How to spend a day in Traveler’s Rest: An NGU parent’s guide
Lexi Hudson, Staff Writer
If the house has been a little too quiet or if you’ve been missing your student more than usual, here is a day full of fun, affordable ways that are guaranteed to create new memories and help you reconnect with your favorite Trailblazer.
As a Christ-centered community, we encourage families to start off this busy day with a sunrise devotional at the newly restored Fred W. Symmes “Pretty Place” Chapel.
Pretty Place features a large wooden cross overlooking the mountains that peek through the clouds and are decorated with vibrant colors that paint the sky. It’s safe to say that this free-admission chapel lives up to its nickname.
After the devastation of Hurricane Helene, locals are beyond thrilled to have this iconic, Christ-honoring location back in our community.
After enjoying the breathtaking views Pretty Place has to offer, head to Downtown Travelers Rest to enjoy a wide range of crepes at Tandem Creperie and Coffeehouse.
Outside, they feature a dandelion yellow, vintage Volkswagen where a friendly staff member will take your order before directing you to your table.
Vicky Karastanov, a returning customer at Tandem, said, “Their coffee is really good, and I love their very unique syrups. Anytime I’m in the area I always look forward to coming here. Crepes are pretty good but mainly there for vibes and coffee.”
Tandem even sells their own flowers every Friday in the spring. So, dads, be sure to treat your better half to a fresh bouquet.
After breakfast, head across downtown to our section of the Swamp Rabbit Trail.
“On your left!” That’s just one thing you can expect to hear over the course of the 17.5 miles of generally flat nature trails. The trail is full of friendly locals as they bike, socialize and walk their furry friends, but unfortunately there are very minimal rabbits.
At the end of the trail, you’ll be met with the bustling and welcoming environment of Downtown Greenville.
Take advantage of the appetite you worked up by treating yourself to one of the many options in the downtown area. One of these options is Gather GVL, which has continued to gain popularity since its opening in 2020.
Relax in a lounge chair and enjoy live music on the lawn while indulging in one of their 13 incredible food and drink options.
Ella Lim, a Gather GVL regular, said, “This spot is perfect for gatherings with family and friends, especially when everyone has different cravings. From sushi and Philly cheesesteak burgers to chili dogs, the variety here is unmatched.”
After lunch, we recommend exploring Downtown Greenville and enjoying the city environment, or if you’re a nature lover, there are plenty of hiking trails beloved by locals.
One of these trails is a hidden treasure featuring a gorgeous waterfall: Reedy River Falls.
Reedy River Falls is a great way to take a break from the lively, busy Main Street while still being in the center of Downtown Greenville.
For dinner, head back to Travelers Rest and treat yourself and your student to dinner with a view at Restaurant 17.
In addition to two stories of European-style dining rooms, this fine-dining experience offers outdoor seating options with a stunning landscape of the mountains. Your student is bound to be impressed by your pick.
Local guide Seth Cooper said, “My wife and I went to Restaurant 17 to celebrate a special occasion, and I have to say that to-date it’s one of the best dining experiences we’ve had in the Greenville area. Everything about our evening here was great.”
If you’re wanting something a little more casual, Country House Café exudes southern charm with their homemade biscuits and farm atmosphere.
While digging into their fried green tomatoes or a slice of freshly baked cake, keep an eye out for Tom, their resident turkey, and his friends outside. Make sure to visit their free-access petting zoo because you’re never too old to pet a goat or a bunny.
At sunset, make the short drive up to Bald Rock Heritage Preserve, a local gem loved by our students. With its free admission, minimal walk, gorgeous views and spacious location, what’s not to love?
We hope you and your student enjoyed your action-packed day in the Travelers Rest area, and we hope to see you again soon!
