Founded in the 1830s as a settlement originally called Plain, modern Simpsonville no longer merits that descriptor. Renamed in the late-19th century for Peter Simpson, a blacksmith who set up shop at the fledgling community’s first crossroad, Simpsonville is currently slated for a revitalization that will beautify its downtown streetscape. In addition to improving traffic flow, the project will add new landscaping and create a pedestrian-friendly festival street.
Dubbed the “Stage of the Upstate,” Simpsonville is noted for its music scene. National acts play CCNB Amphitheatre at Heritage Park, while Hendricks Pavilion sets a smaller stage for regional performers. Opened in 2022, the Simpsonville Arts Center is home to artists’ studios and gallery events, as well as staging performances in its renovated 400-seat auditorium.
Local musicians love playing at hometown restaurants like Clock Tower Taproom & Billiards and Sweet Sippin’, a wine bar with a breezy rooftop. The Warehouse at Vaughn’s rocks a full schedule of live music within a family-friendly venue featuring 10 food concepts, indoor and outdoor dining, and an acre of green space.
Speaking of green space, topping off the new City Hall municipal complex, Gracely Park offers a woodland-themed playground, pickleball courts, tennis and basketball courts, sports fields, and a disc golf course. Even your best four-legged buddy can play in the adjacent dog park. Just outside downtown, miles of paved trails, six baseball fields, two playgrounds and a miniature steam train fill Heritage Park.
Eat and Drink
Authentique French Creperie is the place to go for authentic savory and sweet French crepes.
The 1899 Burdette Central building now houses popular local chain Sidewall Pizza, the 1885 Tap Room and CocoBon Chocolatier.
At Contrast Distillery, South Carolina’s first female head distiller offers cocktails and handmade spirits.
Exchange Coffee Co. donates part of the proceeds from the sale of its biscuits and gluten-free crepes to support local foster care and adoption agencies.
Shortfield’s is a dinner favorite for entrées like Southern cordon bleu and Carolina mountain trout.
Stella’s Southern Bistro, on Fairview Road, excels in locally sourced Southern-inflected cuisine.
Underground rathskellar Unterhausen: The Castle Cellar Pub specializes in German beer and food.
At women-owned Tamarindo, Dominican and Latin American dishes burst with bold flavors.
Shop
Find charming vintage decor at The Front Porch Antiques, and browse room after room for one-of-a-kind pieces at Catnip Antiques.
At Carolina Olive Oil, fine wines and gourmet-food items share the shelves with quality olive oils and vinegars.
Kick up your wardrobe with seasonal fashions at Pink Owl, and clothe your inner individualist at funky La’Rue Bohemian Boutique.
