A city steeped in railroad history, Easley is on the fast track to revitalization. Train tracks roll right through the middle of downtown, creating a mascot for the city’s branding.
Recalling Easley’s humble beginnings as a freight line depot, Trains on Main invites visitors to explore the city center by hunting for small bronze H.O.-scale train cars placed at historic landmarks.
A 19th-century rail line has been transformed into the Doodle Trail, named in honor of the old train that ran forward and backward between Easley and Pickens, like a doodlebug. Today, this 8.5-mile rails-to-trails greenway brings walkers, runners, and riders into the heart of downtown. The Easley side of the trailhead lies in Doodle Park, which includes two renovated vintage rail cars, a playground, and outdoor workout equipment.
A few local businesses likewise roll with the train theme, such as The Pint Station. This dog-friendly (inside and out) craft beer taproom and wine bar offers live music, food trucks, and trivia nights.
The “Cheers of Easley,” Lennie’s Main Street Pub serves up local bands and karaoke, while Merrell’s in the place for pizza. Don’t pass up the Tater Tots at Rainbow Billiards, a pool hall, bar, and grill.
Plan a night out at Element, a farm-to-table eatery with charming ambience and swoon-worthy chocolate cheesecake. Joe’s Ice Cream Parlor and Good Karma Ice Cream are pretty cool, too. The old Dixie Milling Co. has been reborn as The Silos, a venue comprising community space, a brewery, and multiple restaurants.
Antiquing never gets old in downtown Easley, with shops such as Circa Makers & Merchants, a curated collection of antiques, local art, and handmade gifts. Garland & George are purveyors of antiques appealing to collectors and designers, and Uncle Sam’s Antique & Collectibles is a must-go if you collect coins and currency.
For more than 100 years, Robinson’s Department Store has been clothing men and women. Two other local retail favorites are Something Special for fashion and home accessories, and Poor Richard’s Booksellers, located in a building that once housed Anderson’s first public library.
Enjoy local bands in the amphitheater at Old Market Square, a beautified space centered under a historic clock tower. For community theater, seek out Foothills Playhouse, a beloved venue now in its 44th season; and indulge in more hometown nostalgia at the Easley Area Museum.
If you’re a baseball fan, make a run for the Senior League World Series, a tournament for adolescents aged 13 to 16 that’s hosted in Easley.
