my fave things to do in greenville, sc

For over two years I have gotten to explore Greenville, SC- an upcoming and trendy town with lots to offer! This spunky city has been featured in numerous lists of best of “blank” cities, and you are definitely missing out if you haven’t given it a visit! I’ve gotten to experience the city as a college student, so many of the activities cater to the life of a student at Furman University. But I’ve also added some recommendations from my other friends and classmates- as we all have gotten the chance to find our favorite things to do around town! I was inspired by Dorothy from Prep in Your Step’s post (read here), and I wanted to give my rendition of it!

Cantina 76– my go-to restaurant! The tacos here are fresh and cheap, and this is a great place to get dressed up and meet friends for a night on the town or just to enjoy a yummy taco Tuesday!

Tandem– if you haven’t gone to Tandem as a Furman student, are you even a Furman student? This place is loved by many, and there are constantly new crepes and waffles being added to this brunch spot’s menu. Definitely check it out for some yummy crepes and coffee!

Swamp Rabbit Cafe– One of my faves! This cafe is located just off the Swamp Rabbit trail about a 12 minute drive from Furman. The sandwiches here are delicious and they have pizza on the weekends. This place also boasts coffee and a health and local foods grocery store! Great bread and great all around! (gives a student discount)

LTO Burger Bar– a new find for me, this burger bar has scrumptious burgers and a variety of sides and flavors to choose from! Great price and close to Furman! (gives a student discount)

TR’s Oriental– if you want cheap and quick oriental food (to eat there or to take out!) this is your place! I love the sesame chicken! A quick drive from campus too!

Smoke on the Water– this restaurant has it all! It’s a great southern smokehouse with burgers, chicken, BBQ, and more! Highly recommend to take your fam here for a visit!

  

Happy + Hale– the health restaurant of Greenville that you can’t miss! Right next to Lululemon downtown, this cafe boasts build your own bowls, lots of breakfast options, and a variety of juices and smoothies! (gives a student discount) 

Upcountry Provisions– one of my all time faves! This cafe in Traveler’s Rest is incredible. The sandwiches are fresh and delicious, and the atmosphere is so warm and welcoming. (gives a student discount)

Caviar & Bananas – a Furman fave for trendy brunch, this upscale cafe and petite grocery store boasts delicious and healthy options (I see you sweet potato and kale scramble) and a variety of options for all day! Definitely check this one out! (gives a student discount)

Tupelo Honey– southern food at its finest! TH has the most incredible biscuits and honey, and you can find a variety of upscale southern favorites. The mimosas are pretty darn good too!

Biscuit Head– get here early to avoid the line! This cat-themed restaurant has a variety of biscuit sandwiches and breakfast options, with even more variety of jams and butters! You can definitely see why it’s a fave- get there around brunch-time on a Saturday and you can expect an hour wait!

Sidewall Pizza– while I’ve never actually been to this beloved pizza joint, I have seen its numerous options throughout campus and on classmate’s curated insta stories. Healthy-ish pizza? I think you gotta try it! (gives a student discount)

Trio- craving Italian food? Def check this friend-favorite place! Delicious pasta and calzones for a good price and right at the heart of downtown! (gives a student discount)

Village Grind- my literal safe haven during exam season, this coffee shop is my all time fave. It has a unique atmosphere and aesthetic, with a small-town vibe and diverse coffee flavors and options. I love this spot and recommend it to anyone looking to get off campus for a bit and study!

Port City Java– another coffee fave, this small coffee shop doesn’t look like much, but the iced vanilla lattes are incredible and the atrium right next to the shop is the perfect place to study! It’s quiet and in the heart of downtown!

Methodical Coffee– another downtown option, this aesthetically-leasing coffee shop serves its yummy drinks in blue and white mugs! A Furman-fave for sure!

M. Judson– my big swears by this place! The bookstore recently linked up with Furman, so lots of Furman gear and related books are here! You can always count on seeing Furman students here spread out among the bakery/cafe and bookshelves! Lots of yummy treats here! (maybe a student discount?)

Soul Yoga– $5 classes throughout the week? I think yes! I love this yoga studios classes, instructors, and relaxing vibes! I have purchased memberships here before but also love booking the $5 classes whenever school gets busy and I need a break! Definitely worth checking out!

Southern Om Yoga– another great yoga spot, this studio also has $5 classes! The memberships are a good price too! A smaller studio so you feel a bit more relaxed and connected to its community.

Cyclebar– my new fave thing if you can’t tell! Get a new membership for 5 classes for $59! Or skip a membership and do the $12 student drop in rate! These classes are fun, high-energy, and a party on a bike!! Bring your friends!

Walk around Furman Lake– enough said! This is a fave of mine especially when I don’t have the time or energy to do a full on workout. You can loop around it a couple times or just go for one loop! Bring a friend and relieve the stress of the day.

Bike the Swamp Rabbit trail– Greenville is a cycling city no-doubt. The swamp rabbit trail has miles upon miles of trail to bike, run, walk, whatever you’re feeling! It connects to Traveler’s Rest and downtown Greenville, so you can truly see the entirety of this fun place on a bike! The trail runs parallel to Furman’s campus so you can easily hop on it for a quick jog or full on cycle! 

    

Bald Rock– a Furman favorite for sure, this place is truly spectacular. Bring a pizza or pub subs and enjoy the views of the area!

Take a trip to Asheville– about an hour from campus, Asheville boasts eclectic shopping, food, and sights! Lots of hiking trails and scenic drives are nearby too!

Max Patch– about 2 hours from campus, Max Patch is one of my favorite places in the world. Hike to the top of this beautiful bald and take in the breath-taking views of the Appalachian mountains. Highly recommend for sunrise or sunset!

Walk Furman Lake– already mentioned!

Greenville Drive Game– this a great opportunity to get outside and see what the sports community has to offer! Tickets are not too bad and you can bring your friends for a fun and sporty night!

Saturday Morning Downtown Farmer’s Market- a must-do in Greenville during the summer (and beginning of fall!). This farmer’s market is huge and boasts a variety of products ranging from the typical fruits and veggies to special cheeses and pastries! Get there early!

Bike the Swamp Rabbit Trail– already mentioned above, but make a day of it and bike to Swamp Rabbit Cafe, downtown, and TR!

Caesar’s Head State Park- about a 30 minute drive from campus, this state park has several hiking trails and spectacular views! Swing by Bald Rock too to finish your day!

Falls Park on the Reedy River– the West end of downtown features this stunning waterfall and suspension bridge! Eat dinner by the river and walk around the park for some nature right in downtown!

Pretty Place- another gorgeous overlook, this stunning chapel about an hour from Furman is home to a large cross that looks out over the towns below. Get here for sunrise for a spectacular and spiritual experience!

DressUp – student discount!

Pink Bee West End –student discount! 

Pink Mama’s Ice Cream– the cutest ice cream shop that serves its scoops in PINK cones! They have a variety of unique flavors and also a drive through location! (gives a student discount) 

Yogurt Mountain- the place I’ve frequented the most during my time at Furman, YoMo is a college staple! Get a cup of froyo with your friends and eat the stress of the week away! (gives a student discount)

Brick Street Cafe- don’t think sweet potato cake sounds good? Think again! This cafe has the BEST cake you will ever eat. Sweet potato, Paddy cake, coconut cake, you name it and they have it! Seriously recommend getting some to-go and having a movie-night with friends.

Spill the Beans (ice cream and coffee)- another Furman fave, this coffee and ice-cream shop hand mixes in toppings for a delectable treat while studying or just enjoying the day! (gives a student discount) 

Southern Pressed Juicery- SPJ has a variety of smoothie bowls, juices, and foods for a quick and healthy treat! Located in downtown, this location is perfect for those looking for a healthier sweet tooth fix! (gives a student discount)  

Up on the Roof- over 21? Go check out this rooftop restaraunt and bar! They have delicious “bottled” signature cocktails and a variety of wines and drinks! They also have some of the best views of the city!

SIP Whiskey and Wine bar– I haven’t been here yet, but I’ve heard nothing but good things!

// random //

Organic Cat Cafe– ever desired to go to a cat cafe? Most people don’t, but I do! This cat abode is perfect for the cat lover. Come sit and study and pet the cats that call this place home!

Greenville Humane Society– I love animals, so going to the humane society and petting cats, dogs, puppies, and kittens will always brighten my day! Go give these animals some love and maybe even adopt one yourself!

Peace Center– go see a play or concert at the Peace Center! Lots of musicals, plays, and artists stop here on tours, so look on the website and book your tickets when you visit!

Hampton Station– this is a new area of town that is just developing! It boasts several breweries, restaurants (such as White Duck Taco), event spaces, and more! Go check it out!

Have you been to Greenville (or live here??) What are your favorite things to do! Let me know down below!