Greenville, South Carolina is the kind of town that easily makes you think about relocating to it. It has a beautiful downtown area and a river runs right through it. When you visit, you’ll probably find it hard to leave, but these 2 stops will be worth the drive. For a quick and scenic day trip from Greenville that’s under 2 hours head to either Camp Greenville or Cedar Falls.
Keep in mind that some links are paid affiliate links. When you buy through these links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Any opinions expressed are not impacted by this.
Cedar Falls Park
Address: 201 Cedar Falls Road, Fountain Inn, SC 29644
Hours: 9AM to DUSK
At Cedar Falls Park, you will find 2.2 miles of walking and mountain biking trails. There’s also a large playground. The 200 foot wide falls can be accessed via the paved trail and there is parking at both ends of the trail. There is a picnic shelter that can be reserved online, as well. You can find a downloadable park map at the link above.
Check out more to do in Greenville.
Keep in mind that there is also a long term swimming advisory by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control – bacteria and pollution levels have exceeded state safety standards. Swimming here can make you sick.
You will see the remains of an early 20th century dam that used to power a sawmill, a textile mill, and a cotton gin. Watch your step and enjoy.
Symmes Chapel AKA The Pretty Place
Address: 100 YMCA Camp Rd, Cleveland, SC 29635
The Symmes Chapel is part of the YMCA Camp Greenville. Visitors are welcome from sunrise to sunset when it is not in use as an event venue. Be sure to check the visitation schedule before you go.
Camp Greenville dates back to 1912 and the chapel was constructed in 1941. It can be difficult to get a clear shot due to the popularity of the location. The view is so breathtaking though, that it is worth the drive. The best plan would be to arrive for a sunrise or sunset, a quick google search will show you some amazing photos captured during those times.
Check out places to eat in nearby Asheville.
Some nearby stops that would be equally as interesting:
- Jones Gap State Park (2 scenic waterfalls, 60+ miles of trails for all difficulties, low admission fee)
- Falls Creek Waterfall Trail (2 miles, considered Difficult due to climbing uphill with 600+ ft elevation gain)
- Raven Cliff Falls Trailhead (2+miles, waterfall, dog-friendly, kid friendly)
Happy Wandering!
Ready to Wander?
Try one of my favorite resources!
16 thoughts on “2 Free Day Trips from Greenville, SC”
These look like great places to visit! Definitely going to have to keep them in mind if we are ever in that area!
Stunning, is the world best to describe this place. Everywhere you look is so mesmerizing, as it your eyes will never get enough of what this place is to offer.
I could not possibly agree more!
Wow both of these spots are lovely, but I love exploring near water so the first option would be my go to!
Oh, there’s so many waterfalls to explore in the Carolinas! I need a return trip.
This looks like such a great place to explore!
The picture of the cross overlooking the mountains really got me. So beautiful! I can imagine that once the trees green up it is even more beautiful. I’ve heard SC is gorgeous.
I’ve seen photos of it sunrise and it is glorious! Just amazing. Probably worth a trip during every season and time of day.
very nice pictures.
What a beautiful location to visit.
How beautiful! I’m from that part of the country but have never been to that place. Seeing those pictures reminds me of “home”!
Awe, I feel the same way when I see my hometown treasures!
The views are lovely but I particularly love that vantage point from the chapel .
I agree, it is really a sight to see.
We have talked about visiting the Carolinas quite a bit. It sounds like there are so many great things to do there!
I think you will find it pleasantly surprising.