Greenville City Guide

The city offers Southern dishes like shrimp and grits and BBQ, along with Italian, Mexican, Asian, and Mediterranean food. Vegan and vegetarian options are growing. Late-night food choices are mostly in downtown or fast food.

Downtown Greenville has bars, breweries, and live music venues that make for a lively nightlife.

Many independent coffee shops serve third-wave coffee.

Tipping is standard in Greenville. Expect to tip 15-20% in restaurants and for services.

SIM cards can be bought at AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile stores. T-Mobile and AT&T have good coverage. ID is needed for post-paid plans; pre-paid is simpler to activate.

The city is clean with regular waste and recycling services.

Some pharmacies open 24/7. Convenience stores open late but rarely overnight. Late-night food mainly fast food.

Groceries are widely available at supermarkets and specialty stores. Major supermarkets include Publix, Harris Teeter, Lowes Foods, and Whole Foods. Some fresh local markets run seasonally.

Most places accept credit and debit cards. Carrying cash is rarely needed for everyday purchases.

ATMs are common at major banks like Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Truist. Out-of-network ATM fees usually cost $2.50 to $5.00.

Public schools are managed by Greenville County Schools. Some private schools serve diverse students. Instruction is mainly in English. International schools are rare.

A growing remote work community with co-working spaces and events.

Large parks and trails provide plenty of green space for activities.

Good running spots include the Swamp Rabbit Trail and local parks. Running groups are active and the area is generally safe.

Several gyms and fitness centers serve the city, including popular chains and CrossFit.

Tennis courts are common in public parks and private clubs. Equipment rental is usually available.

Padel courts are rare but exist in some private facilities.

Multiple yoga studios and wellness centers offer classes and drop-in sessions.

Various martial arts including Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, Boxing, and Karate with English-speaking instructors.

No skiing in Greenville. Nearest ski resorts are 2-3 hours away in North Carolina.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing are possible on the Reedy River and nearby lakes with rental options.

No surfing nearby. Closest surf spots are on the Atlantic coast several hours away.

No diving or snorkeling here. Coastal options are far away.

Greenville has quality hospitals like Prisma Health Greenville Memorial and Bon Secours St. Francis with English-speaking staff. Pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens are plentiful.

Tap water meets all federal and state standards and is safe to drink.

Lots of playgrounds, kid-friendly cafés, and attractions like the Children’s Museum and Greenville Zoo. Baby supplies are easy to find.

Increasingly LGBTQ+ friendly with events and safe spaces. Some local protections exist.

Pet-friendly city with parks and services. Vet clinics and pet stores are common.