Discover why this city's cultural vibe is one of the South's hidden treasures.

Greenville is gaining recognition for its vibrant cultural scene, featuring unique galleries, extensive public art, and a lively schedule of performing arts and events. It offers top-notch entertainment within a charming, walkable downtown.

What transformed this South Carolina gem into a cultural hotspot? Greenville’s strong commitment to the arts includes city-sponsored shows, festivals, and initiatives from organizations like the Metropolitan Arts Council, aiming to elevate the city as a national arts destination. Once known as “The Textile Capital of the World,” it now hosts a variety of innovative international firms, including Michelin and several mobility, automotive, and energy research entities.

Yet, the true catalyst for the local artistic energy is the stunning natural surroundings that inspire a new wave of artists to settle here. Whatever the factors, Greenville’s cultural allure is quickly shedding its low-profile status—making it the perfect time for a visit.

Outstanding events await you here.

With a lively calendar of events throughout the year, there’s never a dull moment in Greenville. Kicking off the year, the Reedy Reels Film Festival highlights independent films, many of which are shot right in the area. In September, the Euphoria food and wine festival offers a feast of culinary events across the city.

In May, the celebrated Artisphere art fair transforms downtown into a vibrant showcase of visual artists, musicians, and more—all completely free. As the leaves turn in October, Fall for Greenville arrives, bringing three days filled with food, beer, and music to Main Street. This is just a glimpse of the exciting events on Greenville’s calendar.

Art in public spaces

In Greenville, art is not confined to galleries; it thrives in public spaces for everyone to admire. The city’s Art in Public Places initiative showcases nearly 100 artworks, including Dale Chihuly’s impressive Rose Crystal Tower and Joel Shapiro’s untitled sculpture, often referred to as the dancing sculpture, near Liberty Bridge. You'll also find vibrant murals on local buildings, such as Gaia’s City of Altruism, which reflects Greenville’s textile heritage, and Annie Koelle’s Gridley Memorial Mural, a modern tribute to Victorian women. Don’t miss the playful Mice on Main project, featuring nine bronze mice hidden along Main Street, creating a delightful scavenger hunt for all ages.

A celebration of American art

Once you’ve enjoyed the outdoor art scene, consider heading indoors to further your exploration. The complimentary Greenville County Museum of Art is renowned as the South's leading American art museum, showcasing pieces by Jasper Johns and the largest collection of Andrew Wyeth watercolors. It also boasts the most extensive collection of pottery by David Drake, an enslaved African American potter from 19th-century Edgefield, South Carolina.

For those interested in contemporary art, numerous galleries feature works by local and regional artists, with monthly First Friday events drawing art enthusiasts for special exhibitions. The Art Crossing at RiverPlace hosts several working galleries along the picturesque Reedy River, where visitors can witness the creative process firsthand. Other notable spots include Art and Light Gallery, Greenville Center for Creative Arts, and ArtBomb.

Behind the scenes

From ballet to theater and symphonies, Greenville's stages host a diverse array of performing arts events, featuring both local and touring talents. Central to downtown, the Peace Center serves as a vibrant arts and entertainment hub, home to four resident companies: Carolina Ballet Theatre, Greenville Chorale, Greenville Symphony, and International Ballet. This venue also features critically acclaimed touring Broadway productions and performances by artists like Lucius and St. Paul and the Broken Bones. Local talent thrives as well, with companies such as Centre Stage, Glow Lyric Theatre, Alchemy Comedy Theatre, Greenville Theatre, and the Warehouse Theatre.

Culinary artistry

The vibrant food scene in Greenville adds to the region’s rich cultural landscape. Here, you'll discover upscale dining experiences led by chefs like James Beard Award nominee Adam Cooke of Topsoil Kitchen & Market. Or indulge in the offerings at Camp, a modern American restaurant from French Laundry alum and Greenville native Drew Erickson, where the wagyu corndogs perfectly complement seasonally inspired craft cocktails.

For those seeking global flavors, Greenville doesn’t disappoint. Visit Asada for a Latin American fusion experience, savor Persian dishes at Pomegranate, or explore the rich tastes of Aryana Afghan Cuisine. Notably, Dayna Lee-Márquez, the owner of West Greenville’s Comal 864, recently gained attention as a semifinalist for the James Beard Foundation’s Best Chef: Southeast for 2023.

This Southern city also boasts hearty classics like award-winning barbecue from SBH BBQ and comforting soul food at OJ’s Diner. If you’re indecisive, check out Gather, an open-air food court crafted from repurposed shipping containers, or embark on a gourmet journey with a local food tour to sample various local delicacies.

And what’s the perfect pairing? You’ll soon discover why Greenville ranks among the cities with the highest number of breweries per capita in the U.S. The craft beer scene is thriving, with over 20 innovative breweries to explore. Thomas Creek, the city’s first craft brewery, remains a top destination for any beer enthusiast visiting Greenville.

Liability stands out as one of the few Certified B Corp breweries in the nation, offering sustainably brewed beers with clever names—don't miss the Mortal Wombat IPA. A fresh addition to the beer scene is Fireforge, whose Tampanian Devil Belgian-Style Tripel Ale snagged silver at the Beverage Testing Institute’s 2022 World Beer Championships. Whether you choose a single brewery or sample from several, you’ll be raising a glass to Greenville’s vibrant culture with each artfully crafted pint.