Originally posted on visitgreenvillesc.com, updated for 2020
If you’re headed to Greenville, SC for a visit (no matter how short!), be sure to check out some of our favorite places to buy handmade and local goods around town. We’ve mapped out a Day of Handmade that includes a few classic spots, but plan to take your time, wander, and discover something new!
First Stop: The Village
Start your day off at The Village Grind with a delicious cup of coffee or tea, and don’t pass up the chance to try a pastry! Baked at Greenville’s own Bakeroom, the Morning Buns and Croissants are a don’t-miss treat.
Sit and enjoy your breakfast in the cozy plant-filled shop, or take your drinks on a leisurely walk through The Village – Greenville’s art district. To your right as you leave The Village Grind, bright murals at Carol’s next door and on the side of The Anchorage restaurant beg to be a photo backdrop. Be sure to stop by the Darin R Gehrke Ceramics shop between the murals. Or wander left from The Village Grind and check out the shops in The Saltbox and at 547 Perry.
Tip: If you’re up for a longer stroll, head left past the angular Flatiron Building to Art & Light Gallery at 16 Aiken Street. They’re open from 10-4 every Saturday and feature rotating artist shows. It’s easy to pick out the gallery from surrounding houses thanks to the splashes of color on its side.
Second Stop: The Trail
Next, head to Swamp Rabbit Cafe & Grocery. Not only is it a convenient stop for cyclists on the trail, it’s Greenville’s source for local food, drink, snacks and more. You can shop for produce from local farmers and also find locally made gift items like soaps, candles, tea towels, and chocolate! Four Saturdays a year, you’ll also find them hosting the popular Swamp Rabbit Flea where you can meet the makers behind many of these goods. This is a fantastic lunch spot, so grab a bite while you’re there.
Next Stop: Downtown
If you're spending any time in our lovely downtown area, The Mast General Store is a popular tourist stop that also stocks some local art. Just one block north, you’ll find Greenville’s new Make Made Jewelry studio, which features over a dozen jewelry artisans as well as bags and gift items. They’re open Tuesday - Saturday, from 10am - 5pm.
Final Stop: Stone’s Point
On the edge of downtown Greenville, you’ll find The Landmark Flagship store, which features a selection of travel and outdoor items alongside tee shirts that are designed and produced in Greenville. The shop also houses a Methodical Coffee location, where you can grab a coffee or milkshake for an afternoon treat.
If you’re visiting on a weekday, pop into Urban Digs, next door where you’ll find plants and terrariums alongside handmade jewelry, children’s items and art. It’s a lovely place to find unique handcrafted items.
To wrap up your day, stop by Community Tap for a drink. Depending on the time of day, you may even find a food truck out front ready to serve up dinner.
Of course, if you happen to be in Greenville in September, you’ll want to come see Indie Craft Parade at Furman University. The 2020 festival will take place September 18-20 and features over 100 southern artists and makers.