Things To Do
in Simpsonville
Simpsonville sits in the Upstate region of South Carolina, just east of Greenville. It's a family-friendly suburb with a mix of quiet neighborhoods, parks, and growing dining options. The city blends small-town charm with easy access to the outdoors and the culture of nearby Greenville.
Its location along major highways makes day trips to waterfalls, trails, and shopping convenient.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café in Simpsonville's Historic Center, savoring fresh pastries and locally brewed coffee. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll down Main Street, admiring the charming historic buildings and unique local shops. Stop by the Simpsonville Heritage Park to enjoy the serene surroundings and learn about the town's rich history.
In the afternoon, indulge in a delicious lunch at one of the town’s popular eateries, where you can try some Southern comfort food. Afterward, visit the Simpsonville Arts Center to explore local art exhibitions and perhaps participate in a workshop. Spend some time in the nearby parks, enjoying the greenery and maybe even catching a live performance if available.
As evening sets in, head to a cozy restaurant for dinner, where you can enjoy Southern barbecue or fresh farm-to-table dishes. After dinner, take a peaceful walk around Heritage Park, where the sunset casts a beautiful glow over the lake. Conclude your day with a nightcap at a local pub, mingling with the friendly locals.
Start your day with a visit to the nearby Lake Hartwell, where you can enjoy a peaceful morning by the water. Go for a nature walk on one of the scenic trails, observing local wildlife and enjoying the fresh air. Bring along a picnic breakfast to enjoy while soaking in the beautiful natural surroundings.
After your morning in nature, head back to Simpsonville for lunch at a farm-to-table restaurant that highlights local ingredients. Spend your afternoon exploring the nearby wetlands and parks, where you might spot various bird species and other wildlife. Consider taking a guided nature tour to enhance your experience and learn more about the local ecosystem.
Return to Simpsonville for dinner at a local seafood restaurant, where you can enjoy fresh catches from the South. After dinner, visit the Simpsonville Community Theater for a captivating performance or film screening. Wrap up your evening with a stroll through the town's vibrant streets, enjoying the welcoming atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🏠Rent for 1-bedroom apartment in city center | $1,100-1,450 per month |
| 💡Utilities (monthly) | $150-250 |
| 🚗Gasoline per gallon | $3-4 |
| 🛒Groceries per person per week | $40-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close access to Greenville's dining, culture, and outdoor spaces
- Family-friendly with parks, trails, and safe neighborhoods
- Limited nightlife within Simpsonville itself; more options in Greenville
- Suburban traffic during peak hours on I-385/I-85
Places to Visit in Simpsonville
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic falls with the Liberty Bridge and reflections along the Reedy River.
Lakeside and forest trails with varied viewpoints and natural scenery.
Wetlands and birdlife framed by marshes and boardwalk views.
Golden hour over the river with the distinctive bridge framing the skyline.
Rail-trail perspectives of forests, water features, and footbridges.
Food in Simpsonville
Simpsonville Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Creamy grits topped with shrimp, often served with andouille sausage and a flavorful sauce.
Must-Try!
Smoky, tender pork shoulder with tangy sauce; classic in local BBQ joints.
Fluffy biscuits smothered in rich sausage gravy, a Southern breakfast staple.
Crispy, seasoned fried chicken served with sides like coleslaw and mashed potatoes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal markets offering local produce, baked goods, and crafts.
Regional markets featuring farm-fresh produce, prepared foods, and street bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly hello or handshake is common; polite small talk is typical.
Dispose of trash properly and keep noise reasonable in residential areas.
Punctuality is valued for appointments and reservations.
Safety
Tipping in Simpsonville
Ensure a smooth experience
In the US, tip 15-20% at restaurants; round up for small orders; tip bartenders and service workers accordingly.
Credit/debit cards widely accepted; contactless payments common; cash is accepted but increasingly less common in some places.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming landscapes; daily showers possible; great for hiking.
Hot and humid with afternoon thunderstorms; stay hydrated and seek shade in parks.
Pleasant temps and colorful foliage; ideal for outdoor activities and photos.
Cool to mild winters; snow is rare but possible; layering is key.
Simpsonville at Night
Hiking in Simpsonville
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails with lake views close to Simpsonville.
Steep, scenic trails and overlooks in the Blue Ridge foothills (a bit farther but popular).
Short, family-friendly trails with educational stops near Greenville.
Airports
How to reach Simpsonville by plane.
Largest nearby airport with domestic and limited international flights, about 20-30 miles from Simpsonville.
A larger airport with more flight options, about 1.5-2 hours away by car.
Major hub with frequent flights; about 2.5-3 hours away by car.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Strong presence of families in suburban neighborhoods; good schools and parks.
Commuters to Greenville and surrounding employers; growing local amenities.
Quieter neighborhoods with access to health care and community events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
High school and community leagues are popular; college football fans travel to nearby campuses.
Local intramural and school teams; pickup games in parks.
Local leagues, youth programs, and minor league options in the wider region.
Several public courses in the Greenville area for all skill levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Simpsonville.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places offer veggie entrees, salads, and sides; ask for meat-free options; look for vegetable-based dishes.