America's rivers have been lauded as providing some of the best scenic destinations in the country. And now, thanks to a recent ranking by Fodor's, South Carolina has a riverfront that is officially among the best river walks in North America.
If, 25 years ago, you'd asked a local about the Reedy River running through the heart of downtown Greenville, you'd get an unfavorable answer.
For decades this section of the river, in particular, was considered among the most polluted (both the water and the riverbanks) in the state. But that has changed in the last 25 years. And now, there's a city park here that is among the best in the nation.
At the center of the park is a 40-foot waterfall the spills water over its cascade in white ribbons that are a stark contrast to the dark, wet rock behind.
The Reedy River flows for 65 miles in the Upstate of South Carolina and at this particular waterfall the drop fills the entire width of the river (about 100 feet) with beautiful cascades that drop into a shallow plunge pool at the base.
But the waterfall isn't the only thing to see, do, and love about this area of town. The river walk is a tremendous resource for entertainment, food, shopping, and accommodations.
Both sides of the river have escalated into one of the most sought-after experiences in all of Greenville.
A nearby concert venue also provides indoor entertainment year-round, while outdoor stages create a natural auditorium during warmer months for outdoor gigs.
Scores of restaurants, like the Lazy Goat, located right on the river walk, provide delicious award-winning meals.
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From fine dining choices all the way to an ultra-casual Mexican meal at the popular Papi's Tacos, also found right on the waterfront, Greenville's river walk is the 'in' place to be.
Concerning accommodations, there is no shortage of hotels in which to stay. You'll find them all along Greenville's Main Street, as well as along the waterfront.
Pictured here is a rendition of the all-new Grand Bohemian Hotel, slated to open sometime this winter. The website is already taking reservations as far out as June 2022. (Notice the Liberty Bridge in the far left of the photo?)
And Greenville's Main Street and its shops and restaurants are literally only steps away from the river walk.
Shopping, dining, and more are all in one walkable part of Greenville.
It's no wonder Fodor's placed Greenville's river walk on the same list with the likes of the San Antonio Riverwalk, Portland, Oregon's Waterfront Park, and the Tampa Riverwalk.
When is the last time you visited Greenville and popped over to the river walk? Maybe it's time to go see all the new additions! Learn more from the city's Destination Marketing Organizatinon: VisitGreenvilleSC.com.
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