start of any great travel day begins with coffee. Methodical Coffee’s original downtown location is the perfect way to kick off your day in Greenville. (There are two additional locations throughout the city, so you’re never far from great coffee.) Grab a coffee and pastry, and stroll down Main Street towards Falls Park on the Reedy.
Swamp Rabbit Cafe & Grocery: Swamp Rabbit Cafe & Grocery sells food from 300+ local farmers and food artisans and is on a mission to buy, sell and cook with fresh, local food to support a sustainable food system and provide a community space where people come together to celebrate meals. I can’t think of a better business to support when visiting Greenville! Stop in for local groceries, fresh-baked pastries, or grab a meal / coffee / draft beer from the cafe. Swamp Rabbit has indoor and outdoor seating, including a kids area and a dog-friendly patio, so you can enjoy the space for as long as you’d like. When you’re finished eating, hop right on the Swamp Rabbit Trail for a walk or cycle adventure!
Condado: It wouldn’t be a Claire Cohen travel guide without highlighting a taco joint! When I moved out of Columbus, I was most sad to be leaving behind my local Condado. Condado catered my wedding, and I would get takeout tacos from them at least twice a month. So, I was thrilled to see that they opened a location in Greenville! They were recently voted one of the best cheap places to eat in the U.S. by USA Today and have been voted Best Tacos in multiple cities across the Midwest. Condado partners with local artists to decorate each location with a spin on their classic Dia De Los Muertos style, and they offer so many GOOD vegan/vegetarian protein options (my favorites are the veggie chorizo and Thai chili tofu on a Sweet Lucy shell).
Visit a Brewery (or three): Much like Asheville, Greenville is overflowing with craft beer options. My go-to picks are The Eighth State Brewing Company and Southernside Brewing Co. I also love The Whale’s dog-friendly space and the mix of local taps in the tasking room. If you’re feeling really adventurous, visit all eight breweries on the Brewmiceter Hops Hunt!
CAMP: CAMP’s menu is inspired by the great outdoors, and is a great choice for a more upscale meal. They have an entire menu section dedicated to “Field,” which features an incredible selection of plant-based and veggie-friendly options! (The Dark Spore Mushroom Sandwich from their brunch menu is my favorite dish!)
Where to Explore
Falls Park on the Reedy: Nestled in the heart of downtown Greenville, Falls Park on the Reedy is a beautiful 32-acre park centered around Reedy River Falls, a cascading waterfall that serves as the centerpiece of the landscape. The park features lush green spaces, meandering pathways, and picturesque gardens, providing a tranquil escape for locals and visitors alike. The iconic Liberty Bridge gracefully spans the falls, offering panoramic views and a perfect vantage point for capturing the beauty of the water and surrounding nature. Falls Park is not only a scenic retreat but also a cultural hub, hosting events, festivals, and art installations, making it a dynamic and vibrant destination that encapsulates the spirit of Greenville.
Swamp Rabbit Trail: This 22-mile walking and biking greenway winds along the Reedy River, passing through the heart of downtown Greenville. If you didn’t bring your own, I would suggest renting a bike (or an e-bike!) from Reedy Ridesand creating your own hop on/hop off tour, stopping at shops, restaurants and breweries (like Southernside Brewing Co.) along the trail that look appealing to you. Must-sees along the trail are the Rudolf Anderson Memorial Airplane, Falls Park on the Reedy, and Furman Lake.
Other Activities: Stop by Group Therapy for an afternoon of indoor mini-golf/axe throwing/duckpin bowling, take in a show at the Peace Center or Greenville Theater, hop on a Greenville Glides Segway Tour, or (continue to) eat your way through Greenville with Greenville History & Culinary Tours.
And there you have it! There is so much to love about Greenville, SC, and I already can’t wait to return.