Falling for Greenville

The newest city to give a ~dam~ about. 

I’m a sucker for waterfalls, which is why I knew I was going to fall in love with Greenville, SC. There’s an awe-inspiring water feature in the middle of the city! What more could you ask for?! Well, just wait—there’s more.

The welcoming city where “nature, culture and Southern hospitality unite” has a lot going for it—from its clean streets and modern buildings to its ideal walkability to its city center bursting at the seams with thriving shops, restaurants, bars and beyond. 

A “big small town,” GVL is just right for all tourist types—whether you’re looking to get out and explore nature; leisurely peruse galleries, boutiques and museums; eat and drink your heart out; or just simply relax and take in the views of the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains. I can confirm it’s that Greenville you’re going to want to add to your bucket list.

DO

Falls Park on the Reedy
Feast your eyes on GVL’s most awe-inspiring attraction: the nationally acclaimed green space feat. the spectacular 345-foot curved Liberty Bridge, held in the air by a single suspension cable (the only one of its kind in the country!), offering unobstructed views of the remarkable Reedy River Falls. (*Pause for the “aws.”*) The city’s “favorite spot” is a sanctuary for nature lovers looking for a gorgeous place to stroll, picnic or just bask in the beauty of it all. Sorry, TLC, we’re def chasing this one. fallspark.net 

Spa H
If I had to describe my experience at Hotel Hartness’ luxe spa in one word, it would be “heavenly.” The relaxation massage was a tranquil escape—think 50 minutes of pure rejuvenation complete with therapeutic botanicals and steamed towels. NTM the masseuse got out knots I didn’t even know I had (!). You’ll feel like a new person after the sesh, guaranteed. hotelhartness.com

The Commons/Unity Park
An all-day affair is in order at The Commons food hall and gathering place, located within Greenville’s newest 60-acre park and right off the Swamp Rabbit Trail. Kick things off with a cuppa at Methodical Coffee and a pastry from Bake Room, then go for a leisurely stroll or bike ride. Post hot girl (or boy) walk, roll up for bevs at The Community Tap or Pangaea Brewing Co. and grab some grub from Automatic Taco or Golden Brown & Delicious. commonsgvl.com; unityparkgreenville.com

EAT

Sully’s Steamers
As soon as you walk into this “hot mess” of an establishment, you’re immediately engulfed in a cloud of steam. Don’t req. your bagel toasted—they top them with a variety of flavorful ingredients and steam them (hence the name), delivering a supersoft texture and peak warmth. For brekkie, I rec the Mr. Burns, your classic sausage, egg and cheese; and for lunch, The Griswold—aka a vacation for your mouth. sullyssteamers.com 

Indaco
If you count carbs—meaning the more the merrier—this Italian resto located adjacent to the Courtyard Marriott Downtown Greenville is right up your alley. For a midday pick-me-up, tuck into the Italian panini—like a grown-up grilled cheese with cured meats on expertly griddled bread (and, hey, an accompanying glass of vino never hurt anyone!)—on the sun-soaked patio, or request a seat by the open kitchen to watch the chefs prep a perfect pizza. indacorestaurant.com

Passerelle Bistro
There are two rules when it comes to this riverside French-inspired bistro: You must snag an outdoor table for the unmatched views of Falls Park on the Reedy, and every meal should begin with the crusty bread from local Rise Bakery served with salted butter and house preserves. Seriously. Of course, the fresh salads, steak frites and ratatouille are great options as well—and wine is an obvious pairing. passerelleinthepark.com 

DRINK

CAMP
Camp out here for a nightcap—whether in drink or dessert form (or both). The modern American eatery serves up a clean, contemporary aesthetic and myriad ops to satisfy any hankering—with pastry chef Lindsay Beck’s seasonally rotating after-dinner delicacies taking the, well, cake… best served with any of the signature ’tails concocted with housemade shrubs, syrups and bitters. campgvl.com 

Juniper
For immaculate vibes no matter the occasion, head to the top of downtown’s AC Hotel, where you’ll be transported to an intoxicating greenery-filled rooftop restaurant and bar. Essentially, it’s like an enchanted forest—but with really good cocktails and mocktails. Opt for the glass-covered “green room” or loungey patio for primo views you’re def gonna wanna fill your ’Gram feed with. junipergvl.com 

Yee-Haw Brewing Co.
Giddy on up for brews out the wazoo—either brewed on-site or brought in from the OG brewery in Johnson City, Tennessee (*cue “Wagon Wheel” lyric*) or the newest addition in Knoxville—with range to keep your whole crew hoppy (er, happy!). The renovated taproom and beer garden is equipped with lawn and arcade games, ample TVs, and a grassy lawn, making for an optimal outing every visit, whether to catch sports or just kick back with a bev. yeehawbrewing.com

STAY

Courtyard Marriott Downtown Greenville
Location, location, location! Thanks to its primo position on Main Street, you’ll be in the center of all the action and within a ~15-minute walk of everything in the downtown core. To boot, just below the hotel, O-Ku and Indaco (hello, outdoor bar) beckon for an easy-access evening ’tail or divine dining. In the wintertime, the courtyard also turns into a fam-friendly ice-skating rink. marriott.com

Hotel Hartness
Rest and relaxation meet their match at the former home of one of Greenville’s most prominent families. The now four-star boutique hotel was a treat—from the cozy room with plush robes (I had to stop myself from taking it home) and spacious shower/bathtub combo to the pristine grounds with walking/biking trails to the homey lobby and The Captain bar. Pro tips: Early risers earn a complimentary brekkie feat. eggs from the hotel’s chickens. And make a rez at the on-site restaurant, Patterson Kitchen + Bar, for an exquisite dinner. hotelhartness.com