A layover in Greenville is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Donaldson Field Airport sits just 40 minutes from the city center by Taxi/Rideshare, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
Important Details Before You Go
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at GDC:
First, verify that you can enter United States — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Taxi/Rideshare takes about 40 minutes into Greenville, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — USD is the currency here. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
Getting from GDC to Greenville
From GDC, the Taxi/Rideshare gets you to Greenville in around 40 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 60 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxi/Rideshare offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Exploring Greenville on a Layover
For a layover visit to Greenville, we’d suggest City Center Walk and Local Market. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Just walking around here gives you a feel for the local vibe. The atmosphere alone makes it worth a visit, even if you don’t buy anything.
If you’d rather stay inside GDC — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Airport Lounge
- Duty Free Shopping
Where to Eat
For food in Greenville, local travelers recommend Local Restaurant. If you have time for a second stop, Popular Eatery is another popular pick.
Back at GDC, Airport Cafe is the go-to. Terminal Restaurant rounds out your in-terminal options.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Greenville, budget roughly $40 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $20 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $10 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Cards are increasingly accepted in Greenville, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Luggage Storage at GDC
Luggage storage options at GDC can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Greenville for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at GDC, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Greenville itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for United States that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Taking a Break at GDC
Long overnight layover? Your options at GDC include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in United States also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Greenville genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.