Hero image courtesy of @greenvilleheritagefcu on Instagram.
Voted one of the “Best Small Cities in the United States” by National Geographic Traveler and called a “slice of Southern charm” by The Travel Channel, Greenville, South Carolina, is quickly establishing itself as a must-see travel destination for families, foodies, wander-lusters, and just about everyone in between.
With all kinds of parks, restaurants, and points of interest, Downtown Greenville is filled with things to do and places to see. NOMA Square—an open-space plaza named for its location on Downtown’s North Main Street—is a hub of food, shopping, and city-organized activities, making it a center point of Greenville that’s worth a visit for anyone who’s in town. Keep reading to find out more about NOMA Square including:
- The different kinds of events that are hosted at the venue
- What restaurants and shops are in the area
Events and Activities in NOMA Square
As the largest outdoor plaza in Downtown Greenville, NOMA Square is consistently the city’s the place to be, thanks to free public events and activities. These are just some examples of what might be going on at NOMA Square while you’re in town. The events and activities listed are regularly-scheduled, so make sure to check out the NOMA Square website and social media for specific dates and times, plus any special pop-up events that might not be included here.
“The event facilitators of NOMA Square are doing great things in Greenville. From offering live music all summer to Yappy Hours specifically aimed at dogs and then yoga on the weekends… This is an amazing place to meet people and familiarize yourself with wonderful things happening in beautiful downtown Greenville.” -Anna C. on Yelp.
Seasonal Events and Activities in NOMA Square
Depending on the time of year, NOMA Square might be hosting a seasonal event during your visit to Greenville!
Oktoberfest
Get a taste of Germany right here in South Carolina at Greenville’s Oktoberfest in NOMA Square. During this multi-day autumnal event, you’ll find NOMA Square transformed into a Bavarian Biergarten, complete with traditional German foods and brews.
Wag-O-Ween
It’s not up for debate—there’s simply nothing cuter than dogs dressed up in Halloween costumes. Whether you bring your own dogs or just enjoy the costumed pups, you won’t regret making a trip to NOMA Square for Wag-O-Ween, Greenville’s dog-friendly Halloween party with live music.
Chanukah on Main
Sponsored by Chabad Greenville, this community event celebrates the start of Chanukah with hot latkes, doughnuts, chocolate gelt, arts and crafts, and the lighting of a giant community menorah. It also features speeches by leaders and dignitaries from Greenville’s Jewish community.
Poinsettia Christmas Parade
The Poinsettia Christmas Parade is a Greenville tradition that dates back over 75 years. It starts on River Street and ends in NOMA Square, which is decked out in holiday decorations for the rest of the season. The parade features holiday floats and marching bands and is held the first Saturday in December.
Saint Patrick’s Day Parade and Irish Festival
If you’re in Greenville for Saint Patty’s Day, make sure you check out Greenville’s Saint Patrick’s Day Parade, which starts at County Square and ends in NOMA Square. Following the end of the parade, NOMA Square keeps the party going with an Irish Festival.
Year-Round Fun in NOMA Square
Not in Greenville during a “special” time of the year? Don’t worry—at NOMA Square, the fun is year-round! These are a few of the events and activities that take place at NOMA Square throughout the year.
Downtown Alive
During the spring and summer, NOMA Square starts the weekend a little early with live music on Thursday nights. Enjoy music from all different genres when you stop by one of these free outdoor concerts with food and drinks from local vendors.
Main Street Fridays
What’s that? Another music series in NOMA Square? That’s right! Main Street Fridays takes place in NOMA Square every Friday night from early spring to late summer—free admission, a “Kids’ Zone,” and more!
Community Yoga
Get your stretch on at NOMA Square with community yoga! Soak up some South Carolina sun by attending a free outdoor yoga class hosted by local organizers like Southern Om Hot Yoga and Soul Yoga. Borrow a mat or bring your own, and head to NOMA Square for this beloved community activity.
Yappy Hour
If you enjoy happy hour, you’re sure to love Yappy Hour, a monthly dog-friendly happy hour at NOMA Square. Join the dogs of Greenville at this free-to-attend event featuring a cash bar, “Yappetizers,” and “Pup-Tinis.”
Downtown Eating, Shopping, and Nightlife
If you’re looking for a place to eat, drink, or shop, NOMA Square is packed with options. Take a look at some of what’s in and around Greenville’s Downtown hotspot.
Restaurants
Roost Restaurant
220 N. Main Street | www.roostrestaurant.com
With seasonal foods that are always fresh, Roost is a Greenville favorite that promises customers menu items that are “tastefully crafted, humanely raised, mindfully sourced, and fairly priced.” Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Roost has a diverse offering of food and drinks that you can enjoy in a homey, warm environment.
“Roost has a fantastic outside patio area with a small waterfall that is usually packed during good weather days. They also have lots of inside seating that are close to large windows so you can still some natural sunlight. Their kitchen is an open kitchen, and it's pretty cool to watch them prepare the food.” -Angela C. on Yelp.
Kilwins Chocolates, Fudge, & Ice Cream
220 N. Main Street, Suite 202 | www.kilwins.com
With its small-town feel and welcoming atmosphere, you’d never guess that Kilwins is a nationwide chain that just happens to have a location in Greenville. Buy some fresh chocolate and fudge before grabbing some ice cream to sit outside and eat in NOMA Square.
“There are lots of ice cream places on Main Street, but this one is my consistent favorite, even though it's a few steps above the higher traffic areas. Somehow, the ice cream tastes better and the store feels friendlier. Certainly, I prefer the selection of flavors. There are also lots of places nearby to sit and relax with your treat while watching the crowds pass by.” -Gil G. on Yelp.
Antonino Bertolo’s Pizza and Wine Bar
200 N. Main Street | www.antoninobertolospizza.com
If you’re spending the day out on the town in Downtown Greenville, make sure you stop by Antonino Bertolo’s Pizza for a slice (and maybe some cannoli, too!). This local pizza shop has been serving up classic Italian dishes to the Greenville community for more than 20 years!
“This place holds a special place in my heart. Over the past 15 YEARS I have been coming here, it has NEVER failed to let me down! They taste like authentic NYC pizza. GREAT lunch menu, and amazing dinner menu. They are local, and the prices reflect that. They finally added a bar with amazing drinks! (and prices), not to mention that they're open SUPER late with a to-go WINDOW!” -Vonda B. on Yelp.
Nightlife
Blu Martini Bar & Nightclub
1 College Street | www.facebook.com/Blu
Dance the night away at Blu Martini Bar & Nightclub, right across the street from NOMA Square. With chic vibes, glow-in-the-dark decor, and a live DJ, Blu is a go-to spot for nightlife in Greenville. Whether you throw back a few cocktails or just head straight to the dancefloor, you’ll have a blast at this trendy club that’s frequented by locals and visitors alike.
“I must say, surprisingly enough, throughout the years I've been in Greenville during any holiday, I always seem to find myself winding up at this club . . . I've wound up here for Halloween parties, New Year’s parties, my Bachelorette party, my friends’ Bachelorette parties, and probably a few other holidays I can't remember over the last 15 years. I can honestly say it will always remain in my list of bars to hit up Downtown, even if it's to just go in for a second just to say hi to the DJ and feel the music for a minute or so.” -Ronda N. on Yelp.
City Tavern
128 N. Main Street | www.facebook.com/CityTavern
At this local watering hole, you’ll find Happy Hour, trivia, bar food, karaoke, alcoholic slushies, and tons of fun. Located just a block from NOMA Square, City Tavern is in the heart of Downtown Greenville and a mandatory part of any bar crawl in through the city. That being said, it also makes for the perfect place to casually enjoy a few drinks and a bite to eat.
Always a favorite spot when heading downtown for a night of drinks and fun! . . . It's a pretty decent sized bar but it's a popular spot, so unless you're there early on a weekend night, don't expect to just walk right in . . . There's tons of seating inside and out, but not a lot of standing room when it gets packed, so keep that in mind if you like to wear heels, your feet are gonna hurt! The best part of City Tavern is the selection of frozen drinks. Everclear slushies, need I say more? . . . If you're visiting Greenville, check this place out!” -Linett R. on Yelp.
SIP Whiskey & Wine Bar
103 N. Maint Street | www.sipgvl.com
If you’re looking for a drink with a view, SIP Whiskey & Wine Bar is the place to go! With a rooftop bar that makes for dazzling photo ops and an irresistible menu with both drinks and food, it’s easy to see why so many people in Greenville love SIP. The bar, which is adjacent to NOMA Square, also hosts regular events like Happy Hour and other drink promos, as well as wine tastings, live music, and even movies!
“Went twice in one day because it was just so great. They've got enough TVs inside and out to watch all the sports, and they have a great selection for drinking. All the servers and bartenders were so friendly. They also have fun games like Jenga and comfy lounge furniture outside where the rooftop view is nice.” -Raquel M. on Yelp.
Shops
Oil & Vinegar
220 N. Main Street, Suite 203 | www.oilvinegar.com
You won’t find typical souvenirs at this gift shop in NOMA Square—instead, you’ll leave armed with some new cooking ingredients and plenty of inspiration for your next meal. Equipped with a diverse selection of imported and domestic oils, vinegar, spices, and herbs, Oil & Vinegar offers visitors a unique shopping experience that’s further enhanced by its staff who’s well-versed in the culinary arts.
“Loved my experience here with the informative and friendly staff. The variety is incredible and full of flavors I didn't know existed for oils and vinegars. Amazing infusions that will get your culinary creativity flowing. There are tons of unique food gifts that intrigue me as something special to bring to a party. I picked up a bottle of the lime olive oil and I've really been loving it on salads, fish, and chicken!” -Michelle P. on Yelp.
Southern Tide
200 N. Main Street | www.southerntidegreenville.com
See South Carolina in style by taking a trip to Southern Tide for some new clothes and apparel from brands like Sail to Sable, Corkcicle, Sperry, and more! Shop men, women, and kids at this signature store from the brand that originated in Greenville and is quickly growing in popularity across the country.
“This store has a great selection of Southern Tide clothing. Shirts, shorts, swimsuits, and accessories for both men and ladies. The store also carries a good Yeti collection also. Located downtown Greenville, conveniently located near the major hotels. There's nothing Southern Tide makes that's not in this location.” -Sherry C. on Yelp.
Magnolia Scents by Design
209 N. Main Street | www.magnoliascents.com
Browse (and smell) artisanal candles and soaps at this scent shop and micro-factory. At Magnolia Scents by Design, you can buy soy candles, natural bar soaps, essential oils, and more—plus, you can even sign up for a class to make your own candles. Who knew shopping could smell so good?
“I love this shop!! . . . Stop in and treat yourself, or snag a wonderful gift for someone else. You can even get candles poured into old candle jars or any cute container you bring in! So save that cookie tin you thought was so cute, but couldn't figure out what you'd ever do with it... it's now an amazing smelling candle!” -Morgan B. on Yelp.
Nonstop Fun at NOMA Square
No trip to Greenville is complete without scheduling a stop at NOMA Square. And with so much going on, you’ll probably find yourself there more than once! Whether you attend an event, go to a restaurant, or just enjoy the outdoor seating, you’re sure to fall in love with this fun-filled spot in Greenville.
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