10 interesting daytrips within an hour of Greenville, SC
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Although Greenville’s tree-lined, trendy Main Street gets all the attention these days, the true advantage of living in the Upstate’s largest city to me was its’ close proximity to natural wonders. The picturesque Blue Ridge mountains, dozens of enchanting waterfalls, and a number of historical attractions all lie with an easy day’s drive.
If you have the time, I highly recommend venturing outside of Main Street to explore a few of these mesmerizing natural sights. After living in the area for several years, I have come up with a list of my favorite daytrips. To be honest, I knew little about this region before relocating here. I was truly impressed with all the incredible nature so easily accessible. It’s really an underrated region with a lot to do for fitness buffs and nature lovers. I’ve included lakes, waterfalls, state parks, and charming Main Streets, so there should be a bit of something for everyone.
Daytrip 1: Chimney Rock & Lake Lure
- Distance from Greenville: 1 hour
- Location: 431 Main St, Chimney Rock, NC 28720, Admission fee: $17 adult/$8 youth
- Highlights: Best mountain views in the region, home to the state’s second tallest waterfall, popular movie filming site
- Tip: Start off with a pastry and cup of joe at Coffee on the Rocks (Chimney Rock Village) prior to your hiking adventure. Bonus points for the cute rustic setting and convenient location!
Chimney Rock State Park
Though located in North Carolina, this state park is (rightfully so) extremely popular with both NC & SC tourists, especially those staying in the nearby cities of Asheville & Greenville. While I think the admission fee is a bit steep, the scenery is incredible and the trails well-maintained. I think this is a great choice for first time visitors although I preferred to spend most of my time on the free trails.
The main thing to do here is challenging your body to a 500 step climb up to a uniquely shaped rock outcropping. Those who are unable to hike can take a relaxing elevator ride (44 steps still required) up the mountains (one of the few places in the world where you can do so!).
No matter which route you take to get to the top, you are rewarded with the same standout view of the picturesque Blue Ridge region. On a clear day, the view stretches out for 75 miles, with Lake Lure and the Hickory Nut gorge forming a near picture-perfect backdrop for photos.
Hickory Nut Falls
The park is also home to one of the state’s largest waterfalls, the enchanting 404 foot wonder, Hickory Nut Falls. It comes in just after Whitewater Falls which is also worth a drive if you have the time. And fortunately, it does not take all that much effort to view this beauty.
The hike is just 1 mile which feels like a nice break after trekking up and down 1000 steps to Chimney Rock. I felt like this. hike was a breeze – if anything a nice recovery period where I had a change to cool down and replenish my water stores. On an interesting side note, this waterfall was featured in The Last of the Mohicans.
Chimney Rock Village
When your legs can’t take any more of a beating, head over to adjacent Chimney Rock Village for an afternoon of shopping and dining. Enjoy a local caffeine boost at the quirky Coffee On the Rocks coffeeshop. The village is home to quite the eclectic range of shops, many specializing in eccentric Bigfoot and Southern style souvenirs. Be sure to check out the general store featuring memorabilia an old time candy bar.
If you are a Dirty Dancing fan, you’ll notice a lot of movie memorabilia around town. If you are a big fan of the movie, I recommend taking a side trip to Lake Lure. Here, you can take a relaxing cruise around the lake and see the steps where Baby practiced her dance moves.
Daytrip 2: Asheville
- Distance from Greenville: 45 minutes
- Highlights: Biltmore estate, renowned foodie scene, beautiful mountain scenery, access to the Blue Ridge Parkway and many waterfalls
- Tip: Get an early start to your day to beat the hefty tourist crowds. The Parkway and hikes are usually empty in the morning.
Asheville is a fun and convenient day trip from Greenville, and as an added bonus, the drive over is incredibly scenic. Like Greenville, Asheville has been making headlines in recent years for its’ diverse foodie scene (check out a few of my favorite local restaurants). In fact, numerous foodie hotspots which originated in Asheville can now be found in Greeneville i.e. Biscuit Head, White Duck Taco, Tupelo Honey. These restaurants are all great, however, there are so many other local establishments to check out.
Chai Pani specializes in Indian Street fare. Vinnie’s is the place to go for authentic Italian meal and NY style pizza. And although not as highly touted, The Blue Ridge Artisanal Buffet at the luxurious Omni Grove Park Inn offers a terrific brunch buffet and the views are simply breathtaking. This is my favorite spot for a fancy brunch date or a birthday breakfast.
Asheville is definitely a foodie haven, with everything from farm-to-table, to Southern BBQ, to diverse ethnic fare on the menu. A few of my recommended stops include:
- Chai Pani: Delicious lunch thalis and Indian street fare
- Vinne’s: Excellent NY style pizza
- Andaaz: The most amazing Indian buffet
- Apollo Flame: Featuring the best Greek salad and pitas in town
- Nine Mile: Unique Caribbean fare. Lots of vegetarian and GF entrees.
A gateway to natural wonders
Food aside, the real highlight of Asheville is its’ prime location within the beautiful Blue Ridge mountains. From here, you can drive a portion of the Blue Ridge Parkway (rated America’s favorite drive), access hundreds of miles of hiking trails, and enjoy over 200 waterfalls throughout Transylvania county. After exploring much of the region, I can see why it was nicknamed “Land of the waterfalls.” There are really some beautiful places in WNC to explore – unfortunately many tourists only see the downtown! Take a look at my guide to the best easy hikes with a waterfall near the city.
Of course, the city offers a number of amenities of its’ own. You are probably familiar with the Biltmore Estate, built in the late 1800’s by George Vanderbilt, grandson of railroad tycoon Cornelius Vanderbilt. The extravagant 35 room home (the largest private residence in the US) is open for tours. The mansion was built at the cost of 6 million dollars, which today is the equivalent of 1.6 billion! When the holidays roll around, you can reserve your spot for a winter sleigh ride around the gorgeous property.
The strong art scene has earned the city its’ nickname “The San Francisco of the East.” There are many galleries to check out during your visit. Grovewood Village (near the Omni), the Folk Art Center (on the Blue Ridge Parkway), and Woolworth Walk (downtown) are must-sees.
More of my favorite attractions include:
- The Asheville Pinball Museum: You can play over 75 pinball and arcade machines unlimited for just 15 bucks
- Battery Park Book Exchange: Pick up your next classic while enjoying a glass of champagne
- The North Carolina Arboretum: Featuring hiking trails and a world-class bonsai garden
- The Asheville Botanical Garden: A quiet nature escape away from the tourist herds. A great place to birdwatch!
Daytrip 3: Dupont State Forest
- Distance from Greenville: 1 Hour
- Location: Free side street and lot parking. Park at the High Falls lot (89 Buck Forest Road, Cedar Mountain, NC 28718)
- Highlight: 3 incredible waterfalls accessible via a moderate hike
- Tip: Visit during the off-season for ease of finding parking
Dupont State Forest is one of the most worthwhile daytrips for waterfall lovers. On this 2.5 mile out-and-back trek, you will get to see 3 stunning waterfalls, as well as a historic covered bridge. It’s called the Triple Falls trail and it’s pretty popular with tourists but a great trek where you get to see more than 1 waterfall in exchange for moderate effort.
Along the moderate trek, you will come across 125 foot tall Triple Falls, 125 foot High Falls, and 20 foot Hooker Falls which makes up for what it lacks in height with its’ impressive width and volume.
The trail is moderate without too much elevation gain. Really, I consider it a real bang-for-your-buck experience considering how little effort is required to see 3 natural wonders. This trail is especially gorgeous in fall when a colorful palette of golden hues paint the backdrop. And, if you can brave the often crisp and icy winters, this really is a time to enjoy the solitude of a quiet forest and obtain uninterrupted photos of nature at its’ best.
On a side note, Wintergreen Falls is another beauty in the same forest (I find this falls so enchanting with the beautiful hidden setting). The trailhead is located about 5 miles away and is worth considering if you have the time. This gem is just 25 feet tall, although the lush forest setting is spectacular. It’s relatively easy and just over a mile so worth it if you have the extra time.
Dining options are limited. I recommend a side trip to Brevard, home to a charming Main St. My favorite little cafe is Quotations (they serve great bagels and Counter culture coffee in a cozy setting). Also they just opened another location of Sully’s (if you are from Greenville, you know their steamed bagel sandwiches are awesome!).
Daytrip 4: Oconee County
- Distance from Greenville: About an hour depending on which part of the county you visit.
- Highlights: Home to some of the most spectacular waterfalls in the state
- Tip: Grab a quick breakfast in Greenville before taking off as dining is limited in the area.
Oconee, the westernmost county in South Carolina, was recently voted one of the “50 last great places in the world” by National Geographic Magazine. This region is a true oasis for outdoor types. Lake Jocassee and Lake Keowee are great destinations for anyone looking to kayak, paddleboard, canoe, or enjoy any other water activity (rentals available at various outfitters). The Lake Jocassee boat tour is popular with tourists seeking a leisurely, no-stress vacation activity.
Oconee County Waterfalls
If you are up for more of an endurance challenge, simply choose from the long list of hikes in the region – Oconee State Park is a great place to start.
My favorite waterfalls in this region are:
Yellow Branch: Best viewed after a major rain storm
King’s Creek: An easy hike to a stunning 50 foot waterfall
Issaqueena Falls: An easy 5 minute walk to a 200 foot cascading beauty
Station Cove Falls: A stunning secluded stepped waterfall
And, if you are up for a more intense adventure, consider a whitewater rafting trip down the Chattooga River. I’ve only been rafting once (it was a scary experience but also exhilarating).
Daytrip 5: Caesar’s Head State Park/Wildcat Branch Falls
- Distance from Greenville: 50 min
- Location: 8155 Geer Hwy, Cleveland, SC 29631
- Highlights: The tallest waterfall in South Carolina, amazing fall foliage
- Tip: Arrive at the trailhead early in the morning, preferably during the off-season. This is a very popular place and parking is extremely limited
Caesars Head State Park
Caesar’s Head State Park is one of the gems of the Upstate region. I consider it a bucket list contender if you love nature and hiking. The highlight here is the moderately challenging 2.2 mile hike to Raven Cliff Falls, a gorgeous 350 foot waterfall viewable via an observation deck.
It’s worth the challenge (if you are up to it) to see the tallest waterfall in the state. Views are a bit far off in the distance, however, the leafy scenery during the peak of fall sets this one apart. This is probably my favorite place to leaf peep in South Carolina. Even the drive here is gorgeous.
The great thing about Caesars is that you do not necessarily have to be a hiker to enjoy this park. First off, the drive over is stunning, particularly in autumn as colorful gold and red leaves fill the forest. Second, there is a gorgeous overlook (just a short walk required) where you can enjoy 360 panoramic views of the area. Other activities for non-hikers include fishing and picnicking.
Wildcat Branch Falls
About 20 minutes into the drive to Caesars, you will come across an amazing roadside waterfall (there are numerous within an easy drive). At a mere 30 feet, Wildcat Branch Falls is not all that tall, however, the water flow is always extremely strong.
Plus, it’s one of the few waterfalls which requires zero effort to see. This is a quick detour directly on the route near the small town of Cleveland. You will see a small parking lot and loads of people around if it’s a nice day. It’s definitely worth the stop! Also, I recommend hiking the Upper Falls trail if you are up for a semi challenge.
Again, this area is a bit secluded, and thus, quite limited in terms of dining options. Filling up on a quick breakfast in Greenville prior to leaving is your best bet. Sully’s Steamers is an excellent local bagel shop where you can order all sorts of flavorful bagel sandwiches (they are steamed which is weird, but really good) with lots of healthier veggie options. Plus they serve Methodical coffee, which is one of my favorite coffeeshops. I love the gorgeous mugs and they make the best mocha.
On your return route, stop by for a quick lunch in Travelers Rest, a small community located directly on the route. Sidewall is a good stop for pizza and casual so you don’t have to dress up. Also, a section of the popular Swamp Rabbit trail begins here. I really love this bike path! Of course, you will probably be tired so it’s probably best to save this for another day.
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