Falls Park, Downtown Greenville, South Carolina | iStock

About two hours from Atlanta, Greenville makes a great family getaway. Explore bustling downtown Greenville, family-friendly museums, sports and food in this walkable and charming city. Here are six creative ideas for a trip to Greenville.

Swamp River Cafe and Grocery | Laura Powell

Hike and Bike Around Greenville

How many cities in the United States have hiking trails and waterfall views smack dab in the middle of town? Greenville does. Wind your way through Falls Park and take in the views of Reedy River Falls. Stroll through the park and walk across the unique, single suspension Liberty Bridge. Rent bikes and continue down the Swamp Rabbit Trail, a 22-mile multi-use trail easily accessible from downtown. Rent bikes from Reedy Rides, a couple blocks from the trail.  About a 20 minute kid-friendly bike ride from downtown, take a break at Swamp Rabbit Swamp Rabbit Café & Grocery. Kids will devour the cinnamon rolls and burn off the sugar rush at the quirky playground.

Shopping in Downtown Greenville

Shop at favorites like Mast General Store and bevello in downtown Greenville. Kids pick out candy from penny candy barrels and will love the kids’ merchandise at Mast. Browse cool threads for yourself at bevello, Custard Boutique, and Anthropologie on Main Street. Find your next favorite book at M. Judson Booksellers and Storytellers, and visit the kid’s storytime on Saturdays with a treat and shop in the kid’s nook.

Go on a Scavenger Hunt Along Main Street

After you get your shopping fix, find Mice on Main, cute bronze sculptures hidden along Main Street. Based on the classic children’s book Goodnight Moon, spot a sculpture of the book and one mouse on the fountain in front of the Hyatt Regency hotel; eight additional mice can be found along a five-block stretch of Main Street. Find the clues online or purchase the Mice on Main book.

Children’s Museum of the Upstate | Laura Powell

Visit Heritage Green, Greenville’s Arts and Culture Campus

Stay busy for hours with play shopping, science experiments, water fun and more in the exhibits at The Children’s Museum of the Upstate, one of the largest children’s museum in the United States. Visit the Carolina Music Museum, Upcountry History Museum and the Greenville County Museum of Art, too.

Swamp Rabbits Hockey | Laura Powell

Root for Greenville’s Hometown Team

From October-April catch the Swamp Rabbits Hockey team at Greenville’s largest venue, Bon Secours Wellness Arena. Look for special theme games and nights when you can skate on the ice with players. From April-September, root for the Greenville Drive, a minor league baseball affiliate of the Boston Red Sox. The Drive plays at Fluor Field, a mini replica of Boston’s Fenway Park. The ballpark features a 30-foot-high “Green Monster” like Fenway, and the farthest seat is only thirteen rows away from the field.

Get Your Grub On in Greenville

Fork & Plough’s farm to table menu changes weekly. The restaurant has a hip vibe, and still keeps a casual, friendly atmosphere, too. Kids will love the butter noodles. Parents will love the locally grown veggies, meat dishes, and tasty desserts.

Papi’s Tacos | Laura Powell

Located on River Street with views of Falls Park, Papi’s Tacos hits the spot for family fun options like the travelin’ taco (a taco in a Frito’s bag for less mess), tortas, and easy options for the kids. “Papi” is Jorge Baralles, and the recipes were passed down from his family in Mexico.

Southern Pressed Juicery | Laura Powell

Southern Pressed Juicery offers smoothies and juices that are both healthy and delicious. Olivia Esquivel created this trendy, cold-pressed juice bar when looking for healthy alternatives for her kids. Two favorite juices are named after her sons, Luca Lovin’ and Leo’s Leche.

Where to Stay in Greenville

Home2Suites offers families large rooms and suites with kitchens. Located downtown and walking distance to just about everything. 350 N. Main St.

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