Greenville, SC: The Perfect Home Base for Weekend Getaways
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Greenville, SC: The Perfect Home Base for Weekend Getaways

  • Writer: chantelle fresco
    chantelle fresco
  • Jul 1
  • 3 min read

So you’ve unpacked the boxes, hung the art, and settled into your new home in Greenville, South Carolina. But now you’re wondering, what’s next?

One of the hidden perks of living in Greenville is its prime location. Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and just a few hours from both the coast and major metropolitan hubs, Greenville is perfectly positioned for quick and easy escapes. Whether you're craving beach vibes, mountain hikes, or a taste of big city culture, you're just a drive away.

Here’s your guide to some of the best vacation spots near Greenville, all within a few hours’ reach.


Rainbow Road Charleston SC

🏔️ 1. Blue Ridge Mountains & Western NC (1–2 hours)

For a quick mountain escape, you don’t have to go far. Within about an hour, you can be hiking scenic trails, exploring charming mountain towns, or relaxing in a cabin with a view.

Top Picks:

  • Caesars Head State Park (45 min) – Amazing overlooks, hiking trails, and waterfalls.

  • Brevard, NC (1 hr) – A quaint town with art galleries, breweries, and access to Pisgah National Forest.

  • Asheville, NC (1.5 hrs) – Great for a weekend of food, music, hiking, and craft beer.

Why It’s Great:

The mountains offer year-round escapes, hike in summer, see foliage in fall, and enjoy cozy cabin stays in winter.



🏖️ 2. Charleston, SC (3.5 hours)

Want a weekend of historic charm, beach days, and unbeatable seafood? Charleston delivers on all fronts. It’s one of the top-rated coastal cities in the U.S., and it’s just a straight shot down I-26 from Greenville.

Highlights:

  • Stroll the historic district and Rainbow Row

  • Visit Sullivan’s Island or Folly Beach

  • Take a boat tour through Charleston Harbor

Pro Tip: Book a B&B downtown to walk to shops and restaurants, or stay near the beach if you want a more laid-back trip.



🐚 3. Myrtle Beach, SC (4.5 hours)

If you’re after a more classic beach vacation, Myrtle Beach offers something for everyone: families, golfers, and sun-seekers alike.

Things to Do:

  • Walk the boardwalk and visit the Sky Wheel

  • Play mini-golf (or the real thing—Myrtle is a golf capital)

  • Enjoy live shows and amusement parks

It’s a bit longer drive than Charleston, but still an easy weekend option, especially if you’re planning to unplug and unwind.



🏙️ 4. Atlanta, GA (2.5 hours)

When you need a big-city fix, Atlanta is the nearest major metropolis and perfect for concerts, shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Must-Sees:

  • Georgia Aquarium (largest in the U.S.)

  • World of Coca-Cola

  • Atlanta Botanical Garden

  • Ponce City Market & Beltline

Greenville’s calm pace makes Atlanta feel like a quick shot of energy, ideal for a short, exciting weekend.



🎭 5. Charlotte, NC (1.5 hours)

Charlotte is North Carolina’s largest city, and an easy drive from Greenville, it is perfect for a quick weekend of sports, shopping, or brewery-hopping.

Check Out:

  • NASCAR Hall of Fame

  • South End and NoDa Arts District

  • Carolina Panthers or Charlotte FC games

  • Carowinds Amusement Park

It’s a little more low-key than Atlanta but still offers big-city perks within a short distance.



🎣 6. Lake Keowee & Lake Jocassee (45–60 min)

Looking for something closer to home? These stunning lakes are less than an hour from Greenville and perfect for day trips or long weekends.

What to Do:

  • Rent a pontoon or kayak

  • Swim, fish, or picnic at one of the public access areas

  • Camp or rent a lake house for the weekend

Lake Jocassee, especially, is known for its crystal-clear water and mountain views, a true Upstate gem.



🏕️ 7. Great Smoky Mountains & Gatlinburg, TN (3 hrs)

For a more adventurous escape, head to Tennessee’s Smoky Mountains. It's a scenic drive and a classic vacation spot.

Don’t Miss:

  • Great Smoky Mountains National Park (free admission!)

  • Hiking to Clingmans Dome or Laurel Falls

  • Dollywood Theme Park in nearby Pigeon Forge

Perfect for families or couples who love nature and entertainment all in one trip.



✈️ Bonus: Greenville’s Growing Airport = More Direct Flights

If you prefer air travel, Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (GSP) offers direct flights to major vacation spots like:

  • Orlando

  • NYC

  • Denver

  • Dallas

  • Chicago

  • Miami

With more connections being added each year, your next adventure could be just a flight away.



🌄 Greenville: The Ultimate Launchpad for Adventure

Living in Greenville means enjoying the charm of a small city with access to big adventures. Whether you’re craving a mountain hike, a beach weekend, or a quick city break, Greenville’s location makes it easy to explore without using up all your PTO.



📦 Still Planning Your Move to Greenville?

If you’re relocating or just settling in, let Highway Men Moving help with the heavy lifting, so you can start planning your next getaway.

Get a free moving quote today, and make your move the first of many great journeys


 
 
 
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