Greenville County: A Can’t-Miss Fall Destination

Northern Greenville County | Alex Reynolds

South Carolina’s Greenville County has much to offer, whether you prefer big cities, small towns, or natural beauty. While every season holds its unique appeal there, you won’t want to miss fall in this Upstate region. The changing leaves and festive atmosphere transform Greenville County into a must-visit fall hotspot. Now, let’s delve deeper into what makes autumn in this county truly exceptional.

Experience Greenville

Greenville is the main town in Greenville County, providing plenty to experience year-round. Largely considered the cultural capital of the Upstate region, Greenville is renowned for its incredible arts scene, housing multiple acclaimed museums, and its innovative and diverse culinary landscape. Also, the city’s idyllic public parks and scenic areas greatly appeal to outdoor enthusiasts.

Fall in Greenville offers an abundance of excitement for both residents and visitors. The weather is crisp but mild, and the city offers many wholesome family-friendly experiences. From corn mazes and apple orchards located just outside the city to lively farmers markets and spooky haunted houses, Greenville wholeheartedly embraces the essence of the season. 

Greenville | Jonathan Hanna

Smaller Cities to Enjoy

While Greenville is a primary destination in the county, numerous appealing smaller towns offer excellent options for your next autumn excursion. Let’s take a look at two quaint communities in Greenville County: 

Simpsonville: This community, nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, is celebrated for its magnificent natural beauty. Home to just under 25,000 residents, Simpsonville offers a charming, welcoming city.

Traveler’s Rest: For a slice of small-town paradise with abundant outdoor attractions, visit this mountainous Greenville County city. Traveler’s Rest hosts delightful fall festivals, including the Fall Browse + Stroll Art Market, on September 16th, October 21st, and November 18th, and the Fall Bluegrass and Harvest Market on Thursdays in October. 

Traveler’s Rest | Alex Reynolds

Natural Destinations

One of the primary draws for visitors to Greenville County is its breathtaking natural beauty. Greenville County’s awe-inspiring foothill scenery features lush forests, rolling hills, and meandering waterways. While the views are enchanting year-round, autumn’s arrival adds an unforgettable burst of color. With shades of amber, red, and brown transforming the landscape, Greenville County is one of South Carolina’s premier destinations for leaf peeping. 

Greenville has numerous stunning destinations worth visiting; let’s explore two below:

Jones Gap State Park: This is a picturesque mountain park near the North Carolina border. Its rugged scenery and mountainous woodlands create a haven for hikers and bikers. 

Paris Mountain State Park: Located closer to Greenville, this scenic park spans more than 1,500 acres. It contains picturesque hiking trails and Lake Placid’s calm and inviting waters, offering visitors the perfect setting for outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, fishing, and more.

Paris Mountain State Park | Emmy Gaddy