Explore Beautiful Greenville, South Carolina in July, 2024

Are you hoping to plan a getaway to Greenville this summer but need help figuring out what to do? I am excited to share my family’s vacation to Greenville, South Carolina, to help you plan your next great adventure. 

The city of Greenville is a charming town in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. You can catch stunning views of these mountains as you drive around town. I love spending time here and have visited many times over the last few years. 

Greenville offers activities for all ages and interests. You can catch a  baseball game, visit the zoo or a local brewery, or browse the local shops downtown. Most importantly, you will want to enjoy Falls Park on the Reedy.

Downtown Greenville includes walking trails along the river

July Temperatures in Greenville

I won’t lie- summer in the South is warm and can get extremely hot. I’ve been to Greenville in the summer a few times, and it hasn’t been terrible. Check the weather before you leave home; bring lightweight clothes and sunscreen, as the average temperatures may be higher than you are used to.

July is also the wettest month, which can impact the humidity. Generally, you should anticipate sunny days as the summer showers tend to pop up and then disappear. 

  • Average highs- low 90’s
  • Average lows-low 70’s

July is known as one of the hottest months. Check the heat index if extreme temperatures bother you. If you desire a cooler summer vacation, consider coastal Maine.

Greenville’s Top Sites & Events in July

Living outside of Atlanta, Greenville is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway for our family or even a girls’ trip. I’ve done both and enjoyed the city each time. Greenville offers a little something for every age and interest level. I’m excited to share my favorite spots in this charming community. Greenville is also a great base to explore Upstate South Carolina.

enjoy the 4th in Greenville

July 4th events

It is always fun to travel on the 4th and experience how other communities celebrate this day of the year. Below are some great Independence Day Events –

  • Clemson MBA Fireworks on the Fourth at Unity Park starts around 9:45 pm. Feel free to come after 6 pm to relax, picnic, and enjoy the festivities. Later, you will experience spectacular fireworks.
  • Simpsonville Simply Freedom Fest is another great option just a short distance from town. Previously known as the Celebrate Simpsonville, guests can purchase food and drinks in the hours leading up to the fireworks finale. This July 4th party is in the CCNB Amphitheatre in Heritage Park.
  • The city of Laurens hosts a free, family-friendly Fourth of July celebration. Guests can enjoy live music, a free kid zone for little ones, dinner at local food trucks and a fireworks display.
  • Spartanburg’s Independence Day celebration is another great option. Admission is free for the city of Spartanburg’s Red, White & Boom celebration

Falls Park on the Reedy

Falls Park

Falls Park is the crown jewel of Greenville. Nestled in the heart of downtown, guests can shop, dine, and then walk to a majestic park. The park showcases the beautiful falls of the Reedy River. Trails line both sides with plenty of space to relax on a park bench, picnic, or even wade into small pools underneath the falls. The whole family can enjoy this area. 

The city of Greenville built the Liberty Bridge, an impressive suspension cable bridge across the falls. You must explore this stunning area and walk across the bridge. When you are done, pop over to the Grand Bohemian for cocktails or gran dessert at Carmella’s Cafe & Dessert Bar. Beware- it is wildly popular, so beware of crowds. On our last trip, the line was out the door of 20+ people.

Grand Bohemian Lodge

Greenville Zoo

If traveling with kids, check out the Greenville Zoo, rated by Trip Advisor as a Travelers’ Choice Award winner. I suggest arriving at the Zoo in the morning hours to beat the heat.

  • Summer Hours 9-5 pm
  • Last entry at 4:30 pm

Baseball Game at Fluor Field

Catch a summer baseball game at Fluor Field

July is in the heart of baseball season, and Greenville offers opportunities to enjoy America’s favorite pastime. The Greenville Drive is an affiliate of the Boston Red Sox and plays at beautiful Fluor Field. The stadium is located in the West End district of Downtown and is a short walk from Gather GVL. 

If you aren’t in town for a game, check out the schedule for the park because Fluor Field hosts festivals and live concerts, too. 

Swamp Rabbit Trail

Eat at the Swamp Rabbit Cafe

The Swamp Rabbit Trail runs through town and contains 23 miles of paths for guests to enjoy. You can bike or walk through town, stopping to shop and dine along the way.

Paris Mountain State Park

Located just south of downtown, Paris Mountain is a great summer stop for hiking, canoeing, and fishing. You can also swim, paddle, or kayak on a hot summer day.

Downtown Live

From March through August, Clemson MBA hosts Downtown Alive every Thursday night from 5:30 to 8:30 in Noma Square. Residents and guests gather to listen to live music at a free and popular event. 

Tip: Bikes, dogs, and coolers are prohibited.

Unity Park

Guests will discover an impressive park open to all a little west of downtown Greenville. Unity Park sits directly on the Reedy River and connects to the Swamp Rabbit Trail. It is a beautiful 60-acre park.

For guests traveling with kids, this is worth your time. Children can enjoy the splash pad during the hot July days. Or burn off some energy at the playground. A helpful tip- there are public restrooms that are helpful when traveling with little ones. You could also enjoy a picnic dinner here, too.

Gather GVL

Gather GVL is a fun July activity

Gather Greenville is a unique twist on a food hall. Instead of a large indoor building, Gather is an enclosed space surrounded by shipping containers. Once you enter, you have access to their alcohol and food vendors like the Greenville Beer Exchange. Gather welcomes guests of all ages. We’ve been to a similar set-up in Savannah and our kids loved it. 

They also are pet-friendly and host live music two nights a week. Check out their calendar as they plan fun activities like music bingo and pop-up events.

FAQ: Visiting Greenville

walking downtown Greenville in July is a pleasant with the streets lit up

What airport is the closet to Greenville?

The Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport is very close to downtown Greenville. The airport is smaller compared to Charlotte or Atlanta, but a quick and easy airport. My in-laws use it frequently and speak highly of the airport.

Asheville’s airport is an hour north and a great option if the flights are better for you. Charlotte Douglas is a larger airport and a 1.5 hour away. Check flight prices and go with the best deal!

What are some good hotel recommendations in the downtown area?

I’ve stayed downtown several times and highly recommend the Hyatt Place for its affordability, the Courtyard for its proximity to downtown, or the The Hampton Inn & Suites for its location on the river.

The AC Marriott is new and surrounded by great restaurants, while the Westin is in the heart of downtown. If you prefer luxury lodging check out the new Grand Bohemian Lodge right on the falls. Check out my review of the best hotels for families.

If I stay with a large group, I’d aim for a rental within walking distance or a short drive. We recently stayed in this adorable home 15 minutes from downtown, and it was perfect for our group of 6.

What is there to do in Greenville for adults?

Adults can enjoy wine tastings, brewery, shopping, outdoor activities, or exploring Greenville’s growing food scene. Greenville also has a performing arts center, so check out their schedule for future shows. 

Is Greenville worth visiting?

Greenville is worth visiting and is a fun destination for guests of all ages. It is the perfect weekend getaway, or use it as a base to explore Upstate South Carolina and Western North Carolina. 

In Conclusion: Explore Beautiful Greenville, South Carolina in July

Greenville is one of my favorite destinations for a quick getaway. My guide to visiting Greenville, South Carolina, in July will help you plan your next great adventure.

Greenville Resources
Greenville in July
Best Day trips from Greenville, SC
Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Greenville