by Robert Barr

Created on: December 07, 2011   Last Updated: December 08, 2011

Greenville is the county seat, and the city with the largest urban area in Greenville County, South Carolina. It is the main and primary city in what is known as "The Upstate" of South Carolina - an area comprised of the six counties of the north-western part of the state. With its interesting hybrid of historic buildings and modern offices and tower blocks, Greenville is commonly referred to as where "Old South" meets "New South".

Getting around

The city centre is relatively compact, so walking from one point in town to another is generally quite easy. In addition to this, the city also operates two downtown trolleys, eight pedicabs, and a yellow cab company to help you get around the city and around the centre of Greenville you'll find an array of things to see and do. Packed with museums, art galleries, parks, theatres and annual events, visitors will have plenty to fill up their time with in a number of exciting and different ways.

Museums and Galleries

The city is great if you're an art lover. With the Greenville County Museum of Art and the Bob Jones University Museum and Gallery housing an impressive collection of local Greenville paintings, one of the finest collections of Italian Baroque painting in America, and a range of religious art by Rubens, Reni, Van Dyck and Le Brun, both galleries make for more than worthwhile stops. Greenville County Museum entry is completely free of charge.

For another strong dose of culture, stop off at the city's well-known "Centre Stage Professional Theatre" for an inspired range of musical entertainment, comedy and dramatic performances, art exhibitions and independent film screenings. The theatre is in walking distance of the city center and Greenville's famous "West End". Free parking is available.

Falls Park

Visitors also have the opportunity to stop off and relax in what must be one of the most beautiful, and pleasurable parks in the US, Falls Park almost seems like an oasis in the heart of a busy, noisy city. The great park is located around the 50-foot Reedy Falls.

Jazz Festival

If you are in the city from April to September, be sure to catch at least some of the CountyBank Main Street Jazz Festival. An exciting and energetic jazz festival, opened on the streets, every Friday, for all pedestrians and passers-by. The festival involves a range of jazz bands and musicians, as well as a large amount of food, drink and further entertainment.

Food and Drink

To stop and eat, the downtown of Greenville offers a tremendous choice of great dining. Recommended is Henry's Smokehouse, which provides great barbeque - maybe the best in the city - and very reasonable prices. Award-winning restaurant, Saskatoon also offers exceptional food, specializing in steaks, fish and game. Not handy if you have a limited budget.

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