Museums are the cultural hubs of Greenville. Whether you’re yearning to learn something new about our city or are plotting a way to spend your Saturday afternoon, here are 10+ museums to visit in our city.
History
Upcountry History Museum, 540 Buncombe St. | $0-$12
Explore the semi-permanent galleries focused on our region’s history + branch out with changing exhibits. Past displays include the works of Andy Warhol, a celebration of the Greenville Symphony, and kid-focused exhibits like “The Very Hungry Caterpillar.”
Military History Center of the Carolinas, 14 Airport Rd. Ext. | Free
Located near Runway Park, this museum is dedicated to honoring veterans, preserving US military history, and performing community service by collecting and restoring items.
Shoeless Joe Jackson, 356 Field St. | Free
Chances are you’ve heard of Shoeless Joe Jackson, but we doubt you know all there is to know about his story and impact on baseball. The museum is a must for every Greenvillian.
Arts
Greenville County Museum of Art, 420 College St. | Free
In addition to exploring the galleries, you can’t miss the weekly Sundays at 2 event, celebrating music, plein air painting (read: painting outside), and family fun to immerse yourself in the arts.
Center for Creative Arts, 101 Abney St | Free
The main gallery features rotating exhibitions displaying the artwork of local, regional, national, and international artists, while the Community Gallery provides a venue for some of the best local, Upstate SC artists.
Sigal Music Museum, 516 Buncombe St. | $0-$7
This museum is home to hundreds of historically significant instruments with several owned by prominent artists and musicians throughout history. Don’t miss: The live music performances are a must-see.
The Galleries at First Presbyterian, 200 W. Washington St. | Free
These galleries feature three levels of viewing spaces for emerging artists + established artists, as well as nationally and internationally renowned artists. Pro tip: If you can’t make it in person, you can find a 360 degree tour here.
Automotive
BMW Zentrum Museum, 1400 SC-101, Greer | Free
Visit this one-of-a-kind building and experience the past, present, and future of BMW in the only BMW museum in North America. Pro tip: You can also schedule a plant tour for a look inside Plant Spartanburg.
The Ultimate Driving Museum, 190 Manatee Ct., Unit A, Greer | $12
This year, you can view a collection of BMW Motorcycles and five crossover vehicles powered by motorcycle engines to commemorate 100 years of BMW Motorrad.
Kids
The Children’s Museum of the Upstate, 300 College St. | $0-$18
This museum houses 80,000+ sqft dedicated to play-based learning, making it one of the largest children’s museums in the world. It features 30 exhibits focused on arts, science, health, transportation, the environment + was the first children’s museum to be recognized as a Smithsonian Affiliate. Don’t miss the adult’s only nights at the museum. Keep an eye on its social media for the next event.
Roper Mountain Science Center, 402 Roper Mountain Rd. | Prices vary per event
From the Hooper Planetarium to the Living History Farm, plus chances to get up close and personal with animals, you can spend an entire day getting lost at the center. Pro tip: Check its website for operating hours.
What did we miss? If you know a museum that’s not on the list, let us know.
