Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Greenville. Greenville Spartanburg International Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 50 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at GSP:
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 50 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.
What to See and Do in Greenville
Two recommendations for your time in Greenville:
Start with Falls Park on the Reedy. A calm place to walk around and decompress before your next flight. Then, if time allows, make your way to Downtown Greenville Main Street. Just walking around here gives you a feel for the local vibe.
If you’d rather stay inside GSP — 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:
- GSP Aviation Observation Deck
- Hudson News & Gifts
The Best Way Into Greenville from GSP
The most straightforward way into Greenville is the Taxi/Rideshare, which takes about 50 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 70 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Taxi/Rideshare is usually the smarter call.
Food Worth Trying
- In the city: Soby’s New South Cuisine and Smoke on the Water are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Greenville.
- At the airport: Palmetto Grill and Chick-fil-A will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
What to Budget for Your Greenville Side Trip
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Greenville might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$10 USD
- A meal: ~$20 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$40 USD
Cards are increasingly accepted in Greenville, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at GSP, 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.
What to Do With Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at GSP aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Greenville itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Sleep & Lounge Options at GSP
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, GSP has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Greenville with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Greenville may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.