5 Things We Love about Greenville in the Summer!
Did you attend Artisphere last weekend? For those of you who attended (and endured the heat wave that has swept through the Upstate), you most likely browsed the artist vendor tables, enjoyed performances in various locations and tasted delicious food samples. This weekend-long festival showcased a collection of performers, artists and culinary specialists in celebration of the area’s rich diversity and appreciation for the arts. But if you didn’t get a chance to attend—don’t fret; there is plenty more to look forward to this summer in Greenville, SC!
One of the great things about Greenville is that there’s always something to do. From festivals to performances to sporting events and everything in between, Greenville can be a destination for tourists both near and far. Here are some reasons why we love Greenville in the summer:
1. The Swamp Rabbit Trail
Formally built as a railroad connecting Greenville with Tennessee, the Swamp Rabbit Trail extends about 20 miles between the cities of Greenville and Travelers Rest. Walkers and bikers alike can enjoy the serene views of Falls Park. Over 501,000 people did so last year! Whether you’re alone or in a group, the Swamp Rabbit Trail is the perfect way to work up a sweat this summer. Not the athletic type? Immerse yourself in a good book while sitting on a bench along side the trail or picnic with your significant other!
2. The Greenville Drive
Whether you are an avid baseball fan or simply enjoy a night out sipping a cold beer and eating ballpark food, the Greenville Drive is a great way to experience America’s favorite pastime. Located in the West End of Greenville, Fluor Field is nestled in a hip part of town with neighboring restaurants like the Liberty Tap Room and the Brick Street Café. Game attendees can enjoy promotional events such as dollar drink night on Thursdays and firework shows on Fridays.
3. Brew in the Zoo
As adults, we have fond childhood memories of visiting the zoo with our parents. We would press our noses up to the glass in the aquarium to get a better view of the sharks swimming circles around the other fish. Outside, we would hope to catch an active lioness with her cubs. Nevertheless, those days have long passed and as adults we look forward to a different kind of experience at the zoo. For Greenvillians in the area, we can enjoy the popular Brew in the Zoo, which is being held on Friday, May 29th. Zoo-goers in attendance will have the opportunity to sample an assortment of beers while exploring the zoo after hours.
4. TD Saturday Market
Summer is a time for juicy peaches, freshly cut watermelon and sweet corn on the cob. As a young child I remember seeing produce stands along the road during my family’s drive from Pennsylvania to South Carolina, as we headed towards the beach for our annual vacation. Fresh produce was always the highlight of our trips. But living in the South certainly has its perks! Fresh produce is available practically in our back yard here in Greenville. The TD Saturday Market takes place between Court Street and Washington Street from 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. May through October. Visitors can also purchase fresh flowers and watch cooking demonstrations. There are even activities for kids!
5. State Parks
When people think of South Carolina they most likely think of coastal destinations such as Myrtle Beach, Hilton Head and Charleston. Despite these popular retreats, South Carolina—Greenville specifically—offers close proximity to the mountains along the border of South Carolina, North Carolina and Tennessee. Just a mere 6 miles down the road, Paris Mountain State Park provides 15 miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as campsites for those looking for a ‘staycation’ away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Greenville. For those looking for more of an adventure, Table Rock State Park and Caesar’s Head State Park are a little further at 26 miles and 27.2 miles respectively. Hikers can enjoy breathtaking views and relax in the tranquility of Mother Nature’s gifts.
This short list doesn’t even begin to cover all that Greenville has to offer its visitors in the summer. We’d love to hear your experiences and learn about what you’re looking forward to this summer in Greenville!
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Bethany Haberstroh–Content Strategist
