Weekend Getaway with Family in Greenville, SC
Greenville is located in the upstate of SC, and it has one-of-a-kind shops, boutiques, art galleries, museums, tours, and outdoor activities for visitors of all ages. It’s an easy three-hour drive down I-85 from the Triad and perfect for a long or short weekend away. There’s so much to do, it could easily seem overwhelming, but fear not! I’ve put together a fun, family-friendly must-do list for children of all ages! From personal experience, these are places my daughters and I have visited and continue to, over the years from when they were just babies to now pre-teen.
When to Visit: Greenville, SC Weather
Greenville’s weather varies throughout the year, offering unique experiences in every season.
- Spring (March-May): Perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and biking. The flowers at Falls Park are in full bloom.
- Summer (June-August): Warm days are great for enjoying water sports at nearby Lake Jocassee.
- Fall (September-November): Mild temperatures and vibrant foliage make it ideal for walking tours and scenic drives.
- Winter (December-February): Though mild compared to northern climates, winter is perfect for cozy evenings and exploring downtown’s festive lights.
Check a local weather forecast before planning your trip for specific conditions.
Downtown Greenville
Downtown Greenville has been one of the most popular destinations for shopping, restaurants, and entertainment. Livability recently ranked it one of the Top 10 Best Downtowns in the country, and The New York Times called Greenville “a national model for a pedestrian-friendly city center.”
Falls Park
One of the most iconic places to visit is The Liberty Bridge in the heart of Falls Park. Take a break from the hustle of the city and watch the river, and ducks, and play in the grass areas around. It’ll be the most picturesque location of the entire trip! There are wide sidewalks for walking with strollers, as well as a free trolley offering easy access to multiple points. Don’t forget to look for the little Mice on Main statues hidden up/down the downtown streets. Click here for a list of clues and happy hunting!
Also in the heart of downtown during the winter months, located at Village Green near the Courtyard Marriott, is an ice-skating rink called Ice on Main. I recommend buying tickets ahead of time, and you get to skate for an hour which is plenty for my girls. There are six skate scooters available too, which are first come first come service.
Tour the Peace Center
For arts and culture lovers, the Peace Center is a hub for concerts, Broadway shows, and other live performances. Be sure to check the event schedule during your visit.
The Greenville Zoo
Another must-see in downtown is The Greenville Zoo. Located beside Cleveland Park with easy access to playgrounds, picnic shelters, and restrooms, the zoo is about 1-mile long, perfect for children of all ages. The giraffes are my girls’ favorites, especially with the breeding program, there seems to always be a baby we watch and learn about. I’ve taken my girls as babies in strollers, newly walking toddlers, and still at 9 years old and the zoo is still a family hit!
Outdoor Activities in Greenville, SC
Unity Park
Unity Park, located near downtown; is a 60-acre park which features playgrounds, picnic tables, a splash pad (in the summer), trails, restrooms/changing rooms, and sports courts. It opened in 2022 and merged two parks into four state-of-the-art playgrounds.
Swamp Rabbit Trail
There is easy access from Unity park to the Swamp Rabbit Trail, a 19.9-mile-long trail where families of all ages walk, run, and bike from downtown Greenville to Travelers Rest, SC. I’ve even enjoyed this trail as a half marathon course race (Mountains to Main St. Half Marathon and portions are used in other local races).
Indoor Activities in Greenville, SC
The Children’s Museum of the Upstate
Is bad weather keeping everyone inside? Check out The Children’s Museum of the Upstate. Also located downtown, the museum “offers 80,000 square feet dedicated to play-based learning. Exhibits and weekly programs encourage hands-on play, unique discoveries, and intentional learning opportunities.” My children enjoyed shopping in the Publix shopping center, climbing the 3-story indoor playground, and exploring the water features.
Kroc Center
Another new indoor activity for families downtown is The Kroc Center Aquatic Center. This is a great place for children of all ages from a baby who isn’t walking yet with a beach-style entry, buckets that fill and dump over the children, and (children 48’’ tall) they can enjoy a big water slide that goes outside the building. To go and enjoy the facilities you can purchase a two-hour guest pass but you will need to make reservations for aquatics ahead of time.
Where to Stay: Greenville, SC Hotels
Finding the right accommodation is essential for a great trip. Greenville offers a wide variety of lodging options, from luxury hotels to cozy boutique stays.
- The Westin Poinsett: A historic hotel located in the heart of downtown. Its elegant design and prime location make it a top choice.
- AC Hotel by Marriott: This sleek, modern hotel is perfect for travelers seeking comfort with contemporary vibes.
- Swamp Rabbit Inn: A quirky and budget-friendly option, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts looking to stay close to the Swamp Rabbit Trail.
Where to Eat: Greenville, SC Restaurants
Greenville is home to a thriving culinary scene. From Southern comfort food to international cuisine, the city’s restaurants will satisfy any craving.
Breakfast and Brunch
- Biscuit Head: Famous for oversized biscuits and inventive toppings.
- Tandem Creperie: Located in Travelers Rest, this spot serves sweet and savory crepes to die for.
Lunch
- Papi’s Tacos: Authentic and fresh, this taco spot is a local favorite.
- Sully’s Steamers: Known for its delicious steamed bagel sandwiches.
- Right beside Unity Park, is The Commons, a food hall with twelve restaurants under one roof. “The Commons was designed to create a “pedestrian— and family-friendly gathering space” where the energy of downtown meets the enjoyment of relaxed entertainment and recreation.”
Dinner
- Soby’s: An upscale eatery featuring Southern classics with a twist.
- Halls Chophouse: For steak lovers, this restaurant delivers top-notch cuts and an elegant atmosphere.
Greenville is a city that knows how to balance urban excitement with laid-back Southern charm. Whether you’re relaxing in one of the stunning Greenville, SC hotels, savoring a meal at its award-winning restaurants, or exploring the endless things to do in Greenville, SC, you’ll leave with unforgettable memories. Ready to plan your trip? Visit VisitGreenvilleSC.com for more information and start packing your bags.
Wherever you stay, you’ll be within walking distance of the city’s best attractions.
Written by TMOM Team Member Kristen Bowles
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Such a fun trip idea!! One I never thought of!