21 Best Day Trips From Greenville SC
Are you want nothing more than a change of scenery, or maybe are just looking for any reason to get away from the house, explore, and have some fun along the way? Well then, read on!
Here you can check out these 14 best trips from Greenville, South Carolina, that will satisfy your wanderlust. Whether you’re looking to explore the natural beauty of Upstate South Carolina or want to check out some local history, there’s something for everyone. So get ready – these trips might change your life!
Best Day Trips From Greenville
1. Asheville, NC
Exploring the Downtown area is a great way to spend a day in Asheville. With its historic buildings and lively streets, there’s always something going on. Start by walking along Battery Park Avenue, where you’ll find beautiful gardens and the River Arts District.
You’ll find art galleries, artist studios, restaurants, and plenty of unique shops here. If you’re looking for some local culture, then make sure to check out the Folk Art Center, which showcases the work of mountain craftspeople from across the region. You can also visit The Grove Arcade, an old coal storage building turned into a fascinating shopping center with a restored facade.
2. Dupont State Forest, NC
Dupont State Forest, located within an easy drive from Greenville, is a natural sanctuary that beckons adventurers and nature lovers alike. It’s located in Asheville, North Carolina.
Known for its stunning waterfalls and extensive network of trails, it’s a place where you can clear your mind and focus on the physical challenge of the terrain.
Covering over 10,000 acres, this outdoor paradise offers more than 80 miles of trails suitable for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.
Harness the tranquility and resilience of Dupont State Forest as a source of inspiration for overcoming obstacles.
3. Croft State Park, SC
Croft State Park is a serene escape for those looking to unwind and reconnect with nature. Just an hour from Greenville, this park is rich with verdant forests, flowing streams, and a calm lake perfect for fishing or canoeing.
Offering over 20 miles of trails, it’s a place where you can push your physical limits with a vigorous hike or enjoy a leisurely walk to clear your head.
Such moments of solitude are vital for entrepreneurs, providing a break from the digital world and an opportunity to reflect on business strategies away from office distractions.
The park’s history as a WWII army training base also speaks to the importance of preparation and adaptability.
4. Chimney Rock State Park
Chimney Rock State Park is a beautiful spot in the North Carolina mountains, perfect for a day trip. Named after “Chimney Rock,” the 535-million-year-old monolith is considered one of the most iconic sites in North Carolina.
It features a beautiful 75-mile panoramic, where you get stunning views of Hickory Nut Gorge and Lake Lure. Just located roughly 25 miles from downtown Ashville, it’s easily accessible, and there’s plenty to do once you get there.
With a state-of-the-art elevator, you can get closer to the top of the Chimney, where you can admire that breath-taking view. Sat at an elevation of 2,280 feet above sea level, the picture is so beautiful that the climb is worth the effort.
This beautiful park is over 5,700 acres and features numerous hiking trails, including the famous Hickory Nut Falls Trail. So, whether you’re into hiking or nature photography, this park is a natural attraction, and the views from the top are stunning.
5. Helen, GA
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Helen, GA, is a charming re-creation of a Bavarian alpine village, complete with cobblestone streets and gingerbread-trimmed buildings.
Roughly a two-hour drive from Greenville, Helen offers a unique cultural experience that can reignite an entrepreneur’s creativity.
The town is famous for its annual Oktoberfest, but its appeal extends year-round with authentic German cuisine, shops, and outdoor activities like tubing on the Chattahoochee River.
6. Congaree National Park, SC
Congaree National Park is a hidden gem located approximately two hours from Greenville, SC.
This park is home to some of the tallest trees in the eastern United States and houses a rich biodiversity within its expansive floodplain forest.
Walking along the boardwalk loop or paddling down Cedar Creek provides visitors a chance to witness the unbridled beauty of nature and the importance of preservation
7. Athens, GA
Athens, GA, is not just a storied college town; it’s a hub of innovation and cultural richness, less than a two-hour drive from Greenville.
This vibrant city is known for its dynamic music scene, historic architecture, and a strong sense of community.
Visitors can explore Athens’ thriving downtown, which is filled with local shops, art galleries, and an array of dining options that showcase the creativity of the local cuisine.
The University of Georgia adds a youthful energy and fosters a culture of learning and growth.
8. Charlotte, NC
Charlotte, NC is about a two-hour drive from Greenville. It’s a bustling metropolis that combines Southern charm with a modern skyline.
As a major business hub, it offers a glimpse into the corporate world and the dynamics of a rapidly growing city.
Entrepreneurs can take advantage of networking opportunities, attend workshops, or simply soak in the atmosphere of innovation that pervades the city. Charlotte’s diverse districts, from the artsy NoDa to the upscale SouthPark, provide a variety of cultural experiences.
Visiting the city’s numerous museums, parks, and gourmet eateries can also offer a break from the work grind and a chance for creative rejuvenation.
9. Atlanta, GA
Atlanta, GA, a bustling nexus of culture, commerce, and history, sits just over a two-hour drive from Greenville.
A visit to Atlanta can be quite entertaining, with landmarks like the Georgia Aquarium and the historic Fox Theatre.
It’s also home to inspirational sites such as the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site.
Enjoy thrilling rides with a visit to Six Flags. Check out the beautiful skyline and much more. There’s likely something for the whole family to do in Atlanta.
10. Lake Lure
Lake Lure is a beautiful spot in the North Carolina mountains created by the Rocky Broad River. It runs through Hickory Nut Gorge and remains nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains’ hills.
This lake has been a famous filming location for Thunder Road, Dirty Dancing, A breed Apart, The Last of the Mohicans, and Firestarter. Here you can take long, relaxing walks through the boardwalk at any time of year and cross the Flowering Bridge. Or you can enjoy a picnic by the lake.
11. Table Rock State Park
Table Rock State Park is a beautiful spot in the North Carolina mountains that offers stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities. With its well-maintained hiking trails, gorgeous lake, and ample camping facilities, it’s easy to see why this is a popular spot for travellers and locals alike.
However, the highlight of Table Rock State Park is undoubtedly the views of Lake Jocassee. The state created this 7,500-acre reservoir was built in 1973, and it’s now widely known for its pristine waters and stunning mountain scenery.
This lake has the cold Appalachian mountain rivers that flow in, keeping it cool and crystal-clear all year-round. In addition, several waterfalls flow directly into the lake, including Mill Creek Falls, Wright Fork falls, Moondance Falls, and Laurel Fork Falls.
12. Hickory Nut Falls
Hickory Nut Falls is a stunning waterfall located in Table Rock State Park. This trail takes you to the bottom of the tallest waterfall in the state of North Carolina, standing at 404 feet.
With a moderate 1.4-mile round-trip hike, it’s perfect for families with small children. There are plenty of picnic tables, benches, and resting areas conveniently placed for guests to relax and take in the beauty surrounding them.
When you reach the bottom, a rare ecosystem awaits you. With cool, damp rock, rare plants and amphibians inhabit here. You can refresh yourself in the waterfalls’ mist, all while taking in the fantastic view.
13. Caesar’s Head State Park
A short drive from Greenville, South Carolina, is Caesar’s Head State Park, a beautiful spot that offers stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains.
The park is home to several different plants and animals, and it’s a great place to go hiking or camping. Here are some of the top recommendations on what you can do at this State Park:
- Go to the Caesars Head Overlook
- Observe Raptors migrate to their feeding grounds at the Hawk Watch
- Go for a swim in the middle Saluda River
- Hike the Raven Cliff Falls trail
- Hike the Rainbow Falls Trail
14. Clemson Botanical Gardens
The Clemson Botanical Gardens is a public garden located on the campus of Clemson University in Clemson, South Carolina. Open all year round, the gardens feature various plants, including many azaleas.
In the 1950s, this garden was a camellia collection, and now it is a 295-acre sanctuary for plants. At the Clemson Botanical Gardens, their mission is to research and teach to spread awareness on the importance of understanding plants, animals, and minerals.
15. Hagood Mill Historic Site
The Hagood Mill Historic Site is a preserved cotton mill located in downtown Pickens, South Carolina. It was first built in the 1790s, then rebuilt in 1845 by James Hagood; it remained in the Hagood family until 1966.
The waterwheel was fully restored in the 1980s and is the only waterwheel in South Carolina still made entirely of wood. The site now features a fully operational gristmill, a traditional barn with a family farm exhibit, and two historic log cabins dating from 1791 and 1925.
There is also a blacksmith shop, a cotton gin building, and moonshine still. Live demonstrations include milling, blacksmithing, cotton ginning, moonshining, spinning, weaving, beekeeping, metalsmithing, quilting, woodcarving, flintknapping, chair caning, open-hearth cooking, and more.
16. Downtown Spartanburg
If you’re looking for a refreshing day in Downtown Spartanburg, SC, then you’re in luck. There are tons of great things to do, and you can easily spend a day there without getting bored.
Start your day at the Downtown Spartanburg Farmers’ Market. This market has been around since 1997 and features over 60 vendors who sell everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts.
Next, head over to the Chapman Cultural Center, which is home to four different museums, and it’s also home to the Spartanburg Philharmonic Orchestra. You can easily spend hours here checking out all the other exhibits.
If you’re a history buff, you’ll want to check out the Spartanburg Historic Jail. This jail is one of Spartanburg’s oldest buildings, made of stone in 1823; and now mentioned on the National Register of Historic Places.
17. Cedar Mountain, NC
Just a short drive from Greenville, SC, is Cedar Mountain, NC. Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, it’s a great place to go for a hike or to check out the local history. In addition, you can visit the Folk Art Center.
This center is home to the Southern Highland Craft Guild. It features various art exhibits from over 250 craftspeople from across the region.
18. Discovery Island Waterpark
Discovery Island Waterpark offers something for everyone. The water slides are perfect for thrill-seekers, while the lazy river is perfect for those who want to relax and admire the scenery.
And the kids’ play area is ideal for little ones who want to splash around and have some fun. Plus, the park has a concession stand where you can buy snacks and drinks, and there’s also a picnic area where you can enjoy a meal outdoors.
So, whether you’re looking for a fun day out with the family or need a place to cool off on a hot day, Discovery Island Waterpark is the perfect place to go.
19. Paris Mountain State Park
The Paris Mountain State Park is a great place to hike or spend a day outdoors with the family. There are over 16 miles of gorgeous hiking trails to choose from, so there’s something for everyone. The park also features a lake where you can go fishing or swimming, and there are also camping and picnic areas where you can enjoy a meal outdoors.
20. Anderson County Museum
The Anderson County Museum is open from Monday to Saturday, and admission is free. The museum features various exhibits, including a Civil War exhibit, a World War II exhibit, and a Native American exhibit.
The museum is also home to the Starr Theater, which features various shows throughout the year. So, if you’re seeking a place to learn about local history, the Anderson County Museum is the perfect place to go.
21. Oconee County Waterfalls
The Oconee County Waterfall is a great place to go for a hike or take in the area’s natural beauty.
There are over 20 waterfalls to choose from, so you’re sure to find one that’s perfect for you. Plus, there are also picnic areas where you can enjoy a meal outdoors.
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