This Is the South's Most Underrated City-With Waterfalls, Michelin-starred Restaurants, and Blue Ridge Mountain Views

"Tucked into South Carolina's Upstate region, Greenville has quietly become one of the Southeast's most appealing small cities-equal parts outdoorsy, food-driven, and easy to explore. At its heart is a walkable downtown anchored by Falls Park on the Reedy, where waterfalls, lush landscaping, and the Liberty Bridge create a postcard-worthy setting just steps from Main Street's shops, restaurants, and galleries."

"Its culinary scene is one of the city's biggest draws, and its momentum is only building. Longtime Southern institutions sit alongside chef-driven restaurants, including Italian favorite Jianna, Michelin-starred Scoundrel, and modern American standouts that emphasize seasonal ingredients. In a major sign of Greenville's rising profile, Top Chef recently filmed in the city for its 23rd season, and the debut of the Michelin Guide for the Carolinas has brought national attention to the local dining scene."

"Festivals like Euphoria and Fall for Greenville -both held each fall-turn downtown into a gathering place for chefs, musicians, and travelers, while warmer months bring outdoor concerts, markets, and patio dining to nearly every corner of the city. Greenville's hotel scene has also earned national recognition in recent years. Properties such as Hotel Hartness and the Grand Bohemian Lodge Greenville have been honored by Travel + Leisure readers in the World's Best Awards."

Greenville sits in South Carolina's Upstate region and blends outdoor access, walkability, and a growing food culture. Falls Park on the Reedy and the Liberty Bridge anchor a scenic downtown near Main Street shops, galleries, and restaurants. The culinary scene mixes longtime Southern institutions with chef-driven restaurants like Jianna and Michelin-recognized Scoundrel, and events such as Top Chef visits and the Michelin Guide spotlight have elevated national interest. Seasonal festivals and warm-weather markets and concerts animate the downtown. Notable hotels such as Hotel Hartness and the Grand Bohemian Lodge have earned national recognition for design and service.

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