Travel magazines often rank Greenville as one of the best places to live in the United States. The city is bursting with Southern charm, amazing food from local farms, and an incredible suspension bridge. It is also known for its convenient downtown location. Whether you’re looking for a quiet night out or a wild night out with friends, Greenville has plenty to offer. There are also plenty of hiking trails and family-friendly activities nearby.
A city that’s a favorite destination for families and students with children is also a great place to explore art and culture. There are numerous art galleries, museums, and theaters. The Upcountry environment is especially beautiful, and Greenville is known as the Textile Center of the World. This city also boasts excellent shopping, scenic attractions, and historic landmarks. Wall murals adorn the streets of Greenville, capturing the city’s rich art scene. In fact, there are more than 95 pieces of original art on display in the city.
If you’re in the mood for Southern food, try one of the many fine dining restaurants in the city. The infamous Cook’s Station offers hyper-Southern fare, including BlueStar ovens. This downtown restaurant also offers a wine bar and a cafe. It’s a must-visit if you’re in town for a weekend. Its award-winning wine list includes more than 500 labels. Sunday brunch at Soby’s is an old Greenville tradition. The brunch is served buffet-style, and you can even order a $3 Bloody Mary.
While you’re in town, you can take in the city’s nightlife. String lights are a common sight, and there’s a thriving scene of local residents and tourists on the streets. You can soak up the atmosphere from a rooftop bar, and a classic cocktail will make it all the better. You’ll also find numerous national chains here, as well as boutiques, restaurants, and bars. On Main Street, you can buy souvenirs and local originals.
If you’re interested in art, don’t miss the Upcountry History Museum, located in downtown Greenville. The museum’s interactive exhibits cover the history of Greenville and South Carolina’s Upcountry. This museum is dedicated to preserving the rich cultural heritage of the region. The museum’s collection of Andrew Wyeth’s paintings is the largest public collection in the world. You can also view rare pieces of artwork from contemporary artist Jasper Johns.
You can take in live theatre and other performances in Greenville’s numerous theaters. The Peace Center is one of the city’s premier cultural centers, featuring a 2,100-seat concert hall, 400-seat theater, and state-of-the-art amphitheater. Almost 300 events take place here every year, so you’re sure to find something you enjoy. You can even take your kids to the Greenville Little Theatre, which has been entertaining the area’s youth since 1836.
Despite its history of revolution, Greenville continued to grow quickly following the Revolutionary War. In December 1853, the Greenville and Columbia Railroad reached the town, making travel to and from the city easier. However, progress stalled during the Civil War. During the conflict, Greenville became a haven for low-country residents. In the years that followed, Greenville was home to a bi-racial delegation to the state constitution convention, which ended slavery in the state.