This aquamarine oasis once sat atop the parking structure of the Poinsett Hotel in downtown Greenville. Photographed in 1965, only a few years before the hotel’s decline, this pink-accented pool hints at the luxury that earned the lodging the title of “Carolina’s Finest” and attracted many esteemed guests: Amelia Earhart, Bobby Kennedy, and Liberace, to name just a few.
The Poinsett first opened its doors in 1925 and was one of the first skyscrapers in Greenville at twelve stories tall. It was designed by New York architect William L. Stoddard and was fitted with lavish amenities like a lounge, a grill room, and beautifully decorated private baths in each of the 210 guest rooms.
After a period of decline and several changes in ownership, the property reopened in 2000 as The Westin Poinsett. While the rooftop pool structure is no longer standing, a stay at the Poinsett offers a lavish peek into Greenville’s storied past.
Dive into These Rooftop Pools
- Aloft Greenville Downtown features a rooftop pool among its other amenities. 5 N Laurens St, Greenville; marriott.com
- Topside Pool Club features a plunge pool and lounge, which includes a swim-up bar, overlooking downtown Greenville. 600 S Main St, Suite 700, Greenville; topsidepoolclub.com
