Juliana S.
Google
First time in Greenville late April 2023, our friends wanted to show us downtown right away. We started at Camperdown Plaza to get drinks and appetizers at CAMP's Modern American Eatery. (separate review) What a wonderful space. Love the modern public art, the open space, the wind, the restaurants, the ease of walking everywhere. Directly in this plaza are the high hanging white triangles outside of Spaces Fall Tower visitors and locals see ascending the stairs the way we entered.
Also is the "The Common Thread" display of three textile totems representing a Safety Pin, Needle and Wooden Bobbin in homage to the textile industry that is the work history of Greenville. The individual shapes made from steel, wood and concrete that make up each pole are interesting to take in during the day, and at night they light up in changing colors to add to the festivity of the Plaza.
Featured also in this review is a photo of the contemporary luxury Hyatt Regency Greenville in the neighboring NOMA Square (short for North Main since it's on North Main Street) that lights up this plaza with its bold purple lights from top to bottom. On South Main Street, the statue of the "Father of Greenville," Vardry McBee, can be seen right near the popular restaurant "Soby's."
On Main St. people can enjoy looking at "Il Porcellino," a bronze wild boar that is a replica of a statue placed in Florence, Italy in 1612. Put a coin in its mouth and make a wish. If it drops in the grate below your desire will be granted. At least rub its nose for good luck to assure you'll return to this beautiful small city.
A favorite of ours nearby was OCTO 2, an 18 foot kinetic sculpture created by artist Anthony Howe that moves with the breeze. (see video)
There are other statues to see here that are both modern and historic. Take in the Reedy River and its falls and bridges, some live music and tasty southern treats mixed in with classic dining menus, museums of note, and don't forget the Paris Mountain State Park.