Residents and Visitors Enjoy Ease of Mobility in Greenville, SC
Greenville, SC, has found its way into a lot of headlines lately.
From being ranked among the top 10 Best Small Cities in the U.S. by Conde Nast Traveler many times to ranking among the top 10 Best Places to Live in the U.S. by U.S. News and World Report in 2024-25 to ranking among the Top 100 Best Places to Live in the U.S. by Livability in 2025, this city is generating a lot of buzz.
A big reason it’s captured so much attention from the media, along with potential residents and visitors? Its mobility landscape just makes life easier – and a little more fun.
Walkable Downtown
Downtown Greenville is perhaps most known for the sprawling Falls Park on the Reedy and the recognizable Liberty Bridge. While attractions like these are enjoyed by visitors and residents, downtown’s walkability is what has them hooked.
Its numerous amenities, short blocks and safe intersections make popping out for an errand or a fun night on the town a breeze. Stroll along Main Street’s wide, tree-lined sidewalks, and you’ll discover a variety of locally owned shops and restaurants – many with gorgeous views of the Reedy River – that beckon you in for a look around or a bite to eat.
If you decide to bring your car downtown, be sure to take advantage of the 800-plus parking spots that allow you to park for free for the first two hours.
“Whether you’re catching a show at one of our theaters, shopping at our 75-plus vendor farmers market or simply enjoying a sunny afternoon in one of the many green spaces, downtown Greenville offers a vibrant mix of culture, community and charm that keeps you coming back,” says Gladys Sosa Jones, event experiences manager for VisitGreenvilleSC.
On Two Wheels
Perhaps two wheels, not two feet, is your preferred way to get around. If so, Greenville has you covered. With 116 miles of trails to explore, bike enthusiasts find that the Greenville area feels just like home. One trail you need to experience is Swamp Rabbit Trail, a scenic greenway that spans 28 spectacular miles. And since it connects different parts of Greenville, you can access many of the neighborhoods from your bike.
Visitors love to take advantage of the trail, as well. And thanks to bicycle rental outfits like Pedego Electric Bikes Greenville and Reedy Rides, you’ll find everything you need for an Upstate adventure.
“Lots of bike racks and free valet service provided by Bike Walk Greenville at major events make it easy to ride your bike instead of driving and trying to find parking,” Laurel Zimmerman, owner of Pedego, says about the advantages of being a bike owner in this mobility-friendly city.
If you’re interested in getting out into nature for some mountain biking, there are loads of opportunities to do so. The tranquil JFA Trail north of Greenville in Pleasant Ridge County Park is perfect for those still breaking in their mountain bike, while the twisting trails at Paris Mountain State Park, such as the Kanuga and Sulphur Springs trails, offer more of a challenge.
Easy Air Travel
Whether you’re a tourist looking to visit the Upstate for the first time or a seasoned resident, Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport, the region’s primary airport, makes coming and going a cinch. With the airport just 30 minutes from downtown Greenville, you can be taking in a game at Fluor Field, where the Greenville Drive play, or eating riverside at Passerelle Bistro within an hour of landing. Plus, Greenville-Spartanburg’s more approachable size means less time in line at security and more time enjoying Greenville. And with direct flights to over 100 major destinations, like Dallas and Chicago, and connecting flights to hundreds more on all the major airlines, Greenville-Spartanburg is truly the gateway to the world.
“We offer an exceptional travel experience with domestic and international connectivity, modern amenities and a strong focus on the passenger experience,” says Tom Tyra, chief marketing and communications officer for the airport. “Our size allows us to deliver convenience and efficiency without compromising on quality.”
Get to Know Greenville, SC
Want to learn more about living and working in Greenville, SC? Check out the latest edition of Livability Greenville: Live Here. Love Here. Career Here.