Pack your bags for an unforgettable summer. | Photos provided by VisitGreenvilleSC
Ready to make the most of summer? Grab your shades and sense of adventure, because Greenville, South Carolina’s summer scene is packed with excitement. Whether you’re seeking thrilling adventures or just looking to relax and cool off, Greenville offers a variety of summer events, outdoor activities, and refreshing spots to enjoy.
With so much happening in Greenville this summer, we’ve put together some can’t-miss experiences to give you a sneak peek at what’s in store.
Sizzle into the season with hot events
Greenville comes alive in the summer with a lineup of free events celebrating art, music, and local culture. From Artisphere to JazzFest, immerse yourself in world-class art and live performances. Plus, you won’t want to miss the weekly Music in the Park concert series, where beautiful mountain views create the perfect backdrop for singing and dancing along.
Beat the heat with water adventures
Don’t let the Upstate heat keep you from exploring Greenville’s natural beauty. Paddle your way around scenic lakes or let the area’s rushing waterfalls cool you off. These water-centric escapes make spending time outdoors feel like a summer retreat.
Cool off with cold beverages
As temperatures start to rise, it’s time to raise a glass and cool down. Sample local brews or wines during a tasting, learn the art of mixology during a cocktail class, or unwind at one of Greenville’s rooftop patios.
Places to stay
Find your ideal accommodation so you can rest, recharge, and get ready for another day of fun. Stay in the heart of downtown to be close to the action, or unwind at a campground or cabin where the soothing sounds of nature lull you to sleep. If you’re craving luxury, treat yourself to Greenville’s finest and take your trip to the next level.
2025 Professional Women’s Association Luncheon | 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. | Gastonia Conference Center | $35 | Connect with fellow pros while hearing keynote speaker Lauren Solomon — a fitness and wellness coach — speak on self-advocacy.
The Brenda Nova Experience | 7-9 p.m. | BAR ONE Lounge | Cost of purchase | Finish the work day with cocktails and dinner while seeing the musician and her ensemble perform.
Wednesday, April 30
Guided Learning in the Garden | 10:30-11:30 a.m. | Mahlon Adams Pavilion | $17+ | Sharpen your gardening skills with tips and tricks from local horticulture experts.
North End Farmers Market | 4-8 p.m. | Ford Green | Cost of purchase | Shop from an eclectic mix of vendors, farmers, and artisans during this weekly market.
Derby Dinner Party | 6:30-8 p.m. | Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar | $59+ | Be the first to taste a new spring beverage menu in this themed party honoring the upcoming Kentucky Derby.
Irish Whiskey Tasting | 7-9 p.m. | 3232 South Blvd., Ste. 101 | $59+ | Get a taste of the Emerald Isle sampling a collection of fine whiskeys.
Robotic-assisted surgery is revolutionizing women’s health — and it’s not as intimidating as it sounds. | Photo provided by Novant Health
Robotic-assisted surgery is changing the game for women’s health. Available at Novant Health, this minimally invasive, advanced laparoscopic procedure can be especially beneficial for those dealing with fibroids, endometriosis, or considering a hysterectomy.
Here’s what makes it so impactful:
A surgeon is always in control — the robot doesn’t run the show.
Smaller incisions mean less pain + faster recovery.
Ground has broken on The Coves at Lake Wylie — a 162-acre project with 365 homes and 134 townhomes in the works. The homes will range from $400,000 to $700,000 and are expected to be finished by summer 2026.
Coming Soon
Ready for a sneak peek?Check out the progress in The Cowfish’s ongoing revamp. Half of the popular SouthPark restaurant is fully renovated while welcoming customers. The $1 million project, featuring a new patio, aims to be finished in the next two weeks.
Shop
Adventure is out there. Voyage is joining Camp North End starting this June, offering personalized styling, custom travel planning, and hands-on workshops. The boutique will be open Wednesday through Sunday. An opening date remains TBA.
Open
New retailers are now open at Concord Mills Mall, including Cavender’s Boot City and Random Fandom, which sells modern collectibles like Funko Pop!, Pokemon, NBA, NFL, and MLB cards. Shoppers can also meet “Mills,” an endangered Kemp’s ridley sea turtle making a new home at SEA LIFE Charlotte-Concord Aquarium.
Biz
The City of Charlotte is celebrating Small Business Month by hosting a small business networking event next Monday, May 5, at The Market at 7th Street from 5 to 7 p.m. It’s a chance for owners to connect with community partners. Anyone interested must RSVP by tomorrow. (WCNC)
Cause
Bojangles is offering free combo meals to all CMPD officers and first responders this Thursday, May 1 at its restaurant at 300 West Blvd. PepsiCo’s Rolling Remembrance, a cross-country American flag relay honoring fallen military service members, will arrive at Bojangles at 1 p.m.
Watch
Pitch perfect. Matthews-native Josh King clenched to the Top 12 on American Idol. King sang Billy Joel’s “The Longest Time.” Tune in to see if King advances to the next round, this Sunday, May 4 on ABC at 8 p.m.
Drink
Mac’s Speed Shop, State of Confusion, and Neighborhood Theater are now serving the acclaimed Don Gato Tequilla for the first time ever. The expansion is driven by Charlottean filmmaker Chris Walldorf, who attended the NC School of the Arts with actor Danny McBride.
Sports
Welcome (back) to the Carolinas. The Carolina Panthers signed Hunter Renfrow, a former wide receiver with the Las Vegas Raiders. Renfrow played five seasons with the Raiders after being drafted from Clemson, and hails from Myrtle Beach, SC. (WCNC)
Listen
Now that the dust has settled, it’s time for an in-depth breakdown of the Panthers’ draft picks. Go beyond the field for the biggest stories on the Carolina Pantherswith Locked On’s daily, team-focused podcasts.
Announced
You’re awesome — thank you so much for taking a moment to participate in our asked module survey we ran on April 10. We’re excited to announce our winner. Drumroll please. Congrats to Karen W. Keep an eye out for future opportunities to share your thoughts and enter for a chance to win.
Construction for the next phase of Re!magine Spectrum Center is now underway. | Rendering via Hornets Sports & Entertainment
Uptown is buzzing. CLTtoday got a sneak peek of the second phase of the Charlotte Hornets’ Re!magine Spectrum Center. The $245 million renovation project will offer guests a greater experience from the second they walk through the doors.
Seating enhancements
Every arena seat is getting replaced, with 1,400 new seats being added to the lower level for closer views of the action + seats in the 200 level will be two inches wider, providing a more comfortable experience.
North and South Districts
These new premium spaces — meant for game watching and socializing — will promise unique themes, each with a 360-style bar + food and beverage options.
The North District will be centered around “modern sophistication.” Think: lighter and brighter tones, while serving Lunazal — the largest 100% agave tequila brand in North Carolina.
The South District will showcase “southern hospitality” with darker tones, creating a warm and cozy ambiance — like a whiskey bar.
The car tech upgrades you need ahead of summer road trips for better, safer driving:
🗺️ No more phone in your cup holder — keep navigation instructions in your eyeline with a suction cup phone mount equipped with one-button release.
🔊 Skip plugging in your phone to activate CarPlay and use this wireless CarPlay adapter for a faster, more reliable bluetooth connection.
🚙 A front and rear dash cam can make all the difference in a fender bender — this one captures crystal-clear footage even at night.
📲 Everyone gets to charge their devices at once with a four-port car charger that’s here to end road trip squabbles.
🌸 Looking for an air freshener upgrade? This No. 1 best-selling wood air freshener looks chic on your sun visor.
I saddled up for my first rodeo experience over the weekend at the Mint Hill Rodeo. Bull riding is thrilling to watch, and I captured some great photos of barrel racing — while also getting showered with dust. All good! I had a wonderful time.
